Choosing What Bit To Use On Your Horse

Deciding which bit to use for your horse is an essential aspect of horsemanship that can be difficult for any equestrian. In this video topic Bernie Traurig shares his personal insights on different bits and how they work. His philosophy has been gained through decades of experience with thousands of horses.
For more video topics by Olympic, World-Class and Championship coaches, as well as top Equestrian Professionals, visit Equestriancoach.com.
For expert tips and advice got to our blog: EquestrianCoachBlog.com

[@yourgirlfrankie]

the part when he just chucks bits over his shoulder gets me every time

[@jonasbilodeau5819]

same

[@Justliz2026]

yourgirlfrankie it made me laugh I'll be riding with bernie in weekend

[@kasey4481]

I LOVE how he shows the bad ones and just tosses them. very educational and I learned a lot. keep making videos!

[@tessaleight7067]

Julia Northcott yea nah hackamores are worse

[@barbaraespinosa7526]

Tess- I agree. A mechanical hackamore is the equivalent of a "bear trap". My late husband loaned one of our horses to this 'friend' who didn't believe in bits. He put a 'bear trap' on a high-strung TB mare, and when he brought her back, her jawbone was severely lacerated from the curb chain. For almost a year little slivers of bone poked out and my husband had to tie that poor mare on the ground to remove the slivers once a month or so. The mechanical hackamore the man showed had no curb, but I say he should have flipped it over his shoulder along with the crap gadgets.

[@freddyaltina2737]

Barbara Espinosa Agreed. Hackamores were actually created as a harsher option for horses that a bit wouldn't work on. I have nothing against hacks or bitless, I actually often ride in a sidepull. But hacks/bitless are not more humane than bits. Use what works for your horse!

[@grahamscott1547]

Omg,how right are you on how Andy’s questions were very one sided with no follow up... it was really getting on my last nerve 🥵. Love you,keep up the good work xxx.💖

[@Donna-vh5ym]

@@julxqq9947 // of course you'll have tye natural riders that DON'T believe in bits. Would you ride a bicycle with no brakes? A correct bit doesn't harm the horse...its the rider that doesn't have soft hands and just pull and pull...thats what hurts the horse. I was on a horse once with NO bit and she bolted and had me flying. Horses can kill you. A bit won't kill a horse unless the rider doesn't know what their doing.

[@oliviatownsend4183]

It's great that you just threw away the "No-No Bits". I agree with what you had to say, and enjoyed watching this.

[@CassMartinez-Horse-Whispers]

Thank you for this video, it's great. It's quite enlightening and disappointing to see that some bits are so severe they damage the horse's mouth badly and are still manufactured!! There should have some more standards to avoid these to be sold. Thank you for sharing!

[@karmaeq506]

I have a gaited horse and I used to ride her in a mikmar, (sorta clunky bit to the left of the table) and eventually I saw this video. My horse would constantly push against the mikmar and pull away, when I saw this video I put her in a loose ring snaffle. Since she has improved wonderfully and I thank you for this. :)

[@julxqq9947]

"THE SLOW WAY IS THE FAST WAY WITH HORSES! If you take the time that it takes, it will take less time" - Rick Gore from 'Think Like A Horse'

[@loreleihebdon6595]

That's the guy that's alway putting women down. . . Slower is faster is a John lions quote.

[@danemoore9277]

@@loreleihebdon6595 im a guy and I still thing the think like a horse guy is a dumbass

[@julxqq9947]

Dane Moore i disagree, i think he just bases his opinions off common sense

[@GRIMREAPER__420]

“If you can lead a horse in a rope halter then you can ride a horse in a rope halter.” -Rick Gore. that man has taught me so much and i agree with him on everything. im a woman and what he has to say is true. no horse needs a piece of metal in their mouth. he is woke

[@amberboston3154]

I don't see Rick Gore winning dressage comps or jumping 5ft fences 😉

[@1sacoyle]

This is the best video I've seen on bits. I thank you for helping me understand them better so I can be more aware of what my horse is feeling.

[@robloxiangamernotclickbait3739]

Hi guys. Here's a couple facts on bits: 1. Bits are used to apply pressure, not hurt the horse. 2. Hackamores/bitless bridles can hurt the horse worse than bits if not properly fitted. 3. Horses show signs of pain from bits by head-tossing, and opening their mouth very widely, etc.. 4. A horse who's mouth is closed and they are calm and relaxed while being ridden is not in pain. 5. You can not assume somebody is a horse abuser because they say they use a bit *cough* *cough* Julia Northcott *cough* *cough* 6. Many bits are painful, but that's why you choose a bit your horse is comfortable in. 7. If your horse prefers bitless riding, go for it! If they are better with a bit, also go for it! Do what is best for the horse. 8. Sometimes a horse who shows pain in the mouth isn't in pain from the bit, but from an improperly fit bridle. Why do us equestrians hate on each other so much? Can't go on a single riding video without people pointing out every mistake a rider makes. Anyway, have a nice day. Keep up the nice riding.

