what is the difference between a dr bristol bit and french link?

[AprilBlue]

just a question in general so by all means, correct me if i'm wrong but to me both of them look pretty much the same
what is the difference?

 

[*hic*]

The angle of the plate to the tongue - a Dr Bristol digs in, a french link lies flat over it.

 

[Costypop]

The angle of link is different, the dr Bristol acts more on the tougue then the frence link

 

[Archiepoo]

with the french link the middle link section lies flat on the tongue ,with the dr bristol the link is on 90% to the tongue and presses onto the tongue. french link kind -dr bristol severe .good question tho

 

[be positive]

The link on a Dr Bristol lies at a different angle so that it puts pressure on the tongue, it is also longer and more rectangular in shape which adds to the pressure.

 

[Karran]

I always remember the difference by thinking that the middle part of a french link is like a peanut in a shell - goes in at the middle.
Dr Bristol has a long flat middle piece with no 'peanut'

 

[Pearlsacarolsinger]

Of course the posters above are absolutely right. However you are not alone OP in not knowing the difference. I once went into a local tack shop to hire a French link bit to try on my mare. the assistant brought me a Dr Bristol and honestly didn't know the difference until I told her. She had never heard of Dr B, even though the name was inscribed on the bit!

 

[AprilBlue]

thanks guys now I understand
its interesting how just the angle of that 'peanut' could have such a great effect on a horses mouth!