What is the difference between Eggbutt and loose ring snaffle?

Loose ring – this slides through the mouthpiece, allowing easy movement. It encourages a relaxed jaw but may pinch the sides of the mouth, necessitating a bit guard. Eggbutt – this type of cheek keeps the bit stable and prevents rotation. It doesn’t pinch the lips so is tolerated better by some horses.

What are the different types of snaffle bits?

Snaffle bits come in five varieties: D-ring, eggbutt, loose ring, full cheek, and half-cheek.

Do loose ring snaffles pinch?

Loose ring snaffles need to be fitted with care. The design of this type of bit means that the bit rings move freely within the bit ring grooves (the holes within the mouthpiece), which has the potential to pinch the horse’s lips should the bit be a close fit.

What are D-ring snaffles used for?

The D-ring gets it’s name from the shape of the bit rings. D-Ring bits are popular for use on racehorses. This particular bit has copper and steel rollers on the mouthpiece, which encourage the horse to salivate, making him softer and more responsive in the mouth.

What kind of bit is an eggbutt snaffle made of?

The bit pictured has a narrow taper to the jointed mouthpiece. The mouthpieces of this bit may be soft synthetic material, copper, nickel or stainless steel. The rings will be made of nickel or stainless steel. One of the most commonly used English snaffle bits is the eggbutt snaffle.

What does an eggbutt snaffle do for a horse?

It is also possible to see eggbutt snaffles that have dangling keys from the center joint. These are training bits, and they aren’t generally used for riding, but to get a young horse used to the feel of holding onto a bit.

What kind of rings are used for English snaffles?

The rings will be made of nickel or stainless steel. One of the most commonly used English snaffle bits is the eggbutt snaffle. It is useful in training a young horse, general riding, and the beginning stages of dressage. Some horses are ridden their whole lives in this type of bit.

Which is better eggbutt snaffle or mullen mouth?

Eggbutt Snaffle with Mullen Mouth A mullen, or straight, mouthpiece on a snaffle has no joint at all. It is just a straight bar going from one side of the horse’s mouth to the other. A mullen mouth snaffle is one of the more milder types of bits and is excellent for sensitive mouthed horses.