The bit ring is the ring on the side of a horse's bit, particularly on a snaffle. It is used as a point of attachment for the cheekpieces of the bridle and for the reins. It also has an effect on the action of the bit. Therefore, the design of the ring is something to consider when choosing a bit for a horse, even though the bit mouthpiece generally has a greater effect than the ring. a horse carries a bit in its mouth, held on by a bridle. ... // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ... A bridle is a piece of equipment used to control a horse. ... The reins are the leather straps attached to the outer ends of a bit. ... The mouthpiece of a horses bit is possibly the most important determinant in the severity and action of the bit. ...

Choices in bit rings can be found in direct pressure bits such as snaffles or bradoons, as well as gag bits. Leverage bits such as the pelham, and curb bit have a bit shank rather than a bit ring. (see bit shank). The kimberwicke has a unique design in that the side of the bit resembles a bit ring, but actually is a very short bit shank, as it applies leverage pressure to the mouthpiece. // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ... A bradoon is a loose-ring snaffle bit used in a double bridle. ... // The Gag The gag is a type of bit that uses leverage to increase its severity. ... A pelham is a type of bit, consisting of a mouthpiece, a shank, a curb chain, 2 rein rings per side on the shank, and one cheekpiece ring on the top of the shank. ... A curb bit is a type of bit used for riding that uses leverage. ... A bit shank, designed for western riding and decorated with silver for use at horse shows The bit shank is the side piece or cheekpiece of a curb bit, part of the bridle, used when riding on horses. ... A bit shank, designed for western riding and decorated with silver for use at horse shows The bit shank is the side piece or cheekpiece of a curb bit, part of the bridle, used when riding on horses. ... The Kimberwicke or kimblewicke is a type of bit with a mouthpiece and D-shaped rings on either side. ...

Bit ring designs also are subject to fads. The loose ring is currently one of the most popular overall designs, but several years ago the eggbutt and dee-ring were quite common. There are also differences in the popularity of a given design from one discipline to another and from geographic region to the next.

Loose Ring

Loose-ring snaffle.

Types of Bits: Found on snaffles, gag bits, and bradoons. Image File history File links Loose-ring. ... Image File history File links Loose-ring. ... // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ... // The Gag The gag is a type of bit that uses leverage to increase its severity. ... A bradoon is a loose-ring snaffle bit used in a double bridle. ...

Action: The loose ring is a circular ring which may rotate around on the mouthpiece. The sliding makes it more difficult for the horse to tighten against it, promoting relaxation and chewing from the horse. The loose ring therefore keeps the bit more mobile than any other ring type. The ring will also rotate slightly before the bit mouthpiece adds pressure to the mouth, thus allowing it to give more signal than a more fixed bit.

Disadvantages: the loose ring may pinch the corners of the lips as it rotates, causing pain to the horse. This is especially a problem if the bit mouthpiece is too small. If this occurs, a bit guard may be used. The bit mouthpiece should be slightly wider (to accommodate the bit guard) should one be used; it is best if it is at least 1/2 inch wider than required by the horse's mouth. There are some horses that dislike the rattling noise of the loose ring. Additionally, the loose-ring is more easily pulled through the mouth than a bit with cheeks. A brown bit guard between the pelham bit and the horses cheek protects him. ...

Size and Thickness of the Rings: Rings are generally 2-5 inches in diameter, most commonly ranging in the 2.5-3 inch range that is legal for horse show competition. Rings for bradoons are smaller than those used on a plain snaffle. Rings may be larger on gag bits, especially if the rider wishes to increase the severity. Thickness ranges from 10-23mm, with most found at 15mm. A horse show is a judged exhibition of horses and ponies. ... A bradoon is a loose-ring snaffle bit used in a double bridle. ... // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ... // The Gag The gag is a type of bit that uses leverage to increase its severity. ...

Mouthpiece: comes in many mouthpiece sizes, with 5" being the most standard size for the average horse, with a range from 3" for miniature horses to over 6 inches for a large warmblood or a draft horse. Various metals are used, and mouthpieces may be made in almost any type (see bit mouthpiece). AMHA Registered Pinto Miniature Mare. ... Warmbloods are a group of sport horse breeds and the term simply distinguishes this type of horse from the cold bloods (draft horses) and the hot bloods (Thoroughbreds and Arabians). ... Two pairs of Shire horses and a pair of Suffolk Punches A draft horse, draught horse, or harness horse is a large, strong horse bred for heavy work rather than speed. ... The mouthpiece of a horses bit is possibly the most important determinant in the severity and action of the bit. ...

