Horse Bits

I’m of the opinion that if you don’t need a bit to control your horse, don’t use one.
Having been trained in dressage for many years, I learned not to rely on the reins and the bit as a means of controlling my horse. Instead, I learned how to stop, start, and turn using mostly my seat and legs.
If you must use a bit, then I suggest using the mildest bit you can that is effective and keeps you safe.

Start with the gentlest bit, a snaffle. Snaffle bits work on the principle of direct pressure. That is, the amount of pressure with which you’re pulling is the amount of pressure the horse will feel. All snaffle bits are broken in the middle, and there are many varieties. I like the D-ring or the egg butt snaffle myself. The fatter the bit, the gentler it will be on the horse’s mouth.
The most severe bits are unbroken, and these also come in many varieties, but they all work on the principle of leverage. The pressure on the horse’s mouth is greater than the pressure with which you are pulling. The ratio of how much the pressure increases depends on the type of bit you are using. However, you can see how it would be easy to over-pull on your horse’s mouth, especially if you are a novice rider and depend heavily on the bit and reins to maintain your seat and control of the horse. I don’t recommend these kinds of bits unless there is a very compelling reason to use them.

Whatever type of bit you choose, you need to make sure it fits your horse’s mouth properly. If a bit is too small or too large, it can cause all kinds of problems and pain for your horse.
If you’re like me, you won’t use a bit at all, but instead a bit-less bridle known as a hackamore. These bridles put pressure on certain parts of a horse’s nose when you pull on the reins. Critics of the hackamore say it can be just as harsh and painful for the horse as a severe bit, and I suppose there are some hackamores and some riders that in combination, would make this a true statement. However, with a little practice and some training, I believe the hackamore is gentler than using a bit.

There are several varieties of hackamore bridles, and just like a bit, you need to make sure your hackamore is fitted correctly for your horse. In the end, you must do what is the safest and best thing for you and your horse. You should consider both your level of training and the horse’s, and if you’re still in doubt as to what to do, seek advice from a professional trainer