Connecting paracord reins to the bit

[ladybug0]

I know paracord reins and bridles are incredibly strong, which got me thinking about the best way to connect them to the bit. But my main concern really is safety. If the horse gets tangled or steps on the rein, something needs to break before the horse gets hurt. So I’m wondering if a simple leather water strap is the best option because leather is usually the weak link and will snap under enough force. And do slobber straps work the same way as a safety measure? Now what about normal reins made from rawhide, are those typically strong or will they break if the horse pulls hard enough? I’m also trying to figure out what gives paracord its strength, is it the inner core? Because if I remove the core, the paracord will be much weaker. Maybe a short connector piece made from a simple braid of coreless paracord strands would be strong enough for riding but weak enough to break in an emergency. Sorry I have many questions.

 

[li'lpowh]

Have you considered experimenting with cordless braids or thinner leather connectors?
Make sure the breakaway part holds up for everyday riding but will snap before your horse gets hurt if it steps on or tangles in the reins.

 

[damy2128]

This a new concept for me. In years of riding, I’ve never heard of any sort of breakaway rein being discussed. I have ridden with both one piece and split reins. If reins are properly secured to the saddle while dismounted, I cannot see an instance of the animal ever getting tangled in them. I have seen instances of a horse stepping on its bridle lead line. The step is made, head comes down, foot gets lifted, head comes back up so this is not a risk for injury to the horse either.

I’m curious to see where this discussion goes.

 

[Waffl3s]

@ladybug0 a leather water strap or a small leather loop, I think, is the best option for safety when using strong materials like paracord for reins
Leather serves as a designated break point designed to snap under enough pressure in an emergency, protecting the horse from injury

 

[damy2128]

That was my understanding as well, the leather giving way.

 

[Alan]

For safety, yes, I agree with @Waffl3s It should be a snap in case of emergency.