Uses: One of the three most popular designs, loose rings are often used for training young horses, as the action is mild and the loose movement of the ring provides warning prior to rein pressure. The loose ring is the most common bit seen at the lower levels of dressage and on junior horses in western riding disciplines. It is also seen through all the levels of eventing (especially in the dressage phase), and is a common bit for race horses and some show jumpers. An upper-level dressage competitor performing an extended trot Dressage (a French term meaning training) is a path and destination of competitive horse training, with competitions held at all levels from amateur to the Olympics. ... Western riding is shown in this sculpture, Great Western Tradition, by Doug Israelsen Western riding evolved from the cattle-working and warfare traditions brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors, and both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West. ... Eventing is an equestrian event which comprises dressage, cross-country and show-jumping. ... Horse-racing is an equestrian sporting activity which has been practiced over the centuries; the chariot races of Roman times were an early example, as was the contest of the steeds of the god Odin and the giant Hrungnir in Norse mythology. ... A youth competitor show jumping in Denmark Show jumping, also known as stadium jumping or jumpers, is a member of a family of English riding equestrian events that also includes dressage, eventing, hunters and equitation. ...

Eggbutt/Barrel head

Eggbutt ring.

Types of Bits: Found on snaffles, gag bits, and bradoons. Pelham bits also usually have an eggbutt design for the snaffle ring on the shank. Image File history File links Eggbutt. ... Image File history File links Eggbutt. ... // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ... // The Gag The gag is a type of bit that uses leverage to increase its severity. ... A bradoon is a loose-ring snaffle bit used in a double bridle. ... A pelham is a type of bit, consisting of a mouthpiece, a shank, a curb chain, 2 rein rings per side on the shank, and one cheekpiece ring on the top of the shank. ...

Action: the eggbutt has a slightly oval (egglike) shape, and consists of a round outer ring attached to a more upright, straighter cheek which is fixed to the mouthpiece. The ring can move back and forth where it attached to the cheek, but does not rotate like the loose-ring, and so is more stable in the horse's mouth, and not as fixed as the other types of rings.

Advantages: This is a mild bit and will not pinch like the loose ring.

Disadvantages: It is more easily pulled through the mouth than a bit with cheeks.

Size and Thickness of Rings: The rings range from rounder and thinner to wider and flatter in shape. Their thickness varies from 10-23mm, and most are about 3" across.

Mouthpiece: This is also a popular bit that comes in many sizes, ranging from 3-6.5 inches. The mouthpiece is usually solid, but may be hollow mouthed.

Uses: Eggbutts are overall one of the most popular ring designs, less common in the dressage arena than loose-rings, more often seen in show hunter disciplines. They are popular for riding schools, and sometimes in horse racing. Eggbutts are sometimes seen in eventing, show jumping, and equitation riding. They are occasionally seen in western riding. Eggbutts are also useful as a gentle design with which to start young horses. An upper-level dressage competitor performing an extended trot Dressage (a French term meaning training) is a path and destination of competitive horse training, with competitions held at all levels from amateur to the Olympics. ... The show hunter is a type of show horse that is judged on its movement, manners, and way of going. ... Horse-racing is an equestrian sporting activity which has been practiced over the centuries; the chariot races of Roman times were an early example, as was the contest of the steeds of the god Odin and the giant Hrungnir in Norse mythology. ... Eventing is an equestrian event which comprises dressage, cross-country and show-jumping. ... Show jumping is a form of competition in which horses are jumped over a course of fences, low walls, and other obstacles (e. ... A riders equitation is her/his ability to ride correctly with a strong, supple position and effective aids. ... Western riding is shown in this sculpture, Great Western Tradition, by Doug Israelsen Western riding evolved from the cattle-working and warfare traditions brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors, and both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West. ...

Dee-ring/ Racing snaffle

Dee-ring on a racehorse.

Pinchless Dee-ring variation with decorative conchos added

Types of Bits: snaffle. The kimberwicke shank has a modified Dee-ring design. Image File history File links D-ring. ... Image File history File links D-ring. ... Image File history File linksMetadata WesternSnaffle. ... Image File history File linksMetadata WesternSnaffle. ... // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ... The Kimberwicke or kimblewicke is a type of bit with a mouthpiece and D-shaped rings on either side. ...

Action: the Dee-ring, as its name suggest, has a ring shape like a "D" with the cheek side of the "D" attached to the mouthpiece of the bit. The straight bars of the Dee-ring provide a slight lateral guiding effect. This is because the bit ring is pulled against the side of the mouth opposite the rein that is activated, pushing the sides of the Dee against the horse's mouth, encouraging a turn. The Dee-ring is fixed in the horse's mouth, because its shape does not allow the bit to rotate. The Dee-ring is most similar to the full cheek.

