Horse Care For Beginners

More about horse bits (refer also to previous Posts).

Horse bits are the key to effective horse riding.  There are countless different variations of horse bit available in the market place with each one providing features than can give excellent or terrible results depending on the choice and the skills of the rider concerned .

Broadly speaking horse bits are divided into two categories, Snaffles and Curb bits. Snaffles allow the rider to control his horse via direct pressure transmitted through the bit i.e. the same quantity of force exerted by the rider is applied to the horse via the bit.  In the case of a Curb bit there is a leverage principle at work and the force exerted by the rider is amplified . Very simply a Curb bit can be pictured as a capital ‘H’ where the amount of force transmitted is dependent on the length of the sides of the ‘H’, known as the cheeks.  Also how far up or down the mouthpiece is or in other words how high the ‘-’ on the ‘H’ is, or more acurately the ratio between the ‘purchase’ and the ‘level arm’ impacts the severity of the bit and its action on the mouth and head .

What is the difference between the Snaffle and the Curb Bit?

It is essential at this juncture to point out that this fundamental difference between a Snaffle and a Curb bit, and the difference in force applied to the horse, requires that the rider carefully evaluates the need for a Curb bit.  They must also take a good honest look at their horse riding skills and their ability to use the Curb bit correctly. In fact don’t fit one without appropriate training.

It is commonly said that the Curb bit allows greater control. This has an unfortunate connotation that one must apply discomfort if not pain to your horse for him to submit to your will . A better view is the Curb bit allows you to ‘instruct’ your horse in what you want more firmly, fairly and effectively with a Curb vs a Snaffle.

As you develop as a rider the instructions can become more sophisticated and result in the ability to trigger a wider range of movement from your horse .  Also remember as you develop as a rider your skills will become more subtle and you will loose the somewhat narrow view that the bit ‘controls’ your horse.  For example you can ask your horse to move in certain ways using just your legs and seat and not just yank your horse with the reins. 

More advanced riders that have begun to master the art of subtle and effortless riding sometimes look at using double bridles e.g. Weymouth bit and Weymouth Bradoon.  At this point the rider is fine tuning their interaction with their horse, achieving fine levels of control and responsiveness without any of the roughness and heavy handedness associated with the Curb in the hands of an junior rider. 

Summary.

To summarise the Curb bit is an essential tool for the more experienced rider whom is progressing with their horse to different levels of horsemanship .  However you must be sure that both you and your horse are ready for that move. If you are sure you are ready to evolve to using a curb bit for your horse but are unsure of which type might be best always go for the mildest version and work up.  As always take advice from experienced riders and more than one if possible.

Related posts:

1. Snaffle Bits ~ How Different Types Work.
2. The Snaffle Bit. Simple but effective.
3. The bit is the key to the horse.
4. What You Need to Know About The Pelham Horse Bit.
5. How to Stop a Bolting Horse ~ Tips for the Beginner Rider.

Tags: bit, curb bit, easy horse care, EggButt, Equestrian, Horse, horse bits, horse care for beginners, Horse tack, Snaffle bit

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