15 Bits Mouth Pieces Every Equestrian Should Know
11. Thick or Thin Bit Mouthpieces
Generally, the thicker the bit, the softer the action in the horses mouth. Some horses, because they have a low palate or large tongue may find very thick bits like eggbutt snaffles uncomfortable to carry. The thinner the mouthpiece, the more severe the bit will be, as it concentrates all the pressure in one thin area on the tongue and bars of the mouth.
12. Keys
Keys are small elongated beads of metal and are most often seen on bits intended for introducing young horses to the bit. There are usually three keys attached to a center ring in the mouthpiece. You might see this bit called a mouthing bit. Many trainers no longer favor these bits as it is felt the bit encourages the horse to play with the bit too much.
13. Spade Bits
The use of the spade bit is rooted in vaquero tradition. The spade or spoon comes into contact with the palate of the mouth when the reins are pulled and because bits with spades or spoons traditionally have long shanks, the leverage can be quite great. In inexperienced hands, this bit can cause physical damage to a horse's mouth. The vaquero style of riding does not rely greatly on rein aids, and horses are taught to carry this type of mouthpiece after extensive schooling. It is not a bit to be used to training horses or correcting habits like pulling or head tossing. For most of us, this bit should be hung on our walls as a curio.
14. Hollow Mouthpieces
A hollow mouth bit is a lighter weight than the same bit made with a solid mouth. Many horses carry this bit comfortably because of its weight.
15. Quarter or Half Moon Linked Mouthpieces
The half moon is another type of joint, and on this bit it is made of copper to encourage salivation. The half moon provides room for the tongue, while the double links soften the nutcracker action compared to a regular jointed snaffle.
Example of a Quarter Moon Snaffle
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