Western Curb Bits Explained

Even with a loose rein you have a lot of control.

Western curb bits explained. Voila horse bits explained. 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. This allows the rider to rate speed and encourage collection with only minimal hand movement. But this article gives you a solid introduction to the most common english and western bits and their uses.

Correction bits are used not to correct problems but to reinforce the rein aids to an already well trained horse. In the wrong hands like any curb bit these bits can be severe. The action of the neue schule jumper. Understand the different types of snaffle bits and curb bits to their best advantage.

The shank is pretty long about 8 9 inches and this allows for greater leverage. 5 pounds of pressure might feel like 10 15 or 20 pounds to the horse. Most western showing requires that older horses perform in curb bits. The name of this bit is misleading.

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 shank length is shorter than the western style it is about 4 5 inches. 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. This is a cross between the american gag and the elevator.

Other than shank sizes there are different shapes as well. Get top performing western pleasure bits here. The straighter the shank the less warning the horse has before the pressure hits it. Even so snaffles are commonly used as a training tool throughout the life of horses ridden western style because of the advantages of snaffle action when applying frequent reinforcements or when conducting riding activities that require constant slight mouth pressure.

Which western pleasure bits should you use to train your horse. 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. Actually there s plenty left to learn about all the different bits for horses. 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. Some are loose jawed that is they let the mouthpiece rotate more while others are not. The curb bit is more popular in western riding styles but it s also present in english. The bit pictured on the right is a western style curb bit commonly known as a tom thumb with a curb chain.

Curb bits allow the rider to give much more subtle rein aids than with many snaffles as well as encourage a horse to flex and carry. It is a popular showjumping and cross country bit as it offers more control and.