The Curb bit and subtle art of control.
June 19th, 2010
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Horse bits are the key to effective horse riding. There are many dozens if not hundreds of different variations of horse bit available in the market place with each one providing a different set of features which induce a particular effect on the horse’s behavior.
Broadly speaking horse bits are divided into two categories, Snaffles and Curb bits. Snaffles allow the rider to control the horse via force transmitted from the reins to the bit i.e. the same quantity of force exerted by the rider is applied to the horse via the bit. In the case of a Curb bit the force is increased through the principle of leverage due to the design of the bit . Very simply a Curb bit can be pictured as a capital ‘H’ where the degree of leverage exerted is dependent on the length of the sides of the ‘H’, known as the cheeks. Also how far up or down the mouthpiece is i.e. how high the ‘-’ on the ‘H’ is, or more accurately the ratio between the ‘purchase’ and the ‘level arm’ impacts the severity of the bit and its action on the mouth and head .
It is important to note that this fundamental difference between a Snaffle and a Curb bit, and the difference in force applied to the horse, requires that the rider carefully considers the need for a Curb bit. They must also ensure that their skills are up to the task of using a Curb bit correctly . In fact don’t fit one without appropriate training.
It is often stated that the Curb bit gives greater control. This has an unfortunate connotation that one must apply discomfort if not pain to the horse for him to submit to your will . A better view is the Curb bit allows you to ‘instruct’ the horse in what you want more firmly, fairly and effectively with a Curb vs a Snaffle. With a Curb bit those instructions may become more sophisticated as your riding skills improve . Also remember as you develop as a rider your skills will become more subtle and you will loose the somewhat narrow view that the bit ‘controls’ the horse. For example you can ask the horse to move in certain ways using just your legs and seat and not just yank the horse with the reins.
More advanced riders that have begun to master the art of subtle and effortless riding sometimes progress to double bridles e.g. Weymouth bit and Weymouth Bradoon. At this point the rider is fine tuning their interaction with their horse, achieving fine levels of control and responsiveness without any of the roughness and heavy handedness associated with the Curb in the hands of an inexperienced rider.
To summarise the Curb bit is an important tool for the more experienced rider whom is happy with the basics of riding and is now looking to get more variety of movement from their horse . However you must be sure that both you and the horse are ready for that move. If you are sure you are ready to evolve to using a curb bit for your horse but are unsure of which type might be best always go for the mildest version and work up. . As always take advice from experienced riders and more than one if possible.
