Understanding Different Types of Bits

Walk into any tack store and you will discover a wall of bits in every shape, size, and shank length imaginable. If you don't understand how bits work, choosing the right one for your horse can be overwhelming. Those of you who know me know that I tend to keep it simple, but it is still good to understand how different types of bits function and why they are designed the way they are. That is whay I aim to do in this week's video! For more info, head over to www.CRKtrainingblog.com!

[@noobpvptv5176]

My son brought this video to my attention so I watched it. Some back round on me...My horse Charley and I compete in team roping (we are the headers primarily) so I spend a lot of time training and roping. Here is what I've learned about bits...There is no one size fits all, or one type is better or worse than the others. Its a compromise between fit, mouth shape, training, and rider confidence/experience. And, before you say training will replace everything please stop. I have been roping on charley for 11 years now and you will be hard pressed to find a horse better trained than he is. When he isn't roping he is cutting or moving cows. We are a team and I think he really likes what he does. Charley will not ride in anything but low port curb just like the one you showed. I have tried halters, hacks, snaffles, mullens, tom thumbs, est...he simply likes what he likes...My sons horse will use anything and could care less...my wife's horse prefers hacks....My point is stop watching videos or listening to trainers rattle on about what's best and what should be illegal. Spend less time sitting in your computer chair and more time in the saddle. Build the bond between you and your best friend and see what works best for "YOUR" horse, you might be surprised...Don't be afraid or talked out of something because the "Internet Experts" throw their opinion around. Just my 2 cents

[@MohammadKhan-sh7xt]

very nicely explained

[@kamishajackson4458]

Thank you very good 👍🏽

[@emilyp.5149]

I ride in a Tom Thumb, as my horse was trained in it, but I have heard they are really harsh. I want to switch to another bit but have no idea which one to try first.

[@jbarjj2715]

I’m sorry but so many elements of this are simply incorrect. The snaffle bit will not and can not reach the roof of the mouth.

[@nataliedavies69]

I just discovered your videos and I'm finding them very useful and practical. Having ridden lesson horses all my life, I never had to make choices about equipment. Now I have my own horse I'm having to think about what does and doesn't work for us and the tip you gave about placing the bit in your hand to help understand the function makes a lot of sense. I find your narrative very clear and it's good to sit comfortably away from the barn, away from my horse so I can focus on your wisdom and just let it sink in. Thank you for taking the time and trouble to produce these videos. I'm off to see if there are more somewhere.

[@marthacarstensen152]

Thanks great video! We rid both English and Western and my daughter barrel races. We ride all of our rodeo horses in snaffle bits and no tie downs. Every one tells us to bit up as the one mare is a strong mare. My daughter has found if she does a lot of slow work with the mare prior to running her she listens much better and is attentive. Slow work means lateral exercises, turning on the haunch etc. So this video helps in understanding the mechanics of the bits and why for us the snaffle is the choice. Thanks so much this was helpful.

[@genevievemb]

such a helpful video! Thank you! :) I've been supplementing my training lessons with CRK Training videos, and it's a wonderful support.

[@wayneparker9331]

Excellent video. Very informative because you made a complex subject easier to understand. Please keep up the good work!!

[@andylynch739]

I use a French Link they're so nice

[@ezralee2221]

Can I just say thank you! I've been trying to learn about bits for a while now, and I've barely found anything about them!

[@faisalksa6878]

Nice video...Thank YOU, for taking the time to make this great video....

[@LenaleeStars]

I have ridden my boy in everything from a halter to a shank bit and have had the best success lately with a kimberwick bit. I love the description you gave here!

[@mustangrebel8051]

No horse needs a bit

[@LenaleeStars]

+Mustang Rebel go back and read what I said. Nowhere did I say that I NEEDED a bit, just that I've had success with the kimberwick bit for the work I'm doing with my horse at the moment. Don't go around picking fights.

[@frejaskelton7147]

+Lena C Mustang is replying to every single comment about bits saying that.

[@dariaharruff7025]

Bits are nothing but trouble I don't belong being forced using bits against my will

[@ElizabethStaeheli]

Thanks for taking the time to demonstrate basic bit!

