Why use a curb chain on a horse?

The curb strap prevents the bit from rotating too far in the horse's mouth, which may be very uncomfortable, especially if there is a large spoon or port on the mouthpiece of the bit. The curb chain limits the pressure on the upper palate of the horse's mouth as the mouthpiece rotates.

What is the function of a curb chain?

The main use of the curb chain is to enhance and control the lever action of a curb bit. Additionally, it helps to keep the bit steady and in place within the mouth.

Do I 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.

What is a curb chain for horses?

The curb chain or strap is mounted in the chin groove under the horse's chin between the bit shanks of the bit. It steadies the bit within the mouth (keeping it centered), and it controls the lever action of the reins. It keeps the bit shanks from bit from over-rotating.

Where does curb chain go on bridle?

The curb strap is attached to the bit on your bridle. There are hundreds of different variations of bit and even the same general type of bit may be designed differently by different manufacturers. Remember that the curb chain is designed to go underneath your horse's chin when the bit is in his mouth.

Tack Advice - Using A Curb Chain - Tom McCutcheon

What is the difference between a snaffle and a curb bit?

Snaffle bits have a single ring on each side, which applies direct pressure to the sides of the mouth. Shown is an eggbutt single-jointed snaffle. A curb bit has a shank or lever on each side. A shanked bit is considered a curb bit regardless of whether it has a solid or jointed mouthpiece.

Can you neck rein with a snaffle?

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.

What are curb chains?

Curb chain features links that have been flattened and twisted, which interlock tightly together to form a chain. A slight twist on the classic cable jewellery chain types, curb chains are popular in very fine formations at around 1mm and much chunkier variations, ideal for creating statement necklaces.

Does a snaffle need a chin strap?

On a snaffle, a chin strap will be very effective in keeping the bit from pulling all the way through the horse's mouth when using one rein. It need not be adjusted tight and is normally placed between the reins and bit. The one exception to the need for a chin strap is with the full cheek snaffle.

How tight should a curb chain be?

A good rule of thumb: you should be able to slip a finger or 2 between the curb and chin if adjusted correctly (A). If you've made an adjustment in your curb always check before getting on by pulling the reins back to see that the curb makes contact with the chin within 25 to 30 degrees of shank movement (B).

What makes a snaffle a snaffle?

A snaffle bit is an English horse bit that sits in the horse's mouth. This mouthpiece may be solid or made up of two or three pieces. Snaffle bits are generally gentler on a horse's mouth than other types of bits while still providing adequate communication.

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.

Can you ride one handed in snaffle?

While the snaffle bit is not designed for one handed riding, I still think it is important to be able to do everything you can do with a shank bit in the snaffle first.

Is a curb bit harsh?

While a lot depends on the rider and how the horse bit is being used, curb bits are generally considered to be more “severe” than snaffle bits because they apply more rein pressure. For this reason, snaffle bits are more commonly used than curb bits.

What is the most comfortable bit for a horse?

A mullen mouth is a plain mouthpiece with a slight curve over the horse's tongue. This makes it more comfortable for the horse to carry than a straight-bar mouthpiece. It's also considered more gentle than a jointed mouthpiece, as there is no pinching effect when the reins are pulled. Continue to 2 of 15 below.

What is the least harsh bit for a horse?

Eggbutt French Link Snaffle

“French Link” refers to the two joints in this snaffle bit, which reduces the pressure on the horse's lower jaw when both reins are squeezed. This is considered a gentle bit and can be found with a curved mouthpiece to make it even softer.

What is a curb chain bridle?

Curb chains may be used on horse bridles for control purposes. A curb chain is a chain used on horse bridles with certain types of bits to control the placement of the bit and refine control of the horse. It has a very distinctive design that has been borrowed, along with the name, by producers of jewelry.

What does a lip strap do for a horse?

The lip strap helps keep a "mouthy" horse from mouthing or "lipping" the shank. It also helps prevent the curb chain from unfastening or otherwise moving too much. In western riding, the "slobber bar" or "shank hobble" placed between the rein rings of a curb bit serves the same purpose as a lip strap.

Do curb chains stretch?

But, as you wear them, rope chains will slowly stretch and lengthen. Normally this doesn't affect the chain much, and most people don't even notice it.

What's the difference between curb and Cuban chain?

Both Curb and Cuban link necklaces are types of gold chains designed to interlock and sit flat on your chest. However, Curb chains have oval links with a slightly flattened face while the links on Cuban chains have rounder, thicker walls, giving these models a chunkier look.

What does solid curb chain mean?

Solid Curb

The majority of fine Curb chains – those with a thinner appearance in their width- are very likely to be crafted from a solid wire, since it is physically difficult to produce a wire with such a narrow hollow space.