Dena Kirkpatrick talks about proper bit placement
stacey |
Dena Kirkpatrick shares some tips on how to adjust her favorite bits to get the best results.
Loomis gag bit - Since this is a gag bit, if it's too loose and hangs too low in the horse's mouth it won't have very much effect. You want to have one wrinkle in the mouth.
Goostree Simplicity - This is another gag bit, but with less action. You want one to one and a half wrinkles. If it's too loose and you come to the end of the gag before anything happens it won't feel right to your horse and you won't have as much control.
Ring Snaffle bit - This is a direct pull bit and that gives it a little more leeway in how you adjust it. Dena also recommends using a cowhorse curb with your snaffle bits. It does not actually work as a curb chain putting pressure on the horse's jaw, but it will keep your ring balanced and in place while you ride.
Read more about curb chains here in this blog about types of curb chains.