RC: Re: Kimberwicke

[Sue Brown <sbrown@wamedes.com>]

><< > I have a young horse who I've been riding in a D-ring
>> snaffle but he is just too strong on the trail and is
>> going through the bit something awful. I thought of going
>> to a kimberwicke, but am confused as to which is milder,
>> a kimberwicke with a broken mouthpiece or a solid mouthpiece. >>
>
>The broken mouthpiece is less severe.  I use one on my arab gelding, and I 
>love it.
>
In order of severity...snaffle, solid with low port or mullen mouth,
snaffle french link -- 3 peaces -- but *beware* of picking up a Dr.
Bristol, Kimberwicke with solid mouth, snaffle with one break, Kimberwicke
with broken mouth piece -- can act like a milder version of the Tom Thumb
if you use the lower slot.

I haven't seen a three piece Kimberwicke so I can't advise on that...I'd
have to see it and see how it's constructed.  Sounds like a french link
with a chain...may work, probably rates right before Kimberwicke with
single joint since it would still be used with a little bit of leverage and
a chain.  Don't think it would be one I would buy, however.  Personally,
I've had good luck with a french link D ring or Baucher (for those that
need the bit held in place better -- has a slot at the top of the ring for
the bridle) for arena work and a Kimberwicke with a solid mouth and a low
port or mullen mouth for trail work if the horse is either *very* energetic
or a PIG. 

A bit on the Dr. Bristol -- it looks a lot like a french link but it's
middle section is a rectangle set at an angle so that it digs into the
tongue.  The french link has a peanut shaped mid-section and sits flatter
on the tongue.  The KK company has some wonderful french link bits and
their mid piece is a little fatter and really lays nice and flat.  Also,
their price reflects their quality!  (Don't forget to check all areas of
the joints for rough spots.)

Sue

BTW...I got my splint off my finger today (doesn't bend yet, but I'm
working on it) and got the "go ahead" from my doc to go riding.  Asked him
if it was okay and he just said "Sure, no problem...just buddy tape your
finger to the next one.  Ribs should do fine since it's been almost 6
weeks."  Kinda nice when your doc grew up with horses in Montana. ;-)



sbrown@wamedes.com
Tyee Farm
Marysville, Wa.


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