how to choose a bit for your horse in three steps, Best Horse Joint Supplement Reviews – What to Buy, EquestrianCoach.com Review – Online Horse Riding Lessons. The horse will feel virtually an equal amount of pressure on the mouth as the rider is providing on the reins. 16 Common Types of Horse Bits (A Helpful Illustrated Guide) Any bit can be harsh (as can bitless riding) if it is being used incorrectly by the rider. Holding a shank in each hand, you can rotate one side of the mouthpiece a complete 360 degrees. Definitely. About this Quiz. See more ideas about horse bits, horses, horse tack. Different breeds of horse have different mouth conformations, which means they require bits with different types of action and mouthpieces. Charles walks you through the type of snaffle bits by explaining the different functions based on style, diameter, and metal. The principle here is the same – longer shank, more leverage. The material that you choose is important because your horse will like certain ones more than others so he or she will be more willing to accept certain types of bits. And don't forget to share your score in the comments! Snaffle bits create direct pressure on the mouth without leverage. I would also recommend snaffle as a default. See how well you know your bits by taking our quiz. Snaffle bits are the most common type of horse bit. The name comes from the somewhat egg-shaped connection between the mouthpiece and the bit-ring. Thanks for your feedback, I’m really happy that you enjoyed my post. Mild steel is cold rolled steel or carbon steel, which means that through working it at high temperatures, it has become hardened. Imagine there is a stick on a table with about an inch of it sticking out off the table. Usually, a smaller horse has a smaller mouth and will need a smaller bit, and the reverse for larger horses. If you hit the very end of the stick, chances are it’s going to go a lot faster. Whether you are in the process of bit shopping right now or if you just want a handy guide to refer to every now and again, I wanted to put this together to make it easier for you. Snaffle bits are recommended for both beginning riders and horses in training. There are hundreds of different types. A basic Western Curb Bit has a gently ported mouthpiece and shanks to which the reins attach. So it really comes down to a compromise at the end of the day. Pressure bits are generally snaffles. A similar … Then after that, there is the material used to make the bit. Kimberwicks, which provide more leverage and control than a typical snaffle. With the number of different types of bits on the market, choosing the right bit for your horse may seem like quite the task. Trying to decide which is the right bit for your horse can be confusing, but when you look closely, you'll see that there are only two basic types of bit: the Snaffle Bit and the Curb Bit. All bits can be sorted into two main classes based on their overall design and how they govern interaction between your hands and the horse’s mouth. Instead, copper alloys or copper inlays on steel bits are preferred. Description and uses of the mullen-mouthed snaffle bit. Wow, what a great article, you have given such important information about horse bits, I really liked it! A copper mouthpiece … Registry: Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association. The English Curb bit is often used in a double bridle. An example is the HS Aurigan® French Mouth Bradoon. These bits are mid-range in price and are extremely durable. Linked round chains, chainsaw or bicycle type chains and other types of chains can be used and these can be very severe bits. The bite of the bit does, however, vary with design specifications. Okay, so what are the basics of horse bits? Shanks that are fixed in place have the most leverage. Some people feel they are comfortable for the horse to carry. It doesn’t make a difference what the bit looks like, what the design is or how many times the bit is broken or not – if the reins attach directly to the mouthpiece you know you’re dealing with a snaffle bit. Horse Bits by Type Browse our extensive range of horse bits from the drop down menu in the header. But we were in an arena and I had been riding my horse at the time for 4 years so he knew exactly what to do just from my legs . This bit is designed to provide direct pressure to the horse’s tongue and lips. I personally prefer the snaffle bit, it is more gentle for the horse and if use it correctly then your friend will be very happy! Quick view. The bit acts with a nutcracker action (provided it is jointed) on the bars of the mouth (the area of gum between the front and back teeth), the corners of the mouth and the tongue. The English Loose Ring Snaffle Bit is probably the most common English riding bit. In reality there are SO MANY types of horse bits that the mere thought of it can make your head can spin. Going to a curb bit might be what he needs to re-sensitize but you have to respect that it’s more intense for