What Makes a Bit Stronger – Part 2

Tack Tip Tuesday: What Makes a Bit Stronger – Part 2
Understanding Bit Cheekpieces and How They Influence Pressure

If you’ve been following along with our Tack Tip Tuesday series, you’ll know we recently explored how mouthpieces affect bit strength and communication. But there's more to the story — and this week, we're diving into another critical factor: the cheekpieces.

These are the parts of the bit that sit on either side of your horse’s face, connecting to the bridle and reins. While they may seem simple, the style of cheekpiece can dramatically alter how a bit functions — and how your horse experiences pressure.

So, what exactly makes one bit "stronger" than another? Let’s break it down by cheekpiece design.

🔹 Direct Pressure Bits

These are your classic snaffle bits — loose rings, eggbutts, D-rings, and full cheeks. What sets them apart is their 1:1 pressure ratio. That means if you apply one pound of rein pressure, your horse feels one pound on the mouth.

• Loose Ring Snaffle: Encourages subtle movement and softening, but can be too mobile for horses who need more stability.

• Eggbutt or D-Ring: Offers a steadier feel and mild lateral guidance, great for green horses or riders looking for quiet communication.

• Full Cheek: Adds even more lateral control, helpful when schooling young or green horses who need support turning.

🟡 These are generally the gentlest options — great for young horses, sensitive mouths, or riders developing their hand feel.

🔹 Leverage Bits

Now we’re entering a new realm: multiplying pressure. Leverage bits use longer cheekpieces — known as shanks — to amplify rein cues. These include pelhams, kimberwicks, and curb bits.

• Pelhams: Can be ridden with one or two reins; the longer the shank, the more pressure is created. Useful for horses needing reminders to respect the rein aids.

• Kimberwick: Often used in English disciplines where extra control is needed. Works with a curb chain and offers moderate leverage.

• Curb Bits (Western or Weymouth): Designed for experienced hands, these require subtlety and precision. Pressure is applied not only to the mouth but also to the poll and chin groove, via the curb strap or chain.

🟠 Used effectively, these bits can offer clearer signals for experienced horses and riders — but they must be fitted and used correctly.

🔹 Gag Bits

Gag bits are unique in that they move vertically in the horse’s mouth when pressure is applied. This encourages the horse to lift their head, which can be helpful in disciplines like polo, cross-country, or show jumping, especially for horses who tend to lean on the bit.

• Bevel or Wilkie Bit: Offers mild gag action with a snaffle-like feel.

• 3-Ring or Dutch Gag: Allows for more adjustment and significantly increases poll pressure.

• Running Gag: Often used with a specialized bridle; best suited for fast-paced or high-precision sports.

🔴 These should be used with caution and good understanding. They're not inherently “harsh,” but they’re designed for specific purposes.

🔍 Choosing the Right Bit: It’s About Balance

The real takeaway? A “stronger” bit isn’t always better. In fact, more pressure can create confusion, resistance, or even discomfort if it’s not appropriate for your horse's training level, sensitivity, or discipline.

Instead of looking for control through force, try to assess:

• What kind of communication does my horse respond to?

• Am I using my aids clearly and consistently?

• Is this bit appropriate for the activity we’re doing?

Sometimes a gentler bit with thoughtful riding achieves far more than the most advanced leverage design.

🤝 Need Help with Bit Selection?

Whether you're trying to troubleshoot a bitting issue, are stepping up to a new discipline, or are just curious about the mechanics, I’m always happy to talk bits. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution — just experience, understanding, and a willingness to listen to your horse.

📬 Feel free to reach out or stop by the shop — no judgment, just honest support from someone who gets it.