Dexter ring bit

[Akkalia1]

This is probably one for EKW and other racing experts, or just anyone who knows about bits.

I just received a photo of my mare racing which is lovely to have I didn't recognise the bit she was wearing so looked it up and it seems to be a dexter ring bit. I've sort of read it's good for strong horses and I was told she was 'keen' up the gallops, so makes sense I suppose.

But I was also wondering if it had any sort of similar action to a chifney? Are these bits sometimes used for horses known to rear? Either in hand say in the paddock before a race, or when being ridden?

I was just curious really as her default reaction can be a rear so I just wondered if the bit might be an indication she was prone to a rear before I got her or if it was purely due to her taking a hold.

 

[dominobrown]

Nothing like a chifney, nothing to do with rearing, not used in hand at all.
The ring has no action essentially until the hprse starts pulling and more pressure is applied to the tongue. They are quite effective for strong horses. My pointer used to wear one.

 

[Akkalia1]

Ah ok, thank you. I just wondered given the look of it.

 

[Elf On A Shelf]

Yeah it's a totally different device and style from a chiffney. Some yards use them in races or training regardless of how the horse actually goes. But mostly they are used for strong horses or horses that hang.

 

[Steerpike]

One of my Arabs used one in racing and I used it for the first few endurance rides he did, then changed as he got used to doing slower longer work.

 

[Akkalia1]

Well there you go, I've never noticed any when watching racing, but I guess I'm just not looking at their bits!
She is a strong girl.

I've watched videos of her races but it's really nice to have a photo to frame.