Called a “Brain Chain” or “Brain Trap”, this device is used in some western disciplines with a similar purpose as a tie down or standing martingale – to prevent an elevated head carriage – but with a significantly more harsh effect on the horse.

In this photo it may look like a brow band, but look closer. These are typically made with metal chain or cable (while the one shown is leather), positioned low across the brow and behind the ears, connecting to a swivel beneath the head which runs between the front legs to connect to the cinch.

When the horse raises his head, this device applies pressure to the delicate TMJ and Poll, as well as the sensitive surrounding tissues and nerves. As you can imagine, It is very good at achieving the desired result, but the risk of permanent damage to these cranial structures and tissues is too great. Not to mention the psychological effects on the horse.

Of course I don’t recommend this being used, but for many in the english disciplines this may be a strange looking gadget, so I thought I’d explain what it is and how it works, as a part of this educational miniseries.

Remember- gadgets don’t fix training deficiencies or correct behavioral issues from physical discomfort – and can actually cause more problems than they are intended to “fix”!

Author: Gray Horse Leatherworks