I prefere the Western shank bit over the Brenda Imius comfort bit. It allows you to have morecontrol over the guiding of the horse then the Brenda Imuis bit does.
You might be able to thwart his grabbing the shanks with rubber bit guards, Failing that, you might have to go to a cavesson. This would keep him from opening his mouth enough to grab the shanks. Are you pleasure riding only or do you show him? Show gear is different than 'regular' pleasure/trail tack. + I am familiar with TWH's and their tack, having worked at a show barn a few years. I didn't think you were looking at the double curbed cavesson, just a simple single.
I would suggest one of two options. The bit I prefer is a full cheek, single jointed smooth copper mouth snaffle bit. Most horses will go well in this bit. The full cheeks keep the bit from sliding, and help in turning the horse. You have the option of adding bit keepers if you desire a very slight cue on the poll, and it helps to keep the bit properly positioned in the mouth. The other option is the Dr. Cook bitless bridle which is superior to any other bitless choice (I've used them all over the years), and horses do very well in it. I never recommend anything I haven't used and found to be superior to other options. If you don't have to bit the horse for showing, I would choose the Dr. Cook.
WHEN GEARS ARE HARD TO OPERATE
