Action of Elevator type of bit over dutch gag?

[NeverSayNever]

How does the action of an NW Elevator or tomthumb bit compared to that of a dutch gag anyone?

Over the years i have heard so many different opinions on the action of a dutch gag and whether it raises or lowers the head. Ive come to the conclusion that the answer is it depends on the horse in question as he action is a confusing one; rotation of the mouthpeice may cause head raising but poll pressure then causes lowering. So I wondered if the above bits had an action that is less confusing for the horse and basically how they compare.

 

[NeverSayNever]

still pondering over this one if anyone has any thoughts?

 

[khalswitz]

Just done a quick reference to my 'Horse Tack Bible' and 'All About Bits and Bitting'.

Apparently, both act to lower the head. Dutch gags apply poll pressure and increasing leverage the lower the ring. With increasing leverage, you get increased tilt in the bit which acts on the roof of the mouth, which can be uncomfortable.

An elevator despite the name also acts to lower the head, through leverage and poll pressure, but there is no mouthpiece tilt and there are sliding cheeks.

Not sure if that's any help?