>>> I wonder if the above is contradictory to that. I assume that the use of the term "curb bit" would indicate a mild ported mouth bit with shanks? I don't think the kimberwick has what could be called "shanks", unless you use the rein slots. Then you could have a little bit of a leverage bit.
Lee considered a Kimberwicke as a curb, albeit a very mild curb bit. If you use the rein slots, you effectively have a very short shank, and a Kimberwicke also has a purchase. She also didn't recommend using a curb bit for training lateral work, but was fond of them at times for a relatively trained trail horse, and for many horses with certain mouth conformations. A bit of trivia - if you look at the mechanics of a very short-shanked "Tom Thumb" Pelham compared to a Kimberwicke, they are essentially the same bit if you use the rein rings at equal distances from the mouth of the horse. I would actually prefer a Kimberwicke the few times I've used that Pelham, but I can find the Pelhams in a wider range of bit widths with the mullen mouth I like. I asked Lee that question once specifically, and she agreed. As for the "correctness" of using a very short-shanked bit with a direct rein...well, that falls into a very fine area. I'm sure you'd find many opinions on that. Karen Thomas, NC
