There are hundreds if not thousands of bits out there and it all can become an overload of information in an instant. I had such a hard time finding a bit for my horse because it seemed like every opinion was conflicting. Today's post is here to clarify the differences between basic types of bits. All of the information came straight from the USEF rulebook! I hope y'all will find this super helpful!
Single Jointed Bits
Single jointed bits are defined as bits that offer little to no leverage*
They work the:
Corners of the mouth
Tongue
Bars of the mouth
Note: If not used or fitted correctly, single jointed bits can work the roof of the mouth
Double Jointed Snaffles
Comes in a variety of mouth and cheekpieces to fit each horse's needs.
Key characteristics
Conform to the shape of the mouth
Conforms to the shape of the tongue
Even pressure across the mouth
Straight Bar Snaffles
These can be rubber or metal, but the mouthpieces are most commonly some sort of rubber or different types of plastics.
Key characteristics
Cause more tongue pressure
Rounded or Moving Centerpieces
These bits are common in both English and western disciplines, defined by the centerpiece that is round and can be rotated. The bits come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and cheekpieces.
Key Characteristics
Encourages tongue movement
Encourages salivation
Curved Mouthpieces with Joints and Mullen Mouths
These bits come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Key Characteristics
Conform to the shape of the mouth
Conforms to the tongue
Cheekpieces
Full cheek, eggbutt, and D ring snaffles
more stable and also work on the sides of the mouth
Loose Ring Snaffles
Encourages:
-Mouthing at the bit
-Salivation
Has a more moveable mouthpiece
Hanging Cheek Snaffle
Have a slight amount of leverage
Work on the corners of the mouth
Has more of an effect on the poll
I hope you guys were able to find some use in today's post and I hope it cleared some things up! Like I said in the intro, all of this information came directly from USEF. If you want to read more, you can find all of this information here on page 12!
Best wishes
-Alison:)