How to choose the right bit for your horse

The bit is commonly viewed as the key to the horse. Fixing any problems between rider and horse must not result in a knee jerk reaction. Horses are independent thinkers . How you successfully control them, whatever your discipline either carriage driving, racing or just a sunday afternoon ride is never just about the horse bit.

It is how you, your horse and the bit work together. Remember it could well be you that is the problem and not the horse. Here we will review what the various horse bits add to the equation , and make that relationship a winner .

In achieving a good fit between owner and horse the bit is quite key to the success of that relationship. Finding the appropriate type of bit can be a challenge and often needing luck than judgement .

By associating specific behaviour traits in the horse with features available in the variety of horse bits , one can become more sure about choosing the right bit , however perfectly categorising horse bits and their specific action is difficult.  A lot of of the attributes of horse bits are often mixed together to create new varieties, nonetheless for our purposes in this report we can create a few wide definitions that should form the foundation of future discussion.

Which follows is a short review of horse bit varieties . Snaffle bits are what are named direct pressure bits. When the rider pulls on the rein, a similar total volume of force is transmitted instantly to the horse bit. That style of bit is particularly useful once riding a new horse but it can be applied at anytime.

Curbs style bit are different to snaffles and depend on leverage. The actual makeup of the bit is developed to generate leverage and multiplies the pressure applied by the rider. The longer the bit shank or cheek length the much more power should be generated . In contrast to Snaffles, Curb horse bits are much more severe so best used in the hands of a more skilled rider whom has designed a more delicate touch.

It is possible to combine features .  The snaffle and curb effect can be located in one bit with some bits such as Pelhams and Gags.

To enhance these basic ideas of horse control there are a broad variety of bit attributes offering wonderful flexibility to the proficient rider looking to deal with specific issues with their horse.  As an example the variety of snaffles .e.g eggbutt snaffle offers a number of combinations of features.

A stronger bit might subsequently be essential if the rubber bit is loosing its impact similar to when the horse will get larger or a lot more canny .  once the horse operates well with a delicate bit do not feel obliged to adjust as the horse gets older. If it functions leave it be except you are a professional searching to gain a certain competitive advantage .

Changing the horse bit port height in the bit is one more variable you might consider. The top of the port can enable much more room for the tongue but can result in a lot more pressure on the horse’s palate once the reins are pulled e.g. pelham horse bits. So in that situation really mindful evaluation of your requirements is advisable so which you do not injure your horse .