Colt starting: Hackamore or snaffle?

Eclectic Horseman had an article about this topic, what are your thoughts?

That’s a great article! I was just wondering about the hackamore and how it could fit into my training. In all cases, the 3 vintage riders brought it back to the quality of the rider’s hands. I am so glad to find this forum! Thanks, Emily!!

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The old Californios started in the hackamore as the snaffle was not common in early California. These days think about “right tool for the right job”. The snaffle is primarily a lateral teaching device; whereas the Spanish hackamore is a vertical teaching device designed to encourage self carriage. I am able to help my colts more with a snaffle for just a few rides. When they become responsive to just a bit of pressure side to side, I move over to the hackamore for several years occasionally going back to the snaffle when needed (usually due to my mistakes).

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