How does a gag snaffle work

It is an example of mechanical means to produce a strong system of control, and has a place in competition riding when used by sympathetic hands. There are a number of different options available in a running gag. The most common is the Balding Gag, which is a loose ring variety. The Cheltenham Gag features an eggbutt ring, for a quicker action with more leverage, and the Nelson Gag, which has a Full Cheek, is very popular with eventers to help with twists and turns on the course.

The Running Gag is certainly not suitable for everyone, and can be too strong for some horses. However, when used well and sympathetically, like any bitting choice, it can help to produce a more harmonious round for both horse and rider. This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.

If you would like to find out more about Horse Week , Bree Rutledge can be contacted by email: b. Email: b. I argue that they are closer to the curb and leverage family of bits, like the pelham and weymouth than a true gag action. A Gag bit accentuates the lifting action of the direct action snaffle bit , by increasing the pressure applied to the corners of the lips, asking for the head to come up.

A Gag bit and in this instance I mean those in the running gag family, such as the Balding, Cheltenham and Nelson Gags has cheek straps running through holes in the rings that the reins are attached directly to. Rein pressure causes the bit to slide on these cheeks up the mouth, pulling the lips.

It is this sliding up and pull that the horse responds to by lifting his head. A Gag bit can be very useful for a horse that tends to travel quite long and low, with his nose on the ground and when used sympathetically, can help lift his head and focus on the fence as they set up. It can however, be a very powerful method of control, and there is a danger of the cheeks being trapped between teeth and bit so for this reason, it is not a great bit for those horses with very fleshy faces or for riders that do not have releasing hands and an independent seat.

Once he reaches this position, the pressure is released. These changes work in concert. For the rider this helps allow you to concentrate on and reinforce your leg cues regardless of your type of riding.

As with all bits, the design and construction will help to determine how productive the use of the bit is on your horse. Horse Industry Controversies. Beginner Rider. Collegiate Riding. English Horse Training. General Training. Other Horse Sports. Rider Fitness. Western Horse Training. Speed Events. Cattle Events. Trail Riding. Horse Trail Regions.

Southwest Region. Midwest Region. Pacific Region. International Travel. Riding Camps. Farm and Barn. Horse Bit Gallery. English Tack. Horse Care Products. Western Tack. Rider Apparel. Horse Industry Profiles.