I just realized something about the Dr. Cooks. If one had a halter with an adjustable nose band then a single piece of 1/2" yacht rope could be crisscrossed in the same fashion. By using a continuous piece of rope the weight of the metal rings are eliminated. Perhaps then the horse would get the release. Hmm, I think I'll try that, weather permitting. I'll take pics then someone who is smarter than I can tell me how to download them here. Drat, rain tomorrow.