Bits crafted with mouthpieces made from several varieties of chain look undeniably crude. It’s easy to imagine them causing pain to a horse, especially when used by a rider with rough hands. Yet some professional horse trainers claim that,...
If you’ve ever seen a horse with raw sores in the corners of its mouth then you understand the purpose of bits that have “non-pinch” mouths or cheek pieces. The concept is to prevent this soft, pliable tissue from...
In the world of western bits, the spade is widely considered the most severe. Yet the spade bit, despite its intimidating appearance, has a historical place in the evolution of western horsemanship. The spade bit is associated with the...
Congratulations on becoming a horse owner! Now that you’ve completed your search for the perfect equine partner, you’ll need to get outfitted for horse ownership. If you enjoy shopping, you’ll be in your element because there’s plenty of tack,...
If you’ve ever seen a horse wearing what appears to
be a jingling necklace, you’ve probably seen rhythm beads. These are a string
of colorful beads often adorned with bells or charms. The sound they make with
every step the horse takes...
Though tack designed with a working western flair is popular, complete with narrow leather ties securing bits and reins to headstalls, the venerable Chicago screw seems here to stay. Chicago screws consist of two parts, and one half is...
The Pelham is the most popular leverage bit used in hunters and hunt seat equitation competition. It is designed to use two sets of reins along with a curb chain. One rein attaches to the upper ring on the...
Just like western breast collars, English breastplates are primarily
used to help prevent a saddle from slipping back, out of the ideal position. Horses
with certain conformation issues, like steep withers that abruptly slope to a
deep dip in their spine, are...
Water loops (also called slobber straps) are handy
U-shaped leather straps that fasten a pair of western reins to the bit. Though
originally utilitarian tack for the working cowboy, they’re gaining in
popularity with a wide range of riders thanks to...
Despite the rather offensive name, gag bits can be useful
training aids when used appropriately by a rider with skilled hands. The
mouthpiece, which can vary greatly in severity, is awarded room to slide up and
down the bit rings when the...