[@laurapigg5132]

LOL the people on here saying bits hurt horses... Obviously you don't own horses. And if you do, someone else spent the time training them to make them the 'babysitters' they are for you. I'm sure some are SERIOUSLY uncomfortable. But they create pressure, not pain. Some horses wont respond in a hack. Mine has too much forward, is young and doesn't like a hack AT ALL. He respects the pressure, but learned early he can just ignore it because it's not enough for him. So we riding in basic snaffles, and a curb when I need fancy movement. It's not torture to ask a horse to move away from pressure, which is what bits do. Most riders ride with their legs anyways, once the horse learns to respond to it. Generally getting into a horses mouth is the last effort for a response. Body language and leg placement are more in play than you could possibly imagine, and unless you ride often and in a knowledgeable fashion, you'll NEVER pick up the motions in videos. Simply because the rider and horse are ALWAYS communicating and when you see their hand move, it's because they've asked other ways first. Get off your high horses people and educate yourselves before you PRETEND to know anything... darn peta people.

[@vinckovincko]

So the fact that you own horses makes you an expert? People like you should not be allowed to own them on the first place ..

[@laurapigg5132]

did I claim to be an expert anywhere in that statement? Learn to read. People like me? You don't even know me. And thirdly, you're a simpleton if you think using a bit on a horse, and knowing that different bits offer a different sensation and thus a different response qualifies me as one of "those ppl who should own a horse" my animals, my gelding included, are perfectly healthy and happy. You on the other hand might just be one of those obnoxious, love your animals to obesity, let them do what ever they want people... Ha ha. What a trip.

[@shiraweinstein1386]

I have an Arabian mare. If she doesn’t like something, she makes her opinion known! If she didn’t like the bit, I’d never get it on her.

[@Book_Neko]

Thank you for explaining this! I always wondered exactly what different bits did.

[@robinlaurita4663]

Excellent presentation, very thorough.

[@terrimiller7902]

my horse ive had from a baby, now 19, and trained her my self, has ridden out in hackamores , halter and lead on trails , but she is most comfortable with a bit in her mouth and my hand directing her she is actually calmer and relaxes more , i have soft hands and i use the bit to give her direction , not pull or punishment , its kinda like a choke collar on a dog so many people dont know even how one should be put on or how to use it correctly , not to drag or choke your dog with , same with a horse its for direction

[@terrimiller7902]

just wanted to add for all the bitless people, my new horse came to me with a broken nose , and i was searching around these videos on different bits i could try, he can have no pressure on his nose for the rest of his life i ride him without a noseband , but he does need a light bit , the vet cleared him for riding and i do work with an instructor , so there are reasons to use a bit or a hackamore and not to

[@lauramerritt8744]

Thank you, this was a simple and good explanation. Much appreciated.

[@NicoleHearnEquestrian]

I use a kimberwick they are great! But I've always wanted to try french link.

[@jytteloos1193]

No matter what you use, bits or no bits, it all depends on your hand. You can ride bitless and still damage your horse if you don't have a soft hand or good riding skills in general.

[@Yazzzh]

It's really frustrating when people say that all bits are cruel and they should be banned etc. Maybe in the wrong hands bits can be abusive but not everyone who uses a bit is cruel!!! Bitless bridles can be even more severe than some bits...

[@aaronmays5322]

I agree... but a lot of people know that it herts, but they just egnore it...

[@joeyjoejoe1013]

Well done! Simplified explanation.

[@monethostutler155]

Horses do not need bits but on some acation they are very useful

[@teamthundergirls5236]

love your video!

[@vjbaba1367]

Hi there. I use a full cheek french link. My horse is very resistant to take contact so thought I might try a rubber one. Thank you for your video.

[@alijnewton]

Thanks for making this video! I found it SUUUUPER helpful. I'm looking for a bit that has good leverage but doesn't pitch too much or press too much on the top of the horses mouth either.

[@robinrafloski]

Thank you

[@bacardie29]

I use a french link snaffle sweet iron. It really works with a lot of horses!

[@leahrose3821]

I ride some very unpredictable and green horses and have been teaching them to neck rein and get used to leg pressure so they can be ridden bit-less and I use a eggbutt snaffle. I try to never put any pressure on the bit unless absolutely nescessary. I do not show but I do rodeos and am required to use a bit in them but I do the same as I do in training, lean back with legs slightly forward for stopping, neck rein and leg pressure so I give the least amount of bitwork.

[@sterlingwolf]

This was very helpful. Thank you!

