Bit for strong horse

Question
I have a 9 year old Paint.  She is very strong on my hands.  I don't ride with any gadgets, just a plain  western headstall with a Tom Thumb bit, which she has been in for years.  She is extremely hard on my hands and never seems to relax much unless she's tired.  Am I using the right tack for her or are there any other options I may have?  I have tried a D ring snaffle and she ran away with me.

Do you have any suggestions?

Answer
Hi Xarifa!

It seems to me your mare has outgrown her current bit, especially since it is such a mild bit and she has been in it for years.

I am not surprised an even milder bit (the D ring snaffle) did not work!

Bits are really determined more by a horse's personality than its' training in my opinion.

You need a bit that helps your mare to relax at the poll.

I am thinking you could try a Myler Level 2 curb with a twisted mouthpiece.

If you are not familar with Myler bits, you can check out their website, read their instruction book (and video) or visit your local tack shop or one online. They really explain their purpose clearly and easily.

Some tack shops even have a rental program for these bits.  Because they are expensive and you may have to experiment, they allow you to try one before purchasing it.

I love these bits and own about 5 and especially love their combination bit for my training horses.

While they are much more $$$ than a regular bit, the price is nothing if it affords a true line of communication to your horse and improves your riding relationship!

If you decide to try a Myler, feel free to ask me more specific questions or supply more information  to determine the mouthpiece and cheekpiece.  Since you will have soooo many choices, it is easy to get overwhelmed!

Good Luck and Remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!

Solange