On Mon, 17 Sep 2007 08:49:52 -0600, you wrote: >So your >kimberwicke, like my mod. port Monte Foreman pelham, works by direct >pressure and is thus a snaffle bit.
??? How can a bit which uses poll pressure and has a curb chain be classified as a snaffle? Answer - it can't. "A Kimberwick is a curb (leverage) bit. The further the reins slide down the D ring, the more leverage is applied. On the Uxeter Kimberwick the reins can be attached through the slots. The lower slot will have more curb action than the upper slot. The curb chain or straps prevents the bit from rotating too far in the horse’s mouth. When the reins are pulled back the bit applies pressure to the bars of the mouth, the chin and the poll. If there is a port, there may be pressure on the roof of the mouth.This is a bit commonly used in general riding and provides more aids to a horse that may be a strong puller or needs slight curb action to lower its head. It is quite common to see ponies wearing these bits" (from http://horses.about.com/od/choosingandusingtack/p/loosering2.htm) A Pelham is designed to work as a curb and snaffle together, using two reins. If you only use the snaffle rein, why not just use an ordinary snaffle? Some info on Pelhams from Lee Ziegler: "The Pelham is a sort of "compromise" bit, which can work as a curb, or a snaffle (no leverage) but never both at the same time the way a real bit and bradoon can. You don't have to ride with two reins in a Pelham, but if you only use one you have to make a choice as to whether to use it as a non-leverage (snaffle) or a leverage bit -- if you put the rein on the top ring it works without leverage, if you put it on the lower one, it works as a curb. However, with two reins you can use the bit either as a snaffle, or a curb, depending in which is most appropriate for the work you are doing with your horse. (I am not very fond of the "converter" strap which allows you to use both snaffle and curb ring at the same time, on one rein. This merely turns the bit into a very short shanked curb and loses the snaffle effect entirely.)" Mic Mic (Michelle) Rushen ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Solva Icelandic Horses and DeMeulenkamp Sweet Itch Rugs: www.solva-icelandics.co.uk ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Si hoc legere scis nimium eruditionis habes"
