Bit troubles.

smrobs · 11-06-2012, 11:31 PM

I agree with several of the other posters, most folks can get along great their entire riding careers in nothing more than a simple snaffle. The curb bits come into play when you are looking for more; more finesse, more responsiveness, etc. The whole idea behind curb bits (any bit with shanks) is to be able to work the horse on droopy reins, no constant contact of any form.

Anyway, back to the point. I don't see much reason to change the bits you've got now, even the tom thumb (even though I'm not a fan of them either LOL). If you get a nice leather strap to put on that snaffle, that will stop it from pulling through her mouth.

Now, I'll just mention this because I'm passionate about bits and their uses and how much a change in bit really can make a difference. If you wanted to try some different styles of bits on the mare that you're currently riding in a TT (or any of the others once they are solid with neck reining), here are some nice, mild, affordable bits that would be good options for your average rider and horse.

Most of these bits, I use bits that are either identical or very similar in mechanics and they are good bits in spite of the low prices.

Amazon.com: Francois Gauthier Antique Hinged...

Amazon.com: Half Breed Sweetwater Mullen...
Saddles Tack Horse Supplies - ChickSaddlery.com Reiner WIde Port Swivel Shank Bit

tinyliny · 11-07-2012, 12:19 AM

Wasn't there a good sticky that someone created about all the different bits and their general functions?

This might help, BB2. You may have a lifetime of riding horses , but if you don't know the terminology, it might be worth some time to just study up on it a bit. It helps in cases like this where we can only communicate through the written word.

BB2 · 11-07-2012, 12:21 AM

I'm definitely going to get a snaffle with a chin strap for my horses.

I've done research on alternatives to Tom thumbs and don't like them. Again, I use little to no pressure with it and when I do have to RARELY it's like 2 ounces of pressure. If you know how to use it, Tom thumbs are fine.
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whispering willow · 11-07-2012, 03:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by COWCHICK77

If you are riding her in a snaffle because that is the level of training she is in I wouldn't up your bit to a curb just because you want to neck rein. I teach my colts to neck rein as soon as I have them in the snaffle even though I am riding them two handed just as I assume you are if riding in a snaffle. Teaching to neck rein is easy especially if she understands your leg/seat cues. If it was me I would start with a leg /seat cue, lay the rein on the neck for the neck rein cue and use a direct rein lastly to position the nose and reinforce the neck rein cue. Using this progression will eventually will make your horse more responsive to your seat and legs but will make your neck rein cues extremely light and barely noticeable. And at that point you are most certainly riding one handed and progressed to a curb bit of some sorts. I don't move to a curb just to teach neck reining but rather when I have taught neck reining and the horse is responsive enough to be in a curb.

@whispering willow....don't be saying stuff like that I will get a big head! LOL

lol well you helped me very well with one of my situations so I thought why not and suggest a friend :P

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