I think that we all have those tried and true bits in our collection while others we just steer clear of. Are there any bits that work like magic for your horse?
Here is the breakdown of my favorite features offered by the dee Comfort Snaffle w/ hooks and copper roller that I chose (and really the comfort snaffles in general):
- Curved mouthpiece alleviates tongue pressure and allows the horse to swallow easier
- The sides move independently and are isolated from each other which is especially helpful for a bending cue.
- Copper inlay bars
- Hooks! Some people say they are for leverage, but I personally think that they are great for keep the reins, cheek peices, and curbchain from sliding around the ring and tangling with each other.
The day I tried this bit was actually the day I began clicker training Ypke. Partnered with each other, the difference in her willingness to work was monumental. Bit evasion used to be constant throughout our rides, but now it only happens every once in awhile on our off days. She does still chomp out of habit, but it is noticeably less severe. Prior to Myler two years ago, I always thought people were exaggerating or bluffing about how a bit completely changed their horse's tune. After I experienced it firsthand, I can testify that the difference was almost magical for Ypke.
Since then, I have only stuck with Myler and am starting a collection. Some of my favorites are...
I used this Kimberwick Comfort Snaffle in Ypke's first class at her first show.
When I first saw the 3-ring combination I thought it looked scary, but I was wrong. My mom's horse had to be ridden bitless because he HATED bits, as in he refused to open in his mouth and had huge meltdowns. This combination is set up to where it uses nose pressure (like his bitless bridle does) before it goes to the mouth. This bit was the perfect solution for him and now he has 0 tantrums and is quite an easygoing fellow.
HBT shank w/ sweet iron Comfort Snaffle and copper roller is her Western bit.
I have been eyeing this dee Comfort Snaffle as our dressage bit for awhile now. The dee ring that I have right now is not legal due to the hooks and copper roller. Wish list!
Which bit does your horse go best in?
Myler bits are the BEST!!
ReplyDeleteYes, they are. They are perfect for Ypke! :)
DeleteMy guy goes best in Myler. He's currently going in your wish list bit. His previous bit was that same bit but with a twist. I've tried other bits but they just don't fit in his mouth right.
ReplyDeleteNeat! That was the same issue I had - the design/fit not being ideal for her mouth - but Myler definitely works for her too.
DeleteI find bits to be wonderfully addictive. I need them all. My horse, on the other hand, goes in a Happy Mouth D Ring with roller pretty happily. I've always wanted to try a Myler but never bit the bullet with their price point. He's got a small mouth and I think he'd like the ones with a port for more tongue relief. That combination bit is an interesting idea as well!
ReplyDeleteI know, bit collecting is addicting! I have been wanting to see what Happy Mouths are all about. I hear you on the price tag - they definitely aren't pocket change. English Tack Trader is a great resource for Mylers that are gently used or even still new with tags. I picked up that kimberwick (with tags) for $40 as opposed to the new price of $140.
Deletemy mare goes pretty well in a loose ring sprenger kk ultra, so i've left well enough alone with that!
ReplyDeleteGreat timing, I was just reading about myler bits! I will snap a few pics of my bit and participate :)
ReplyDeleteNice! Looking forward to reading your post.
DeleteI have the same bit as your first myler. Unfortunately, it does not work any wonders for my mule. She hates it. She hates all bits, but especially this one. I wish it work wonders for us, but hasn't yet. I really do want to get one of those combination bits to try, but they're so expensive.
ReplyDeleteThat's too bad! That is the one thing I don't like about Mylers, they sure are spendy. I usually buy them lightly used from various Facebook groups - you can easily find them for around $50 (even new with tags!) which is quite a bit friendlier than $150.
DeleteHave you looked into any bit rental programs? If not, consider looking into Equestrian Collections ($15 rental fee for ANY Myler) or Mary's Tack & Feed ($10 fee for certain Myler, Herm Sprenger, Mikmar, and Stubben bits). There are even more programs offered out there, so they might be worth looking into before you spend a lot of money on a bit that your mule doesn't even like.
That's a cool idea. I didn't know you could rent bits. I'll have to look into it.
Delete