Types of Mechanical Hackamores

Mechanical hackamores have one standard design, but there are variations on the general design that will affect the rider's ability to use the hackamore effectively. These variations will also affect the way the device works on the horse. You will need to examine any mechanical hackamores you are considering purchasing thoroughly in order to determine what type of features will work best on your horse.

  1. What is a Mechanical Hackamore?

    • A mechanical hackamore is a device that is used in place of a traditional horse bridle that contains a bit. The mechanical hackamore is a leverage device that is designed to control the horse by applying pressure using a noseband and without the use of a bit. The mechanical hackamore is a metal, shanked device that commonly has a curb on it as well. Mechanical hackamores are generally considered to be very severe bits that should only be used by very experienced riders on well trained horses due to the risk of injury and pain associated with using these devices.

    Shank Length

    • The length of the shank on your mechanical hackamore will determine how much leverage it delivers and how much pressure your horse will feel on its nose when you pull on the reins. The longer the shank is, the more severe the mechanical hackamore will be and the more pressure it will deliver. This can be dangerous because mechanical hackamores are capable of breaking the bones in your horse's nose if too much pressure is exerted on a horses nose.

    Curb

    • Some mechanical hackamores use an actual curb chain while others use leather or fabric curb straps or a single metal bar. The more severe the curb on the bit is, the more severe the mechanical hackamore will be when you are using it. You will need to take into consideration your horse's training level, sensitivity and responsiveness when you are considering what combination of shank and curb you are planning to purchase. A longer shanked mechanical hackamore should ideally have a gentler curb. A short shanked hackamore may benefit from a curb chain.

    Noseband Width

    • The width of the noseband on a mechanical hackamore also influences how the horse feels the bit and how severe the bit is. A thicker noseband will distribute the pressure of the mechanical hackamore over more space, causing it to be less severe. A very thin noseband applies the pressure directly to a single point on the horse's nose. The thinner the noseband is, the more likely a rider is to accidently harm the horse if too much pressure is applied.