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Features
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A snaffle bit is comprised of two pieces of metal joined at the center and attached at the ends to make D-shaped cheek pieces. Snaffle bits are often comprised of stainless steel, but can be also be found in copper and nickel.
Action
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Snaffle bits are single-jointed and operate with a nutcracker action and apply pressure to each corner of a horse's mouth as well as to the inside. Snaffles with multiple joints in the bit ease the pressure in a horse's mouth.
Fitting
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The fit of a snaffle can change the action and make it more or less effective. A properly adjusted bit should cause two small wrinkles above the corners of the horse's mouth. If the bit is hanging too low or too high, it can cause constant pressure on the horse's mouth.
Mouthpieces
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Snaffles come in variety of mouthpieces, including smooth, hollow mouth, slow twist and corkscrew. These different mouthpieces apply pressure to the horse's tongue, which in turn provides more or less control.
Considerations
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Choosing a proper bit is important. Bits that are too strong will hurt horses with soft mouths, while bits that are not strong enough can result in a lack of control.
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What Is the Action of a Snaffle Bit?
When it comes to bits, there are hundreds of options. The most commonly used bit is the snaffle. Snaffles come in many variations with different mouth and cheek pieces, all of which create a different effect on the horse's mouth.