Advantages: does not pinch like the loose ring, and is not as likely to be pulled through the mouth as a loose ring or eggbutt. Otherwise is fairly mild, but acts quickly on the mouth of the horse.

Disadvantages: Has little loose movement and thus provides less warning to the horse.

Size and Thickness of the Rings: The ring is usually about 3" in width, although they may reach 5" (a popular size for race horses, but illegal for horse shows). The larger the ring size, the more lateral guiding effect it has.

Mouthpiece: varies in thickness, and may be hollow or solid. Generally comes in a variety of sizes and a wide variety of mouthpieces.

Uses: Another very popular design, the Dee-ring was the traditional bit used in hunt seat riding, and is still seen in that discipline. It is also one of the most popular designs in horse racing. The D-ring is not seen as often in dressage, eventing or show jumping. A modified Dee-ring design with the straight side and a rounder ring is sometimes seen in western riding. Hunt seat refers to a style of English-type riding commonly found at American horse shows. ... Horse-racing is an equestrian sporting activity which has been practiced over the centuries; the chariot races of Roman times were an early example, as was the contest of the steeds of the god Odin and the giant Hrungnir in Norse mythology. ... An upper-level dressage competitor performing an extended trot Dressage (a French term meaning training) is a path and destination of competitive horse training, with competitions held at all levels from amateur to the Olympics. ... Eventing is an equestrian event which comprises dressage, cross-country and show-jumping. ... Show jumping is a form of competition in which horses are jumped over a course of fences, low walls, and other obstacles (e. ... Western riding is shown in this sculpture, Great Western Tradition, by Doug Israelsen Western riding evolved from the cattle-working and warfare traditions brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors, and both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West. ...

Full Cheek

Full-cheek, lacking bit keepers.

Types of Bits: snaffle Image File history File links Full-cheek. ... Image File history File links Full-cheek. ... // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ...

Action: The cheeks of these bits extend both upward and downward, tapering as they get farther away from the mouthpiece, with a half-moon ring similar in shape to the Dee-ring or eggbutt (depending on the design). The long sides provide a great deal of lateral guiding effect. The full cheek without bit keepers is more fixed in the mouth than a loose ring, and thus has a similar action to the eggbutt or Dee-ring. Use of bit keepers, however, makes the full cheek even more fixed than the Dee-ring, concentrating bit pressure on the bars and tongue.

Advantages: The full-cheek is not as likely to be pulled through the mouth as a loose-ring or eggbutt and gives considerable lateral commands.

Disadvantages: The full-cheek can easily jab or be caught on something if bit keepers are not used. In some cases, a young horse may be scared by the strong lateral pressure of the full cheek. Bit guards can help this problem. A brown bit guard between the pelham bit and the horses cheek protects him. ...

Adjustment: The full cheek should be adjusted like any normal snaffle, although it may be placed slightly lower in the mouth when bit keepers are used. When choosing this bit, it may be best to test ride with and without bit keepers, depending on the needs of the horse.

Mouthpieces: Range in all sizes and thickness (10-21mm). Usually in solid mouths, although hollow mouths are available.

Uses: The full cheek is becoming more popular and is now seen in many disciplines, including dressage, eventing, show jumping, western riding and hunt seat. Additionally, the guiding effect makes it popular for use on young horses. An upper-level dressage competitor performing an extended trot Dressage (a French term meaning training) is a path and destination of competitive horse training, with competitions held at all levels from amateur to the Olympics. ... Eventing is an equestrian event which comprises dressage, cross-country and show-jumping. ... Show jumping is a form of competition in which horses are jumped over a course of fences, low walls, and other obstacles (e. ... Western riding is shown in this sculpture, Great Western Tradition, by Doug Israelsen Western riding evolved from the cattle-working and warfare traditions brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors, and both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West. ... Hunt seat refers to a style of English-type riding commonly found at American horse shows. ...

Half-Cheek/Half-Spoon

Half-cheek (note the flatness of the cheeks).

Type of bit: snaffle Image File history File links Half-cheek. ... Image File history File links Half-cheek. ... // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ...

Action: As the name suggests, the half-cheek has only a lower cheek, though occasionally the bit is put on upside down, with the half cheek pointing up. The cheek is generally flat and spoon-like, as opposed to the long, cylindrical shape of the full cheek. The bit provides some lateral guiding effect, and is more fixed in the mouth than the loose ring.

Advantages: This bit is not as likely to be pulled through the mouth as a loose-ring or eggbutt. Additionally, it is not as likely to be caught on something, which may happen with a full-cheek used without keepers.

