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Gear/Equipment for Your Saddle Shed or War Bag When you go trading or shopping for horse gear, try to buy the best that suits your needs and pocketbook. If you make your gear, make the best you are able---or go looking for a mentor to guide you. Well made leather, silver, bits, spurs, rawhide, blankets, etc. will give good service and last a long time if taken care of. In fact, some items such as saddles, bits and spurs, can actually go up in resale value. If made properly, they can aid in your horsemanship and the performance of your horse rather than detract from your experience and work. There is a large variation in the gear needed depending upon the type and style of riding you do, the horse type you are riding and your personal style. This is just an overview list to start: Headstalls for both snaffles (if used) and shanked bits that fit and are adjustable Optional: a variety of snaffles with snaffle hobbles Split leather reins or CC's weighted Pro-Trainers with poppers or slobber straps and 5/8ths or 1/2 inch mecates Hackamore/bosal---to start, usually 5/8ths inch, but can be 3/4 or 1 inch then 1/2 inch, then 3/8 inch and, finally 1/4 inch for the finished horse (can be employed by a latigo hanger under the headstall or via a single string on the front of the face attached to the forelock) unless in brushy country when the 3/8ths will serve Mecates---a series each within a 1/4 inch diameter of the rawhide, leather or kangaroo bars on the bosal/hackamore Get down rope---usually 16 foot and 3/8th inch diameter of mane, angora or nylon with a popper on one end and a small lash on the other end. It can be tied around the horse's neck in a bowline (a knot that will not pull down tight) or dropped down nearer the chest and then brought up when needed. These are not for tying a horse, but for leading---especially a horse in the bridle. Ernie Morris says, "Don't leave home without one". A selection of shanked bits with a variety of mouthpiece options An elevator bit Leather curb straps that are adjustable and pliable Romal reins made of rawhide, kangaroo or calf with buttons for weight, balance and to help protect the main rein body against sweat or chewing damage A good fitting saddle for both horse and rider that is appropriate for the job Optional: a martingale for classic decoration Optional: a breast collar, if needed---make certain that it does not impede the horse’s action or rub A cinch that is made of natural materials that allows air circulation and is the correct length An extra latigo or two or half breed billet Appropriate and clean pads and blankets that allow the air to circulate and the horse's back to "breathe" A good rope halter with a 12-16 foot lead preferably without metal hardware A good, sharp knife A set of brushes, combs, hoof pick and other grooming essentials A set of first aid materials for horse and rider A good mascada/scarf preferably in silk which can be employed for a variety of uses |