Bit

A bit is a metal mouthpiece that aids a rider in controlling the horse. It rests on a toothless, gummed portion of the horse's jawbone known as the bars. Manipulating the horse's reins moves the bit, causing a trained horse to respond as desired.

Selecting a Bit:
It's best to use the mildest bit that works effectively with an individual horse. Although hundreds of models are available, there are three basic types of bits.

Snaffles are considered the mildest of bits, and are most often recommended for beginning and pleasure riders. They are designed to apply pressure directly to the corners of a horse's mouth. Many snaffles are jointed at the center, but others feature multiple joints. Still others, known as straight snaffles or straight bits, are jointless.

Curbs are bits that work by applying leverage directly to the bars of the horse's mouth, used with a shank of varying lengths. The longer the shank, the greater the leverage and the more severe the action. Curb bits are used in conjunction with a chain or strap designed to fit beneath the horse's jaw. Combination, or Pelham, bits offer the rider the option of exerting pressure on either the corners of the mouth or the bars.

Bits come in a wide variety of sizes and thicknesses. The width of the horse's mouth at the owners should be used to determine the width of the bit. Five inches is the average width, but young horses and smaller breeds may need narrower bits, while large horses often need wider bits. As a general rule, a thicker bit is milder and more comfortable for the horse.

However, excessively thick bits may not fit comfortably into a given horse's mouth. The texture of a bit - its smoothness or sharpness - can also greatly influence the bit's comfort. Many horse owners have bits professionally fitted to ensure proper function and to prevent possible injury.