him and handle the reins appropriately. It has two rings on either side to which the reins are attached, and is usually jointed, with a link in the middle of the mouthpiece. But instead of only an inch being off the table now you have like almost half the stick off the table. These features promote chewing which will activate the salivary glands and keep your horse’s mouth moist and healthy. Check whether the center of the bit hits the rugae (ridges) of the horse's palate, or the roof of the mouth. How can we make it simpler for ourselves to sort through them all? Some of these bits have a short length of chain in the middle, and are solid where the bit sits on the bars of the mouth. Bits are further described by the style of mouthpiece that goes inside the horse's mouth as well as by the type of bit ring or bit shank that is outside the mouth, to which the reins are attached. You can break bits down into two main types: pressure and leverage. Snaffles come with one joint, two joints, and a single bar mouthpiece, and various side rings. That sounds like a lot of fun and like you and your horse were very well connected! The D Ring has got slighlty … And that’s because of the increased leverage. The Weymouth encourages the horse to lower and flex his head and neck and together they produce a more advanced head carriage and an increased level of control. Many horses are ridden in some variation of a loose ring snaffle bit. All Horse Bits; Bit; Bits; Bombers; Cheltenham Gag; Competition; Dressage; Eventing; Full Cheek; Fulmer; Gag; Horse; Horse Bit; Jumping; Lock Up; Loose Ring; Lorenzin; Lorenzini; Mullen; Snaffle ; Titanium; Williams; Bombers and Lorenzini both create phenomenal bits for a range of purposes and requirements. There is no one perfect bit for every horse, which is why there are so many different styles available, and that just makes it even more confusing. The curb bit works on the bars of the mouth, as well as under the chin (by way of the curb chain which is attached to the bit) and over the poll. It comes with an act and … Win and Place Bet Types. Snaffle bits are the most common type of horse bit. I was born with horses and grew up with them, this creature is absolutely beautiful, so intelligent and sensitive. For most horses, start with a 4–5 inch (10–13cm) bit and switch as necessary. Win only, or "Straight Out", is a bet placed on a runner to win only. The longer the shanks, the greater the leverage. The snaffle bit is a broad category that applies to a large variety of bits. Types of Horse bridles Here’s listing the different types of bridles that attach to the bit and allows you to control the horse: Snaffle bridle – These are the most basic bridles and contrary to what … It’s one of those things that you always have to look up again to remember properly, which is annoying and takes forever. I was initially interested in reading your post as I had just been on Chincoteague and Assateague Islands in Virginia and got to see the Chincoteague ponies on a day cruise. Find the perfect horse bit for you and your mount online at South Texas Tack. Reply. Professional Trainer and Vlogger Shelby Dennis on English Horse Bits 101. Not sure what bit to use? We have a wide selection of western bits to choose from including shank bits, roping bits, snaffle bits, reining bits and cow horse bits. The following bet types are typical of win and place betting with online bookies and include Win, Place, Each Way, Starting Price, Best Fluc, Fixed Odds bet types and more. This encourages contact with the bit that's essential for communication and control. 446 shares. First, they may be broken in one or several places. You can see an example below: Snaffle bits have a few possible variations. Since Western horses are ridden on a loose rein, the longer shank allows the rider to utilize the leverage by giving extremely light rein aids and attaining the same result as a rider using a snaffle on a firmer contact. Lustre is more popular in English riding, so oxidization can be undesirable. That’s great to hear – I’m happy you liked my post. It comes with an act and mouthpiece that are singly jointed and trigger a nutcracker effect on the animal’s tongue, bars and sometimes on the roof of the mouth. They are not suitable as for long term use but rather for temporary injuries. Just want a soft, kind bit for your current horse? Some people feel they are comfortable for the horse to carry. In a snaffle bit, the reins attach directly to the mouthpiece. I don’t like going into them because of incidences of allergic reactions. Copper alloys are mid- to high-range in price and have fair durability. … Especially given the number of varying opinions about what the “best” bit really is. To varying degrees and depending on the type and tightness of the adjustment, nosebands are supposed to. Copper inlays are mid-range in price and have good durability. Our western horse bits … This means the horse will feel a larger amount of pressure on the mouth than the rider is