[@kalikalad8954]

Well, everyone has an opinion, and some of them are kind of ignorant. Not their fault, they just don't get it. Horsemanship is like anything else: Most people think their way is the only way. They are incorrect, but you can't tell them that, they won't understand. C'est la vie. Ride on!

[@julxqq9947]

I said that people who use bits cause pain and are abusers? every horse has their own bit/bitless bridle/hacklamore that works for them. it all depends on if you have soft hands and/or are aware of the pain and damage that bits may cause if you pull and/or use the bit to hard on the horses mouth/

[@kalikalad8954]

Julia Northcott: Absolutely--unfortunately, many disciplines and breed shows insist on a bit, even certain kinds of bits. And too many riders are unaware of how exactly each bit works, so videos like this are important, because they point up the physical impact of certain bits. Not all people really care whether their horses are comfortable or happy, but hopefully they are in the minority. People really should know that the key to controlling a strong or "difficult" horse is more training, not a harsher bit. I used to believe in "you just need the right bit." Now I know better.

[@jessacollins7508]

OMG thank you

[@christinadelacroix2370]

would you like a bit in your mouth ? it's terrible.

[@thetwelfth9987]

13:24 "these things throw 'em away" *pass two minutes literally throwing away bits I appreciate the "throw away what I think it sucks" philosophy of this dude.

[@suemcnab3059]

I love how you tossed those shit bits! Gotta love it!

[@chicho89vega]

I was thinking to do that if i were him and puff he tossed them all away, love that part. read my mind i hope they are in the trash.

[@aobha.g3006]

Julia Northcott you are so uneducated

[@danemoore9277]

@@julxqq9947 no you are just uneducated

[@julxqq9947]

Dane Moore yeah sorry about that, it was my bitless bridles are everything phase

[@danemoore9277]

@@julxqq9947 oh ic hope you are out of that!

[@alexandraaddington9578]

I have been riding for a over a year with a bit less bridle and honestly my horses are much more responsive with it than with a bit.

[@lillycheek322]

Alexandra Addington ya I totally get it but some horses are good in both and some horses hate bits and some hate hackamore’s bc one of my horses is fine in both and the other hates hackamores but as u get more into riding u will develop your own opinion

[@cjn373]

LOVE this video. Thanks Bernie for a fantastic overview of bits and your emphasis on using kinder bits whenever possible.

[@Anna-nh7dm]

Everyone here commenting on how we should all ride in hackamores instead are misinformed. Hackamores also work with pressure, specifically leverage pressure. The shank puts pressure on the poll and nose, which many horses dislike. They could rear up and over to try to escape the pressure. How is that better than a simple snaffle?

[@humangecko]

Anna Couldn’t agree more. I’m so sick of all these kids hopping on the ‘RaleighReacts’ train and mindlessly following to her every word and being brainwashed into demonising bits and only seeing them in abuse cases. She is not a professional, she’s a KZbinr that has been a lesson instructor and ridden for a while. That doesn’t mean her word is gospel. Really gets on my nerves when people hate on other equestrians for using a bit that their horse works well in simply because it’s a bit. Hackamores and any bitless bridle can and will hurt your horse if used incorrectly. It’s just disheartening to see how people are being educated by angry extremist opinions rather than fact.

[@danemoore9277]

@@humangecko I very much agree that redheaded witch is awful........bits are not abuse in my opinion. For craps sake she was even cussing out bronks and donks(if you don't know who that is you should really look that up! They are awsome) because Tyler was laughing when they were branding a calf (he was not laughing about the calf being branded)

[@margodphd]

​@@danemoore9277Ah yes, caring for animal wellbeing makes her a "witch" because she dared to criticise someone you idolise...🙄

[@marlenehardy4489]

Love all your bits videos I have leant so much thank you

[@heatherguillory900]

Love this video. Thank you for your insight. For myself, after I get a horse used to how a bit should work, I ride in a rope hackamore. I use it for everyday since I typically just trail ride and have no need for a bit. But on the occasion, I keep a standard snaffle, rubber snaffle and rubber mullen in my tack room, for days when I either want to do specialized training or train for a show. These bits are my go to and so far have never steared me wrong. I want to keep that sensitivity in the horses mouth. Their comfort is my #1 also.

