Noseband With a Bad Reputation?

[TomE]

I usually make bridles with a simple cavesson noseband - a continuous strap of leather and the buckle off center under the chin.  This bridle has a Swedish or crank style noseband that evokes strong opinions.  The crank is two-piece construction with a padded strap that can generate some leverage when tightening the noseband.  Proponents say that the crank style provides flexibility and even pressure under the jaw.  Critics note that the crank lends itself to overtightening, causing discomfort.  The name "crank" is a rather unfortunate choice.

I posted the bridle on social media and sure enough some of the comments were "cranky."  Maybe there's no such thing as bad publicity?  I enjoyed making this noseband but the construction takes considerably longer than a simple cavesson.  At least I have the ability if someone asks for one.

 

 

[kgg]

10 minutes ago, TomE said:

I posted the bridle on social media and sure enough some of the comments were "cranky."

I know nothing about horse related items other then to say the workmanship is very nicely done. I see the same type of "cranky" comments about prong collars for dogs. 

kgg

[TomE]

1 hour ago, kgg said:

I see the same type of "cranky" comments about prong collars for dogs. 

kgg

Interesting. I thought dog fanciers are a friendlier bunch. Perhaps it’s a sign of the times. 

[jrdunn]

1 hour ago, TomE said:

Interesting. I thought dog fanciers are a friendlier bunch. Perhaps it’s a sign of the times. 

It seems to me that the internet is full of "experts" on nearly every subject these days.  JM2C, Jim

[Mulesaw]

Hi Tom

Beautiful looking bridle!

We had a Micklem bridle for my wifes horse, and that had the same system, I was always of the impression that it was made purely to protect the horse from having a buckle gnawing directly to the skin under the jaw (where as you know there isn't a lot of meat to add natual padding). 
Also having the buckle directly on the skin has the potential of gripping some hair from the horse, especially in the winter time where the hair s long (It might be a bigger problem in Scandinavian winters than in e.g. Florida)

I have never heard anyone complaining or bad mouthing the system, but I am not on FB, and that might filter some of the most enthusiastic voices 🙂

As I see it, you can still overtighten a cavesson noseband, but if you are a skilled rider - you make sure that your equipment is fitted correct anyway, and then it won't matter if your system allows for tightening more or less.

Brgds Jonas