What bit do you use after a snaffle?

There are two primary “tuning bits” that I use.

The other, I use on horses that are in a transition bit or a regular curb bit. For the horses that are normally being ridden in an o-ring snaffle, I'll use a curb bit that has a “correction” mouthpiece and very short, curved-back, “Argentine” shanks (loose shanks).

What comes after a snaffle bit?

5. Regular Correction Bit. This is probably our most used bit, a go-to everyday bit that works great on almost any horse to work or just ride in. This is also the bit Tim will transition a young horse out of a snaffle with, it is a soft step up from a snaffle bit and won't shock them.

What bit is stronger than a snaffle?

The Bevel provides more brake-power so is ideal for those horse's needing something slightly stronger than a snaffle. This is a great bit for a novice horse at a competition! A great Bevel bit to choose is the Shires Bevel Bit with Jointed Mouth RRP £14.99.

What bit should I use on my horse?

A soft bit refers to a bit that is more gentle on the horse's mouth while a hard bit would apply more pressure. Ideally, you use the softest bit you can to communicate with your horse.

Why is a snaffle bit used?

A snaffle bit is a common type of horse bit that is gentle on the horse's mouth. Comprised of either a single bar or two to three jointed pieces between large rings on either side, snaffle bits make it easy for riders to communicate with their horse and are commonly used to train young horses and beginner riders.

Bit Basics with Richard Winters: The Snaffle

What is the softest bit for a horse?

The softest bits are generally snaffle bits made of rubber. Rubber offers a smooth fit on the bars of the horse's mouth, while the snaffle's rings fit softly in the corners of the horse's mouth without pinching.

What is the best bit for a strong pony?

PERFECT for the strong or pulling pony! The Neue Schule Verbindend is one of the most popular bits at Bit Bank and Neue Schule make sure the ponies are covered too! This bit uses no tongue pressure and works more off the lower jaw so its great for a strong pony YET perfectly safe in a young riders hands.

What is the difference between a Tom Thumb bit and a snaffle bit?

The Tom Thumb Bit – A Bit for the Well-Trained Western Horse

The Tom Thumb snaffle bit starts as a regular snaffle, applying direct pressure to the mouth, lips and to the bars of the horse's mouth. With the addition of shanks however, the Tom Thumb bit moves beyond the regular snaffle motion by adding leverage action.

What is a Pelham bit used for?

Uses. The pelham bit is often used for schooling and general riding, providing the rider is knowledgeable about using a curb bit and riding with double reins. An English Pelham bit somewhat mimics the action of the bridoon (small snaffle bit) and weymouth (curb) bit combination used on a 'double bridle.

Can you neck rein with a snaffle bit?

With a snaffle, you can apply lateral (side) and vertical pressure without causing your gelding any pain or discomfort. Some people do switch to a shanked bit once their horses are trained to neck rein, but I've found a smooth snaffle bit can offer great control for the horse's entire life.

When should I switch to curb bit?

Most western horses I work with transition from snaffle to curb at three or four years of age, coinciding with when they're ready to show in pattern classes like horsemanship or trail in which they'll need more of a 'handle' for intricate steering and advanced manoeuvres.

When would you use a port bit?

A high port correction bit is often used for horses that require a bit more direction when riding them. High port horse bits are typically used on solid shank curb bits or combined with loose shank bits. When attached to your horse's mouth, a high port bit will lay down flat on the tongue until the rein aids are used.

What are the stages of bits?

What does a full cheek snaffle do?

Full Cheek (Fixed Cheek)

The full cheek snaffle needs to sit snugly in the mouth to prevent lateral movement of the mouthpiece and improves the deliverance of the steering and turning aids.

Do you need a curb chain with a snaffle bit?

Skip the curb strap.

The only reason to use a curb strap on a snaffle is if you tend to pull one of the snaffle's rings through your horse's mouth. If you do use a curb, be sure it's a leather one, adjusted loosely in front of your reins—never behind your reins.

Are Tom Thumb bits abusive?

Myth 4: American tom thumb bits are the cruelest bit you can put in your horse's mouth and you are abusive if you use one! Tom thumbs have smooth mouthpieces that are quite thick, which makes them duller and less painful to the horse.

Is a Tom Thumb bit a gag?

The Shires Sweet Iron Copper Tom Thumb is a popular bit amongst showjumpers, being similar in action to an American gag but without the action of the mouthpiece being raised up in the horse's mouth. The mouthpiece features copper layers for tongue pressure.

What bit should I use for barrel racing?

Curb Bit. Any bit with a shank is considered a curb. Because a curb gives a rider extra leverage in comparison to a snaffle, it is one of the better barrel racing bits for strong horses.

Can you use a snaffle bit with a western bridle?

An English bridle will typically be used with a snaffle bit; a Western bridle may be used with a curb bit and curb strap/chain (which runs behind the bit, under your horse's chin), or with a snaffle.

What is a snaffle bridle used for?

The snaffle bridle can be used for most English disciplines including jumping, dressage, and trail riding. It can be used with a snaffle bit or with a Pelham or curb bit. It consists of one bit and one set of reins. The noseband of a snaffle bridle is designed to rest just below the cheekbones on the horse's face.

Is a snaffle a harsh bit?

A snaffle is sometimes mistakenly thought of as "any mild bit". While direct pressure without leverage is milder than pressure with leverage, nonetheless, certain types of snaffle bits can be extremely harsh when manufactured with wire, twisted metal or other "sharp" elements.