Horse Bits in Order of Harshness A Guide to Understanding Bit SeverityHorse bits are essential tools in riding and training. They allow communication between the rider and the horse through the reins. However, not all bits are the same. Some are gentle, designed for light cues, while others are more severe and intended for stronger control. Knowing the order of horse bits by harshness helps riders choose the right equipment for their horse’s needs and experience level.
What Determines Bit Harshness?
The severity of a bit depends on several factors
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Mouthpiece design
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Material used
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Shank length (in leverage bits)
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Jointed or solid construction
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How the bit distributes pressure
A bit is not automatically harsh just by its appearance; it also depends on how it’s used. A skilled rider with soft hands can make a stronger bit feel gentle, while an inexperienced rider can make a mild bit feel rough.
Mild to Harsh Horse Bits in Order
Below is a general guide to horse bits, ranked from the mildest to the most severe. The list takes into account common use, pressure points, and general rider consensus.
1. Loose Ring Snaffle
One of the mildest bits available. It has a jointed mouthpiece and loose rings that move freely. The movement prevents the horse from leaning on the bit, promoting responsiveness.
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Pressure Tongue, lips, and bars
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Best for Young horses, basic training
2. Eggbutt Snaffle
Slightly more stable than a loose ring snaffle. The fixed sides offer less movement, which some horses find more comfortable.
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Pressure Tongue and bars
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Best for Beginner riders and young horses
3. D-Ring Snaffle
Similar to the eggbutt, but with D-shaped rings that provide a bit more lateral control. It prevents the bit from sliding through the horse’s mouth.
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Pressure Bars and tongue
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Best for Schooling and gentle control
4. French Link Snaffle
A variation of the snaffle with a double-jointed mouthpiece. The center plate reduces nutcracker action and spreads pressure more evenly.
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Pressure Tongue and bars
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Best for Sensitive-mouthed horses
5. Mullen Mouth Bit
A solid bar with a gentle curve that follows the horse’s mouth. It offers even pressure across the tongue and bars, with no pinching.
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Pressure Tongue
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Best for Horses that dislike jointed bits
6. Pelham Bit
A hybrid bit that can act like a snaffle or curb, depending on rein usage. It includes shanks for leverage and a curb chain for chin pressure.
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Pressure Poll, chin, bars, and tongue
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Best for Experienced riders managing stronger horses
7. Kimberwick Bit
A compromise between a snaffle and a curb. It has slots for the reins to adjust leverage and usually includes a curb chain.
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Pressure Poll, bars, and chin
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Best for Trail riding, horses needing more control
8. Curb Bit
Common in Western riding. It applies leverage through long shanks and a solid or jointed mouthpiece, with a curb chain for chin pressure.
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Pressure Poll, chin, bars, and tongue
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Best for Trained horses with experienced riders
9. Twisted Wire Snaffle
This bit has a twisted mouthpiece that concentrates pressure on the bars and tongue. It’s sharper and should be used with great care.
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Pressure Concentrated on tongue and bars
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Best for Short-term correction, experienced hands only
10. Gag Bit
A severe bit that slides through the cheekpieces, lifting the bit in the horse’s mouth when the reins are engaged. It increases poll pressure significantly.
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Pressure Poll, lips, tongue, and bars
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Best for Strong or fast horses needing extra control
11. Spade Bit
Used in advanced Western riding, especially in trained vaquero horses. It requires subtle hands and clear signals. The high port and roller can be extremely harsh in the wrong hands.
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Pressure Bars, tongue, roof of the mouth
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Best for Finished horses with refined training
12. Double Bridle (Weymouth and Bradoon)
Combines two bits a bradoon (snaffle) and a Weymouth (curb). Requires two sets of reins. Offers precise control but can be harsh if misused.
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Pressure Poll, tongue, bars, and chin
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Best for Advanced dressage and highly trained horses
Bit Severity Is Not Always the Problem
Sometimes, behavior issues in horses are blamed on using a bit that’s too mild. In reality, the cause might be discomfort, poor training, or inconsistent handling. Switching to a harsher bit can mask the problem instead of fixing it. That’s why it’s important to assess the root cause before making changes.
Matching the Bit to the Horse
Here are some tips to help choose the right bit
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Young or green horses Start with mild snaffles
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Sensitive horses Consider double-jointed or Mullen mouth
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Strong horses Use bits with mild leverage, like Pelhams
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Refined control Use double bridles or curb bits with care
Always consider the horse’s comfort, behavior, and training level. It’s better to use a gentle bit well than to misuse a strong one.
The Role of the Rider’s Hands
Even the mildest bit can become harsh with rough hands. A bit is only as severe as the rider’s ability to use it gently. Good communication, light hands, and proper training go a long way in maintaining your horse’s trust and comfort.
Conclusion Choosing Bits Wisely
Understanding horse bits in order of harshness helps riders make educated choices for their horses’ needs. From the soft French link snaffle to the more advanced spade bit, each one has a purpose when used correctly.
The key is not just choosing the right bit, but using it with kindness, knowledge, and feel. A well-matched bit and a thoughtful rider make the best combination for a healthy, happy horse.