Bits

Bits come in many different sizes, shapes and now colors(Happy Mouth Brand bits).

Here is a basic quide to help you through.

Bits act on:
1)Corners of the lips
2)Bars
3)Tonque
4)Chin groove
5)Poll
6)Nose
7)Roof of the mouth

The five major bit groups are:
1)Snaffle - mainly has a lifting action applying pressure on the corners of the lips and some on the tongue.
2)Weymouth(curb) - has a lowering action applying pressure on the poll. The double bridle consists of a bradoon(small ring snaffle) which raises and a curb which lowers.
3)Pelham - one bit which uses two sets of reins. The top rein acts like that of a snaffle, while the bottom rein applies pressure to the poll. There is also a curb chain added that applies pressure under the chin to help lower the head and give extra control.
4)Gag - the rein passes through the bit and attaches to the headstall, giving a strong lifting action. Used for stronger horses or horses heavier on the forehand.
5)Hackamore(Bitless Bridle) - applies pressure to the nose and the poll. There is no actual bit in the horses mouth.

There are many different variations of the above bits, making each one more or less severe. Please be sure to ask your trainer or the staff at Triangle Horse Sports for more detailed information to find the bit that is right for you and your horse. Also be sure to check the rules if you are showing, as each organization has their own list of acceptable bits. A good website to check is www.usef.org.

Bits can be a very confusing subject....hope this helps a little.

Until next time!!!!