Re: TTeam Bit

["Raymond O'Donohue" <rayo@cfw.com>]

Glenn Foster wrote:
> 
> >
> > ... I am an engineer by training and the shape =
> > of the shanks have absolutely no effect on the mechanics of the bit. =
> > With a rigid material, the only things that enter into the transmission =
> > of force are the location (in space) and direction of the applied force
> >
> 
> That's what I was taught too, when the reins are being used and leverage
> is the issue.  Could it be though, that when the bit is just hanging on
> loose
> reins, the curve affects the center of gravity of the shanks, and
> therefore
> the angle at which it hangs, which might only matter if the bit has a
> port
> to encourage the horse to hold his head in alignment with the plane
> through
> the port.  With a straight ("mullen") I would agree there could not
> possibly
> be any effect.
> 
> Personally, I also am very skeptical of any and all "bit" design
> issues.  Even
> as a relative novice, I think I have seen enough to believe that
> whatever
> effect bit or hackamore design might have is generally much less
> important
> than the rider's hands and seat.
> 
> Glenn Foster
> SE Michigan      Saying that bit selection is no substitute for technique is like 
saying that Michael Jordon can play as well in sandals as he can in 
sneakers.No,the bit quest generally isn't going to solve problems.But,it 
may,and/or it may fine tune.One should pursue bit selection as part of 
the development of a particular horse/rider/tack rig combo.Put another 
way,one doesn't know for sure that"this bit is fine" until he has tried 
others and then returned to his original bit.If somebody stuck a piece of 
metal in YOUR mouth you'd sure care about little differences in shape!