[@iloveballs444]

Hi there, my horse and I are currently using a loose ring straight plastic bar snaffle. However, she dislikes it a lot. She grinds it, and ignores pressure. I am looking to switch bits, but I was wondering what you would recommend. My horse can be hard to steer, and can have a very hard head and mouth sometimes. I do not go rough with her head or mouth, so I think it's because of the bit. I was interested in the snaffle with the side bars, but I also am looking at a loose ring snaffle with the peanut in the center. What do you suggest for my issue?

[@weaselbug8631]

I've noticed all the people that are salty in the comments about how bits are torture and shit have icons of horses. Do you think that makes you qualified to argue? Educate yourselves before you start a war. I mean, here's a nice lady trying to educate you and all you do is click on the video, scroll down, and start whining about things you don't understand.

[@cynthiastone4423]

My daughter has a horse that tends to evade by going past the vertical someone suggested a rubber bit to help him reach more for the bit and promote a lower more relaxed head carriage. What would you suggest?

[@delshowhorses7419]

I have a question so I have a 4 year old quarter pony he's 13 hands so I recently started training him to be a English horse. The bit that I have for him is a rubber loose ring snaffle he works good in the bit but we have a little trouble on stopping and backing up I don't know if it's just me not controlling him right or he doesn't like his bit. He is an active horse listens well but we just have two problems. If a can get a reply about what bit I should use or if I should stay with that one that would me a miracle

[@alyssapasqualini]

I use a French link and it's amazing

[@Justjack613]

Nice video. Well explained. Unfortunately, you were addressing people who had more of an understanding of the use of the bits. I see it's causing some debate. As a riding instructor, I simply teach that every bit is only as soft as the hand holding it. I've seen way too many gadgets invented to try and replace the bit, rather than train the rider correctly.

[@jennifercheyne3465]

Hi Callie, I have just started riding and the lesson horse I use has a curb chain on his bridle -- I have to see what the bit looks like at my next lesson. Could you speak to the pain vs. kindness issue? I'm already careful, but I truly don't want to hurt this horse while learning, and after watching videos about this issue, I'm afraid that I might be.

[@kinseyallen740]

My old horse had a D-snaffle with copper encrusted mouthpiece but I couldn't find it anywhere so I had to keep on using my trainers

[@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 if you can, Thank you.

[@abbyamerson6249]

I know this is late and all, but I would recommend a french link snaffle! They work wonders!

[@laurenkelly30]

This is really late I know lol. it if the shows you go to allow it (or when you train) try bitless :) if the show requires a bit, I would go with an eggbutt, or French link, and try them in straight bars, so they should be even softer :D

[@DeathKitty123456]

I use a loose ring french link or a head collar (halter) to ride my horse :3

[@rosebroussard9493]

I'm interested in the action of straight (no link) bits. How do those work exactly?

[@lhendry75]

I ride in England and some of the horses at my stable have what my instructors call a bubble snaffle and it has 3 bubble looks rings outside the horses mouth. What's the point of this?

[@TheJaynefrances]

lhendry75 It allows the rider to attach reins in different configurations to suit what they were originally designed for, which is event riders, so when the horse is strong over cross country the second rein can go to the bottom bubble, which gives more leverage to the bit.

[@freyatopper5134]

In New Zealand they are called Dutch Gags and the lower the bubble (the bottom one most severe) the more leverage you have. I ride my horse in a Dutch Gag on the middle bubble and he goes nicely in it.

[@frejaskelton7147]

+Freya Rose I was having trouble with a riding school pony who had that bit. She was on the top bubble and I was finding her really hard to handle as she was really strong. She got changed onto the bottom bit halfway through the lesson. Last time I rode her I was on the top bugle again. Also nice name 😊

[@jisellerider2973]

Is a straight bar more gentle than a snaffle as it doesn't squeeze the tongue or poke the roof on the mouth? Or is the french link the kindest?

[@laurenkelly30]

I think the French link is defiantly the kindest, and a straight bar. I don't ride with bits so I might have info wrong, but if you can find a straight bar French link (I would use a bit guard too) that would be perfect :D

[@laurenkelly30]

OK, have done my research on bits a little more now lol. I now personally think a rubber, straight bar eggbutt is the kindest.

