Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch

Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch: For the Comfort and Safety of the Driving Horse

by Barbara Lee of Nearside Harness, Oregon City, OR

Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
The Australian-style “Stockman’s” Driving Bridle showing the sideview winkers. The winkers provide 180 degree vision for the horse.
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
The independent bit strap can be removed instantly to transform the bridle into a halter.
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
Gullet-strap – part of the halter function.
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
Front view, showing the horse’s enhanced field of vision. The sideview winkers can be instantly exchanged for conventional winkers, or removed entirely.
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
Shows the function of the “safety crown.” The horse may try to rub the bridle off but it is next to impossible for him to get the safety crown over his ears.
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
The sailing “snap shackle” that attaches the breeching cable to the breeching.
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
The hip straps are positioned under the turnback strap. They do not pass through sewn-in slots. The turnback strap can be pulled out of the keepers to instantly release the breeching in case of emergency. (Rob Johnson of Australia demonstrating.)
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
View from the rear showing the pulley breeching. Note also the well balanced shaft floating in the tug.
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
The adjustable draft hame with trace ideally positioned for this vehicle.
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
The axle draft singletree is curved to clear the draft yoke.
Innovations in the Mechanics of the Hitch
This pair of straps supports the draft yoke at a height that creates a straight, uninterrupted line of draft from the collar, through the singletree and draft yoke to the axle. The step welded to the yoke allows easy entry/exit at the front of the vehicle.