The Indian Bosal is an uncommon piece of equipment found in a tack room. It is a simple and often unknown solution to the many problems that bits may cause. It is a simple design, consisting only of yacht rope or rawhide much like today’s rope halters. The Indian Bosal may be attached to any type of headstall, either Western or English in style. Much like the rope halter and The Bitless Bridle, the Indian Bosal works through pressure. The ropes of the Indian Bosal criss-cross under the horse’s jaw. Your direct rein tells your horse which way to go as it would with either a snaffle bit or side-pull.
The Indian Bosal has many advantages to its use in training. The Indian Bosal can be used on young horses or old horses, despite their level of training. They work best on a horse that knows how to respond properly to pressure. If the horse has received adequate ground training in a rope halter, he should respond well to the Indian Bosal. The horse will feel the rein pull on the opposite side of the, for example, if you use a direct right rein, the horse will feel pressure on the left. The bosal also aids in neck reining training as the feel the pressure on the same side as they feel the rein. The horse will learn and correspond the pressures.
The Indian Bosal will aid in curing many of the problems associated with bits and mechanical hackamores. These devices cause problems such as head shaking, bit chewing, resisting the bit and more. Many horses that will not accept the bit will often toss and throw their heads, making a dangerous situation for both horse and rider. The use of the bosal will help solve many of these problems. If you believe that the horse’s problems exist with his teeth, then it is important to have his mouth examined by a veterinarian.
The Indian Bosal is a great tool for a horse that just doesn’t like a bit and resists having a bridle put on. It will be a welcome relief to the horse when you go to put on his bridle and there is not bit going in his mouth. This makes for a happier situation for both horse and rider and will get you in the saddle sooner. The horse will not shake his head and try to get the pressure off of his nose as the rope is fairly thin and is not heavy. The horse will also be more attentive to your desires instead of playing with a bit or trying to avoid your cues.
There is little history to be found about the Indian Bosal, but as its name suggests Native Americans once used it in riding their horses. The versions found today are probably somewhat different but the concept the same. They were introduced to the cowboy’s by Native American cowpunchers that braided them out of rawhide. Today’s version of the Indian Bosal is made of soft yacht rope. This is the same material that most rope halters are made out of. The material is very horse friendly and very durable as well. As with any bit or bridle, you should not tie your horse to anything with the Indian Bosal on the horse. You will not only break your tack but could possibly cause rope burn and other facial injuries to your horse. If used properly, the Indian Bosal is a great alternative to bits and great for the all-natural horse.
