Which bit do you suggest?

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ginger111

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I have just brought a 12.2 section B gelding for my very nervous daughter. He's proving to be a good pony (as it's a bit of a lottery isn't it?!) He is currently in a little 4" D ring snaffle. He doesn't seem strong although he is quite forward going. Until she gets used to him and starts to feel in control I just wondered if I should try another bit. I have been thinking about a Wilkie bit although I don't know anything about pony bits! What do you think?
 
TBH I would have some private lessons, especially as she is nervous; my daughters pony was the same; until you're used to riding a forward going pony changing the bit can cause more problems; Sometimes ends in a you pull, I'll pull situation! Gaining confidence is this key thing here, if he is not that strong you shouldn't need to change bits.
 
i agree, private lessons to start and if the pony does end up being to strong then think about changing the bit, it may cause you more problems making changes than it would just seeing how things go!
 
Funnily enough she had her first private lesson today! I have put a flash noseband on him and kept the bit the same. What happened with your daughter and how is she now? Is there any light at the end of this very long tunnel?!!
 
She gained so much confidence riding that pony, he was and still is bombproof, so great to hack out on. He was ridden in a dutch gag when we got him on the thrird ring (!) and now in a jointed snaffle for schooling. However we do have to use a gag on him when she gallopes around with others, on the second ring. He is a NF X so quite fast and strong
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Patience though has been the most important thing, it took a good 6 months of lessons to get the " I want to run around at my pace" out of him! Now though you can school him barely holding the reins, even when jumping.
We have had him nearly seven years now, my daughter is 18, but because I'm only 5ft 3 ( pony is 12.3h) I took over, and I love him!
 
Hi, I agree private lessons should do the trick - it did with my daughter; that and plenty of time! Eventually she'll realise that although he is forward going, he isn't actually going to go anywhere and that she is in control of the gear box, then it will all come together. If your daughter wants to get used to going faster again but isn't ready to do it your pony she can always have a go on my little Gracie who is bombproof. My school is free this Tues at 2pm and I have loads of bits so if the time comes and the instructor agrees then I'll probably have the right one for you to try! I'll get in some biscuits and put the kettle on...
 
Thanks for that Angelbones! The only thing is I only like chocolate biccies! Your Gracie sounds just the perfect pony and I am sure would be ideal for my daughter. I might take you up on your offer thankyou!!!
 
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