Bit Metals...

[maddielove]

I was just wondering what people find to be the best metal for encouraging salivation?
Maddie is in a sweet iron and it's had alot of wear and i think i will replace it soon, just wondering about changing to anything even more appealing...if there is.

Thanks!

 

[xxcharlottexx]

i had a sweet iron bit and changed it a month ago as it had got really rusty and manky

i changed to a korsteel one
horsr seems to accept it just the same as before

 

[flyingfeet]

Sweet iron is supposed to rust!

You can prolong the life of these bits buy using veg oil after you ride to stop the bit from oxidising.

 

[maddielove]

so is sweet iron the best re: salivation?

there seems to be a few other metals about...bit confusing

 

[flyingfeet]

No sweet iron is not the best at salivation. Sweet iron has a nice taste that makes most horses more accepting to the bit.

If you want pure salivation, then copper is what you are after. However do bear in mind that copper isn't too far away from putting a battery in the horses mouth- yes it produces tons of saliva, but is it making the horse accept the bit?

Sprengers aurigan and Neue Schule's salox are trying to both improve mouthing like sweet iron, but also make the horse salivate more (by adding copper). They are also nickel free in case your horse has allergies.

 

[_l_i_z_]

i would go for neue schule every time now

 

[Governor]

German Silver is a good (cheaper!) alternative to KK and Neue Schule.

Although I have a Neue Schule and I thoroughly recommend it, but I also have a pelham in german silver and there isn't a huge difference between the bits.

 

[maddielove]

Thanks guys...you've been a big help

 

[Gentle_Warrior]

who or where can you get German SIlver bits from ??

 

[Governor]

Cottage craft and Shires do them I think.

They look a pale gold colour, most tack shops have them, just ask!