Different Kinds of Bits
When choosing a bit the size, material and type of mouth pieces needed. The snaffle and the curb two of the most common bits. There are a lot more to choose from, it all depends on what you need to get the horse to respond correctly.
Size
Choosing between different sizes can be confusing, it truly depends on the size of the horse. Standards bit are about 5 inches, Ponies are normally 4.5 inches, and there are bits that come in 5.5 inches for larger horses. If needed a custom bit can be made.
Material
The material of the bit can vary from metal to rubber. The most commonly found metal is Stainless steel because it does not rust. Making the bit stay shiny and silver. Copper is another metal commonly used because it causes the horse to salivate. Bits may also have copper inlays or rollers for the horse's tongue to play with and help with salivation. Another one is aluminum bits, these are consider lower quality bits, it is super lightweight, and an unpalatable taste to horses. Last most common bit is one made out of synthetics, plastic, or rubber. These are normally too mild, and normally used on younger horses.
Type Mouth Pieces
There are two different types of mouth pieces: a Snaffle or a Curb. This is the first thing that needs to be decided when choosing a bit. Either bit can have a broken or jointed mouthpiece that fits to the mouth. Or have a solid mouthpiece that put more pressure on the mouth and side of the lips.
Snaffle bits normally come in O-ring, D- ring, Eggbutt, or Full Cheek. These rings can varies from 2.5 inches (smallest), 4 inches (biggest), and 3 inches (standard). O-rings and Eggbutt are the most popular. Larger bits are less severe than smaller diameters, and also bits can be smooth or textured. Common textures are twists which are corkscrew and twisted wire. With textures the bit can get more severe based on how twisted and rounded. Normally, a moderate bit is a good choice, so new riders will not hurt the horse.
Curb bits are similar in how you select them but with curbs bits there are shanks on either side of the bit. The length of the bit will determine the bit's severity. The average length of a shank is 6-7 inches but can range from 4-8 inches. The type of shank is important too. For example, a straight shank is quicker acting than a curved one. Also longer shanks have more leverage than a short shank, but long is slower acting. Another thing about Curb bits are the port in the middle of the bit, it is the raised section. The port provides relief for the tongue.
Size
Choosing between different sizes can be confusing, it truly depends on the size of the horse. Standards bit are about 5 inches, Ponies are normally 4.5 inches, and there are bits that come in 5.5 inches for larger horses. If needed a custom bit can be made.
Material
The material of the bit can vary from metal to rubber. The most commonly found metal is Stainless steel because it does not rust. Making the bit stay shiny and silver. Copper is another metal commonly used because it causes the horse to salivate. Bits may also have copper inlays or rollers for the horse's tongue to play with and help with salivation. Another one is aluminum bits, these are consider lower quality bits, it is super lightweight, and an unpalatable taste to horses. Last most common bit is one made out of synthetics, plastic, or rubber. These are normally too mild, and normally used on younger horses.
Type Mouth Pieces
There are two different types of mouth pieces: a Snaffle or a Curb. This is the first thing that needs to be decided when choosing a bit. Either bit can have a broken or jointed mouthpiece that fits to the mouth. Or have a solid mouthpiece that put more pressure on the mouth and side of the lips.
Snaffle bits normally come in O-ring, D- ring, Eggbutt, or Full Cheek. These rings can varies from 2.5 inches (smallest), 4 inches (biggest), and 3 inches (standard). O-rings and Eggbutt are the most popular. Larger bits are less severe than smaller diameters, and also bits can be smooth or textured. Common textures are twists which are corkscrew and twisted wire. With textures the bit can get more severe based on how twisted and rounded. Normally, a moderate bit is a good choice, so new riders will not hurt the horse.
Curb bits are similar in how you select them but with curbs bits there are shanks on either side of the bit. The length of the bit will determine the bit's severity. The average length of a shank is 6-7 inches but can range from 4-8 inches. The type of shank is important too. For example, a straight shank is quicker acting than a curved one. Also longer shanks have more leverage than a short shank, but long is slower acting. Another thing about Curb bits are the port in the middle of the bit, it is the raised section. The port provides relief for the tongue.