![]() The eggbutt snaffle has fixed cheek pieces. Bit guards can be used to prevent chaffing of the sides of the mouth. This type of bit works well for horses that tend to lean on bits with fixed rings too much. To clarify the differences between bit rings and their specific effect and severity, we will look into the most common ones below.Ī loose ring snaffle allows the mouthpiece to move freely relative to the rings and offers room for movement. Add shanks and a tongue port and it is only suitable for advanced riders as it is considered to be a very severe bit. The mullen mouth is, for example, seen as a very mild bit. Variations exist that, for example, feature rings in the middle to further stimulate chewing.Īlthough the mouthpiece and rings together establish what effect a bit will have, the rings mostly determine if a bit is a mild or severe. The thicker the middle section, the more pressure it will create on the tongue. The middle section of the mouthpiece lies flat on the tongue, causing more pressure on the tongue than a single jointed bit would. The double jointed bit consists of three parts. Due to the single joint, the tongue has more freedom than it would have with a double jointed bit. When rein aids are given, the bit forms a V-shape. The single jointed bit works mainly on the bars but also exerts pressure on the edges of the tongue, the corners of the mouth and sometimes on the palate. This mouthpiece makes it impossible to give single-sided rein aids, therefore making the bit unsuitable for riders that have yet to learn how to ride with mainly weight and leg aids. If the bit has a tongue port, it does effect the bars and is more severe. If the mouthpiece is combined with rings, the bit is considered to be very mild and has an effect mostly on the tongue and almost none on the bars. The Mullen mouth or straight bar is an unjointed bit seen on both snaffle and curb bits. Want to feel what effect a bit has? Hold the rings of the bit and let someone else give rein aids. There are roughly three common types of mouthpieces but in combination with the rings many variations of bits exist. The mouthpiece is the part of the bit that rests in the mouth of the horse, it partly determines the effect a bit has on the mouth. The bit should be comfortable and the horse should be able to properly close its mouth. The choice for a certain thickness should be made based on the anatomy of the mouth. In this case a thick bit is neither friendly nor soft: it does not fit. ![]() In practice, modern horses are bred for elegance and as a result have less space available for a bit. The theory supports the belief: more surface means more distribution of pressure and thus a milder effect on the mouth. It is a common belief that a thicker bit is softer and friendlier. ![]() Finding the right size is easier than deciding on the required thickness of the bit. If the bit fits correctly, you should be able to place a small finger between the mouth and rings on each side. A bit that is too small will pinch, if it is too large it will slide back and forth. The easiest method to determine the needed length is to try different sizes of bits. Two of the basic things to consider when choosing a bit are the length and thickness. Since it might take some experimenting to find the right bit, consulting an expert on bits can make choosing easier. Considering every horse has its own unique anatomy and preferences, it is impossible to offer a ‘quick-fix’ suitable for every horse. When a bit does not fit right, the horse may show difficulties in using its body properly or show other signs of discomfort. ![]() Bits that work off of leverage are typically used by riders who have little to no contact or those looking for more finesse and control.Where to start with so many available bits? As overwhelming as choosing a bit can be, it is an important part of the tack that deserves more attention than it generally gets. The general rule is, the longer the shank, the more pressure is put on the mouth. For example, if a bit has a 1" purchase and a 2" shank, then the ratio will be 1:2. The ratio can differ because it factors in the purchase, or top arms of the bit, and the shank length. Snaffle bits are typically considered milder than shank bits in the right hands, as they do not work off of leverage.īits that employ indirect pressure use leverage so that when the reins are engaged, double or triple the amount of pressure is exerted on the bit. This means that when the rider puts pressure on the reins, the horse will feel the same amount of pressure on the bit. Snaffle bits that are attached directly to both the headstall or bridle and the reins engage direct pressure. Before we address different types of cheekpieces, it will be helpful to understand the difference between bits that use direct and indirect pressure.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |