Posted 2018-09-28 11:00 AM (#7409131) Subject: Step up out of snaffles....
Veteran
Posts: 139
Just wondering what you guys use moving from a snaffle. I'm not one to use bits as problem solvers but I would like a little more lift from the shoulder going into my left turns during a run....And a little more whoa for end pole turns and first barrel. We can get a little adrenaline high.
I currently ride and run in a french link snaffle. We run 1D barrels and poles but are inconsistent we either rock it or flop it lol
Posted 2018-09-28 11:08 AM (#7409133 - in reply to #7409131) Subject: RE: Step up out of snaffles....
Elite Veteran
Posts: 1032 Location: Southeastern Idaho
I personally go to a Carol Goosetree simplicity. I have all 3 mouth pieces and try each on the colt to see which works best. The gag action mimics the feel of a snaffle while giving them the first feel of a curb chain. I used to go straight to a Tom Thumb or short shanked snaffle but have had a couple really light mouthed 3/4 year olds that liked the simplicity better. One is now 10 and I rope on her with a chain mouth simplicity.
Posted 2018-09-28 11:12 AM (#7409135 - in reply to #7409131) Subject: RE: Step up out of snaffles....
Elite Veteran
Posts: 729 Location: Illinois
I went from a snaffle to a six bit for daily riding, but mine still rides just as well in a snaffle. I run in either a tender touch or a 3x3 by Reinsman. But these are just what works best for my horse, I went through probably 20 trying to find the right setup on him. There's one from L&W that I liked a lot, but lost it or it was stolen. It was one of the lift bits, around 5" with maybe an inch of gag & dogbone mouth. I haven't ordered another one at this point. My advice is to pick your top 5 of what's recommended or what you think may work and start trying one at a time. It's fairly easy to sell them if they don't work. All the one's I bought I sold again, except 2 and got within $10 of what I paid. Or you can often find someone you know with one who might let you borrow it.
Posted 2018-09-28 11:57 AM (#7409144 - in reply to #7409131) Subject: RE: Step up out of snaffles....
Veteran
Posts: 159 Location: Texas
I'm really likening a go around on my young horses and seasoned horses .... but its all in hands as to what works in my opinion... I ride very light handed and ask for a little lift
Posted 2018-10-19 9:04 AM (#7411005 - in reply to #7409131) Subject: RE: Step up out of snaffles....
Whack and Roll
Posts: 6292 Location: NE Texas
I have a couple short shank Ed Wrights that I have used in the past to go to from a snaffle. I'm about to list them on FB this weekend as I don't need them anymore.
Posted 2018-10-19 9:23 AM (#7411010 - in reply to #7409131) Subject: RE: Step up out of snaffles....
Elite Veteran
Posts: 927 Location: MN
While I LOVE a sweet 6, my favorite step up bit is the Dutton Old Cowby bit with a chain mouth piece. I was amazed at how much the young ones love it!! Feels so balanced and they respond so well to it.