Horse Bit Options and Selection Tips, Part 2

In part one of this two-part blog, we went over some of the basics on the common horse bit types, snaffle and curb bits. A horse bit, or the item your horse has in its mouth to assist you with guiding it, is a vital piece for any regular rider.

At AA Callister, our selection of horse bits is massive and represents our commitment to a variety of tack shop and farrier supplies for your animal’s comfort. In today’s blog, we’ll go into some specific factors that should go into your selection process for your horse’s bit, plus some tips on how to properly break them into a new bit and forge the proper relationship using it.

Factors in Horse Bit Selection

There are several distinct factors that may play a role in the precise bit you choose for your animal:

Type of horse, and type of riding being performed
Age of horse
General horse temperament and behavior
Training level of the horse
Training and experience level of the rider

Choosing Your Bit

Generally speaking, the goal of choosing a horse bit is accomplishing the level of training or control you desire without making the situation painful, either for you or the horse. Here are some general tips we can offer in this area:

Gentle: If at all possible, you want to be gentle and light with your bit selection for your horse. The majority of riders outside competition areas begin their horse with a snaffle bit, generally considered the more gentle and forgiving type – if the animal responds well to this style, you likely don’t even have to consider anything more severe like a curb bit. If you’re a more experienced rider and the animal isn’t quite responding how you’d like, on the other hand, you can consider a more severe bit.
Try it out: If possible, ask if you can try the horse bit out before buying it. You may have to do a bit of a trial-and-error process to find the perfect bit.
Previous owner: If your horse has a previous owner you can get in touch with, ask them if there was a specific type of bit the horse responded well to. Also be sure to ask about the type of riding they were using the bit for, as it may be different than your desired riding style.

Bit and Horse Relationship

As we’ve noted several times in this series, horse bits are vital for communicating with your animal. And while they’re very important, the true crux of the relationship you build with the horse comes down to you and your own behavior. If you try several bits and none of them are accomplishing your goals, it’s possible the actual problem is you and the communication style you’re attempting with your horse. You may need to consider instruction or starting over with the horse – attempting to control them without anything besides a saddle and reins.

For more on choosing the right horse bit for your horse, or to learn about any of our cowboy hats, rodeo vests or other Western wear, speak to the staff at AA Callister today.

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