Tom Thumb bits

abi31

abi31

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I have been looking at tom thumb bits and have found really conflicting reports on them. I'm not sure if this is because the american tom thumb is a long shank and the english one is a shorter shank, whilst the australian one is basically a snaffle.
Can anyone give me any genuine feedback on the english tom thumb as to whether it has been useful or too severe in training?
Thanks.xx
 
I used one on my sensitive WB who just got carried away when jumping. As long as you have soft independent hands it can work very well

I only needed to use it 3 times for him to get the idea he could not run off. I don't doubt he will need a reminder with in the future
 
Thanks, I went jumping last night and my instructor had put my mare in a tom thumb and I barely had to touch the reins. She was so much more elevated and controlled instead of head down and charging in.
I give my instructor credit I had to push my hands well forward on approach and flight to ensure I didn't catch her in the mouth, but could still take a light contact in-between.xx
 
I love my tom thumb! i have been using it on my older welsh mare, it is the only thing she will listen to! i have tried a few bits before and she will just put her neck against me and bolt if she wants to, she knows her mind! i have good control over her speed in the TT and she actually gets her head down and works, she has felt like a completely different horse since being ridden in it.
Mine is the sweet iron version with copper rings in the middle (got it from robinsons)
have also just tried it on my VERY fussy younger mare who seems to like it as it gives her something to mouth and the mouthpiece isnt too thick
 
Hiya, I use a Tom Thumb on my very strong Eventing Warm Blood. I used to have him in a 3 ring gag, but he didnt like the poll action, so I tried the TT. I can still hold him in it, but I use it with roundings as the poll pressure was still quite strong when just ridden on the bottom hole,
Thanks
 
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