Different bit metals

RubysGold

RubysGold

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I'm looking at getting a new bit for Roo
But I dont know why theres so many different metals/materials. :confused:

So in general, do the different metals and the happy mouth do different things? and if so, which does what??

I know the sweet iron tastes nicer, and I think encourages salivation?
But thats all i know :S
Confused!
 
Another question to add, I am looking at the full cheek snaffle. I have seen it being used with a strap that holds the top cheek of the bit to the cheek piece of the bridle, have also seen people without one. Is it more correct to use the strap or is that for certain things (ie, changing the use of the bit)
 
Argh, this is hard - harks back to what i read as a nipper.

I'm sure a true fulmer (set ring not loose ring) should be used with keepers and a loose ring doesn't - oh balls, I don't know for sure :p I'm googling it :D

Wikki says:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bit_ring

Hope thats a bit of help - CR'ers will almost certainly know more x
 
Surely it depends on your horse? Why they need a bit change? How they go in their current bit?

Metals like cherry and sweet iron encourage more active salivation as you said. The different rings have a difference effect, as does the joint in the bit.
If a single jointed snaffle, the joint has a 'nutcracker' action on the tongue, resulting in the head initially raising, a straight bar doesn't do this etc.

The little keepers you can get for bit shanks are just to keep it neat and in place, and to help avoid it getting caught on anything.
May be worth talking to an instructor/ coach as to what bit to use, as it depends on what you want to achieve.?
 
A loose ring full cheek (a fulmer) should be used with fulmer loops to steady the top of the cheek (can also add a little poll pressure, but it will be a v little), full cheek with fixed rings can be used without fulmer loops.
I like the metal that neue schule, sprenger and cotswold sport use, have never tried sweet iron - not because I don't like it, only because they don't happen to do a bit I use in it.
 
Thanks for all answers :)

RiderLizzie: I know which bit I want and why, I want a full cheek because her steering isnt brilliant when Im out hacking, partly because her box rest has meant she's lost all muscle and struggles to go straight. And any bit I use is french link as I dont like single joints.
I just wondered about the materials, I think Roo is happy in a normal metal as she salivates plenty already Lol

Is there any difference in the action between a loose ring and a fixed ring in the full cheek? I was thinking fixed ring, as she's used to an eggbutt snaffle which is fixed.
 
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