Abbey Doctor Bristol Combination Hackamore

A combination of the American gag with a German-style bitless bridle (hackamore). They are available in many mouthpieces but a jointed or mullen mouth is the most common. As the rein contact is taken up, pressure is brought on the nose, back of the jaw and then the poll. This gives a steadying lowering signal, before any contact is made with the mouth . A system used on some Western bridles. The metal structure of the American "gag" Leverage bit inflicts a more severe action. The lowering poll pressure is quite strong as is the lifting (sliding) action on the corners of the lips while leverage pressure presses downwards on the horse's bars, tongue and mouth. When combined with the nose section of the German-style bitless bridle (hackamore), the result is an extremely severe bit, even if used with the softer option of two reins. Often used by show jumpers a bridle such as this will only be successful when used sympathetically in the hands of the most skilled, balanced and educated of riders.