Is there actually any difference (bits)

[RachelB]

Is there actually any difference between the Neue Schule tranz link loose ring snaffles, and the Sprenger KK Ultra loose ring? I tried my horse in what I think was a KK today, she usually has a cheapo lozenged loose ring, but went much better in this one, which seemed to have the lozenge at an angle and not straight like my cheap one.
I was under the impression that the NS and KK were the same (but the NS cheaper), but can anyone tell me whether both of them are angled the same? And do any 'bit experts' think one is better than the other, or does it make any difference at all?
Hope that makes sense, I'm tired already and it's only 8pm!

 

[Baggybreeches]

I have one of each but use them on different horses, I personally prefer the KK ultra but I know what you mean about the cost although in the last 12 months I have bought 3 KK bits and 2NS. If the Ns seems ok for your horse then, not much sense in spending more money than necessary!

 

[KatB]

different metals I think! But i use the NS, as cant justify twice the price for a bit that is almost exactly the same!

 

[RachelB]

That's what I thought, my horse goes well in her cheap one but I need another one anyway, and thought I might as well treat her to a nicer one. She did go better in the KK (if that's what I used, we couldn't work it out!) but I don't really know if the difference in her is worth the whole £70! I'd be happier paying £40 for it!
I just can't work out if both the NS and KK have angled lozenges..?

 

[KatB]

Yes the NS has angled lozenges. If you look on the website, www.neueschule.co.uk it explains about their Tranz lozenge....

 

[Toby_Zaphod]

I spoke to Helen, who runs Neue Schule, at Your Horse Live. She told me she used to work for KK but then branched out on her own setting up the Neue Schule company. The alloy they make their bits out of has a similar effect but is a different mix from KK.

 

[piebaldsparkle]

My NS doesn't have an angled lozenge (but think you can buy them with an angled lozenge now). I also have a KK without the angled lozenge. If the KK was an 'ultra' then would have had the angled lozenge (will have had an arrow on one end of mouth piece to show you which way round to fit).

 

[flyingfeet]

There is very little difference between the Sprenger and Neue Schule bits.

The reason is that Neue Schule was able to copy sprenger designs - so many of them are very close copies.

The only thing i have noticed is that the Neue Schule finish isn't quite as perfect as a sprenger. However if you don't mind the odd dark patch or small cast line (these are purely cosmetic and most people won't even see them, but we make bits!!), then for the money i would always buy a Neue Schule (unless you can find a cheaper Neue Schule equivalent!!)

 

[measles]

Agree they are pretty similar but I was also a little disappointed in the finish on the NS bit. The first one I bought had to be returned as it was so badly finished and had sharp edges on the mouthpiece, but they did this very quickly and helpfully so I'd def recommend their customer service.

 

[KatB]

They have polished them up ALOT since the originals! Ive got an old one, but a friend has a new one which is INDISTINGUISHABLE from a KK IMHO.

 

[miller]

I have one of each and my lad goes better in the KK - haven't got a clue why but he'd have to like the more expensive one