Horse Bits Types and Styles

Become informed with the latest on horse bits types and styles
By Darcy Chadwick A horse bit is a critical point of contact between the horse and the rider; the bit should provide direction for the horse from the rider without hindering the equine. Your level of skill and the method by which your horse has been trained helps you assess your horse training bit needs.

When purchasing horse bits, it's important to consider the bit's width. The mouthpiece shouldn't be too thin. If it is, there is excess pressure created on the bars. You also need to do some research to determine which type of horse bit makers create the best bit for horses. Consider the following when investigating horse bits types and styles:

1. Locate a gaited horse bit for optimal results.

2. Consider using custom horse bits if you cannot find a perfect match otherwise.

3. Purchase Western horse bits after your horse has received quality training.

Buy a gaited horse bit to begin training

Gaited horses are those that are easy to ride and tend to be easier to train. Specifically purchasing a gaited horse bit can benefit you and the horse by providing a smooth transition. It's best to use a snaffle when beginning basic training and a curb for a finished horse.
Try:  National Bridle Shop sells a wide array of gaited horse bits, including the snaffle, curb, bit accessories and driving bits. BuyTack.com sells a huge selection of horse bits, including snaffles and curbs.

Locate custom horse bits that match your equine's specifications

There may come a time when you need specific measurements for your horse's bit and find that regular bits don't fit correctly. Either the bits are too large and fall out or they're too small and pinch the horse's mouth. By contacting a custom horse bit manufacturer, you can be assured of receiving the best match.
Try:  Grissom Bits prides itself on manufacturing all of its horse bits by hand. You can purchase custom bits through its website once you gather the specifications you need. Shobitz Company prides itself as one of the top custom horse bit manufacturers. Check out its selection to see if it would be an ideal match for you.

Consider purchasing Western horse bits

There is a multitude of horse bits information available, including information about the different types of Western bits to select. Used mainly while riding Western style, these types of bits oftentimes encourage a horse to bow its head and flex at the poll. Along the same lines as a gaited horse bit, Western snaffles are used for initial training, while curb bits are designed for a higher level of training.
Try:  Jeffers offers a wide selection of Western bits, some of which are snaffle or chain bits. Horse Tack Co. sells some top-name bits from manufacturers all over the country. For its Western bit selection, choose among curb and snaffle bits.

• If you own miniature horses, then you need to purchase specific types of horse bits. Some manufacturers sell bits made specifically for miniature horses; you cannot place a full-size bit into the mouth of a smaller horse.