Peter Pletcher bit

[spurofthemoment]

Do you feel like it’s harder for a horse to grab and hang on to the Turtle Top/any 3 piece that doesn’t resemble a mullen mouth? Love my guy in a Myler level 1 at the walk/trot, but when we start moving any faster, he gets SO heavy. I realize this is a strength/training issue but if I can find some equipment that makes it easier to encourage proper movement, I’d rather use it! I’m between trying a Myler level 2 and a 3-piece snaffle (like a Turtle Top).

I’m kind of finding out that it’s no better to use a “mild” bit harshly (I.e. get into a tug of war) than use a “harsh” bit mildly (unless the bit is applying pressure without rein pressure). I just don’t trust my own hands.

[fivestrideline]

Bits are so individual to the horse, but if I were in your shoes I’d reach for a Waterford first. Then maybe some sort of 3 piece or a Myler with hooks. However, I have no idea what mouthpieces he goes best in which can change the suggestions - some horses actually lean less on a softer bit, some could use a month in a side pull or hackamore, some need their hocks done or are being asked for too much way too soon.

If you don’t trust your hands, that’s a different issue - it’s easy to create a freight train with ANY bit if your timing isn’t decent. This is where I PERSONALLY like to play around with short lunging sessions doing transitions up and down, handwalking hills and riding at slower gaits over cavaletti and such. Oh, and having good eyes on the ground.

[Limerick]

Thank you! I am going to try it. It says it helps with straightness too which I am always working on bc “a straight horse is a great horse.”

[Atlas_Shrugged]

I think it is quite comfy for them- It makes mine root a bit -

[RosebudLaVie]

Agreed! Love the Turtle Top. I mentioned the Bomber I use above, my mare likes that one too