How to Know the Right Way With a Tom Thumb Bit

To use a Tom Thumb bit properly, you must fasten it to the bridle the right way. This bit is a type of shanked horse bit that is most commonly seen in western diciplines. The Tom Thumb is a hinged snaffle style bit that was originally designed to be used as a transition bit for green horses. It was intended to fill the gap between a normal snaffle and a western shanked curb bit. The Tom Thumb is best used for neck reining and is a popular bit for many types of western riding diciplines.

Things You'll Need

  • Tom Thumb bit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pick up the Tom Thum bit by its shanks. The long shanks with the opening for the curb are the bottom of the bit.

    • 2

      Fold the Tom Thumb back towards you. If it folds easily and comes together, then you are holding it the way it goes in the horse's mouth. If it does not fit together smoothly and the curved mouthpieces of the bit push against one another and turn outwards, turn it around so it will fold together smoothly when it is put in the horse's mouth.

    • 3

      Place the bit on the bridle by attaching the cheeck pieces and reins through the loops on the bit. Neck rein the horse while riding. Neck reining means holding the reins in one hand and laying one rein against the horse's neck to tell him which direction to go.