[@NoMonetArt]

Fantastic video, even though I've always just used rubber or simple snaffles on my horses, I liked learning about different bits, and especially about the other lighter training snaffles than what I've been familiar with. Very educational. Thank you.

[@Istopwhipsering]

Very informative! I was thinking about going bigger but after watching this I will definitely go back to the basics and try the D ring snaffle.

[@erinnlynn7]

This video was extremely helpful. Thank you!

[@giovanabordinidebrito1675]

this video is GOLD. He teaches it so well I could hear him talk for hours. Great video. I’ve been very confused about bits, TYSM!!!!

[@victoriaslife66]

Thank you for this learning video!

[@beckahtattooing]

Amazing! Extremely informative. Thank you so much for making this video. Every horse owner should watch this video so they understand what they are putting in their horses mouth. You explain these bits so it's easy to understand what they are used for and how they feel in the horses mouth. You've won me over and I will watch more of your videos!

[@astrwolf5507]

Except lots of people go bitless

[@sarahposey7166]

Great presentation thank you. The only horses I ever put Twisted wire on were some hardcore run off horses on the track. I only used it to say can you hear me now and then speak very softly while you carry a big stick. Horses can be heavy but much of it is created by riders being heavy in the hands, I also use neck ropes in conjunction with a bit if a horse is real heavy to try to get them to lighten up without much pull on their mouth. As you so wisely stated earlier it is a training issue and taking the time. When horses get wound up in a show situation or under pressure there's only so much you can do to train that out of them. Sometimes the very hot difficult horses are terrific athletes but they are not for everyone to ride particularly not in competition. Thanks again for doing a great job.

[@Atlas00212]

Thank you for making this. I'm thinking about getting my first horse, and I had no clue what bit to use until I watched this video. Thank you!

[@danemoore9277]

Please PLEASE ride Western you and your horse will both enjoy it more.

[@danemoore9277]

Oh and by the way do t hang around fakes they will mess you up

[@rubyrose2734]

This video was so helpful for me finding a bit for my stallion and learnt a lot about them too thank you

[@Jes-Lynne]

Lovely, informative video Bernie!

[@vijayantpoonia1491]

most awsome video ever i have seen in a long time, its just awsome, no words to explain.

[@michaelakarutz2392]

This was so helpful! Thank you!

[@brookespears6945]

I cringe when he said "these gadget bits are only for untrainable horses" how bout for just none

[@cleliaoconnell3705]

Brooke Spears I think no horse is untrainable if you give them time... So "gadget" bits are useless in my opinion. And I agree on the fact that severe bits should not be used (at least not by anyone) but that us riders should be educated to ride properly with softer bits. :)

[@charlenevandrie7736]

Clélia O'CONNELL there is no such thing as a “soft bit”

[@Abs0lut3Cyner]

Exactly!!!

[@joi314]

Abigail13Thunder pfff right.

[@joi314]

Abigail13Thunder There is absolutely. You just have no idea about bits

[@hhp2788]

This is the best instructional video on bits wow 😮 thank you sir!

[@nancy143ish]

Thank you for your time. It's apparent you care most about being a partner with your horse. I appreciate hate the education. I'm sure you have saved many horses pain and many riders frustration. So we'll explained.

[@AlencarAlbertodaSilvaWestin]

Obrigado! Explicações claras e objetivas.

[@geniemedford9200]

Thank you for this great info. The best in my opinion!

[@kerstinwhite3558]

I enjoy his opinion a lot but dang would it be expensive and time consuming to own as many bits as I would want to have so I could change my bits around like he's saying 😆 I really agree with a lot of this though

[@barbaraespinosa7526]

The man is a professional trainer/ showman, and as such, he would have to have an assortment of bits.

[@JustNatax3]

Get 3 very basic bits... and you'll probably have something that takes very well. Really not anything fancy.

[@jo-clairecorcoran5783]

Kerstin White if you try a bit and it doesn’t work, sell it! Buy used first to try.

[@danemoore9277]

@@JustNatax3 bother my grandpa's and all my family friends (and me here in about a month!!) have rode in big ranches and the had a bosal a snaffle and a correction bit those were the three because they had a bunch of cold jawed dead sided horses on those ranches

[@ameliamattison5560]

Really enjoyed this video

[@t28aviatorhorses24]

My horse lives his bit now thanks to your advice!

[@canadianequestrian2951]

I love this video. My mare loves the D w/ copper rollers for showing in the hunters. This video is actually how I picked it out! She will seek it out like she would an apple haha

[@jeffcokenour3459]

What a great video, thank you

[@roseault6335]

Really good and helpful thank you xx

[@alyssakidder3270]

I really like video! I wish he would have went over more curb bits. I LOVE his bit collection. I thought it was the funniest thing when he threw those nasty bits over his shoulder.

