Ridecamp: Re: [RC] Bits

> Sue:
>
> I will probably get alot of flack on this, but I think a pelham is way to
> harsh to use for trail riding.  I won't ride on the trails with anything
> stronger than a full cheek snaffle. >
>
> Carolyn Burgess
>

Carolyn,
I personally dislike snaffle bits and won't use any with a single link.  The
French link and Dr. Bristol are better....but I have had two mares that
really
disliked snaffle bits (always mouthing and fussing), one required a curb,
and one
was happy in a low-port Kimberwick.

Over the years, I have seen more wrecks and runaways in snaffle bits than
you
can count.  I think every horse is different.  Personally, I like to ride on
a loose rein
and leave the mouth along....trust the horse to self-carry.  We have one
Arab who
can be ridden in a halter on the trail, but even she can get strong when
ridden in
groups.

I think a pelham is sort of silly to ride on the trail;why have to deal with
essentially
four reins?  I teach all my horses to neck rein, as I usually pony another
horse.  I like
to be able to ride a loop rein, off one finger, with whatever bit the horse
will neckrein
and stop...and that leaves one hand free to pony the second horse, eat food
or get
water bottle.
Karen


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