If any of you detractors of the spade bit then mabe you should see the
very interesting tape by R Shrake. Bits and Bitting. I have been in the
saddle for over 50 years and consider myself to have good hands. I have
a champion barrel horse and all arround roping mare. She was trained and
we still use a mighty mo short shanked bit on her. She is a dream to
ride and at the present time she is being ridden by my 13 yr old son. He
very gentle and so is the mare. Together they hold the all around honors
in their age group rodeo. A good spade bit only as good as the rider.
Upon watching many of my trail riders whom are suposed to have
experience I wouldn't let them use one. Espesialy the ones that ride
with two hands on the reins. Soft hands make soft
mouths..www.konacowboy.com