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Bits Info
How to measure a bit
With so many bits to choose from it's hard to know which is right for you and your horse. Whichever type of bit, you ultimately choose, you want to make sure it fits just right. Bits come in standard sizes, measured in inches and centimetres. This makes it easier to measure your horse's mouth, take the measurements before buying the bit, so you get the right sized bit. This isn't always the case, even if the bit measurement seems correct, the way your horse's mouth is shaped may change the fit of the bit.
For a guideline measuring your horse is the way to go.
How a Bit Should Fit
A bit should fit your horse’s mouth, the different parts of the mouthpieces on bits are made to sit on specific areas of the mouth So, for the bit to be effective, the bit needs to contact those areas properly. You also don’t want a great length of bit hanging out of the horse’s mouth. so that the mouthpiece extends approximately 0.9 cm beyond the horse’s lips on either side, but not so tight that the horse might be pinched by any movable cheek pieces. You also don’t want the bit pulling through the horse’s mouth when you pull on a rein.
Measuring to Fit
1. Measure an old bit you know already fits. to correctly measure your bit's size lay your bit on a flat surface Use a tape measure or ruler to measure from the inside of each cheek piece or ring. This will be your guide for the new bit. If you've just bought the horse, you could ask the previous owner.
2. Use a piece of string about 12 inches (30 centimetres) long. Tie a knot about 4 inches (10 centimetres) in. Put it through your horse’s mouth, with the knot against the lips on one side. Mark the opposite side with a marker.
3. Put a sewing tape measure through your horse’s mouth—the flexible cloth or plastic kind. Measure from the side of the lips.
4. Use calipers. Adjust one arm of the caliper on either side of the horse’s mouth and then lay them down and measure the distance between the two arms of the caliper.
For a guideline only.