Snaffle bit is one of the most common types of bit, which is that part of the bridle that goes in the mouth of the horse. A bridle consists of a bit, reins and headstall that holds the bit. It is used by riders to direct the horse when horse riding. Snaffle bits, curb bits and pelham bits are examples of bit used on horses.

A snaffle bit is a bit used for horses that is jointed in the middle and has rings on either end where the reigns are attached. The middle part of the snaffle bit is called the bit mouthpiece, which goes in the mouth across the gums. The bit mouthpiece is either a simple straight bar or a linked set of straight bars. On either side of the bit mouthpiece are the rings that are either O shaped or D shaped.

Many use snaffle bits because among the bit types, this type is the least harsh. Snaffle bits do not have shanks or bars that extend from the rings along the cheek. This type of bit also allows reigning cues to be applied directly to the mouth. They aid in horse training and are considered as the precision tool for establishing high levels of horse handling.

One advantage of snaffle bits is that it provides direct contact from the riders hands to the horses mouth. This makes it easy for the rider to use and for the horse to understand. There are different types of snuffle bits, which vary in types, sizes and materials used.

When looking for a snaffle bit, there are factors you must consider. One is the size of the mouthpiece. Horses have different sensitivity levels. You must determine your horses sensitivity level first before you can choose the right size of the mouthpiece.

Take an older horse, which has endured lots of inexperienced riders, for example. Such horse may have less sensitive mouth, so, it may require a smaller diameter mouthpiece. On the other hand, a trained show horse can be used with a larger diameter snaffle, which is lighter in the mouth. The idea is, the larger the diameter of the mouthpiece, the less severe it is in your horse.

You should also consider the materials that make up the snaffle bit as these can either add severity or add comfort to your horse. Snaffle bits are typically made of stainless steel. There are also rubber-covered snaffle bits and plastic-covered snaffle bits. Some are even made of twisted wires, which is not a good material because it adds severity to the bit.

The snaffle bit should fit in your horses mouth perfectly. Therefore, the width of the snaffle bit is another factor to consider. You will know when the bit is too long if the bars go past the corners of your horses mouth. If your horses mouth is crammed or pinched in the corners, it means that the bit is too short.

No matter how perfect the size of the snaffle bit is, it is useless if it is not placed correctly in your horses mouth. The bit is placed properly if it is high enough to create one or two mild creases in each corner of your horses mouth.

Use the bridle buckles to adjust the bit until it fits. If the bit is too low, your horses tongue might get over the bit. This will also cause for your horse to fight and you will be left without much control. If the bit is too high, you horse will fight as well because the bit will be uncomfortable for your horse.

Tags: Horses