>>>> In the past we have used English Tom Thumb pelhams - called a Tom Thumb because the shank is not longer than a thumb. They generally have a mullen mouthpiece (a slight curve to fit the mouth shape with no joints).
Robyn, since we've talked about that bit before and I THINK we're on the same page about it, I hope you won't mind if I add a little something. I personally think that the Tom Thumb mullen Pelham is more a matter of being a DIFFERENT bit than a broken-mouthed snaffle - different, but not necessarily much STRONGER. I've used that bit in the past a few times, and I wouldn't be opposed to using it again, if I see a need to. It simply makes sense to me that there may be enough conformational difference from mouth to mouth that one may work better than another for a given horse, as might a mullen mouth snaffle for some horses. I don't have a problem with that bit, or many of the snaffles, nor with a halter or sidepull. That said, I'd still support everything I said in my last post as far as working on the relaxation and comfort level of the horse. I don't think any bit should be used to stop a horse - but it never hurts to remember that an uncomfortable or inappropriate bit can actually cause a behavior problem. Karen Thomas, NC [EMAIL PROTECTED]
