Ridecamp: Re: [RC] hackamores, et al

Several people at my barn use a bitless bridle from www.bitlessbridle.com.  Everyone who's used them has liked them.  It comes in a bunch of sizes, and materials, and they have quite a nice upgrade policy (just mail it back and ask for the next "grade" of material. 

 

The theory is that the horse can move better, and that not having something in it's mouth makes it easier for the horse to move.  The bit stimulates the salivary gland, and sets up the eating response, and that makes it harder for the horse to breathe and concentrate on running.

 

I listened to the developer at a Horse Expo back in March.  He seemed to know what he was talking about and listed a bunch of credentials (though I'm not sure they apply to horses). 

----- Original Message -----

From: Laurie Durgin

To: Dot Wiggins ; ridecamp

Sent: Saturday, September 21, 2002 2:30 PM

Subject: Re: [RC] hackamores, et al

I read a book on bits and bridles that stated alot of people think a hacamore is gentler and more humane than a bit, but actually is could have severe leverage, depending on the shanks, noseband ,etc. It's just that it is on the nose and not the mouth. This may clarify for some. I know someone who won't use a bit, because they are 'cruel", but uses very longshanked hacamore (because it is the only thing that will stop her horse.) This author also talked bout the spanish jacima(sp?) and bosal, and said the horse had to be trained to tuck before you could use one on him. I had considered using a hack  myself (for eating reasons), but I have to be careful, if you use anything Rascal thinks is too harsh, he will buck when you apply it. I have to use a snaffle or a waterford bit (english bit looks like a bunch of marbles strung together , he eats better in it).

 

----- Original Message -----

From: Dot Wiggins

Sent: Friday, September 20, 2002 6:50 PM

To: ridecamp

Subject: [RC] hackamores, et al

 

In the interests of clarity:      

 

 "Hackamore"  is the english/amercan version of the spanish word "jacquima",   a braided rawhide or leather "bosal" or noseband, with reins attached at a "heel knot"  at the chin area.

 

Any device that has metal parts, or other factors that give a leverage action on the nose/jaw,  with or without a mouthpiece,  with reins attached  on the lower end of each cheek piece, is a bit.   This is sometimes called a "hackmore bit"   "S hack"   "jumping hackamore"  and other terms. 

 

"Bitless bridles" have actions that are also different, and more complicated.

 

All are valuble at different times, on different horses, for different  purposes.

 

When recommending something to others please be sure everyone knows which you mean.

 

(off lecture now)  { ;= )

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