Mounted search and rescue

[Pennbo <pennbo@bbv.net>]

> I too
> use a longer than average lead, but I no longer let the horse wear
> it while riding. Instead, I tie the lead onto the saddle with a
> saddle string, or stuff it in a saddle bag.  Cross-country (meaning
> off trail) riding presents too many opportunities for the horse to
> step into or over any rope looped on its neck, or for the rope to
> snag on tree branches, deadfall, etc.
Yes, I agree. I always put my long lead in the saddle bag or tied to the 
saddle. It's just safer in our heavily wooded mountainous areas.

>  For the same reason I don't
> ride with a rein that is stitched closed;  a split rein is safer
> in this respect, but I prefer to compromize and use an extra long
> rein (the long length is important for MSAR) that has a buckle in
> the middle and a spring clip on at least one end.  (Some MSAR unit
> guidelines do not allow clips on the reins.)
>
>         Una Smith
I started riding with 'roping' reins- braided cotton with quick snaps on 
both sides. They will break if enough pressure is put on them in an 
emergency but won't break with moderate pressure, and when I easily 
unsnap one side I have a decent quick lead for foot work. I don't use a 
shanked curb so the bit is a not a big issue- plus my horses have all 
been taught this way and don't object to it. This way I can concentrate 
on the ground and not worry about the 'other' rein. Personal preference 
I guess. We all find what works best for us in our areas with our own 
mounts.

Chris Pennington
Big Bear Sheriff's Posse
MSAR