In my expierence most are beaten into submission as well, often resulting in an un sound, head shy, and generally poor animal. 18 months is way to early in my opinion, if it works for travelers thats fine, but most folk wanting a horse, this would not be the best option.
I hasten to add this is MY OPINION, made through dealings i've had with ex traveller horses, and a couple of rescue cases. I'm not stating that every traveller beats their horses, just the 1's i've come into contact with have been.
yes lass you will get a few people that do that but there are quite a few that will no