[@airnt]

would indeed be good to comment on the most important type of bit, the curb... some of the bits he did talk about had curb action, but he never said much about it and most of that was technically incorrect.

[@alexispickel2580]

I've honestly had my best luck in the straight rubber bit, every horse that I've had who I've ridden it in has loved it

[@lizalogsdon8448]

people if you are going to comment at least watch the video. He is not trying to sell anything. He is giving away his VERY EXPERT OPINION. All bits are not painful. Please tell me where did this FAD of rope halters as bridlescome from. I know the answer but really hate to be rude to them.

[@margodphd]

Thanks for advocating for softer bits and comfort. If I can't ride bitless, I use flavoured silicone snaffle. Horsemanship isn't about abusing horse into obeying you in this moment, it's beauty is about willing cooperation. I'd love to see more about fitting saddles and new saddle tree construction.

[@keithtaylor6069]

Love the video. Thank you

[@emmalouisexx9092]

A bicycle chain bit!??? Never come across o e of those before and I don't want to either!! Thank you for making this vid- even though I don't own my own horse, I found this helpful to know for the future😀

[@shelleyzoe8254]

thank you! listening from Santa Rosa Ca. 👍🏼❤️

[@dattawavare6493]

It is very knowledgeable video about bits, Thanks sir, I liked this video,👍👍

[@tadbarker7082]

I know nothing about horses but I found this video extremely interesting. I think I’m going to book a riding lesson 🤗

[@danemoore9277]

GO WESTERN NOT ENGLISH

[@lizxu322]

Any update?

[@PurplePoppyAnimator]

Wish my tb boy wasn't in pain when he has hackamores, bitless bridles or halter bridles on him, he absolutely hates them. Bad experience with previous owners years ago has made him face sensitive and face shy, you can barely brush his face or pet it, let alone be yanking the sides with a hackamore. Dressage Eggbutt is our favorite to use, he's so soft in the mouth and you don't even need to pull half the time as he goes by leg and voice aids, but it's a brilliant and softer backup for steering and stopping when needed as we hack on the roads in this country. Not every horse enjoys bitless, maybe my next horse will be much happier in one, but until then I'm going to go by the method my horse tells me he is most comfortable in.

[@cygne5]

I use the JP Korsteel Dee Ring Snaffle with Copper Link. It is a great match for my gelding, and he is super comfortable with it. My rule for using bits is simple: if you wouldn’t put it in your mouth, then you shouldn’t put it in your horses. I also go by USPC bit restrictions. That being said, I have friends and trainers who would put any bit in the horses mouth, but I figured that it would be more comfortable for the horse my way.

[@lej6550]

I use a jointed happy mouth like that for dressage... nice and legal to use as long as you make sure the plastic is in proper order. And lots of horses don’t like the single jointed snaffles bc they put a ton of pressure on the bars of the mouth. The link in the middle offers more tongue pressure.

[@mariannekaminski5795]

Wonderful instruction

[@sndszoo4538]

"Maybe he works with thinner D s, we also have thicker D s, and we have some very thick D s. It's all a matter of what he likes" I'm sorry, I'm so immature...but I had to

[@wilvonk9797]

😂

[@alexispickel2580]

I'm glad I'm not the only one with a mind like this

[@jdsayshello1]

It's even funnier if you know absolutely nothing about horses. 😂

[@jaelhoward4621]

*Sigh*

[@deramonbmw]

I've watched a lot of You tube videos on a ton of topics from car repair, to welding art, to horse training and beyond. I think this is the best YT video I have ever seen. I'm having trouble with my 1st polo pony and getting the right bit. Not exactly what his focus, but extremely worthwhile and so well done. Rode a ton for about 15 years, then stopped for 30. Don't want to rely on what I "used to know". That was great.

[@spannerclyde6832]

I find it amusing those who believe all horses prefer bitless. My horse goes bridleless AND in a bit. He prefers the bit for dressage work and bridleless for jumping. He will literally pick the bit up in his mouth, it's adorable. So if he hated the bit I am pretty sure he wouldn't be so eager

[@brunanasss]

finally someone with a brain in this comment section lmao

[@spannerclyde6832]

@@brunanasss Lol, it makes me cringe reading these comments!

[@brunanasss]

@@spannerclyde6832 i think a way to teach them is making them ride different horses, one that doesn't accept a bit, one that doesn't accept hackamores and one that doesn't accept either of them 😂 i agree that some bits shouldn't be used as they're exclusively for pain but most of them are just fine. i've leased a tiny little pony and he literally would bolt all across the barn if not on a strong bit, in the other hand i've ridden a sensitive (and giant, about 17.3hh) brazilian warmblood who has thrown me off every. single. time. that we put a bit in his mouth. just because they can ride their horses bitless they think everyone can 😂😂

[@spannerclyde6832]

@@brunanasss Exactly!

