Western Curb Bits Explained

This is a cross between the american gag and the elevator.

Western curb bits explained.

It is a popular showjumping and cross country bit as it offers more control and. Actually there s plenty left to learn about all the different bits for horses. Get top performing western pleasure bits here. A curb chain strap does not have to lie in the chin groove in order to be effective if you think about many western bits the curb strap is often employed further up.

Curb bits are a useful tool for a horse that is a strong puller such as one that becomes excited while on the trail or over jumps. Some are loose jawed that is they let the mouthpiece rotate more while others are not. Even with a loose rein you have a lot of control. Understand the different types of snaffle bits and curb bits to their best advantage.

Voila horse bits explained. Correction bits are used not to correct problems but to reinforce the rein aids to an already well trained horse. The shank is pretty long about 8 9 inches and this allows for greater leverage. How to choose the right bit for your horse three main criteria should be considered when selecting a bit for your horse the riding discipline the horse and the rider.

This allows the rider to rate speed and encourage collection with only minimal hand movement. Most western showing requires that older horses perform in curb bits. Which western pleasure bits should you use to train your horse. But this article gives you a solid introduction to the most common english and western bits and their uses.

The action of the neue schule jumper. If you have trouble stopping or turning your horse the answer probably isn t a more severe bit but a solid review of the basics. Curb bits are a standard piece of gear for any western rider but the bits have a place in the english and driving world too. The curb bit is more popular in western riding styles but it s also present in english.

The name of this bit is misleading. The shank length is shorter than the western style it is about 4 5 inches. In the wrong hands like any curb bit these bits can be severe. Other than shank sizes there are different shapes as well.

The straighter the shank the less warning the horse has before the pressure hits it. The bit pictured on the right is a western style curb bit commonly known as a tom thumb with a curb chain. 5 pounds of pressure might feel like 10 15 or 20 pounds to the horse. When in doubt consult a trusted trainer try several options then pick the bit that works best for you and your horse.

The curb bit is a leverage bit which works by amplifying the amount of pressure applied by the rider. Training bits snaffles show bits.