[@LyndaW21]

Hi. I currently use a bosal, always have with my mustang, but I have alot of trouble stopping her when we are galloping with a group of horses. It is almost like I am riding with no gear on her face at all. I would like to transition to a bit, and I was wondering which bit you would suggest. I was thinking of a curb bit, since the bosal has that leverage type action, except it is on the nose and the poll, or I was thinking about a snaffle bit, since that is best for training. She is 9 yrs old, very responsive to the bosal except for the stopping issue. What would you suggest? Thank you very much for your videos. This one on the types of bits was excellent and I learned alot!

[@HorseClass]

Hi Lynda, I would recommend a simple snaffle bit or french link snaffle (I have found some horses just prefer the action of the french link). A curb is going to have a much more severe action in the mouth and will be more difficult for a horse who is not used to being bitted to understand.

[@LyndaW21]

Thank you very much! I will definitely be making the switch!

[@DJAMAList]

CRKtraining .hhhgvvgbhhjjk

[@TheJaynefrances]

I ride English style, so my terminology will differ from USA but, you need to work on your transitions, balance, seat aids, half halts, and then she should begin to come up off the forehand in gallop, she is getting too excited to listen, and forgetting what she learned in slower gaits, or perhaps she is not confirmed in walk, trot & canter, enough, yet, so gallop work is too soon for her...it should not be repeated until she is under your full control, o.k.& if you do happen to gallop.....sit up...well up..sit deep...take her reins and pump to the stretch of her stride, so that her nose comes in at each hoof stride...right rein, right hoof...or the other side,,,because a horse's mechanics are such that she cannot put her hoof further than her nose...so by shortening her neck length, you shorten her stride...

[@mustangrebel8051]

Train your horse right so you don't need pain to control it .

[@equiem5007]

what does the leverage action do/is expected to do? EDIT: And what does the curb chain do?

[@robinevenden2340]

Put the horse in more pain

[@dshe8637]

Hi, the raised bit in the mouthpiece is called a port, not a curb. Curb means the same as lever or shank.

[@akanewe]

Good info given. Still I would urge everyone not to stop here, look around for info on bits everywhere you can, the more you get hold of the more you can compare and judge, choose to use and get experience in. Just a comment, the rubber disks are to avoid the joint of the mouth piece and ring or shank pinching the sides of the mouth. A strap (ring to ring under the chin) or a full cheek snaffle is what will stop the whole bit sliding through. Yet if you don't like bits, well ride as you please. Check out horses, tack and styles from all over the world, there's lots to see, the more you learn and know the better for you and your horses.

[@brookecuthbert5583]

Hiya , I'm riding a horse at the moment and I need help. He's currently in a eggbut snaffle and he's constantly throwing his head And he is really forward and drifts round the Corners. I'm just wondering if it's the bit causing this? I'm going to try new bits later this week but I'm Just interested in your opinion.

[@haleydarbymiller7638]

Have a vet check to see if he has wolf teeth (sharp teeth) that could be interfering with the bit when you turn or pull back to stop him my horse is just starting on a bit and our vet said she needs her teeth filed since she had wolf teeth so it wouldn't be sore when the bit hit her teeth and most likely make her throw her head , buck or rear Hope that helped

[@brookecuthbert5583]

Thank you but he had is teeth done 2 weeks ago. He's getting a vet check up soon so I'll know then

[@brandielyounis5718]

what type of bit would you recommend with shire who doesn't like to stop? I'm current use a simple snaffle bit

[@HorseClass]

Not wanting to stop isn't a problem to solve with a different bit, that is a training issue and can be a result of many different things. Simply using a stronger bit may work in the short term but it ignores the real problem.

[@mustangrebel8051]

Training

[@flissheywood4964]

All these 'natural training equestrians' right, some horses get very worked up when being ridden, and they won't want to stop because they enjoy it so much, no matter how well a horse is trained it will still get excited and get ahead of the rider. If you work in the arena then just push your horse to face the fence, don't ride him into it just open your inside rein and just let him face the fence and it should slow him down, or circle in a circle that gets tighter, don't apply too much pressure just turn open you rein more, and pat your horse when he slows down. If none of these techniques work then I would suggest a slightly harsher bit as I know shires are quite strong even if they don't mean to be!

[@123edub]

very useful video! Does anyone have an opinion on an eggbutt snafle bit?

