Cross Check Ring

[Does’ Leap]

Can anyone explain the purpose and necessity of the ring that encompasses the cross-check lines (between the hames and the bridles)? I use it out of habit not being sure what it does.

Thanks.

George

[Joshua Kingsley]

I was told once by my uncle that the ring between the hames and bridles was used to keep the lines together. I’m not shure if that is it’s true function or not. Good question though and I look forward to others answers.
Josh

[Donn Hewes]

I have been told different things by different people. Someone said it helped keep the lines from getting hooked on the end of the tongue. I have worked with friends that used them, but I haven’t used one in 15 years. Donn

[LStone]

When I first started my team together I ran one for a short while. But I leave it home now. Not that I am any wiser or smarter, it’s just that little things in bundles contribute to simplifying my life on a larger scale. I can see how it would prevent tangling with the tongue like Donn said. I’m thinking it is probably just a preference thing.

[Carl Russell]

I have used one for many years, and after reading this thread, I took it off to see if my theory was right. I was told that it helped to even the tension, and to take the slack out of the cross check as the horses move independently.

I found that to be exactly the case. I drove them for several days like that, and although I didn’t notice any significant detriment to not having it there, I could see the lines slacking and shifting in their angle toward the mouths.

Again, I saw not detriment, but I decided to return the ring because I have grown accustomed to the effect that it has on line tension and evening.

Carl

[Does’ Leap]

Interesting Carl. I got rid of my ring reading no definitive answers as to its benefit. I did notice a difference but couldn’t articulate what it was. Reading your reply makes sense. I am going back with the ring!

Thanks to all for the input.

[Plowboy]

We almost always use them. Carl said it all. It just seems to work better and keeps everything in place and looks neater too!

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