Jessica Jahiel's HORSE-SENSE Newsletter Archives

Snaffle bit questions

From: Paul

I always look forward to receiving the next installment of your wisdom. I am somewhat new to this "horse game"; but, I now think they (horses) are some of God's finest work. I am trying to learn all I can.

Two very quick bitting questions (I think): (1) would you recommend using or not using a chin strap on a smooth snaffle bit for everyday work and trail riding? Is it bad to not use one? (2) How much more severe is a "slow twist" snaffle over a smooth snaffle of the same mouthpiece diameter?

Thanks, Paul

Hi Paul! Yes, those are quick questions, and they even have reasonably quick answers. ;-) The only reason to put a chin strap on a snaffle bit is to keep the bit from being pulled through the horse's mouth. There's no leverage effect -- it's not a curb strap. If you find that you're pulling the bit through your horse's mouth, then you probably need to ease up on the reins. Remember, the bit is for QUIET SIGNALS, not for forceful pulling or jerking. Your horse should be turning from your body position and the signals you send with your seat and legs -- the reins should always be the LAST and LEAST of your aids.

There are alternatives to using a chin strap. Full-cheek snaffles, half-cheek snaffles, and D-ring snaffles are all designed to keep the bit in place while helping the horse learn to turn away from the pressure on the side of the mouth. I'd prefer the chinstrap for trails, just because trails offer are more possibilities for a full-cheek bit to catch on something. But if this is a real problem for you, why not put the horse into an English jumping hackamore (no curb chain, no shanks) or a Western sidepull with a leather noseband? It'll be a more comfortable option for both of you.

The slow-twist snaffle is quite severe, much more so than the smooth snaffle. The slow-twist is designed to put metal edges against the horse's tongue and bars. It's a good bit for the pub wall -- use the slow-twist snaffle for decoration, and the smooth snaffle on the horse. ;-)

Jessica

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