[@123edub]

also does the jointed part of the bit make it more harsh? Sorry im kinda of new to bits and I really want to learn more information about them before I go put a incorrect bit on a horse's mouth

[@JulieAnneBair]

I put every new horse in an eggbutt snaffle or one with a little "football" link in the middle to see where he is at in training, etc. That said, the rider needs to know how to use that bit or any bit. I have my students ride in a halter with reins (in the round pen or arena) until they learn to control their horse with their back, seat and legs BEFORE closing their hands and bracing the back to check down or stop the horse. When they learn to do this and thoroughly understand that the bit is not there to stop the horse then, and only then, I allow them start in a bitted bridle.

[@123edub]

thankyou so much!

[@JulieAnneBair]

Thank YOU, for taking the time to make this great video. Bits are probably the most misunderstood piece in the tack box.

[@123edub]

Im glad i was informed about this before I could do anything harmful!

[@midge_sav1659]

She was having a hard time holding the bit properly in the jaw of the horse she has with her... yes it does cause pressure I do not agree with leverage bits because the work with a whole lot of pressure but if your horse works well in it then good for you... but as I said before the rings on the bit were pointed down while she showed us on the jaw in a bridle the ring would be facing towards the neck of the horse not straight down so it was kind of improperly shown so yes I agree that the twisted wire full cheek snaffle has more pressure than a French link snaffle... I myself ride in snaffled because they have less pressure and I don't need a bunch of pressure on my horses... would like to say though that this is my opinion and everyone has a right to their own opinion....

[@zoeysteadman5683]

Hi! I currently use a wonder gag double hinged western bit on my quarter horse paint gelding, and he loves it! Wondering if you had an english bit that would repeat the same action? Thanks!

[@mustangrebel8051]

+Zoey Steadman *newsflash* horses don't like bits at all they just hurt the horse make it move

[@iccleradiator93]

+Mustange Rebel seriously... GTFO or actually figure out wtf youre talking about cuz you clearly have no clue

[@mustangrebel8051]

tasha soper oh yes I'm the one who doesn't have clue. a piece of meta in a horse's mouth is useless, if you knew how to communicate with your horse you wouldn't need one . so im sorry that your such a shitty rider that cant do that.

[@iccleradiator93]

hahaha uh huh.. tell that to my tack room full of blue ribbons and 1st place trophies. :)

[@mustangrebel8051]

tasha soper wow... what a brat. you think you all that just because you go some fancy ribbons? that doesn't take horsemanship, it just takes a good horse and pain, and that all you care about is winning

[@baylea9592]

My mare is able to ride bitless and with a bit. I'm tired of seeing all of these people being so one-sided about riding bitless. Horses have preferences just like humans do. If someone uses a bit and knows what they are doing, the horse is probably fine. Bitless riding can be just as harsh as riding with a bit, it all depends on the riders hand. I for one use a bit more than going bitless, I have found that I have to much more assertive when riding with a halter or bitless bridle. Wether you ride bitless or with a bit, just make sure you know what you are doing. If you read this whole comment and are reading this sentence right now, thank you for taking the time out of your day.

[@TheHamadanners]

used the long one. but my horse was also neck reined.

[@napnaps7393]

Anyone noticed how clean her finger nails are?! Don't know about anyone else but mine are always filthy no matter how much I scrub lol

[@juliadierwechter8999]

i use a long shank snaffle

[@delaneyziesemann7356]

Hi! So, if anyone knows the answer to my question, please respond. I am looking into colt starting and was wondering what the best bit to use when they are just starting out. Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!!

[@TheHamadanners]

start with a simple bit.

[@robinevenden2340]

Bit less

[@jenniferthompson2014]

what about the straight mouth piece that is just straight across? Is that style (mostly seen on driving bits) easier on the horses mouth because it does not have the nutcracker effect? like the loose ring straight snaffle

[@Dallas6101]

bits like that can be worse; sometimes they can press the horses lip over the sharp bone in the side of the mouth which can be extremely painful.

[@HorseClass]

The only bit that I have personally used with a straight mouthpiece is one I discovered recently. It is made by Nathe and is a soft flexible rubber. I love it and I wish I had it when I made this video.

[@mustangrebel8051]

No horse needs a bit

[@sonseere10]

Mustang------------Correct. Bits are pain compliance devices.

