Snaffle Bits
The snaffle bits are the kind of reining device that is direct. It lies across the tongue of the horse through which your horse is guided directly or reined directly. This kind of bit is primarily used for lateral control of your horse.

Gag Bits
The gag bits are a bit similar with the snaffles except that your horse would lean into the gag bit. This kind of bit is used for racing. Since it is somewhat similar to the snaffles, it is highly possible that through your improper use of the snaffle, you could turn it into a gag and would encourage your horse to run away.

Leverage Bits
The leverage bits are reining devices that are not directly attached to the horses’ mouthpiece. It is connected to the shanks that hang down from your horse’s mouth. By pulling the reins, it causes the bit to be a compound leverage device which applies some pressure to the horse’s jaw at a ratio that is higher than that of the actual pulling force which is applied to the reins by the rider.

Now, horses have different mouth shapes that are why you need to select the right bitting device to use. Just remember that the mouthpiece should be long enough to be able to fit in your horse’s mouth without pinching the lips yet not overly long that it can shift back and forth excessively.

Originally posted 2009-04-09 16:20:53. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Most horses hate shanks and other metal curved bits because of the discomfort and pain such tools cause. And to be honest, there is little need for such barbaric practices in the modern world where we no longer ride horses into battle.

Most knowledgeable horse trainers prefer to use snaffle style horse training bits. A snaffle is essentially a chord style bit fitted with rings on either side to allow for an easy, painless fit into your horse’s mouth.

This is perhaps on of the most crucial steps in developing a proper relationship with your horse. Choosing a horse training bit that respects your animal and minimizes the discomfort will generally create a better, more successful training experience and can prevent injuries to both horse and rider.

Horse training bits that do not fit properly, or that are simply poor in design, can be attributed to the vast majority of issues with an animal’s conduct during training. If your horse is refusing to collect, shaking his/her head, or generally acting up with you in saddle, you may need to revisit your choice of bit.

Originally posted 2008-05-22 07:20:19. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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