[@brunanasss]

@@spannerclyde6832 i will always think that the anti bit internet trainers think that hackamores just lie in the face and doesn't apply pressure at all

[@lisalbseiso4629]

Thank You so much for your video and advice.... I need more advice on which bits to use as I value your feedback...I will " Ask the experts" :)

[@kimberlysmiley316]

Thank you, this was extremely helpful, there are so many bits that it can be overwhelming and it is tough to find info that is thorough. This was thorough!!

[@lys5375]

I'm personally not a fan of single jointed due to the way it pinches the tongue and pokes the roof of the mouth. I (where possible) go for a full-cheek rubber double-jointed snaffle where possible or a loose ring double-jointed and play around with the particular horse in question. In my opinion, there are very few horses out there that if trained and ridden correctly need anything stronger.

[@LadyTofu]

I wish I could have you come out a fit a bit for my horse! My trainer wouldn't bother doing this and I don't know exactly what to look for on my own.

[@xxkvck]

Loved how you chucked the bits :D Good on you!!

[@XxHaileyRidesxX]

xCyberdog Yess! Especially when you heard some of them land on each other

[@mvnx3393]

Wow good video thank you

[@melissatelfer7182]

Thank you for the video....im extremely new to horses and have been school riding for a year, was confused about bits and its purpose other then to steer....your video has increased my knowlegde and most of the confusion has been replaced with "ahh I get it now"...thankyou 😊

[@julxqq9947]

Melissa Telfer holy shit mine as well quit now because you obviously know nothing, bits cause pain and discomfort stupid fuck

[@horseshavetakenovermylife1636]

Please answer: do you prefer (which is nicer for the horse) single or French link snaffles???

[@EightyDollarStables]

I ride gaited horses, and am required to have a shanked bit at shows because they are over 4. My paso fino X really goes good in a thick smooth twisted with 5" shanks, and my TWH was going well in a wonder bit (similar to the leverage both in this video but styled more for gaited horses) until we changed her shoes a bit to get slightly more style out of her front end. When I tried her after getting her shod, her nose was up in the air and it wouldn't come down. I have pretty soft hands so I was thinking of putting her in the same bit I have my pasox in, but was wondering if you guys had any other suggestions? (Note- I will most likely try shorter shanks, a smooth mouthpiece, a low port mouthpiece ect., and I'm using walking curb- type shanks.) thanks for suggestions!

[@paigedemarco7149]

I have a question. I have a jumper mare that I am showing next weekend in jumpers. The first time I rode her, she went in a slow twist D snaffle, however, she seemed very sensitive to that pressure and tried to throw her head. I know she has a soft mouth, and I am a rider with soft hands. I'm not sure if It was just me getting used to her or me being a tiny bit nervous, or if she really doesn't like that bit. The following weeks, I used a Regular D snaffle. She went much better and seemed happier. However my problem arises when I am deciding which bit to use for the show. I know that she will be really amped up but I still want to be able to maintain control without her tossing her head too much. Please help, Thank you.

[@JustAgirly0]

lately i wonder which snaffle out of those is the softest and the best- eggbutt- D snaffle or loose ring? that most horses find comfortable and soft and react very good to

[@cleliaoconnell3705]

Great video. I still think these 'fancy' and thin bits should only be available to the most advanced riders. I know so many people who're using gaggs and pelhams wrong... It's really important to educate the rider to use soft bits, especially when the horse has a sensitive mouth. Soft bits are the best for most horses, and bitless is even better for some... (whether it be hackamore or sidepull or bitless bridle or anything else) I think as long as your horse likes the bit and you don't hurt it nor struggle / fight with the horse it's good. Bits are special and require soft hands. But any way of riding requires soft hands so work on that before you go to a harder bit. It really is essential. :)

[@alexisbarnett5170]

Every horse is different. Every bit is different. Every horse's preference is different. My point is there is no right or wrong answer it is all up to the horse and trainer to say what to use. Your horse is different then mine. It's Fine if bit less works for your horse, fine if bits works for your horse. But I would personality never use two jointed bits when you pull one side the whole bit moves and it points up and stabs the roof of the mouth causing the horses head to go up. I like three jointed bits because they dont stab the horse's roof of their mouth and when pulling one side only that side moves. And VERY IMPORTANT: dont take the bridle straight off , take it off slowly so it doesn't scrap his teeth when taking it off . anything can hurt if used incorrectly even just a halter and reins. REMEMBER: just because it worked for your horse doesn't mean it will work for mine and at the end of the day all I care about is staying safe in the saddle and the horse's safety and comfort. MOST IMPORTANT: every one is entitled to there one option just dont be a jerk and bully someone for using something different. Do research from not bias sites before yelling at someone for being a cruel animal abuser from hell for using a bit. And those horrible horrific pics of bits just remember "One bad apple spoils the bunch" every is entitles to their own opinion have a good day hope you find this useful and helpful ☺💖

