Adjusting Bits and Nosebands
by Jane Savoie
I've received so many emails recently asking about adjusting bits and nosebands that I just couldn't wait until October's newsletter to give you this training tip.
One reader asks: I'm writing to ask a question about how tight our bridles have to be. I know the noseband and flash are designed to help keep the mouth closed, but how tight is too tight? How high/tight should my bridle be? I want my horse to work comfortably, and have always been told one or two wrinkles at the corner of the mouth is good. I don't want any nerve damage in her nose and want a good deal of air exchange to take place with the rides. So how much is enough?
My answer: Your bit is high enough in the mouth if you have 1-2 wrinkles at the corner. The noseband is comfortably effective if your horse can still take a treat from you and chew it.
Another reader asks: How can I tell if the curb chain on a double bridle is adjusted correctly?
My answer: When the curb chain is properly adjusted, the shanks of the curb bit will come back to a 45 degree angle when the rider uses the curb rein. If the shanks come back further (like to a 60 degree angle), the curb chain is too loose. If the shanks come back less than 45 degrees, the curb chain is too tight.
Hope this helps any of you who have "bit adjustment" questions. Please forward this tip to anyone who might find it useful!
Compliments of Jane Savoie's Newsletter, That Winning Feeling. Sign up at Jane's website.
