Bitting Mouth Piece Types, Materials & SizesBefore shopping for a new bit, think about
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Bitting options are vast. Selection of the style of mouth piece can be confusing enough. There are also choices in mouth piece materials, correctly fitting & positioning the bit for optimum comfort & performance.
Before shopping for a new bit, think about how & where your current bit fits & performs. Examine your horse's mouth. Is a wolf tooth interfering with good communication? Your horse should have it's teeth inspected annually by a vet who is knowledgeable on equine dental care. Most horses need their teeth floated every year.You might discover behavioral problems such as head tossing or rearing might be caused by an injured tongue,cheek or bars. Worn or sharp edges on a old or poor quality bit can also cause injury, & be certain the bit fits you horse and is adjusted correctly.
Bits are manufactured in a variety of materials. Stainless, blued, carbon or chromed steel. Aluminum,copper, nickel plate,& chrome plated malleable iron. Many horseman people prefer bits of cold-milled steel, referred to as sweet iron. Sweet iron does rust. It has a pleasant taste, & creates more salivation in the horse's mouth which is desirable. As the horse salivates, the tongue moves & relaxes his lower jaw more. The horse's mouth is more comfortable & responsive. A Copper mouth piece, or copper inlay is also quite common. It offers a similar result without rusting. Chrome plaited bits are traditionally used in English disciplines.
Bits are offered in a variety of sizes from 3" mini size to 8" draft. The most frequently used size for average size horse is 5". Pony size 4", Arab 4 3/4", standard size is 5" however 5 1/4" is commonly available also. 5 1/2 & 6 are usually for larger sized horses like warm bloods.
Reinsman has created five Bit Stages to help you narrow your focus from Reinsman’s 300 bits to the right bit for your horse and riding situation.
Reinsman’s Bit Stages approach focuses on the horse and rider in their specific situation, as different events and circumstances call for different bit choices. The bit you use to trail ride in, may not be the best choice for the arena, or for when your Jr. Rodeo star steps up on mom or dad’s horse. Same horse, different situation or rider, a different bit. It’s about achieving effective communication and control in each individual situation. The Bit Stages system accompanies Reinsman’s detailed information already provided on the back of each Reinsman bit tag to make bit selection easier than it’s ever been.
All Reinsman bits are backed by our Handshake Promise which is a lifetime warranty from craftsmanship defects. We take great pride in our bits, and believe in each one we make. We promise to build the highest quality products from the best materials so your bits last.
You ride with both hands
These bits are great for starting horses, training, or maintaining steady contact.
You’re moving from riding with both hands to neck reining
These bits are great for introducing leverage and curb pressure.
Neck Reining is a way of life!
Horse responds well to poll pressure.
Are we talking or whispering?
These bits are all about refinement, subtle cues, and quick communication.
Time for the Pros
These are specialized bits with tiny twists, very high ports, and complex mouthpieces.