The Horse Forum banner
Status
Not open for further replies.

Bit too thick? What's a good bit for a flat-palate, thick-tongue horse?

4K views 5 replies 6 participants last post by  SketchyHorse 
#1 ·
I think I have her mouth issue pegged; my Paint's bit size is 5 1/2", loathes the single joint because of the "tent" or point it makes in her mouth hitting on her palate. I put her in a JP Korsteel Oval Mouth Loose Ring Snaffle, which is a double-jointed bit with a lozenge in the middle, and major problems ceased (constant avoidance and bad tension) last year, but now that I'm asking for more contact and seeking the bit work, I still feel like she's not 100% pleased with it. I checked her mouth after I put the bridle on, it looks like her tongue gets pushed out to the sides somewhat and there's not much room between her palate and the bit... also, I spy a pair of tiny wolf teeth.

Anybody have a guesstimate or such about the thinness/thickness of a bit and its relative pressure or sensitivity? I have light hands on her, as the booger learned from some beginners how to take advantage of any pull or tough grip by bracing on it. Does anyone use mullen mouths? I've heard they give an odd "wooden" feel for the rider. How does a mullen compare to a double joint?

I'd like to get some opinions. The ultimate decision is to be made when I get a equine dentist out to float her, I'll talk to him about it.
 
#6 ·
I had tried that bit with my gelding except in the french link style. He was not a fan. My trainer advised the Myler Toklat Comfort Snaffle & omg what a difference. He's much the same way as your mare, hates single joints, didn't like that french link (he did the same things he did in a single joint), & could start to brace. That bit has been awesome. They're a little expensive but I managed to find one on ebay for $20. You can get them with sweet iron or copper strips (mine has them).

Or I would give a loose ring french link a try. That might tell you if it's the thickness (I would get one that's the same thickness as what you have) or the middle piece. I'd avoid the mullen mouth. I heard they make the cues not as refined. Maybe check out waterford style bits? I've never tried them & can't 100% recommend you to do it, but they look like something to check out.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
You have insufficient privileges to reply here.
Top