Judging School Handbook - American Morgan Horse Association

A Standard Western Bit: There shall be no discriminationagainst any standard Western bit. Astandard Western bit is defined as having a shankwith a maximum length overall of 8 1/2". Themouthpiece will consist of a metal bar 3/8" to 3/4" indiameter (as measured from the shank to 1" in fromthe shank), varying from the straight bar to a fullspade with nothing extending below the horizontalplane of the mouthpiece other than a roller attachedto the center of the bit. Jointed mouthpieces are permitted.Swivel posts and flat polo mouthpieces arepermitted. Roping bits with both reins attached to asingle rein at center of cross bar shall not be used.Reins must be attached to each shank.A Standard Snaffle Bit is defined as a center-jointedsingle, rounded, unwrapped smooth mouthpieceof 3/8" to 3/4" diameter metal as measured from ringto 1" in from the ring with a gradual decrease to thecenter of the snaffle. The rings may be from 2" to 4"outside diameter of either the loose-type, eggbutt,dee, or center-mounted without cheeks (a shank ofany type). If a curb strap is used it must be attachedbelow the reins. A Standard Snaffle Bit may be usedon junior horses (4 years of age and under) only, inany class in the Western section and the rider mayuse both hands on the reins.A Hackamore must be of bosal-type, must beround in shape and constructed of braided rawhideor leather and must have a flexible non-metalliccore. Attached reins may be of hair, rope, orleather. No other material of any kind is to be usedin conjunction with a hackamore, i.e., steel, metalor chains (exception: smooth plastic electrical tapeis acceptable). Narrow “pencil” bosals, often usedas cavessons or part of tie-downs, and mechanicalhackamores are prohibited. To help you recognizethe proper size of a hackamore, it should be no lessthat 1/2" in width at the narrowest point (cheek ofhackamore where headstall attaches). Hackamoresare permitted in any class on horses 4 years of ageand under that have never been shown in any eventin a bridle, and the rider may use both hands onthe reins.Curb Straps and Curb Chains are the most frequentlymisused equipment you will find as a judge.If a curb chain is used, it must be 1/2" in width andlie FLAT against the jawline of the horse. Leathercurb straps must meet the same 1/2" requirement andalso lie flat against the jawline. No wire, rawhide,metal or other substance can be used in conjunctionwith or as part of the leather chin strap or curb chain.Rounded, rolled, braided, or rawhide curb straps areprohibited. A light leather lip strap is permissible.Hackamore bits, bosals, cavesson-type nosebands,martingales, and tie-downs are prohibited.Use of Reins is an area that often is difficult toassess, but needs your attention. Only one hand maybe used on reins and hands must not be changedexcept to negotiate an obstacle in a Trail Horse class.Hand to be around reins. When end of split rein fallson the side of the reining hand, one finger betweenreins is permitted. When using romal or when end ofsplit reins are held in hand not used for reining, nofinger between reins is allowed. Rider may holdromal or end of split reins to keep them from swingingand to adjust the position of the reins provided itis held at least 16" from the reining hand. Ridersmay use both hands on the reins of a hackamore orsnaffle bit horse and both hands must be visible tothe judge.Checking Bridles: If bridles are to be checked it isthe sole responsibility of the judge(s) to do so. Thejudge may designate a steward to check bridles at theoutgate. Riders must be dismounted.Ideally, you should have the equipment checkedprior to the commencement of the class, so thatexhibitors are allowed the time to make correctionsbefore entering the ring and you are not placed inthe unpleasant situation of disqualifying an entryafter the railwork.The preceding paragraphs are meant to highlight oremphasis certain areas where most judges have difficulties,but they do not completely portray theexact specifications and requirements as outlined inthe USEF Rule Book. It is most important to notethat equipment rules frequently undergo changes inthe Western division and it is imperative that youread the current rules completely before acceptingan assignment and officiating a show. Have all ofthe specifications clearly in mind when you stepinto the ring.Additional Equipment: With regard to other equipment,entries shall be shown with a stock saddle, butsilver equipment will not count over a good working34