Single-Jointed Bits

What is the effect of a single-jointed bit?

A single-jointed bit, such as the classic loose ring bit, is the most popular and most common type of bit. They are also available with fixed rings as an eggbutt bit, D-ring bit or full cheek bit.
A single-jointed loose ring bit is very well accepted by the horse. It has a joint in the middle that bends away when the reins are pulled, so that the two bit parts act on the edges of the tongue and the lower jaw. The advantage of the single-joint is that when the rein is accepted on one side, the bit correctly transmits the sideways pointing aid. Due to the movable rings, there is a possibility that the horse's mouth corners will be pinched. You can prevent the jaws from being pinched by using rubber or gel bit guards, which you can find in our bit accessories.
Eggbutt bits or D-ring bits with fixed rings allow a stable position of the bit in the horse's mouth. However, the rein aids are transmitted directly, which can be very uncomfortable for the horse if the rider's hand is unsteady.
The previously assumed nutcracker action of single-jointed bits, which is supposed to squeeze the lower jaw and press the middle piece into the palate when the reins are pulled too hard, has been disproved. Nevertheless, even a single-jointed bit should be used with a gentle rider's hand so as not to cause the horse any harm or pain.
At Kramer Equestrian you can buy single-jointed bits in different sizes, shapes and material compositions. Our assortment ranges from simple loose ring bits to anatomically shaped eggbutt bits and full cheek bits. You can also find apple-flavoured single-jointed bits that encourage the horse to chew more. The assortment is completed with rubber bits.

What is the effect of a full cheek bit?

Full cheek bits have shanks on the fixed bit rings, which form a lateral boundary. A full cheek bit prevents the bit from being pulled through the horse's mouth when the reins are pulled on one side. This is particularly advantageous if a bridle is not used to hold the bit in place. In addition, the full check bit of the opposite side is pressed against the horse's mouth. The horse understands the sideways pointing aids, avoids this pressure and bends. A full cheek bit can therefore help young horses to better understand rein aids. Later on, they can switch to an eggbutt bits without shanks.

Which bit is suitable for a horse with a sensitive mouth?

Eggbutt, D-ring and full cheek bits are particularly suitable for horses with sensitive mouths. They lie very quietly in the horse's mouth and prevent the lips from getting caught in the bit rings. At the same time, remember that horses with sensitive mouths also need a calm, sensitive rider's hand.

What is the correct size for a full cheek bit?

As with all bits with fixed side parts, you should choose the full cheek bit one size smaller than a loose ring bit. The side piece or shanks should be as close as possible to the corner of the mouth so that they lie particularly quietly and create a lateral boundary.

What is the effect of a D-ring bit?

With D-ring bits, the mouthpiece is firmly connected to the rings, which is why the movements of unsteady rider's hands are not cushioned. Therefore, D-ring bits can have a sharper effect than loose ring bits. At the same time, D-ring bits lie very quietly in the horse's mouth, which makes them suitable bits for sensitive horses. The contact of the bit to the corners of the mouth is similar to that of full cheek bits. The horse gets a lateral boundary and understands the sideways pointing rein aids more easily.