For whatever reason I have never owned a loose ring snaffle. I seem to recall the advice to purchase them in 1/4 of an inch larger than the horse’s regular bit size to allow space for bit burrs- similar to buying a Waterford 1/4" larger than normal. Is this correct advice?
I need another bit like a hole in the head, but I have been looking for this (not affordable when new) mouth for awhile, and the price is more or less right…
Yes, I’ve been told the same. If you’re planning to us bit guards, 1/4" larger is advisable.
For your standard single jointed loose ring snaffle, the general rule that I was taught, was that the snaffle can be up to 1/2 inch wider then the total actual width measurement of the horses mouth.
Can be, because some horses will do just fine with a bit that’s the same size as their mouth, but choosing the larger size is a typical choice.
That quarter inch rule if I’m remembering correctly, is to bridle the horse in the bit, with noseband loose, grab hold of the bit rings with your fingers close to the bit cannons, and lightly pull the bit rings apart so that the bit is in it’s neutral position in the mouth. Then the rule says you should be able to fit your finger tips sideways between the bit ring and the lips on each side of the mouth. The sideways finger tip spaces should add up to about a quarter inch on each side.
If you have large fingers, you’ll have to eye the fit or measure it some other way.
I buy 1/4 larger. So for my standard 5 inch D ring horse, I buy 5.25 and for my mega fat lip horse who traditionally goes in a 5.5 D, I have to find the elusive 5.75 loose ring.
Even if you don’t use bit guards – maybe especially – you should always buy 1/4 - 1/2" larger so the rings don’t pinch.
I buy 1/2" larger that I would for a fixed ring bit.
If it’s the Neue Schule bits you’re looking at… they are AWESOME and worth the price.
My horse wears a 5 to 5.25 in standard bits, but with a loose ring it works for me to use a 5.5. That way I don’t even have to use bit guards and it still works well.
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I buy 1/4 larger. So for my standard 5 inch D ring horse, I buy 5.25 and for my mega fat lip horse who traditionally goes in a 5.5 D, I have to find the elusive 5.75 loose ring.[/QUOTE]
I’ve had to find the elusive 6" loose ring!
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If it’s the Neue Schule bits you’re looking at… they are AWESOME and worth the price.[/QUOTE]
KK with the aurigan mouth. I picked up a three ring gag with a double jointed mouthpiece in that material for $15 because the consignment store did not know what they had! The horse LOVES it, but what does he need a 3-ring gag for at his age, so I keep trying to find him one for every day without breaking the bank. Ended up passing on this one; if as I suspect he’s going to love it and practically carry it around, I should probably look for it in D-ring so he can show in it. The search continues.
Thanks for the responses- I am now educated!
KK is another good one 
I might have a 5 1/4 KK, actually, if that’s what you need. I’d have t double check…
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