Hi everyone,

I'm a new member and have never used a forum before so please pardon my mistakes if any are made. I have been riding western and english for 14yrs but have only shown english with the exception of a few farm shows in my first few years of riding. I have been considering showing my appendix QH in a few western classes at local shows, instead of english. I have heard alot of talk about not using snaffles on older western horses (wrigley is 12), the main reason I've heard against the snaffle is they want the use of one hand with barely any visible evidence of you asking for a task/ neck reining ... this I understand. But what I'm confused about is can you use one hand with a snaffle in a show? My horse neck reins easily with out a bit or bridle at all, so asking him for a task is barely noticeable but everyone I've seen with a bosal or snaffle rides with both hands. Is it a rule that if you have a bosal or snaffle you must use both hands or can I show with a snaffle and use one hand.

Thanks In Advance, and I'm Very SORRY for my mistakes or rambling I'm very new to this forum stuff.

To eliminate confusion, read the rules it may answer your question or ask the show commitee.

If they are using their own rules, you can probably do either and be fine.
But if they are using AQHA rules, you need to ride any horse over the age of 5 in a curb, one handed.

Slightly technical, but may help.
http://www.aurorahorsemens.com/Rein%20and%20Bits.pdf

Thanks so much I appreciate nice answers

Most local associations follow general breed rules. AQHA bit rule states only 2yr olds in bosels (or hackmore) and only Jr horses (5 and under) in snaffle bits. To show in WP you must have a bit w a shank and ride with one hand. NOTE: if the free hand touches any part of the tack, the rider should be disqualified so practice at home to avoid a habit blunder.

Thanks so much guys, I appreciate the help

In the future, if you read the forum rules (top thread on the home page) you won't have to worry about any mistakes! Of which I don't think you made any anyway.

Happy horse showing!

A snaffles is used with 2 hands and a curb is used (traditionally) with 1 when showing.