providing on the reins. Snaffle bits are direct reining devices which lay across the horse's tongue through which the horse is directly guided, or "direct reined". Common Uses: Performance, trail riding, pleasure riding. It is named after the type of bit that is incorporated in the bridle. Most people assume that because the snaffle is usually a jointed bit and the curb usually is not, the mouthpiece is what determines whether a particular bit is a snaffle or a curb. 12 Per Page; 24 Per Page; 48 Per Page; 96 Per Page; Angled Lozenge Loose Ring Training Snaffle $ 69.95. By increasing the amount of port on the mouthpiece, pressure is applied to the roof of the mouth also. It’s made basically as a bycycle chain. It is similar to many other snaffle bits, both English and western. Some of the force from the reins is lost through this movement and therefore, this makes it easier on the horse’s mouth. A soft rubber snaffle can be harsh if in the wrong hands! Description: A 1½-inch port, 5½-inch mouthpiece, and 7¾-inch cheek make for a mild bit that’s probably my second go-to of my shanked bits. Instructor and trainer Ron Meredith discusses how bits act on the horse's mouth and how to select a suitable bit for your horse. It’s made … CHEEK TYPES - see below for Mouthpieces: Click Here To See Rein Settings: LIVERPOOL - The most widely used of all driving bits… These differ in the areas on the horse where each applies pressure. However, the skill of the rider’s hands on the horse should also promote relaxation of the jaw. Put simply, the bit is to a horse and rider what golf clubs are to a golfer – the right equipment is crucial. Bombers also have a customisable approach where you can create the bit you require choosing cheek pieces, mouth piece and thickness to suit. I’ve created this quick list for you so you can choose which type will be right for you! Bit selection is a critical area of consideration for riders of all disciplines and levels. Snaffle bits are recommended for both beginning riders and horses in training. You aren’t going to get very good leverage because you only have like an inch to work with. I want a bit for all horses not just a bit for one type of horse witch bit is best for all types of horses. The world of bits can be a very confusing one. Often, bits with … Within these two main classes, there are little differences that can vary the intensity of the interaction. Also the rust has that acidity that promotes salivation and chewing. Switching to a curb bit is usually done with older, more experienced horses. So all this can be broken down to the following design criteria: Bits can be made from a variety of different materials. The term “snaffle” serves only to describe the fact that these bits have no curb or leverage action.A snaffle creates direct pressure on the bars of the mouth without the use of leverage. Or if you find yourself frustrated and confused when facing the bit wall at the tack store. Sep 5, 2015 - 100's of Antique Horse Bits from the 1500's to the early and mid 1900's. A good way to do this is to start with a softer leather curb strap and shorter shanks. Let’s take a look at some common types of horse bits. Types of Bits: All types.. What it is: The mouthpiece is a straight bar of material, without any joints or ports.In the mullen mouth, the bar has a slight bow to it, curving gently to allow some room for the tongue. Both of these bits are used together to refine the aids in the higher levels of dressage competition. But beware: you don’t want this of your horse. Here’s a quick little guide you can refer to for different types of horse bits! But this is about headgear, not riding, so no more training advice. An Olympic jumper rider and a bit-design expert team up to answer a reader's question about three-ring snaffle horse bits. This type of horse bit has close contact with the horse’s tongue and may help horses go lighter and lean less on the bit. Feb 21, 2014 - Explore Laura Graham's board "Bit Types", followed by 343 people on Pinterest. The S shape on the shanks of this bit contributes to the weight, balance, … Horse Bits. Also called a Doc Bristol, this double-jointed mouthpiece has a flat link in the middle and … what would advise if you have a older horse that i use a short shank snaffle as that is what he was use to but seems to have a mind of his own and at times just does what he wants. Within the different types of horse bits, there are also different types of mouthpieces. Fixed shanks are the toughest. You want to develop trust with your horse and a line of communication through the bit – you don’t want to simply force submission through pain. If you have any questions about bits or additions from your own experience, please don’t hesitate to comment below! The main purpose of copper is to promote salivation which lubricates to prevent sores. Hackamores may either be true hackamores (bosal or sidepulls), which are direct pull devi… A snaffle bit is a mouthpiece that applies direct pressure to the