Inexperienced or heartless riders can do the exact opposite. Horse Bit Severity Chart Cracker Like Action When the bit is in the mouth it rotates onto the tongue and under normal rein direction and excessive rider rein pressure will cause the snaffle to bend in half, thus squeezing the. However, with these things in mind, it's important to note that experienced riders can use many types of bits with great success and gentleness with their horses. It is there just to center the bit in the horses mouth, not to cause pressure as a curb bit with tight strap does.

Gag bits appear to look like snaffle bits, but they also provide the opportunity for the use of a second rein. Gag bits are kind of a happy medium between curb bits and pelham bits, in terms of severity. Jointed mouthpieces, whether on a bit with or without shanks, can increase the pressure capabilities of a bit. The old injunction that a thick bit is a kind bit is not always correct, as a too. Both curb and snaffle bits can be purchased with jointed mouthpieces (the jointed mouthpiece that is often incorrectly labeled as a 'snaffle'). The mouthpiece of the bit is also a major factor in determining how effective (and on the other hand, harmful) a bit can be. Where the bit is placed in the horse's mouth also affects the feel: the further down in the mouth, the more concentrated the pressure. The longer the shanks of a bit, the more potential for pressure. Though Snaffle bits have been coined the 'more gentle' bit, an ill-fitting Snaffle or an inconsiderate rider can still pain a horse. Exactly how severe a bit feels to a horse is determined by several factors.

Horse bit severity chart