FREE SHIPPING ON ALL DOMESTIC ORDERS $150+
Stores
Bits FAQs
Horse Bits 101
The bit is an important piece of equipment when it comes to riding because it is the primary means by which a rider communicates with their horse. It is used to transmit signals and cues from the rider's hands to the horse's mouth, which in turn affects the horse's movement and behavior. A rider should always strive to use the lightest possible touch with the reins and the bit, and to provide clear and consistent cues to their horse. Using the wrong type of bit or using it incorrectly can cause discomfort or even pain for the horse, which can lead to resistance, disobedience, or even injury. Therefore, it's important to choose the right bit for your horse's needs and level of training, as well as your riding style and discipline. Proper fit, adjustment, and use of the bit are essential for your horse's comfort and safety. We combined our collective knowledge and experience to create the definitive guide to different types of horse bits and how to choose the best one for you. Check out our FAQs below and let us help answer all of your bit related questions!
Bit Components Explained
The overall bit is connected to the bridle and reins. When the reins are pulled, the various components of the bit work together to put pressure on the horse’s tongue and sides of the mouth to provide control and create a line of communication between horse and rider. The following parts make up most types of bits: the mouthpiece, the cheeks, the purchase, the shank and the rings.
- The Mouthpiece - This rests inside the horse’s mouth in the space behind their front and back teeth. There are numerous kinds of mouthpieces that vary in design and material (typically metal, rubber or plastic).
- The Cheeks -These are the sides of the bit that rest outside of the horse’s mouth. The purchase and the shank are parts of the cheeks.
- The Purchase -This is the part of the cheeks above the mouthpiece. When the reins are pulled, shorter purchases allow for quicker reactions, while longer purchases deliver slower reactions.
- The Shank -This is the part of the cheeks below the mouthpiece. The shank provides leverage on the mouthpiece. As a result, a shorter shank will deliver less leverage, while a longer shank will allow for more leverage. More leverage equates to a more intense sensation in the mouth while bits with less leverage are more mild. Severe bits with long shanks can be a disaster in the wrong hands, so make sure you start small and ask for help from a trainer before moving up to longer shanks.
- The Rings -These exist to attach the reins to the bit. Rings come in many different styles that all have a different effect on the bit's function and severity. Also, some cow horse bits have multiple rings on each side of the mouth to allow for different rein placement and even multiple reins attached at once.
Types of Bits and Their Uses
- Snaffle
- Curb
- Correction
- Gag
- Combination
- Pelham
- Kimberwicke
The first step to saddling a horse is brushing its back. Your horse may sweat under its saddle, so it’s important to brush away any loose hairs that the horse may want to shake off. Next, place your saddle pad on your horse’s back. Now, prepare your horse saddle. Make sure the girth strap is on the right side of the saddle and out of the way. Next, pick up the saddle, approach your horse from the left, and place the saddle on your horse. Once the saddle is situated, secure and tighten all the straps. Lastly, put on the bridle. Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready to ride!
Bit Mouthpiece Types
Regular cleaning is an important part of caring for and maintaining your saddle. First, you’ll need to prep your saddle. Start by unfastening the buckles and straps and remove excess dirt, mud, or other large particles with a towel. Next, use a damp sponge to apply a layer of saddle soap or leather cleaner in a circular motion (avoid any suede areas). You may need to rinse the sponge and reapply depending on how dirty your saddle is. Next, use a damp towel to wipe down the saddle and remove soap residue. Once you’ve removed all the soap, apply a leather conditioner to your saddle. That’s it, now your horse saddle is ready for another ride!
Bit Shank Types
1. Use your phone (or a camera) to take a side view photograph of your saddle.
2. Upload your image (maximum 5 MB) along with filling out this form.
3. Give us 48 hours and an NRS Saddle Team Member will be in touch. Once your saddle has been approved for trade-in, we will ship you a saddle box and return label to ship the saddle to NRS at NO COST TO YOU.
Note: final trade-in evaluation will be made upon arrival of your saddle to our Decatur, TX location. Value subject to change upon inspection.
