Bit Guide: How to Choose the Right Bit

Choosing a bit can feel confusing. This guide explains our bits in simple words, so you can find the right one for your horse. We make every bit ourselves, in any size you need. If you're still unsure, message us and we'll help.

Important: every horse is different, and no bit fixes every problem. Always start with the mildest bit that works, and check your competition rules before showing.

Start here: what's your horse doing?

"My horse is young or green, and still learning to steer"

Choose a full cheek. The cheeks gently guide the face for clearer steering, and the bit can't slide through the mouth.

Full Cheek Snaffle with Copper Rollers: for horses that like something to play with
Full Cheek Snaffle, Sweet Iron Port: for horses that need tongue relief

"My horse is sensitive and fusses with the contact"

Choose a bit that stays steady and quiet in the mouth.

Baucher Hanging Cheek: very stable, lifts gently off the tongue
Eggbutt Snaffle with Lozenge: fixed cheeks, tongue-friendly shape, no lip pinching

"I want a mild everyday bit"

Loose Ring Snaffle with Copper Rollers: soft and mobile, encourages a relaxed mouth

"My horse puts its tongue over the bit"

Choose a ported mouthpiece, which gives the tongue room.

Full Cheek, Sweet Iron Port (snaffle)
Correction Port D Ring with Curb Hooks (intermediate)
3 Ring Dutch Gag, Sweet Iron Port (extra control)

"My horse leans on the bit or locks its jaw"

Loose Ring Waterford: nothing to lean on or grab. Order one size up.

"My horse is strong and I need more brakes"

These bits are for experienced riders with soft, steady hands.

Correction Port D Ring: mild leverage when you add a curb strap
Loose Ring Gag (Balding): lifts a horse off the forehand
3 Ring Dutch Gag, German Silver Lozenge: gentle on the tongue
3 Ring Dutch Gag, 18 mm Hollow Mouth: for sensitive bars
3 Ring Dutch Gag, Sweet Iron Port: for tongue relief

Mouthpiece materials

Stainless steel: strong, rust-resistant, easy to clean.
Copper (rollers or inlays): encourages salivation and a soft mouth. Darkens naturally over time.
Sweet iron: oxidizes to a sweet taste horses like. Turns from blue to brownish-grey with use, which is normal.
German silver: a copper-rich alloy with a warm gold tone. Contains nickel, so avoid it for horses with a nickel allergy.

Thickness

Slim (10 mm): best for horses with a small mouth, low palate or thick tongue. Gives clear, precise signals.
Medium (14 to 16 mm): comfortable for most horses.
Thick (18 mm): spreads pressure, but only suits horses with enough room in the mouth.