Jointed or non-jointed Jointed mouthpieces: These feature a break or multiple breaks in the bit and
TAC K E D U P
place pressure on specific parts of the mouth. A single joint has only one break
On the bit Part 1
and produces a nutcracker action: when the reins are engaged the bit ‘breaks’ and rotates down into the tongue, lips, and bars (the horse’s gums where there are no teeth). Double-jointed mouthpieces have a link or plate in the middle of the bit, which
When it comes to bits, there are many. But how do you choose the right one? SUZY JARRATT delves into a complex world.
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reduces the nutcracker effect. For this reason, double-jointed bits such as the Lozenge and French Link are typically softer on the mouth. Non-jointed mouthpiece: A straight
etal bits were first used
Saddleries display bits by the dozen, an
or slightly curved solid bar without a
during the Bronze and Iron
endless range can be found at on-line
break that therefore cannot produce a
Ages. Before then, mounted
equestrian sites, and there are even
nutcracker action. In the right hands,
tribesmen controlled their horses with
second hand bits on eBay – but which is
these bits are milder than jointed bits.
primitive bridles made from rope, bone,
appropriate for you considering your riding
Some non-jointed bits have ports,
wood and rawhide.
skills and your horse’s level of training?
or raised areas in the centre of the
In the first of this two-part series, we’ll
mouthpiece, which can offer tongue
take a look at some of the simpler bits
relief but may also put pressure on the
on the market.
roof of the mouth.
As the centuries progressed designs evolved, often to the detriment of the horse’s mouth and wellbeing. Nowadays, thankfully, there are bits to simultaneously help make the rider effective and the horse comfortable; and much emphasis is placed on their correct fitting. However, there are still some designs which in unskilled hands can cause lifelong damage.
Sprenger Stainless Steel Eggbutt E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 59
