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Dbl wire twisted snaffle question

2K views 2 replies 3 participants last post by  iridehorses 
#1 ·
When we got our paint, we tried him in a dbl wire snaffle. He was fine and we trained him to be much lighter in the mouth. He has a much lighter bit now. I think I remember Craig Cameron saying a bit like that should only be used for about a week until the horse knows what is expected.
I have a friend who has been leasing an arabian. She will own him tomorrow I think. She is using the dbl twisted wire snaffle for daily use. I know this will somewhat make a tougher mouth but is it BAD???
What's your opinion?
Thanks in advance!
Bobby :D
 
#2 ·
I think a bit like that should just be avoided. o.0

You don't want your horse's responses to be out of pain or fear - because he will ultimately fear you (or your friend, as the case may be.)

I sort of judge bits by thinking of them as the handle of a bucket. Think about a double twisted wire bit in place of a smooth bucket handle. Imagine picking up the bucket with your hand, or for a more realistic feel, the inside bend of your elbow. OUCH! That's what's in your friend's horse's mouth - all the time.

I suppose if she's -very- light on her hands, it might be ok, but I just can't imagine putting something painful in my horse's mouth. Ever.
 
#3 ·
The Spanish spade bits are the toughest bits you can use on a horse but they are used regularly on a horse that is well trained for it and by a rider who is very skilled in it's use.

Is a double wire snaffle severe? Yes by about 90% of the riders out there but if your friend's hands are soft and the horse goes well in it, it might be OK. It's just not a bit I would use - and I've been riding my whole life and training for over 30 years. I never found a horse, as bad as some that I've had, that would improve with the use of one.
 
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