How to Tie a Hackamore Knot

A hackamore does not use a bit, unlike a traditional bridle.

A centuries old device, a hackamore is headgear for a horse which uses a bosal -- a braided noseband -- in place of a bit. The rein section, called a mecate, is made of rope which must be tied to the bosal in a very particular manner for proper functioning of the entire device. When done correctly, the hackamore knot fashions one end into a looped rein and the other end into a loose tail which can function in any number of ways.

Things You'll Need

• Hackamore
• Bosal
• Mecate

Instructions

1. Thread the tasseled, knotted end of the mecate through the "V" shape in the bosal. The tassel should face outward, away from the horse.

2. Wrap the mecate counter clockwise around the bosal, wrapping over the tasseled knot the first time. Repeat once or twice, if necessary, working your way towards the nose band.

3. Hold the wraps in place with your right hand. Use your left hand to pull the mecate through the bosal to form a loop. Be sure not to twist the mecate; this loop will become your reins.

4. Adjust the length of the reins as necessary. Wrap the remaining mecate once more above the reins to secure them in place.

5. Thread the tail of the mecate through the final wrap. Pull it tight such that the tail emerges on the same side of the bosal as the tassel.

6. Tighten any wraps that may have loosened during the process.

Tips & Warnings

• Two wraps before the loop should suffice for an average sized horse.

References

• Buckaroo Leather Horse Tack, Use, Care and Maintenance; Mecate Reins and Hackamores - A Brief History; 2009
• Deepwater Western Tack: How to Tie Mecate Reins
• Bradwell.dk: How to Tie the Mecate to the Bosal

Resources

• Paradise Hills Ranch: How to Attach Horseman's Reins to the Natural Hackamore