[@serenityfields7514]

Nice job, thank you

[@heathergero7457]

I need help with bits. I currently have my 7 year old tb in a loose ring French link as she has used for years. I was told I should try her in something else as the loose ring has too much leeway. She was getting a bit too low and chomping on the bit. I tried a thicker size and was going well but now she grinds and doesn't get soft in the mouth as much keeping her head higher. Im going to re-try a full cheek French link on her and see how she goes as I didn't notice any difference. Looking at trying or buying a eggbut French link as well as that might have a little more connection but not harsh. I just don't know what I should be using as one she's dragging her head, another chomping and the others I cant tell a difference. She's soft in the mouth but when she spooks or gets hot I need to have some sort of connection to get her back...

[@matthewgoodchild-simpson8459]

Outstanding display. Do Western Style Riders v European have different bit leanings?

[@danemoore9277]

Yes sir! Very much English riders tend to lean to a bit less bridle and tear the shit out of a horses nose. Western(hey that's me!) Tend to use a more mild bit because Western riding has been around along time and we have designed our own bird

[@matthewgoodchild-simpson8459]

@@danemoore9277 Straight, smiley or grisley though!

[@imjustasadtwigoflemonmyrtl9043]

My horse used to be ridden in a loose ring double jointed snaffle but I am riding him in a eggbutt double jointed snaffle, which is fine for flatwork but once we are jumping or doing XC training he is sooooo strong it is very difficult to slow him down or stop him so I need something stronger (I cant physically stop him or slow him down sometimes when we are XC training so I really need somethings stronger but I don't know what bit I should move up to? Only for XC training and jumping. Thanks :)

[@serenityfields7514]

I have a question. I have a rubber covered snaffle where the rubber was coming off and rough looking, so I cut the rubber off down to the metal. Its looks like an ordinary snaffle now except the bars are straight and not in a curved fashion. Would this make it harsher on the horses mouth? This would make the bars straight and flat against the horses tongue, but still jointed.

[@gracecampbell1275]

It would put less pressure as a bit that is twisted would.

[@aliweir-smith2928]

Ryan - if you are using a jointed bit, try a straight bar. rubber is great. try a bit with a small link. try one with a tiny bit of poll pressure. don't keep fighting with whatever bit you using

[@tuvavexell6862]

Both me and my friend are using hackamore on our horses and they love it. I have had a Hackamore for a very long time and he goes super good i It, my friend have only used it for half a year and she feels a very big different. I think that horses that throws much with their heads should trie a hackamore. I also think that it's kinder to the Horse whit hackamore.

[@laurenkelly30]

+Tuva Vexell ikr

[@julxqq9947]

Yesss😻🙏🏻 preach this comment

[@ameliajohnson562]

Hackamores have leverage and put pressure on the nose - depending on how well they are fitted they can put painful pressure on soft tissue. A hackamore in the hands of an inexperienced or rough handed rider is as painful as a bit. Train the riders hands.

[@ollywollyyy16]

Thank you bits are so abuseive

[@JustNatax3]

If you switch to hackamores and other bitless options please get them fitted PROFESSIONALLY and educate yourself on the nerve endings of an equines face. Bits or bitless, used incorrectly, both can injure a horse significantly.

[@abif4980]

my gelding is nervous and likes to run through the bit on occasion. I usually ride in a loose ring snaffle, but I used a snaffle type kimberwick after I first got him and had the same problem. I was able to hack on trails with my loose ring snaffle after using the kimberwick to soften him up and get him to trust me instead of taking flight. he's now had a year off and worse than he was before about running through the bit but I don't want to have to back to the kimberwick for any amount of time (especially since I only use it only until he's riding well in a loose ring without running through it). any recommendations?

[@sonseere10]

Your gelding is not running through the bit. He is running through you. Go bitless.

[@bernietraurig]

Thank you all for your comments. For those asking for bit advice did you know that EquestrianCoach members can submit questions to our panel of experts on anything from bits to lead changes, or advice on getting over fear after a fall. Learn more and submit your "Ask The Experts" questions at: equestriancoachblog.com/ask-the-experts/#question

[@juliecramer7768]

Bernie Traurig l

[@bleachaddict7377]

Bernie Traurig one question.... how would I know which bit is harmless for my wish horse??