[@bung369]

my ohorse hates the bit less bridals which is pressure around the nose, he chucks tantrums, with a bit he is much happier and very use to it, I ride on a loose rein most of the time

[@barrelracer-rh7ik]

i have a bit that is a jointed mouth piece and then it has red rings on the mouth piece its been called a tom thumb and a full cheek piece but it doesnt look like either of them PLEASE HELP!! because it is slowly wearing out and i need to buy a new one and i love this bit and it works well on my horse. thanks

[@HorseClass]

Are the rings rubber? Sometimes these are used to prevent pinching of the corners of the horse's mouth

[@barrelracer-rh7ik]

CRKtraining no just metal rings...

[@caitlynnrose6568]

+barrelracer2002 Maybe a copper ringed snaffle?

[@mustangrebel8051]

No horse needs a bit.

[@cameronscott3926]

barrelracer2002 it may be a Myler bit

[@darryn069]

I put 2 reins on my lead knot and he rides fine

[@gracehager4966]

Hi! I currently use a tom thumb western bit on my quarter horse mare. Wondering if you had an english bit that would repeat the same action?

[@mustangrebel8051]

A tomb thumb b is a terrible bit to use. NO horse needs a bit

[@gracehager4966]

+Mustang Rebel no. they are not that bad of bits. They can be made onto bad bits if used wrong by the wrong hands.

[@gracehager4966]

Mustang Rebel also I dont ride her anymore. I now have a OTTB that I use in a SNAFFLE.

[@mustangrebel8051]

Grace On Horse Back People only use a bit when they are too lazy to train their horse right to where they don't need pain to control them

[@gracehager4966]

+Mustang Rebel I am not lazy at all. He was just trained with a harsh bit. So yeah. Also even not riding with a bit can hurt the horse a lot. Bit like I said before IF I COULD ride my OTTB in a bitless bridle i would. But it just will never happen.

[@randompotato9219]

I was wondering if anyone knew where I could find an eggbutt snaffle that was not jointed? My horse is 75% draft and heard from several different people that curb or bits without joints work well with them. Not a shank because I ride hunt seat, and in the county I live in, you can be disqualified if you use a shank in English except for dressage and saddle seat. Thanks! :D

[@showjumpinluv]

www.doversaddlery.com/mullenmouth-eggbutt/p/X1-0180/?eid=X18A00U1000&CSE&MerchantAdv&zmam=1460880&zmas=1&zmac=114&zmap=0000180000054X1-0180&gclid=COWRsKTO4L8CFUNgMgodt2gAZQ

[@randompotato9219]

Michelle Myers Thanks! :D

[@showjumpinluv]

xXThursdayXx you're welcome!

[@musicalrock192]

Is there a such light bit? Or replacements for a bit?

[@laurenkelly30]

+Musical Rock Bitless bridles, hackamores, bosals. (all bitless :)

[@mustangrebel8051]

no horse needs a bit,

[@frejaskelton7147]

+Mustang Rebel just stop...

[@laurenkelly30]

oh, but the softest IMO is a rope halter.

[@bung369]

rope halters hurt as much or more than bits

[@s.lawrence9736]

Umm I'm no expert but when you put the bit into the skull to show us the action at around 1 min the rings where the reins attack where facing down instead of these rings being aligned with the angle of the mouth ad the reins if attached in the position you showed would mean the rider would be sitting on the ground with the reins in there hand to align the reins to the horses mouth

[@HorseClass]

Hi S. Lawrence, Good observation, it wasn't a perfect demo, but the jaw bone would also be at a more upright angle then what it was sitting in my lap, so that would bring the angle of the bit closer to when it is being used by a rider, but still not perfect.

[@equinelinks4909]

I use a D ring snaffle on my horse

[@crypticangel6991]

i use kimberwick. we aren't aloud to use anything different

[@kippen64]

My horse uses a mullen mouth pelham with a leather covering on the curb chain. (He's in my ID picture.)

[@laurenkelly30]

why use such a harsh bit? 0_0

[@kippen64]

It isn't a harsh bit.

[@laurenkelly30]

Well why not go for a 'milder' bit, like a French link or something....bitless?

[@kippen64]

Because that was the bit I decided that would be the mildest one for that particular horse. My other horse used a soft rubber snaffle. Different horses need different pieces of equipment.

[@laurenkelly30]

oh I know, and he's your horse, but have you ever even tried a milder one, or bitless?

[@TheJaynefrances]

When introducing a bit to a new horse, just spread some black molasses treacle over it so the horse has a good experience each time for a while,

[@indiitolsen]

not one person ever says a snaffle with one joint has a short and a long side, it should be turned around every week or so of constant riding, so both sides of the mouth get balanced to the snaffle......ho-hum!

