Whats the right bit for my horse!!

[xRomi&Darcy4Evax]

My horse is in a snaffle and is pretty laid back most of the time but when she gets really exited (e.g. hacking in new places/at a show) or bolts she is impossible to control! I want to start taking her to CX and I know that there is no chance of me controlling her over the jumps. My friend’s horse is quite similar and when she dose XC she uses a gag. Her horse now uses a gag all the time but she puts the reigns on the biggest ring on the gag is this the same as a snaffle or is there a difference? x

 

[sane_and_sensible]

if you don't understand HOW a particular bit works and WHY, you shouldn't be using it in my opinion.

Sometimes a different bit is the answer if being used for the right reasons.

Because you want to do XC and can't stop your horse bolting when in new places is not a good reason, particularly if you don't understand how the different bit works.

It also makes a difference how your horse goes, and how secure your seat is and if you can use your hands independently.

If you whack a stronger bit in that works the wrong way (so bits raise the head and some will lower it) you are likely to end up with a wound up horse pogo-ing on the spot that will just learn that upwards is the only way out.

If your horse truly bolts, it won't matter what bit you put in.

On a continental gag, if the reins are on the biggest ring, it SHOULD be no different to a loose ring snaffle - some people claim their horse goes better like this than in a loose ring, but my opinion is that many of these people just prefer the look of a gag

If your horse is genuinely balanced and listens to you, then gradual desensitisation to exciting surroundings is the best route.

If after that you still find you need a bit more control, you need to look at what she does when excited - does she tuck her nose into her chest, stick her head up in the air, poke her nose out in front..... and most importantly, can you truly use your hands, seat and legs independently from each other? Then you could start to look at other bits - but if you stick something buzzed up which is prone to putting its head in the air in a gag, then are constantly on its mouth you will just end up with it rearing.

 

[Molly'sMama]

deleted .

 

[Damnation]

Sounds mad but I would get your dentist out to explain to you the conformation of your horses mouth.
E.G my horse has a big tongue and fleshy cheecks so not alot of room in her mouth and suits a thinner mouthpiece.
Then coupled with the way she rides, whether she puts her head up or down etc, then I would speak to someone who manages a bit bank near you. Explain your horses mouth conformation, explain how they ride and then they will be able to help wyou with the right bit for your horse.

 

[xRomi&Darcy4Evax]

Thank you for your help, but I’m not using a bit that I do not understand how and why it works I’m still using a snaffle. I was just wondering if a different bit would be the answer. That is why I was asking about a gag so I could find out about it before I tried it on her. x

 

[Syrah]

How do people learn if they don't ask? No one was born knowing how each bit works, they learnt it at some point and probably through asking!!

OP I'm sure someone will be along who'll be able to advise

 

[Twinkle Twinkle]

Hi op is there anyone in your area that deals in bits and will come out and will advice you what one would be the best one for your horse. Ask in your local tack shop or look online GOOD LUCK