[GotaDunQH]

Originally Posted by IIIBarsV

A hackamore is a good place to start.

I would also try a mouthpiece with a dogbone (three-piece mouth) to disperse the pressure a bit more and prevent that nutcracker action, or one of those Myler comfort snaffles (mullen mouth, center roller). 3-ring elevators aren't exactly known for being a nice bit on a horse's mouth. Too much gag action, bar action, can absolutely cause a horse to open their mouth to escape it.

I see no need for a flash, figure 8, drop noseband... [ever].... normal hunter cavesson works just as well... and you're not supposed to crank the horse's mouth shut anyways- it should be tight enough to discourage gaping or evading the bit, but loose enough that you can get a couple fingers in there. If that doesn't work, you've either got a bit problem, or a rider hand problem... or one really determined horse [rare and unlikely].

I know it's an old thread, but I also agree with Bars and the others about these particular nosebands. It's not addressing the REAL issue....a hole in training, and it's merely using physical means to keep the mouth shut.

Jennifer

[IIIBarsV]

Yeah I honestly can say... I would never use a flash, figure 8, or drop noseband.... or crank it on. Allowing the horse the option to open their mouth gives you a really good window to use to notice when there's a problem.

A horse who accepts contact and gives to bit pressure properly will hold the bit (assuming it's adjusted correctly) of their own choice, and if you ride softly with your hands, you will rarely see the mouth open unless there is an actual problem.

Gooser actually squeaks his teeth (wiggles his incisors against each other and roots on the bit) in the line ups or stand-stills if I'm riding in a noseband/cavesson (for HUS/eng events). He haaaates it (and it hangs off his jaw like two inches... obnoxious horse!)