Universal bits and curb straps

Horsemad12

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So I went on hound exercise yesterday, I thought after a few weeks of competition I would allow my 5yr old some "fun". Well she certainly had fun and it was certainly faster and with more jumping than I expected. At times my brakes were a little lacking.

I had her in a Universal bit, started on the snaffle rein and then moved down to the second ring. I am wondering about putting one of the NS leather curb straps on for next time, but on discussion with a friend who is using one, I am not sure if it will help the brakes or reduce the effect of the bit.

Can anyone who uses one advise please.
 

Brynmoss

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I have used the universal with a NS Curb strap on a couple of big hunters
and have found it very useful:) No point using it with 2 reins though or the bit would be pretty ineffective...
Only problem I have had is that the NS strap kept stretching! They said that this had been a problem and were having some thicker ones made, so you should be fine.
 

meardsall_millie

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I ride one of mine in a Universal and have just added a curb strap.

For me, the jury is out as to whether it makes it stronger, rather I would say it changes the action.

The curb strap makes the bit more steady in the mouth, reduces poll pressure but gives more pressure on the back of the jaw (not the curb groove as the strap sits much higher than that). I guess is also increases the pressure on the bars to some degree?

My horse had a tendency to throw his head up when I tried to half halt but adding the strap has almost stopped this completely. He's a rather sensitive chap, so if he thought the bit had increased horribly in severity, he would soon tell me!

I'd be interested to know what others think?
 
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Vickijay

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I've just brought one for doing fast work with one of mine as all the people that teach me say she needs to be more in the hand, she now is definitely more in the hand :p I was almost on the verge of perhaps not being able to hold her out doing some fast work and after (with achey arms!!) a friend suggested this bit.

So I would be interested to hear what other people think as to if I should curb strap or not curb strap!?!
 

painted ponies

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Slightly off topic but I was thinking of getting my horse one of these bits. My horse has had a waterford 3 ring with leather curb (that attaches to the cheek piece) he has no respect for this bit what so ever just runs through it. I have also ridden him in a single jointed pelham but its almost too much for him. So will this bit be any good for him? I am guessing its more like a 3 ring (minus the 3rd ring) action. Thanks
 
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