you may find that he is leaning on the bit which is why you may find that you cant feel like you cant give a softer rein. Try a bit that he cant lean on such as a kimblewick or soft mouth pelham, maybe with a french link. This wont necessarily apply more force on the tongue and bars- so wont give him a hard mouth, but will make unpleasant for him to lean due to the poll and groove pressure.

Good luck

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* vegan hippie girl <3

Have
female Royal python
male Bengal cat
7 Golden Spiny Mice

Want
indian stick insects