[@henriettaharrold6113]

Bernie Traurig no one was asking. Everyone is arguing on why you think selling painful torture devices to people is a good idea. If you don't want them to feel pain then try a hackamore... Or a bosel....

[@cubnation]

Bernie Traurig I took in a rescue Appendix-Quarter Horse mare and I tried a fat eggbutt snaffle and the French-link snaffle, which was the last French-link bit to your right on the table, and she loved it!

[@airnt]

there is a lot of misinformation in this, and a lot of non-information. the actual way in which the mouthpieces interact with the mouth is not really mentioned, and where there is a little, it is mostly off. single jointed snaffles have a lever in the mouthpiece, even if there is no shank, the shank length has a lever based on ratio, not on absolute length, the two he holds next to one another to compare are not that different in lever ratio, ( i am measuring from the video image, but we are looking at 1,8:1 vs 2,1:1 so that is a pretty negligable difference, but the shorter one is quicker... no mention of that.. the idea that you need to accomodate a sawing action in the bitting, is pretty disconserting... the foto of the dentistry with someone not looking what they're doing (feeling with the hand in stead) is very wrong... this will just rob a horse from being able to chew...their molars should not look completely rounded, only problematic corners should be removed to prevent overtention of the chewing muscles, then tensioning the TMG... etc etc bitting is surely a huge topic, but there is frankly misinformation here, the idea that a jointed mouthpiece is less severe than a straight one is simply wrong... and his anecdotes support this, as well.. he says 'he never used a leverage bit' when he jsut talked about a pelham that he was so fond of.... that is a contradiction in terms... frankly... a few of the discarded bits are fundamentally the same as the ones he will 'tune' in... and are just as dangerously severe.... frankly confusing rubbish

[@williamluther5613]

what bit is best to try for a pony who has a flat roof mouth and sensitive mouth but very strong thanks

[@togetherwefly1762]

I keep moving my cursor down to like this and then realizing I already liked it lol!

[@eringray426]

What would you recommend for a very lazy and quite strong pony? Currently using a normal French link

[@danemoore9277]

Move to a short shank correction bit and get a set of spurs

[@Mokojin33]

I would always start a horse in a rope halter (padding) If they were not good in that rope halter, I would go to one with no padding. If they still were not good, I would put some paracord (two pieces with loops on either end with some more wrapped around for padding) through the rings on either side. If not responsive enough still, I will get my paracord without padding. I will then add more knots. If no luck with the rope halters, I would move to a short shanked fleece hackamore. I will then move into longer shanks. Never with bits I do not believe in bits but it all depends on the riders hands.

[@brucerandall1568]

what's the bit called that's in Tue third row and the third bit closest to his hand

[@kieram5290]

All the horses at my stables are ridden either in a lose ring snaffle or egg butt snaffle

[@zoegreen4147]

Kiera M same, except for two, one is ridden in a leverage and another is ridden in a brass French link

[@Linda-xb2zk]

Same here. I have a collection of loose rings, French links, D rings and eggbutts with a pony size pelham and two mullen mouth bits for specific horses and specific reason. I also have a bosal for another horse. Great tool when you know how to train for and use them.

[@thederpguidetolife3014]

My horse dentist said that my mare has an irritation on the middle of the tongue. I ride with passoa and normal bar (broken 1 time) What are other bits should i try? Broken 2 times maybe?

[@rhythmandblues_alibi]

I think some of the information in this video is outdated. We have a lot more research now proving how harsh the nutcracker action of single jointed snaffles is. Although from the looks of some of those crazy gadget bits maybe things are worse in the US than what I'm used to seeing here in Australia, where the majority of people ride in single or double jointed snaffles. I have learnt a lot from one of my horses who has a very thick tongue and fleshy lips with not a lot of room for the fat French link lozenge snaffle I got for him, thinking it would be a kinder option. He was getting his tongue over the bit, I realise now because it had nowhere else to go! I would encourage anyone to open your horses mouth with the bit inside and have a look at how it actually works. My pony, who has a very small mouth being a Welsh B, also has a low palate so every time her single jointed snaffle "nutcrackers", it digs into the roof of her mouth! I had no idea until I looked inside her mouth at what the bit was doing. No wonder the poor thing was uncomfortable in the bridle. I'm so glad our governing bodies are now allowing some of the new innovative bits from Myler, Bombers and Fager. I think now we need to start banning the cruel ones from competition because we know better now.

