what is a side pull? i am familiar with the hackamore. we rode him several times on the 20 acres he was housed on before deciding to purchase him. my husband tried jumping on him bareback, and he just stood there while several attepts were made, he acts a little antsy when you go to get on,but i dont know if it is because he is confused at why you keep jumping on and off of him, or if it is because he hasnt been rode in while.the backing he does o.k. with, we havent had him long enough to be able to really get in there and see what he can do. thank you for the advice, i will try these things first and then let you know how he does, any other advice please let me know. i am thank ful for all i can get.