Information on Horse Bits

The bit is the piece of metal on a bridle that goes into the horse's mouth and is used to guide, control and steer him. In essence, the bit is your steering wheel and your brake system. It is important, for the well-being of both you and your horse to educate yourself on bits and how they function. Choosing the right bit can make the difference between an enjoyable ride and a nasty fall from a bucking bronco.

  1. Significance

    • The significance of the bit is control. The horse has a spot between his front teeth and his back teeth that is toothless. This area is called the "bars" of the horse's mouth, and this is where the bit rests once inserted. Bits are designed in all kinds of ways to put pressure on the bars of a horse's mouth, as well as the palate, the tongue, the cheeks, the chin and even the roof of the mouth. By applying pressure, the rider then can control the horse's direction and speed---with proper training.

    Types

    • There are a dizzying array of horse bits. They are broken down into many categories, but there are two basic kinds. The snaffle bit is "broken" or "jointed" in the center, and this break helps to distribute pressure off the bars of the mouth and guide it elsewhere, such as the tongue, cheeks and roof of the mouth. A curb bit is a straight piece of metal that may or may not have additional metal in the center of the bit, but it is not jointed or broken. Curb bits are more severe than snaffle bits.

    Shanks

    • The shanks are the lengths of metal that hang down from the bit, almost like handles, and the ends of the reins attach to the shanks. The longer the shank, the more severe the action of the bit is as it is used. Most English snaffles have no shank. Almost all curb bits have shanks. Some snaffles, such as the Tom-Thumb snaffle, combine a shank with a snaffle. Although the length of the shank is short, this can be a very severe bit as the shank increases the "sawing" action of the snaffle in the mouth tremendously. The shank is like adding power steering to the bit that is already being used.

    Thickness of the Bit

    • Another important thing to consider is the thickness of the bit. A small, thin bit can be the cruelest torture imaginable for a horse, and can actually sever a horse's tongue in the wrong hands. A thick bit is easier on the mouth, and will in most cases be less severe. Think of a cheese-slicing wire versus a butter knife. Always consider what you are actually putting against the sensitive tissues of your horse's mouth.

    Warning

    • Do not buy a severe bit just because your horse may be too much for you. Consult with a professional before you purchase a shanked curb or other severe bit. By putting a harsh, pain-causing bit in your horse's mouth, you are more likely asking for trouble than you will be controlling it. In addition, constant abuse of the horse's mouth will deaden it over time, and cause permanent damage that cannot be undone.