[@showjumpinluv]

The port in the middle has nothing to do with it being a curb. Snaffles can also have a port. www.sstack.com/english_correction-snaffles/fes-d-ring-correction-bit-no-hooks/

[@HenryStCyr]

I don't think curb bits are defined by the port... i think they're defined by their leverage action....

[@jordynmenadue8776]

I like French link because I nicer on the horse

[@kikiza123]

the corkscrew bits :(

[@joanne0862]

I found that very usufull I use a loose ring on my irish cob

[@kristahavik3931]

the tom thumb is not used anymore in western riding,it is the worsed bit you can use on any horse,Had to coment

[@marcywright1676]

I agree . I absolutely am not a fan of the Tom thumb. It is very harsh even for soft hand riders.

[@kylaj5510]

yes its still used everywhere, my stable uses them alot with the western horses, even some english horses use them

[@kristahavik3931]

and i bet all those using that bit have problems...

[@kylaj5510]

Krista Hovik honestly not many that are owned by the stables, the boarders however yes lots there horse do not like those bits but most of those riders have no idea what they are doing just yank on its mouth to get it to go around a barrel

[@SaveAnimal4life]

I never use bits on horses until they are fully trained to ride in just a halter. The only reason I have ever bitted any horse would be for shows as in my opinion bits can be very painful and don't give you control or fix problems. control comes with teaching a horse he needs to give to your pressure and listen to you first. I am not against bits at all, but i am very against uneducated hands using them and hurting their horse. and trust me I see this all the time, people thinking new equiptment will magically fix all their problems. My favorite bit for a horse is a simple snaffle, usually a happy mouth if allowed, mullen or french link. I wont use tom thumb as they are poorly designed and terrible bits that pinch and hurt the horse. Twisted bits... HORRIBLE BAD NASTY bits that tear up your horses mouth. Again not completely against bits but I promise, if your horse had a choice in the matter he would choose not to have metal shoved in his mouth and pinching, pressuring, and hurting him into doing what you want. Just a thought, maybe try some horsemanship if you think a bit is a cure all. Anyways good video nice demo but I don't really think it promoted horsemanship, which seems to be at an all time low these days. By the way If you have negative comments don't bother because I could care less if we disagree

[@JessicaKendal]

I feel a knot in my stomach every time you say the word "pressure." I love your videos, but I don't understand how it's 2017 and we are still using bits.

[@xxkvck]

Twisted mouthpieces make the hairs on my neck stand up. I hate them. They are vile and should be made illegal or purchasable with a license...?

[@jmilphoto]

Since when does the bit fall downward across the horses jaw??? Unless you ride hanging from underneath your horses neck - this video is a completely false representation of how a bit actually works. When a snaffle rests in the horses mouth and pressure is applied (backward towards the saddle - NOT downward towards the ground) the middle joint moves forward NOT upward as shown in this video. The top of the bit would not be touching the horses soft pallet like they claim. The bridle also prevents the bit from rotation upward like she’s demonstrating. This just goes to show how you should never just assume what people are telling you is correct.

[@iccleradiator93]

+Jessica if you read the comments you'd see that she knew that she had made that mistake so why dont you try and get off your high horse and actually think before critisizing

[@appaloosajack]

bits belong into a computer....period

[@Lovelife-vb8sg]

Bits are not bad for horses people

[@blondbrain275]

yes they are

[@Dollapfin]

Lovelife he's right they fuckin are it's common sense

[@sonseere10]

If you use a bit on a horse you are abusing that horse.

[@ida2300]

uh... i really hate bits now :I

[@macdevasmith]

To me it seems pretty cruel to put a bit in a horse mouth. I cannot imagen any horse liking a piece of metal in their mouth.

[@natalietheveganqueen7091]

Don't use a bit! Bits are torture devices for horses and cause pain and stress to the horse.

[@Maiya696]

They all look like torture devices to me. If you can't control your horse without a bit you shouldn't be riding imo.

[@anniebananie553]

I agree, 'Quesa', with the exception of some sidepulls. For extremely advanced riders, it can be difficult to communicate as subtly and precisely without bits, too.

[@mustangrebel8051]

No horse needs a bit. They are just cheats so people don't have to learn how to control a horse without pain.

