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Hackamores? Should I use one?

25K views 58 replies 12 participants last post by  QHDragon 
#1 ·
I was wondering about using a hackamore. What is the main reason people use them instead of bits? I am using a french-link snaffle on the mare I'm training and don't plan on fully switching over to a hackamore as I am an eventer and can't use a hackamore for dressage. I kinda wanted to try using one on the mare I'm training if she ends up becoming mine. Is it worth it to use a hackamore for trail rides and jumping or is it best to just stick with the snaffle bit and not even bother with the hackamore. I tried one on my Fjord and he hated it. But I know some horses who really really respond to it.
 
#2 ·
I started both my mares in sidepull. However they seem to like the snaffle much more. I think it all depends on if horse is OK with the pressure on nose. Both mine hate it.
 
#5 ·
Daughter uses a mechanical on Dancer. I think it's partly because she (the daughter) is a little afraid to try to bit a horse. She always has to call me to help her - then gets mad at me when I just pop the bit in and that's that!

Back to the original point - Dancer does very well in a mechanical hack - but daughter has very light hands. She has too - she gets too rough with Dancer's nose and Dancer puts her on the ground the hard way... :)
 
#6 ·
I think you can ruin a horse with anything if not used properly. Yes a bosal takes practise to use properly. It is used one rain at a time like a snafel should be and A horse can run threw it he not used right. A hack is a good training tool but they are not more humane then a bit. My problem with the mechanical isthat if not adjusted wright they are crule. Put one around your knee and yank. They tend to have long shakes that bounce as the horse moves and pinch on every down stroke effectively dulling the horse and if adjusted tight enough not to could cause serious damage. But with every thing their only as bad as the person using them. If your heavy handed don't use a hack.
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#7 ·
Well you prob know i use a hackamore, and i love it. Some horses work better in hackamore. If you want to use a hackamore in jumping for a bit more control and still use a snaffle in dressage that be a good idea. I use a hackamore because my horse has a sensitive mouth and he listens alot better in one, i barely use any contact now he respects when i pull back. Before when i rode in a bit i would have to pull and pull to stop him.. i felt bad..





 
#46 ·
I really dont know where to start with you, so Ill say this. The hacks you have ARE NOT as sensitive as you think. You have the curb extremely tight....when you pull back of course the horse will stop....youre bruising her/his jaw with the hack adjusted like that.

Horses dont stop because of a bit...a proper halt is achieved with the body. Stop whining about pieces of equipment....my guess is training would have made up for the issues youve had with your horse.
 
#8 ·
Thanks guys. Regena is really really responsive with the bit. She goes in to a nice frame with a steady contact and she doesn't need a lot of pulling to stop her just a slight pressure a release and she stops. She's a very responsive horse in general. I think maybe I'll try one once I get her back in constant work.

Eventer what kind would you recommend. I see you use 2 differant kinds.
 
#9 ·
well depends on the horse, i tried two to see what one he would work better in, the english hackamore(2nd pic) he didnt respond the best he listened.the other hackamore(more like a german hackamore) works better on him, i have alot more control and he goes into frame alot easier with that one. Once he is in frame i relieve the pressure and he stays there. I like it alot and when it comes to jumping before i used a loose ring double jointed snaffle and i couldnt stop after the jumps. now i can stop him instantly with barely any pressure im so happy it him and the hackamore
 
#11 ·
Yea :) just make sure you fit the hackamore properly before trying them and for the first few rides, be as gentle as possible on the reins if you use to much pressure it could anger the horse or scare him/her. Yes in show jumping you can im not sure about cross country id ask your trainer or judge
 
#16 ·
I just wanted to see how she'd respond to it. My friend's TB is perfectly fine in a bit but he just opens up and jumps more freely in a hackamore. My other friend has a Morgan who's a pain in the butt to do dressage with but once the hackamore goes on he collects and bends and is gorgeous. I jsut wanna see if I ca get a better response with a hackamore then with a bit. Though I do need a bit for dressage{hackamores are against the rules}.
 
#23 ·
you know when you put food in your mouth and it makes your mouth water(saliva) i pretty much think of it the same way. I dont really think it that the bit is working cause a unhealthy horse can have a working bit in their mouth and not have foaming. Its just natural for your mouth to liquidate when somethign it touching your tongue,glands...
 
#25 ·
@Beau Baby-
There are many types of bitless bridles to consider if the hackamore doesn't work for you. You could always try a sidepull, and indian bosal, a cross-under bitless, and LG Zaum bridle or a LightRider. Every horse has a preference! Best of luck in your bitless adventures!
 
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