Pelhams are harsh bits!???

[Mossy]

I know the pelham v snaffle discussion is well and often had on the site but may I please relate a conversation I had this afternoon. I was flabbergasted. I would like to refresh my skills with a pelham and two reins as they are somewhat rusty, 30 years rusty, and set about finding a local stable to teach me. One BHS recognised person told me that pelhams are very harsh bits, not at all sensitive, and her only use for a pelham was when combined with a standing martingale when out hunting to give her brakes! Other establishments had a similar viewpoint. Pelham equals brakes and nothing else.
I have searched the site and will have to use the suggestion about videos, a doorknob and foot on the bit. I am not unduly worried by the senstivity of the curb action as I have successfully used a Kimblewick, I just wanted an expert eye whist getting used to all that leather and the feel of a "new" bit!

[Heather]

HI Jill,

This is so typical of the establishment attitude, and why I am so anti-estclishement, at least in the horse world! These people,just neither use their brains or imagination, that is assuming they are not completely devoid of either in the first place.

They are so indoctrinated and like a load of sheep who follow, never question. I sonetimes think that if the BHS told instructors to put their heads in the gas oven, they would do it. Mind you, might do the horse a favour,

Heather

[Mossy]

Heather
Thanks for your reply. May I please ask you one more question?
Would you please refresh my memory as to the correct grip. I think I have it right but before I revise the wrong thing i would like to be sure?
Thumbs up Curb Rein under 4th finger and over third then back into the hand so that the little finger controls it. Snaffle rein up through palm of hand and between first and second finger, over first finger and back down under the thumb as usual. Snaffle controlled by second finger. I hope that makes sense. It is much easier to do than explain. Having done all that all fingers work to operate all reins independently. - My wrists have not ached so much since I stopped trying to play the guitar. It is a very similar sort of action.
[I am practising using a slotted Kimblewick and I always knew intellectually it was a bit to treat with much respect. I have always used it without using the slots My foot now knows why!]That curb slot pulls hard with the slightest tension and I can see the effect of the poll pressure on the door knob! And that is without the curb chain pressure the round curb groove
Thanks