[@jonasbilodeau5819]

i always try and use a snaffle when training and them move into something stronger if needed in the show ring but i almost always use a snaffle for training

[@danemoore9277]

Same

[@francesmccarthy9101]

Hi, loved your video!! I am an older (68) inexperienced rider (trail riding) using a loose O ring snaffle bit (sweetiron). I do not ride with any contact in her mouth, as I don't believe in holding onto her with the reins. I try to use more of my body then anything else. I've been told to change her bit to a more severe bit because my bit does not give me much control. It was suggested to me to get a tom thumb bit. I DON't want her to be uncomfortableor in any pain but I am concerned with not having much control. Please help!

[@astrwolf5507]

Hello! My suggestion to you is to look into going bitless and just not using a bit. Look around on Google and see what you can find out. The people telling you to try stronger and more painful bits do not know what they're talking about.

[@carolynstewart8465]

Tom thumb is a terrible cruel bit! Don't get a bigger bit get a bigger brain! The o ring is more than enough bit for trail riding! Sounds like more work in the arena is needed for the basics.

[@karenonsager4778]

Do you like the kimberwick ?

[@heidis7655]

Hello, i have a percheron mare who i ride in a slightly curved D ring snaffle. She is starting to get very heavy in the bit and i am afraid to put something to harsh in her mouth but i also want something were i have more control and she listens to me better. any suggestions? i was thinking to ride her in a twisted d ring snaffle as a touch up bit for 2 or 3 rides. if you have anything to say to me that is acually informative then please comment back to me. :) please do not tell me not to use a bit or be a smart one about anything, nice comments please!

[@maria-zg2su]

The COOK BITLESS bridles are good for them ?

[@danemoore9277]

So you like braking your horses nose. Shut up you little keyboard warrior

[@PocaRileySeaside]

Why is the bit on 26:38 so sharp? I thought it was rather a softer one because it has a tongue bow which reduces the pressure on the tongue

[@coolpony122]

I tried all the easy bits except for the rubber one which I just ordered do to watching your video lol but if that don’t work what should I try next ? She’s a 4 year old that enjoys to head shake with just a DEE ring snaffle had the vet come out and she had her tooth knocked out from previous horses so gave her 3 months off letting it heal and had vet come out said it looked all good but she still head shakes she plus difficult putting a bit in her mouth I just got her in January so what I’m thinking is poorly trained cuz I had the previous owner send a video of her being ridden by a “trainer” and her head was shot up during trot and canter and did not look comfortable so I’m thinking previous owner did a lousy job training her

[@brynneweeks986]

I think full cheek snaffles help with a more steady contact. She probably is uncomfortable with her bit, I’d say that you should just play with them.

[@JaniceLBlake]

Excellent presentation and information! Thank you!

[@lunarcyclesystem7749]

I use a jointed rubber Pelham with my hot horse and it works wonders. She used to go in a kimberwick and I just really didn't like how she reacted to it

[@hannaweiss9423]

i think the worst one on that table is the chain bit that was cruel

[@chloesgrass4143]

Hanna Weiss The worst ever is the tom thumb. If it was on there idk. Say if i pulled one pound, the horse would feel 10 pounds of pressure.

[@joi314]

Memes are the worst thing is that is was also a gag. so you pull those chains way up into the mouth

[@christinebaker8754]

I think the worst was the triangular sharp one. What demon of hell invented it, and what demon of hell would inflict it on an innocent horse?

[@lucymorganeq6050]

please use double jointed snaffles. single jointed like the majority of the 'normal' bits are like a nutcracker and apply lots of pressure on the tounge. if your horse likes to rear, pulling on this may make them do that

[@emilywhite7381]

My horse doesn't respond to bits with stopping which bit would be better?

[@adriennedavis9190]

What is a heavy weight egg butt used for? I accidentally ordered one online for my horse who needs a regular egg butt.

[@Moneymike29]

That horse said stop playing with my mouth bro

[@alicebradley5019]

My horse is a warmblood x and really doesn't like the bit he is in. He will snatch the reins from me when I ride him and will look at his surroundings (again, yanking the reins). Also, every time i take the bridle off he rubs the sides of his mouth against the stable door and will attempt to rub me when i undo his flash (he is ridden in a grackle). I really want him to be happy so have been endlessly trying out bits and researching and don't know whether I should try something like a peewee bit? Would you be able to advise me on what i should do? many thanks

[@sonseere10]

Don't use a bit at all. Learn to ride using a rope halter with the lead line converted to reins with the appropriate knot.

[@julxqq9947]

Alice Bradley Bitless all the way hunny, bits cause pain. Maybe thats why your horse is acting strange when he is shoved metal in his mouth

[@ryli6073]

Alice Bradley It also could be the flash...

[@vivientakacs5599]

Bitless. Try out with his halter