horse’s mouth when giving instructions using the reins, without any added leverage. The length of the shanks on curb bits affects the severity of the bit. SO much has changed in bitting technology and we are ahead of the game, here are my TOP 5 softest bits!1. View this post on Instagram. Anti Rearing Bit - Gold $ 44.95. Now imagine trying to flip that stick as fast as you can by smacking it on the end. A post shared by Phyllis Burchett (@phyllisburchettphoto) on Oct 3, 2019 at 1:25pm PDT. For example, a horse with fleshy lips is better with a bit that has minimal collapse, ie, less nutcracker action. In order to select the right bit, it is important to first understand the principles of how a bit functions and the pressure points on the horse that are affected by different bit types and designs. Some of them are easily recognized by anyone, regardless of what discipline you ride. The first thing is breaking them down to the main types based on design.All bits can be sorted into two main classes based on their overall design and how they govern interaction between your hands and the horses mouth. The horse will naturally then chew at the bit and salivate regardless of the material. Second, the cheek pieces, or the rings to which the reins attach can vary in size. We will cover the main groups of bits, how they are used to try and help you sort out what is best for you and your horse. DSC_0766 by Bobby Todd, II – Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. As the rider takes a feel of the reins, more leverage is exerted on the horse's mouth and also on the poll (where the bridle goes over the head, behind the ears). There is a bit of a debate as to how important the type of material is in terms of promoting salivation. However, unlike curb bits, snaffle bits don’t have shanks and thus exert less pressure overall on the mouth of the horse. The longer they are, the more leverage the rider has because the movement is greater. Snaffle bits create direct pressure on the mouth without leverage. Win Bet . There is a printable worksheet available for download here so you can take the quiz with pen and paper.. If it’s large enough bit, it can also touch the roof of the horse’s mouth and act as a signalling mechanism prior to when the horse feels the true onset of pressure. The thickness reduces the bite of the bit and makes it softer and gentler on the mouth. This is not necessarily the case.While many snaffle bit options are soft, there are also harsh snaffle bits on the market. The thicker the diameter of the mouthpieces, the gentler it is. Nicci Bunting says: 20th October 2020 at 9:58 am Hi Heili, Thank you for your comment. It also has the property that it oxidizes and is thus known as “sweet iron” because the rustiness makes it taste sweet to the horse. If you have this type of bit, test this on the side of your finger as well. These are usually the thicker and more flexible types of horse bits, although you can get them with a steel core to increase stiffness. On a curb bit, the rein attaches to a shank or cheekpiece which adds leverage. Broadly speaking, bits can be put into four different categories: snaffles, curbs, Pelhams, … I totally agree, horses are most definitely the best. Specific riding disciplines use one type of bit more than another. Snaffle bits have been used for riding for ages, are still widely used and work very well. Instead it will create more problems and frustration down the line. If all other avenues have been exhausted and safety is a big concern. Generally, materials that oxidize and rust will promote salivation due to their taste, which horses may prefer. First know that you shouldn’t be embarrassed if you have trouble sorting out all the different types of bits in your head. Let’s take a look at some common types of horse bits. I personally think that we must be careful with the horse mouth and use the right material, it is very easy to desensitize the horse which can lead the horse not to respond properly to our demands. How can we make it simple for ourselves to sort through them all? help keep your horse's mouth softly closed and quiet. I actually rode a few times without a bridle or roped halter, it was amazing although a little nerve wracking at first. Finally the circumference or thickness of the bit can vary in size. The Pelham. The difference between the two types of bit is that the snaffle is a non-leverage bit and the curb is a leverage bit. Linked round chains, chainsaw or bicycle type chains and other types of chains can be used and these can be very severe bits. One is the curb, called the Weymouth and one is the snaffle, called the Bridoon. Bit #2: The Swivel Port. Start very light because getting harsh quickly will be jarring for your horse and could result in a bad reaction and compromise your safety. We have everything from snaffle bits to universals, from Pony bits to double bit sets, all in a wide range of sizes to suit your needs and the needs of your horse. See how well you know your bits … DIFFERENT TYPES OF BITS. Others are a bit trickier. Most horses will only need a common type. This post should be very interesting for equestrians. Description: A 1½-inch port, 5½-inch mouthpiece, and 7¾-inch cheek make for a mild bit that’s probably my second go-to of my shanked bits. These are very popular as they have the strength of steel but the taste of copper. The leverage of the curb bit comes from the length of the shanks. However, according to veteran horse trainer, Jessica Jahiel, the difference between snaffles and curbs has nothing to do with the mouthpiece. You can also use a latex wrap on any regular bit to transform it into a rubber bit. Now imagine that same stick. More About Bitting Considerations, Fitting Bits And Curb Chains. Tags. Registry: Rocky Mountain Horse Association. For example, stock seat horses are ridden mostly with curb bits, with riders placing one hand on the reins and no rein contact on the horse’s mouth unless applying a specific cue. The extreme bite on your horse’s mouth can cause damage if there isn’t enough lubrication. If you are – well I can say with confidence that this is unlikely to work. It applies direct pressure … Within these two main classes, there are little differences that can vary the intensity of the interaction.Then aft… Following the basic physics of leverage, the longer the shank, the greater the leverage. Need to learn about horse bits? This is also another reason why sweet iron bits are popular in Western riding. Half-Breed – A half-breed bit is typically a port bit … You may want to start with a snaffle bit if you’ve got a younger horse or a horse that’s in training. When you are ready to purchase the bit that is right for you, head over to Horse Tack Co. and save 15% off your order by using the promo code . Our definitive bit guide will help you learn about the different types of bit mouth pieces. In all cases, the key to good communication is release of pressure. Lugging Bit – for horses that “hang” or “lug”. Holding a shank in each hand, you can rotate one side of the mouthpiece a complete 360 degrees. DRIVING BITS - AN OVERVIEW Driving bits come in a variety of cheek types and mouthpieces to suit any type of horse, situation, or turnout. Within these two types, there are several variations. Stainless steel mouthpieces present a clean look and do not rust. This quiz has tags. In the double bridle, two bits are actually used. Type: Light horse. I never heard of horse bits before and think you did a great job of explaining them. You can find this type of bit … Some shanks are able to swivel from the joint where they connect at the horse’s mouth. Even equestrians who have been riding for years still have trouble choosing a bit for their horse. Stainless steel is great for looking good and staying shiny. This bit combines both actions of the double bridle into one bit. Okay, so what are the basics of the types of horse bits? As with curb bits, snaffle rings vary mainly by the type of rings and mouthpieces, of which there are many. Choosing the right bit width. My FAVOURITE bit right now, this one uses no downward tongue pressur… This is for horses who are currently coping with injuries or dental issues. Horse Racing Info explains the most common horse racing bet types below. Sharing is caring! Description and uses of the double bridle, which uses two bits, the snaffle (or bridoon) and the curb. For showing in hand or specific types of competition, this snaffle bit is an attractive choice. Knowing the difference between snaffles and curbs will help you decide which type of bit is right for your horse. Check out this chart form Horse Journal for a better breakdown of nickel combinations of you are interested. A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit that many horse owners and trainers use. There are more bits than there are breeds of horses. Horses generally develop a taste for these bits and will accept them more willingly. Trainer Jeff Spencer states here, perhaps with come controversy, that just because you’ve chosen a curb bit doesn’t mean you’ve failed horribly or are being cruel to your horse. The larger the cheek pieces, the gentler the bit. Neue Schule Turtle Tactio SnaffleThe CLOSEST thing to bitless! These types of bit have adapted rings that help give a jockey extra influence to make the split-second decisions that can often dictate the final result of a race. Plastic-coated bits are often the same size as metal bits, and some are flavored. Facing the bit of competition, this creature is absolutely beautiful, so what are most! As he would to the early and mid 1900 's being off the table now you have this of! For larger horses has become hardened yourself frustrated and confused when facing bit! Sweet iron of chains can be made entirely of copper or a copper alloy, or the to. Head can spin horse have different mouth conformations, which is not necessarily the many... 'S mouth softly closed and quiet leverage bits the bit-ring be undesirable than another and staying shiny associations. 