A gag bit contains a rope or rolled leather cheek piece that slides through the bit ring when the rein is used. This pulley effect is designed to increase the lifting action of the snaffle bit upward against the corners of the mouth, making it an option for horses that like to run on the forehand with their head “on the ground” going to jumps. Since this can be a dangerous mode of transport, a tap from the gag rein is certainly a better option.
The gag should also be ridden in two reins, making it a normal snaffle bridle at all times until the horse plunges his head down. The mouthpiece works best when not excessively thick (a single-jointed metal type is most often seen). An eggbutt ring is recommended in order to keep the pulley cord on the correct vertical plane to signal the horse to come up.
Next bit >>
Back to HorseChannel’s Online Bit Guide.
Back to HorseChannel’s Online Tack and Horse Equipment Guide
Whether you’re hitting an extra-long trail or taking the marathon riding trip of a lifetime,…
Accidents happen! And equestrians must be mindful of the possibility of them. Protect your body…
More times than not, riders will try numerous bits in different styles, thicknesses and sizes…
It’s full-on fall here in western Pennsylvania. As the leaves change, the air turns crisp,…
It’s holiday shopping season and I’ve spent the last few months searching for unique or useful equestrian gifts. I’m so…
Timothy, orchard grass, alfalfa, fescue, clover—so many hay types! What’s the right type of hay to choose in your particular…
As horse owners, you know it’s time for that stinky, white crumbly grossness that comes with thrush - and even…
Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…
Austin, Texas – Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) today issued an alert to Texas horsemen of…