How to Fit a Full Cheek Snaffle Bit
Young horses tend to chew on their bit and, until they become accustomed to this new device, many rub their heads in an attempt to remove it. Therefore, the first bit any young horse carries should be as comfortable as possible. For this reason, at HorseLoverZ.com, we recommend that our clients use full cheek snaffle bits during the initial training process. In addition, an ill-fitting bit can cause your horse to experience a variety of uncomfortable circumstances: Therefore, choosing a full cheek snaffle bit that fits your horse properly is essential to ensuring he/she remains comfortable and can then concentrate on following your direction.
How to Fit a Full Cheek Snaffle Bit
Full cheek snaffle bits that are too small can squeeze or pinch your horse's face; whereas, an overly large bit will move from one side to the other, causing sores and cuts on the lips, and in his/her mouth. Moreover, if a bit is too large, effectively directing your horse may become difficult. At HorseLoverZ.com, we know the importance of a properly fitting bit, which is why we have created the outline below to help you measure your horse's mouth.
Before You Get Started
In general, the mouthpiece of the bit should extend about 0.6 cm (1/4 inch) beyond your horse's lips on each side. There are several ways you can measure for a new bit: If you already have a properly fitting bit that your horse was using, you can just measure his/her old bit. If you do not have a bit, you can measure your horse's mouth.
How to Measure Your Horse's Mouth for a New Bit
What you need:
String
Scissors
A marker
A tape measure or ruler
Step 1
Cut a piece of string that is approximately 30 cm (12 inches) long.
Step 2
Using your ruler or tape measure for reference, tie a knot about .05 cm (2 inches) in.
Step 3
Thread the string through your horse's mouth and have the knot rest against his/her outer lip.
Step 4
Use the marker to indicate where your horse's outer lip falls on the other side of the string.
Alternatives:
If you prefer, you can use a piece of unpainted doweling instead of string.
You may also use a plastic or flexible cloth sewing tape measure. If you choose this method, string the tape through your horse's mouth and measure from one side of his/her lips to the other.
Important:
Please keep in mind that, regardless of the method above that you choose, the mouthpiece of your horse's bit needs to be about 0.06 cm (1/4 inch) longer on each side.
How to Measure an Old Bit That Already Fits
What you need:
A tape measure
The old bit
Place your horse's old bit on a flat surface. Using a tape measure, measure from one cheek piece or ring to the other (these measurements should be taken inside the ring or cheek piece).
With more than 120,000 products, HorseLoverZ.com is the world's largest online tack store: Therefore, whether you are looking for full cheek snaffle bits, French link snaffle bits, horse blankets or leads, HorseLoverZ.com has all of the equine products you need. We are dedicated to providing horse owners and horse lovers around the world with top of the line products at extremely competitive prices, with special deals, auctions and closeouts at bargain basement prices.
