Tag: Reins

Putting Basic Achenbach Driving Techniques into Practice

Following up on last week's video demonstrating basic Achenbach techniques on our rein machine, today we are putting those driving techniques into practice. Come along with Ranch Ride Carriage Drive as we navigate trails, hills, roads, and traffic on today's training drive.

Using a Rein Machine to Demonstrate Basic Achenbach Driving Technique

By popular demand! Ranch Ride Carriage Drive demonstrates the basics of Achenbach rein handling using a rein machine. The rein machine is a safe and useful tool for learning, practicing, or refining your technique before driving horses, if you don't have regular access to horses or carriages, or in inclement weather.

Driving a Five-in-Hand Mountain Team

One of the more rarely seen turnouts is a five-in-hand, mountain team or pickaxe as it’s referred to here in the US. The first time I really became aware of the expression “mountain team” was when I was working for Andreas Nemitz, who used a five-in-hand to cross the Alps on his nine-day Lindau Messenger tour every year. I soon learned that driving a five-in-hand has its challenges!

Measuring Your Reins Before Mounting, the Achenbach Way

It’s a lesser-known fact that under the Achenbach system, the pairs driver always measures their reins from the ground before mounting the carriage, and always mounts from the left-hand side. The intent is to allow the driver to have control of the horses throughout the entire process of mounting the carriage and taking their seat.