[@gracehager4966]

Oh my god. Really.

[@mustangrebel8051]

Grace On Horse Back Oh you have a different reason for riding with a bit? Let me hear it.

[@gracehager4966]

+Mustang Rebel its to help have a little more control and to get a tiny amount of balance. So yeah if my horse could be ridden with no bit I would go right for it but he cant.

[@mustangrebel8051]

Grace On Horse Back Then train him. And you really just said you use your bit for balance?! That is terrible. You should not have to rely on the reins for balance

[@gracehager4966]

+Mustang Rebel I said a little bit of balance. I use my seat and legs for most/all of my balance. I just said that because sometimes I need just a little balance from my reins.

[@Heyikbenilse]

another human who has no idea what she's talking about, bits are bad for horse's. it's a fact

[@NicoleHearnEquestrian]

Heyikbenilse Oh don't start that fight. Hackamore and bosals do a lot of damage to, and so do bitless bridle, every headstall is bad for a horse. It's a fact. And take a grammar class! It's horses, not horse's.

[@Heyikbenilse]

Nicole Hearn I'm not saying riding with bosals and hackamore is good, but it is way better than riding horses with a bit. and i agree with you on the fact that every headstall is bad for horses

[@haydengainer9273]

bambimcs Actully bits are only as harsh as the hand using it. And there is certain bits not metiond for strong horses that are ridden with a strong rider👍🏼

[@DocLobster94]

bits are not needed and are in general pretty barbaric. learn to actually ride and listen to your horse dont tug on a chunk of metal in the horsed mouth

[@katiegilson5831]

Now I don't like when people say they HAVE to ride in a bit all the time because they can't control their horse. If you can't control your horse without a bit, you are the problem and need some training. However, bits are not in and of themselves bad. They can be useful in the hands of soft hands. People who yank on reins either way are bad. And some bits are ridiculous. But bits are not bad.

[@mustangrebel8051]

+Katie Glison bits are made to control a horse with pain

[@frejaskelton7147]

+Mustang Rebel so, does YOUR horse go bitless?

[@123animalcrazy]

pressure? I think you mean unnecessary pain. end. of. story.

[@dianereiser6417]

How cruel to put that in a horses mouth.

[@Geronimo1974]

Another video about torturing horses. Young lady, get yourself a houseband

[@DominikStone727]

I had a houseband once. They were noisy, messy, smelly and always practicing ACDC and smoking. They never paid rent either and left their instruments everywhere. I would recommend against getting houseband, honestly.

[@Geronimo1974]

Nikela Parks Sorry to hear for bad "husband" experience. Anyway, bits, especially with strong hands are very bad for horses.

[@Geronimo1974]

***** So she can express that anger against men on husband not on horse :) I mean, bits are all about gaining control, how to be sure that a horse will listen. Of course, if the punishment for not obeying is pain, or as we can see from this video strong pain, then insecure people (also called control freaks) will use it. On the other side, if you are OK, if you are calm, if everything works in life, then horse feels it (as a mirror) and there is no need for such pain "aids".

[@reneeostermann3154]

Damir Lučić What are you even talking about... this is one of the most uneducated things I've read in a very very long time. I would refresh your horse knowledge before you insult this woman and her video. If you don't like the use of bits then don't watch this video. Every horse is different and that's why there are more mild bits and harsher bits. If you have a horse that does not need a bit then I'm glad that works for you. However, insulting someone else's riding style is an immature move on your part. If bits are used incorrectly I agree that that may cause pain to your horse and thus make him/her have a bad attitude. However, if a bit is used correctly little to no harm will come to the horse. Please think before you speak next time.

[@Geronimo1974]

Renee Stearns Dear, when I was talking about torturing a husband it was an obvious joke. Secondly, I didnt insult anyone, I just proposed her to find herself a husband. Regarding different bits for different horses ... Bits differs in pain amount that can be achieved. More stubborn horses "needs" more pain. Less stubborn horses obeys with less pain. Its like with children, if you want children to follow your orders blindly you can achieve it with pain also very effectively. Nevertheless, humans agreed not to use pain in child education. I dont see how "horse enthusiasts" cant see that bits are easy way for riders and painful way for a horse. If you like horses you will push little bit harder to understand them and achieve the same amount of obedience with more effort and better for horse. Bits are just another way of making an animal to machine, how to gain control like when driving a car.