Snaffles with Shanks

What is the effect of a bit with shanks?

Bits with shanks is the generic term for Western curb bits. In Western riding, unlike English riding, the curb bit is used bare, without a bradoon. However, a Western horse with a curb bit is not ridden with constant rein contact. Instead, a well-trained horse walks between the reins. This means that in neck reining the horse is guided by applying the reins to the neck, as well as by weight and leg aids. If a short, light impulse is given at the bit, this has an effect on the bars, chin and neck and the horse immediately gives way. The longer the shanks, the longer it takes for the signal to get through to the horse. Western bits with short shanks, on the other hand, transmit the signal faster, but not as strong as long shanks.

Kramer Equestrian stocks bits with shanks from STONEDEEK and SPRENGER with varying ports. Billy Allen bits and correction bits with movable shanks are suitable for changing from two-handed to one-handed rein control. If your horse is at an intermediate level of training, you can also buy anatomically shaped bits with shanks with a wide port. Our range is rounded off with matching curb chains, which are essential for good signal transmission on a Western curb bit.

When should a bit with shanks be used?

Whether a bit with shanks should be used depends on the level of training of both rider and horse. As a nervous hand causes a steady, uncontrolled impulse to arrive at the horse's mouth, which is additionally reinforced by the shanks, a Western curb bit only belongs in experienced hands. In the same way, a young horse must first be trained to the point where it reacts to the finest signals, such as neck reining, before it is given a Western bit with shanks. The precursor of the Western curb bit is a snaffle bit, a single jointed loose ring snaffle with either O or D-rings. However, there are also snaffle bits with shanks, whereby the shanks are shorter. The Baby Bit is a good introduction to riding with a Western curb bit.

Correction bits offer more flexibility because the shanks can be moved outwards as well as upwards and downwards independently of each other. This makes the horse's position and bend possible, which is why a correction bit facilitates the change from two-handed to one-handed holding the reins. Only when the groundwork has been done can you switch to a bit with shanks. At Western competitions, attention must be paid to the specifications of the equipment in the respective disciplines and performance classes. Professional Western riders generally show their horses with a Western curb bit.

What is the maximum length of the shanks in Western riding?

According to the AQHA-UK, the maximum length of the shanks of a standard bit or a Western curb bit may be 8 ½ inches in order to be able to participate in a Western show. The shanks can be either fixed or flexible. The shanks of the Western curb bit are measured in their complete length, i.e. from the upper ring to the lower ring. In the Kramer Equestrian Shop you can buy Western bits with a shank length between 12 and 16 cm.