Thinking about starting barrels in the spring...

[WP~Paint]

I don't have a barrel saddle but if my boy takes to barrels I'll get a used one. I am looking at mainly a bit, I'm getting new SMB's for Christmas I hope and I have reins and am getting a headstall...So for a bit, I like to have him in different tack so he knows what is going on...I was looking at the Tender Touch bit, he is in a billy allen type mouth piece curb bit and goes well in it. Would a Tender Touch be a good choice for barrels? I was looking at this one: http://www.smithbrothers.com/product.asp?pn=X3-013162...It says good for an older soft mouthed horse...My boy is 8 and is normally a good boy, but occasionally when he wants to run, he needs that little extra from the shanks, but normally the bit just sits there and I use mostly legs. So if i'm figuring right, would this be a good bit. Sorry to ramble, I'm trying to think and type ;)

[TLC97]

I have a Tender Touch and LOVE IT!!! If you feel him get heavy in it you can tight up the chin strap first to give a little extra pop before you need to move up to a stronger bit.

You can get SMB's but polo wraps can work just as good. Bell boots are a must.

Check out this site for bits and other items for ideas.

www.thetackstop.com

[WP~Paint]

I have bell boots and will use the SMB's for sure because there easier for me to put on! I'll check out that site, thanks!

[rodeogrl]

I personally ride in SMB boots, I dont think polos give the support you need around a barrel, its basically just covering ur horses leg from dirt, if they clip themselves it can easily go thru the polo.

As for the bit, the tender touch is a great bit, just becareful with it. If your just starting him on the barrels I would suggest something a little easier and then work your way up to the tender touch when u add speed. Have you ever seen the Junior cowhorse? Its just a twisted wire snaffle that is very light with differ shanks, I use it on my 4yr old who is high loping patterns and she loves it, but every horse is different. You may try borrowin some bits off people before you go ahead and buy one. Ive bought $80 bits before just to have my horse spit the bit n run off with me or give me too much rate.

Good luck n keep us posted!

[palomino]

Im selling my saddle if youre interested.