O ring snaffle - bit ring rotating - encouraging salivation

Question
hello, i watched a video in youtube.com about O ring snaffles and eggbutt snaffles. its said that when the ring of the O ring snaffle rotates, it encourages the horse to salivate more. but from my point of view, when the ring of the O ring snaffle rotates, it would be pinching the corners of the lips. now tell me, which bit to start my new horse (lets suppose). i mean, O ring or eggbutt? if you are preferring O ring, then i would surely put on big guards. i cant see a horse suffering from wounds on the corners of their lips. if i am wrong, please correct me!!

Answer
You are really developing a good analytical mind.
Good for you!
I am pleased by your thought process.


Yes, O rings CAN pinch the corners of a horse's mouth if you are not careful, and YES!...that is what bit guards are for.

In the States, they are usually not used too much in shows, but certainly for training, in open jumping and games classes, etc.

Many of my clients use them, successfully, but when I go to a new stable, i often have to suggest a wider (longer# bit or bit guards.

Obviously if the bit is TOO wide, then it will pull back and forth in the horse's mouth and cause discomfort.

Eggbutt (not DEE ring) bits are one of my favorite bits. But keep in mind, that properly fitted, O rings CAN be really useful, for the reasons that you mentioned, and they discourage a horse from bearing down on the bit.

I also suggest for your education that you read Dr. Cooks Bitless Bridle web site for more information about how bits work in a horse's mouth. Just Google him.


www.MitziSummers.com