Snaffle Bit – An Equestrian Tack Guideâ How to Find the Right Snaffle Bit for Your Horse
Snaffle bit is one of the most common sorts of bit, which is that part of the bridle that goes in the mouth of the pony. A bridle consists of a bit, reins and headstall that holds the bit. It is employed by riders to direct the pony when pony riding. Snaffle bits, curb bits and pelham bits are examples of bit used on horses. A snaffle bit is a bit used for horses that’s jointed in the middle and has rings on either end where the reigns are attached.
The middle part of the snaffle bit is known as the bit mouthpiece, which goes in the mouth across the gums. The bit mouthpiece is either a straightforward straight bar or a linked set of straight bars. On both sides of the bit mouthpiece are the rings that are either O formed or D shaped. Among the bits employed in pony riding, snaffle bits are the least tough as they have no shanks or bars that extend from the rings along the cheek. And thanks to the absence of shanks or bars, the reigning cues are applied without delay to the mouth. Thought to be the precision tool for creating extreme levels of pony handling, snaffle bits play a crucial role. Snaffle bits aid in the training of the horses. Snaffle bits are useful tools for use in pony riding as it provides direct contact between the rider and the pony. With snaffle bits, it is easier for the pony to understand what the rider directs. Snaffle bits alter in types, sizes and make. One of the factors you need to consider when selecting a snaffle bit for your pony is the size of the bit mouthpiece.
The dimensions of the bit mouthpiece should agree to the sensitivity level of your pony. Take an older pony, that has endured plenty of inexperienced riders, for example. Such pony could have less sensitive mouth, so, it may need a smaller diameter mouthpiece. On the other hand, a trained show pony can be used with a larger diameter snaffle, which is lighter in the mouth.
The concept is, the larger the diameter of the mouthpiece, the less serious it is in your pony. The material employed in the snaffle bit is also another factor to be considered, especially the material employed in the bit mouthpiece. Typically, snaffle bit mouthpieces are made of chrome steel. Some are made with rubber or plastic covering, while others are made of twisted wires.
Twisted wire mouthpieces are not advisable as these add to the seriousness of the bit. Another factor to think about is the width of the snaffle bit, which should fit your pony’s mouth accurately. Measure the snaffle bit from ring to ring. If the bars go past the corners of your pony’s mouth, it is too long. If your pony’s mouth is crammed or pinched in the corners, the snaffle bit is too short for your pony. Having considered the above mentioned factors, the snaffle bit should also be accurately placed in your pony’s mouth.
The snaffle bit should be high enough to make one or two mild creases in each corner of your pony’s mouth. To adjust the placement of the snaffle bit, raise or lower it using the bridle buckles. The location of the bit is important as it can affect your control on your horse. Ensure that it does not hang too low or raised too high in your horse’s mouth. If it hangs too low or raised too high, your pony will fight it.
About the Author
Lisa Blackstone focuses on providing tips on equestrian tack. She owns an Arabian pony coaching and breeding business. For more information on equestrian tack, please go to pony How to Horse Ride and Equestrian Riding Boots
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