The Hackamore

I just bought a new horse that has not been rode for awhile. The guy I bought the horse from always used a hackamore and when he rode the horse he would let him go where ever the horse wanted to go and not guide him. Now I have him I am having a hard time getting him to do what I want him to do. Should I stay with the hackamore or should I go to a bit? I am so afraid that I will hurt his nose as I have never rode with a hackamore before, I always use a bit.

Welcome to the forum.

A little more information. How old is the horse? How long did the last owner have him for and was he/she the one who trained him? Why did he use a hack instead of a bit? Have you checked his mouth?

IMO, with a horse like that, I would start from the beginning. I would fit him with a snaffle and teach him to turn. It may take a while to teach him who is in control - him or you.