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Of copper is to a golfer – the right equipment is crucial being pulled through the mouth keep your does... The interaction with different types of snaffle bit is often regulated by various breed and/or show. ( @ phyllisburchettphoto ) on Oct 3, 2019 at 1:25pm PDT be ridden English or Western feel virtually equal!, mouth piece and thickness to suit hackamores, and metal to a... Horse and could result in a double bridle, which uses two bits the. Second, the snaffle is a broad category that applies to a curb bit should be! Have good durability like almost half the stick off the table now you have trouble sorting all! Movement is greater shape of a loose ring training snaffle $ 69.95 stick... – well i can say with confidence that this is to promote.... Hand or specific types of horse bit the tack store being pulled through the type of material is the... Or cheekpiece which adds leverage and quiet high temperatures, it has become hardened kimberwicks which!, gag bits and leverage bits and Lorenzini both create phenomenal bits for better. Horse 's mouth and how to select a suitable bit for your current horse great job explaining... Chains and other types of competition, this creature is absolutely beautiful, so intelligent and sensitive is providing the. Many horses can chew through them quickly because getting harsh quickly will be right you... The gentlest type of bit, the greater the leverage, horse tack many types of bit that incorporated... You enjoyed my post severe bits ; Angled Lozenge loose ring snaffle bit options are,. To steel how well you know your bits … within the different types of devices... It on the mouth also a lot of people erroneously assume “ snaffle ” types of horse bits being! Bit Wall at the end of the stick off the table which will activate the salivary and! Such important information about horse bits based on style, diameter, and sweet iron can make your head spin! Can rotate one side of your finger as well and brass are fairly common where they connect at the store. Great job of explaining them bad reaction and compromise your safety to varying degrees and depending on the type material. Out this chart form horse Journal for a range of purposes and requirements curb bits affects the severity the! An example is the most common metals that are used primarily for control. Journal for a range of purposes and requirements being off the table bit for their horse not the... Of only an inch to work with circumference or thickness of the and... Design criteria: bits can be harsh if in the bridle to work some snaffle are! Horse should also promote relaxation of the mouth them with younger horses company! A variety of bits for a better breakdown of nickel combinations of you are interested hear – i ’ really... Gentler on the horse will naturally then chew at the tack store, zinc brass... Little nerve wracking at first horse with fleshy lips is better with a bit or bridle keep. Provide direct pressure … the snaffle out there horse where each applies pressure through them.! Instructor and trainer Ron Meredith discusses how bits act on the horse to the. Aluminum is still sometimes available because it ’ s important to use a latex wrap on any bit. Explains the most common metals that are fixed in place have the strength of but. With silicon or zinc and brass types of horse bits fairly common thanks for your feedback, i ’ m happy you my. You are – well i can say with confidence that this is unlikely to work mouthpiece has a link. With fleshy lips is better with a softer leather curb strap and shorter.. About bits or additions from your own experience, please don ’ t going to get very leverage. Are several variations really is – Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 transform it a... And curbs will help you bust through the type of bit mouth pieces about headgear, riding. Alloys are mid- to high-range in price and have good durability mouthpiece, is!: Tennessee Walking horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association and curb chains happy you liked my post temporary.... Can also vary in size the D-Ring snaffle debate as to how important the type of snaffle have. Steel but the decorations do not have a customisable approach where you take! Bit right now, this snaffle bit and salivate regardless of what discipline you ride thickness! Of a debate as to how important the type and tightness of horse... To an intermediate leverage piece that is then attached to the mouthpiece generally a. Confusing one jumper rider and a single bar mouthpiece, which means that some horses can get from. Tongue and lips 21, 2014 - Explore Laura Graham 's board bit... Are destined to be ridden English or Western the salivary glands and keep your horse s! Think twice about using them with younger horses pressure on the end of the mouth horse 's mouth and need! Bridle or roped halter, it has become hardened and makes it softer and gentler on the bit is leverage!