Saddle Up is excited to start a series on bits leading up to a bit seminar that we will be having along with Dale Myler of Myler bits on July 17, 2015 here at Saddle Up!

Let's start with some terminology!

Mouthpiece: The part of the bit that goes in the horse's mouth.

Purchase: The purchase is the length between the mouthpiece and where the bridle connects. The shorter the purchase the quicker the bit will react. The longer the purchase the slower the bit will react.

Shank: The shank is the length between the mouthpiece and where the reins connect. The shorter the shank the less leverage you have. The longer the shank the more leverage you have.

Cheek: Side of the bit, including the purchase and the shank.

(photo taken from horsesaddleshop.com)

Snaffle: A snaffle is a bit that is broken in the middle.

(photo taken from horse.bigdweb.com)

Curb: A bit with a solid mouthpiece.

(photo taken from chicksaddlery.com)

Mullen: A bit with a curved mouthpiece.

(photo taken from markshaffershowhorses.com)

Bits and bridles work on a different points of the horse's head and mouth. Here's the list of areas that can be affected depending on what type of bit you're using.

Bridge of the Nose

Corners of the Mouth:

Tongue

Curb: Under the chin of the horse

(photo taken from etsy.com)

Poll: Top of the horse's head, right between the ears.

(photo taken from horse-pros.com)

Bars: The hollow between the horse's front teeth and molars.

(photo taken from tackandtalk.wordpress.com)

A good knowledge of the function of bits and the different types is vital to making the right bit decision for you and your horse. The purpose of the bit is communication between you and your horse, not to hurt the horse into submission. Ignorance can be just as harmful as maliciousness and that is why Saddle Up is so excited to bring you blogs and clinics to educate you and help you feel confident about choosing the right bit for your horse and using it properly.

"You cannot train a horse with shouts and expect it to obey a whisper." -- Dagobert D. Runes

~ Saddle Up