Should bits be non returnable ?

[Gingerwitch]

Just wondering - with so many posts of strangles/potential strangles - how do you know that the bit you buy has not been put in something elses mouth ?

And if it has loads of tags on - you cant really wash it before or after trying can you?

 

[WelshD]

They are so expensive these days I don't think it would be practical to make them non returnable

Perhaps there should be an agreed cleaning process a bit has to go through before being put back on the shelf though perhaps funded by a small deduction on the refund after return

 

[flyingfeet]

You should always carefully wash every bit before putting it in your horses mouth

Most have some straight out of the factory in China / Pakistan / South Africa / UK (Abbey only!)

They have all generally been polished with a machine, but you still want to wash to remove any chemicals and possible fragments left behind

However ref the strangles, if you are buying a new bit you should expect a new bit. If buying from a bit hire service, I would pour boiling water over just to make sure.

 

[Gingerwitch]

But thats the problem isnt it - you go to the shop or mail order you buy a bit you think is brand new, it has its tags on, its in its packet, you wipe it over, you put it in your horses mouth - you see its too big, too thick, too thin, you take it out of horses mouth and you send/take it back.

 

[Goldenstar]

Metal bits are easily disinfected so I don't worry .

 

[MissSBird]

When I worked at a tack store they didn't accept bits back for health and safety reasons - same as pierced jewellary.

I've never used a bit bank, but when I've purchased second hand at equine car boot-sales I've always run the bit through the dishwasher before using.