What is the purpose of this?

[Ezme]

http://www.ridingbitz.com/product_detail.cfm?id=A1900

I was just looking at rinding bits for the copper french link wanted in another thread and found this... I understand hollow mouth bits, to make them lighter in horse that like a thick mouthpiece but why the holes? Must be a devil to clean! Is it just something some horses like?

 

[kombikids]

looks like so they can play a tune when being ridden!!!! thanks for looking for me!

 

[charlie76]

Its a anti windsucking bit. The idea is that there wear it in the stable and if they try to crib the air goes through the holes.

 

[Ezme]

ooo ok, thanks. still seems a bit odd!

 

[vicm2509]

Aparently they make a noise and scare the life out of the horse if they windsuck. Sort of a whistle noise, supposed to discourage them from doing it.

I have never seen one used so I am not sure if they work.

 

[Ezme]

Woulda saved some timeof a friend who stood outside with a small cup of water!