Noseband With a Bad Reputation?

[jcuk]

On 9/8/2025 at 10:13 PM, TomE said:

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.

 

 

Nice work. I have to say part of the problem with certain items of tack is lots of people do not know how to fit their tack also its seems to me they want the the said items of tack to ride the horse for them at times, instead of maybe improving their own riding ability. I had one customer asking if I had a French snaffle knowing this was the latest trend at this time asked her why she wanted one she said her daughters pony was not facing the bit keeps throwing its head up. So her daughters riding instructor told her to get a French snaffle so she came to me, I did not have one at the time but could get one for her but added I don't want to sell you something you may not need she asked how so I said has the pony just started doing this she said yes about a couple of weeks, I asked when was the last time the pony had its teeth done she replied oh its six years old after five years they no longer need their teeth doing I laughed and said where did you get that info from she said people in her daughters pony club and instructors. I said they just like us they need their teeth checking and doing twice a year, as I was based where the pony was stabled I offered to go and check its teeth for her and yes they had got very sharp at the back and needed rasping, on the down side for her the cost of her getting the teeth done would maybe cost more than the bit she wanted which would have not worked either until she got the  teeth done. Again I am shocked at the lack of knowledge and the B/S around the equine world most are just naive but  also unfortunately there are also many that are chancers too.

Regards JCUK