Tack Talk | Introduction to Bridles and Bits

[@RiversBowden-dk8by]

You skipped the bosal on the end.

[@CGunRanch]

What brand of snaffles are those?

[@Stonefieldranch]

D-Ring Snaffle is a classic equine. I inherited the two O ring snaffles and honestly don’t know where they came from.

[@myronschabe]

I think it is VERY important to say, unless you are a VERY competent and knowledgeable and good/well balanced rider, you should not be graduating from the D-ring snaffle. These ported shank bits with chain curb straps should only be for folks that know what they are doing ( and horse ready enough to handle and I don't think that should include 3 year olds)....it really disturbs me that western horses are becoming really popular these days and the thought of beginners trying to ride say a reining pattern in a shank, ported bit, with a curb chin strap. Those things are very harsh...and should not be in beginner's or even a lot of intermediates hands. When I say beginner, I means say at least 3 plus years of riding ( unless you are really good and working with someone who knows what they are doing and are moving you thru it with good, sound, supervision) should not be using a shank bit. I also could argue that there is no need for bits at all really...a lot of horses will do amazing and even better in hackamores ( don't believe me check out Sarah Dawson and Shiny Outlaw for one example, Sarah is an example of an excellent rider). When they talk about bridle horses, please note that that is a very advanced rider and horse combination...most folks into riding for recreation are never going to have the need or desire to get to the fine tuning of a 'Bridle' or competition type of horse that you could say 'require' the shank bit...if you are just into trail riding and hacking around an arena a bitless, or bosal or basic snaffle will suit you fine. I have seen many a horse ruined and thrown away because they were over bitted and it was not at all their fault...it was poor bit choices of humans and bad, inexperienced riding. I would personally like competition open up to allowing more bitless for mature horses Many horses are simply more relaxed with them and would actually do better.