Horse tack

Tack is any of the various accessories worn by horses in the course of their use as domesticated animals. Saddles, stirrups, bridles, halters, reins, bits, harnesses, martingales, and breastplates are all forms of horse tack.

Bits

A bit is piece of metal that is placed in the horse's mouth, although on occasion the bit may be made of other materials. Despite popular opinion, the bit does not rest on the teeth of the horse. The bit hangs in a space behind the front "cutting" teeth and in front of the back "grinding" teeth. This space is known as the "bar". When a horse is said to "grab the bit in its teeth" they actually mean that the horse hardens its lips and mouth against the bit to ignore the rider's commands. Bits offer varying degrees of control and communication between rider and horse depending upon their design and on the skill of the rider.

Related Topics:
Metal - Teeth

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The types of bits are too numerous to list, but here are some examples:

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• Curb bit
• Snaffle bit
• Gag bit
• Pelham bit
• Kimberwicke bit

Bits come in several different mouthpieces and (for snaffles) rings. Some of these include:

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Mouthpieces:

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• Single jointed
• Mullen mouth (straight bar)
• Dr. Bristol
• French mouth
• Corkscrew
• Single and double twisted wire
• Waterford

Rings:

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• Loose ring
• D-ring
• Eggbutt
• Full-cheek
• Baucher
• Half-cheek

Bits are designed to work by pressure, not pain. Of course, in the wrong hands even the mildest bit can hurt the horse.

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