How to Attach a Chain Shank for Leading a Horse

A chain lead shank can be used to help control an unruly horse that tends to act up when being led. A chain lead shank has a short section of chain attached to a regular style lead shank made of cotton, leather or nylon. Only an experienced rider or groom should use the chain to lead a horse because it is capable of inflicting pain if not used properly. Engage the chain when needed, not at all times.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Chain lead shank
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Instructions

    • 1

      Halter the horse in the same manner as if using a regular cotton or nylon lead rope. Make sure that the halter fits securely around the horse's nose and under the jaw, without excessive sag or tightness.

    • 2

      Hold the bottom half of the nosepiece on the horse's halter with your left hand. Hold the snap at the end of the chain on the lead shank in your right hand.

    • 3

      String the snap through the square halter hardware on the left side of the horse's nose, going from outside to inside.

    • 4

      Pull the chain two-thirds of the way through. Run the snap under the horse's jawbone and through the opposite side of the nosepiece, going from inside to outside.

    • 5

      Snap the chain back onto itself at the other end, where it attaches to the remainder of the lead shank.

    • 6

      Grasp the upper portion of the chain and pull it down to loosen it from the horse's jaw prior to leading. Do not tug on the lead shank to tighten the chain unless needed to control the horse. Doing so will be uncomfortable or painful for the horse and may cause further misbehavior.