Bits and Selecting a Bit

Before we talk about types of bits, lets talk about parts of the bit, so we can understand how it works.

D- Ring- This, like other snaffles, should be used to start a horse. Once they are well into their training, they should move to a different bit in order to refine the training.

Lifter Bit- This gives more leverage for a junior, but well-broke horse. It works great for faster speeds, and gives the horse more flex, collection and lifts the shoulder. It has a lot of purchase as you can see, which helps the horse figure out how to break at the poll and flex his nose. Most western horses tend to like this bit, but if he doesn't understand it, he will be nervous.

Chain Bit- commonly used on calf horses because it gives you a lot of control, specifically lateral control at high speeds. It can also help to soften a hard-mouthed horse. If the rider is soft in the hands, after using this for awhile, you can drop back to a lifter bit. The rider should be able to tell if the horse is getting softer, as they will become more sensitive and they might flip their nose up when you pick up the reins. 

Gag bits- there are many types of gag bits, basically, it means that the mouth piece slides up and down on the shank which can be either rope or round steal. This helps to lift the shoulder in the turns on a barrel horse. The lifter, or leverage effect of the shank depends on the distance between the mouthpiece and the headstall. The more distance, the more lift you get on the shoulders and the more stop, or hindquarter control. 

 

Ports- The higher and more narrow the port, the more severe it is. If it is higher than 1.5 inches, the port hits the roof of the mouth, which is then used as another pressure point. A higher port will require a tight curb chain, and a good understanding of how the bit works. It can be good to finish a horse, but should never be used on a green horse. A wider port can give the tongue relief from the pressure, but that is not how most ports are designed. 

Non-ports or straight mouthpieces- These can be more severe than ported bitters because of the pressure put on the tongue.

Shanks- The longer the and straighter the shank, the more severe the bit, unless it has a long purchase. A 3 inch shank and a 3 inch purchase means a 1:1 Ratio. Curved shanks put less pressure on the jaw, while S-shaped shanks have a quicker release of pressure, which helps a horse learn faster- this is called signal time. Long shanks with a snug curb strap = shorter signal time, while a long shank with a loose crb strap - long signal time. Forward or straight shanks - quick release of pressure, S-shaped= quick signal and quick release, good for a finished horse.