Mouthpieces: Size varies, Mouthpieces come in all types, except waterfords are rare. The mouthpiece of a horses bit is possibly the most important determinant in the severity and action of the bit. ...

Uses: The half-cheek is most commonly seen in driving classes, because it is less likely to be caught on the harness. It is also frequently used on young horses in Saddle seat disciplines. It is sometimes seen in horse racing. Combined driving also known as Horse Driving Trials is an equestrian sport involving carriage driving. ... Saddle seat is a form of riding that is found in the United States, and to a lesser extent in Canada, Europe, Africa and Australia. ...

Fulmer/Australian loose-ring

Fulmer ring.

Type of Bit: snaffle Image File history File links Fulmer-bit-ring. ... Image File history File links Fulmer-bit-ring. ... // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ...

Action: The fulmer is similar to the full cheek in that it has an upper and lower cheek, which taper off as they move from the mouthpiece. However, the ring to which the bit is attached is not an eggbutt or Dee-ring design, but a loose ring. This bit therefore gives the lateral guiding effect of the full-cheek, without the rigidity of many other bit rings.

Advantages: Provides the rotation of the loose ring without as great a chance that the ring will pinch. Also prevents the bit from being pulled through the mouth like an eggbutt or loose ring.

Mouthpieces: Usually seen in smooth single- or double-jointed mouthpieces

Uses: not as common in the United States as other bit rings, but seen in a variety of disciplines

Baucher/Fillis/Hanging cheek/Drop cheek

The correct position of the baucher, with the smaller rings attached to the cheekpieces of the bridle.

Type of Bit: snaffle Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (521x698, 55 KB) Eventer at rolex (head). ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (521x698, 55 KB) Eventer at rolex (head). ... // The Basics of the Snaffle A snaffle bit is the most common type of bit used while riding horses. ...

Action: The baucher has an eggbutt-like ring at the mouthpiece for the rein, with an upper cheek that has a ring at its end, to which the cheekpieces of the bridle are attached. The mouthpiece does not slide on its ring (which would have put the bit in the gag bit category instead of the snaffle). This bit lies flat against the horse's face, and is quite fixed in the mouth and concentrates pressure on the bars. However, contrary to common belief, this bit does not create poll pressure. // The Gag The gag is a type of bit that uses leverage to increase its severity. ... The poll is a name of the part of the horses head, right between the ears. ...

Advantages: will not be pulled through the mouth.

Mouthpieces: All types.

Uses: Not a common design, most often seen in eventing, during the dressage or show jumping phase. Also sometimes used by dressage riders. May be used in preparation for the curb bit. Is never seen in western riding, where it is illegal for show. Eventing is an equestrian event which comprises dressage, cross-country and show-jumping. ... An upper-level dressage competitor performing an extended trot Dressage (a French term meaning training) is a path and destination of competitive horse training, with competitions held at all levels from amateur to the Olympics. ... Show jumping is a form of competition in which horses are jumped over a course of fences, low walls, and other obstacles (e. ... An upper-level dressage competitor performing an extended trot Dressage (a French term meaning training) is a path and destination of competitive horse training, with competitions held at all levels from amateur to the Olympics. ... A curb bit is a type of bit used for riding that uses leverage. ... Western riding is shown in this sculpture, Great Western Tradition, by Doug Israelsen Western riding evolved from the cattle-working and warfare traditions brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors, and both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West. ...

• NOTE: the Baucher is commonly misused in an upside-down position (seen here [1]), with the cheek containing the smaller ring hanging below the bit, as if the reins were supposed to attach at that point. However, the small ring on the cheek is intended for attaching the cheekpieces and not the reins. Improper positioning makes the cheek into a short bit shank and behave somewhat like a curb bit without the curb chain. However, this fitting is illegal in competition; it is both illogical and potentially unsafe to use a bit in a manner contrary to its design.

A bit shank, designed for western riding and decorated with silver for use at horse shows The bit shank is the side piece or cheekpiece of a curb bit, part of the bridle, used when riding on horses. ... A curb bit is a type of bit used for riding that uses leverage. ...

Other Bit Rings

• Full-spoon: similar to the full-cheek, except the cheeks are flat and spoon-like instead of round and cylindrical. The cheeks are generally shorter than those found on a full-cheek.

• Flat-ring: Similar to the loose-ring, but the circular ring has been flattened so it has edges. Generally more common in western riding. Has similar action as the loose-ring, though is a little more stable in the horse's mouth and the rings may be less likely to pinch.

Western riding is shown in this sculpture, Great Western Tradition, by Doug Israelsen Western riding evolved from the cattle-working and warfare traditions brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors, and both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West. ...

References and External links

• The Bit Gallery