Am I reading this right? Can I use what is technically a bradoon as a snaffle?

[Desert Topaz]

Pony is with a dressage trainer at present and she has been being ridden with what is technically a bradoon. Pony wears a 5" bit, but otherwise her mouth is small and we've been having issues finding one she likes. The bradoon (double jointed Herm Sprenger) is working for her. I think she likes the thinner mouth and I like that the rings aren't so big she looks ridiculous :D

In Appendix 4 of the Rules for Eventing it says: "Note: All bridoon bits shown on the plate of permitted bits are for the Dressage either as a snaffle or as part of a double bridle."

My interpretation of that is that I can indeed use a bridoon as a snaffle bit. Am I correct on that?

[Fancy That]

Yes, can be used as a snaffle or a bridoon.

They are, honestly, a snaffle. Just thinner moutpiece and smaller rings. Looks GREAT on ponies!

Glad you found something that worked.

Many folks in the Morgan world will use them instead of a regular snaffle so the rings don't overwhelm their tiny heads/muzzles :)

[Desert Topaz]

Excellent. My pony will be pleased :)

[PhoenixFarm]

My old Appendix QH, who went prelim in the 90s, had a teeny, tiny, eeny mouth and he went all three phases in a French link bradoon. It's the only thing that worked for him. :)

[kkindley]

Excellent. My pony will be pleased :)

Best quote ever. :D Just sayin.

[pattnic]

Excellent. My pony will be pleased :)


Best quote ever. :D Just sayin.

Seconded.

[asterix]

I've been using a herm sprenger bridoon from a friend's double bridle as my horse's main bit for years. Competed through Prelim in it...
He's definitely not a pony :lol: but he has a big tongue and a low palate, and this bit seems more comfortable for him...

[Desert Topaz]

Best quote ever. :D Just sayin.

My life is now complete :D

[Catsdorule-sigh]

If your horse likes this bit and its legal- keep it.

Years ago, before I knew better, had a dressage trainer tell me I couldn't use the bridoon (Which was quite a large one) I had been using on my horse. Never, ever found a bit that horse liked as well. Lesson- listen to horse, not trainer. Later found a better trainer.

[joiedevie99]

The only difference between a bradoon and a snaffle is the ring size- and since there is no regulation regarding ring size- its fine. They tend to be smaller in diameter, but that isn't always the case. Just make sure the mouthpiece meets all the rules and you are fine.

[Credosporthorses]

Pattnic I LOVE your sig!! Sorry nothing to add to the thread. Looks like you have found your answer though.