Deaths and amounts at Black Friday

Simple joint, double joint or straight bar: the action on the mouth

The shape of the straight bar determines where the bit presses. The simple joint, hinged in the centre, acts on the tongue and corners; pulled hard, it can lift towards the palate like a nutcracker effect. The double joint, with a central piece, better fits the shape of the tongue and distributes the pressure; the BR Waterford, with multiple joints, also prevents the horse from leaning on the hand. The straight bar, without a joint, like the Harry's Horse Apple or the Metalab Flexi, offers a uniform and stable contact, appreciated by horses that resist a broken bit.

The other accessories

Horse accessories for Black Friday are also available:

• Saddles & Equipment.
• Halters & Ropes.
• Horse Blanket.
• Protections.
• Care.

All accessories are gathered on the page horse accessories.

Loose rings, Verdun or three rings: the role of the cheeks

The rings influence the stability of the bit in the mouth. Loose or free rings, like those on the Velari or the Premier Equine with two rings, slide in the straight bar: the bit moves slightly and encourages the horse to chew. The Verdun bit, with fixed D-shaped rings, does not slide: it transmits hand pressure more directly and does not pinch the corners. The three-ring bit, often called an pessoa, allows for attaching the reins lower to add a lifting effect: it is aimed at experienced riders, on horses that lean on the hand.

Rubber, synthetic, leather or sponge: the material of the straight bar

The material changes the feeling in the mouth. The rubber of the Waldhausen bits, in simple or double joint, is thicker and less cold than steel: it is well-suited for young horses. The Beris bits, made of synthetic material, come in soft or firmer versions, like the Konnex Fin, with or without a tongue slot that frees up space for it. The leather bit Feeling, with a chain, and the medical sponge bit, straight, are reserved for very sensitive or recovering mouths. The stainless steel of the simple BR bit for ponies remains the easiest to maintain.

Bridle and rein heights: adjusting the height of the bit

The straps connect the bit to the headpiece and set its height in the mouth. When adjusted correctly, the bit creates one or two small folds at the corner of the lips: too low, it bangs against the hooks and allows the tongue to pass over; too high, it pulls continuously. The Dy'on Focus straps, with decorative stitching, flat double Montar straps and Presteq bridle straps can be adjusted hole by hole. The rein straps Norton Pro, made of leather and rope, are used with a lifting bit and are best for riders with a steady hand. The adjustment should be checked every time a bit is changed.

Frequently asked questions

How to measure a horse's bit width?

Pass a string or a bit measure into the mouth, at the location of the bit, and mark the corners. Add about half a centimetre on each side: the straight bar should neither pinch nor slide laterally.

Which bit to choose for a young horse?

Usually, you start with a soft and thick bit, made of rubber or synthetic material, in simple or double joint. This way, the young horse learns to accept contact before moving on to a more precise mouthpiece.

How to maintain a bit?

Rinse it with clear water after each session to remove saliva and grass, then dry it. Regularly check the condition of the joints and rings: a sharp edge or a crack can injure the mouth.

Why do some bits have an apple flavour?

Flavoured bits, like the Harry's Horse Apple, encourage the horse to chew and salivate. A moist and flexible mouth accepts contact better, which helps with relaxation at the beginning of the session.

Does a pony need a specific bit?

Its mouth is narrower than that of a horse: therefore, you choose a smaller width, measured on the animal itself. A chunky stainless steel bit, like the simple BR bit for ponies, withstands chewing well.