15 Horse Bit Mouthpieces Every Equestrian Should Know By Katherine Blocksdorf Katherine Blocksdorf Kathy Blocksdorf is an equine expert and writer with over three decades of experience in training and riding horses. She was raised caring for horses, rehabilitated rescue horses, shows her own horses, and rides long distance. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process Updated on 07/28/25 Credit: kondakov / Getty Images Key Takeaways Horse bits come in various mouthpiece styles, each with different effects on a horse's comfort and communication.It's important to choose the mildest bit that still allows for effective communication, considering factors like the horse's mouth shape and the rider's skill level.Some mouthpieces, such as wire or chain mouthpieces, are considered severe and should be used with caution or avoided. Horses use bits made from various materials and in a range of mouthpiece styles. Choosing the right bit for your horse may require some trial and error. Consider factors like your horse's mouth size and shape, its training level, and your own riding skills. Choose the mildest bit that ensures clear communication with your horse. Horse Stables & Supplies 01 of 15 Mullen Mouth Credit: K. Blocksdorf A mullen mouth is a simple mouthpiece with a gentle curve over the horse's tongue, making it more comfortable than a straight-bar mouthpiece. It is also gentler than a jointed mouthpiece because there is no pinching when the reins are pulled. 02 of 15 Single Joint Credit: K. Blocksdorf A single joint allows riders to apply targeted pressure on each side of a horse's mouth, enhancing control. However, it may cause a nutcracker effect that pinches the horse's tongue and bars (the gap between incisors and molars), though some horses might prefer it over a straight-bar mouthpiece. 03 of 15 French Link Credit: K. Blocksdorf A French link is a double-jointed mouthpiece featuring a small plate in the center. The two joints reduce the nutcracker effect while maintaining rider control on each side of the mouth. Some horses may prefer the rounder lozenge or oval version. 04 of 15 Dr. Bristol Credit: PriceGrabber Also known as a Doc Bristol, this double-jointed mouthpiece features a flat, longer link at a slight angle, resembling a French link. This design increases tongue pressure. Like the French link, it has minimal nutcracker action. Continue to 5 of 15 below 05 of 15 Ball Link Credit: PriceGrabber Similar to the French link, the ball link rests on the horse's tongue, exerting pressure. This bit is slightly more severe than a French link but gentler than a Dr. Bristol, as it lacks an edge to press into the tongue. 06 of 15 Twisted Mouthpiece Credit: PriceGrabber Twisted bits, made from various materials, may have straight, mullen, or jointed mouthpieces. The twist applies strong pressure, making it one of the most severe types. A slow twist with fewer turns is less severe than a fast twist with more turns. Some equestrians use twisted bits for horses that don't respond to rounded ones. 07 of 15 Rollers Credit: K. Blocksdorf Rollers are typically made of stainless steel, copper, or both. These small rotating metal pieces encourage the horse to engage with the mouthpiece, helping relax its tongue and jaw, facilitating acceptance of the bit. However, rollers slightly increase bit severity, and some designs may cause pinching. 08 of 15 Keys Credit: PriceGrabber Keys are small, elongated metal beads found on mouthpieces used to introduce young horses to bits. Typically, three keys are attached to a center ring on the mouthpiece. Known as a mouthing bit, many trainers avoid it as it may encourage excessive play with the bit. Continue to 9 of 15 below 09 of 15 Ports Credit: K. Blocksdorf Ports feature a raised area, often an inverted "U," in the mouthpiece center, reducing tongue pressure. This prevents the horse from using its tongue to reduce bit pressure. Low ports have a slight rise, while high ports apply some palate pressure. Some ports include rollers or keys, and both English and Western bits can have ports. 10 of 15 Quarter or Half Moon Link Credit: K. Blocksdorf The quarter or half moon link is another mouthpiece type. The moon offers space for the tongue, and the double joint reduces the nutcracker action compared to a single joint. 11 of 15 Thick or Thin Bit Credit: K. Blocksdorf Generally, a thicker bit creates a softer effect on the horse's mouth. However, horses with a low palate or large tongue may find thick bits uncomfortable. A thinner mouthpiece is usually more severe, concentrating pressure on a narrow area in the horse's mouth. 12 of 15 Hollow Mouthpiece Credit: PriceGrabber A hollow mouthpiece is lighter than a solid material bit. Many horses carry this bit comfortably due to its weight. Continue to 13 of 15 below 13 of 15 Wire Bit Credit: PriceGrabber Wire mouthpieces, which can be straight, jointed, or twisted, are very severe. Their thinness and any twists greatly concentrate pressure in the horse's mouth. Consequently, many people consider wire mouthpieces cruel. 14 of 15 Chain Mouthpiece Credit: PriceGrabber Chain mouthpieces utilize link or bicycle chain. These bits are very severe and typically frowned upon. 15 of 15 Spade Bit Credit: PriceGrabber The spade bit, rooted in vaquero tradition, is a highly technical mouthpiece used only after a horse undergoes extensive schooling. The spade contacts the horse's palate when the reins are pulled, applying significant pressure. In inexperienced hands, this can damage the horse's mouth. It is not suitable for training horses or correcting habits, such as pulling or head tossing. Explore more: Horses Horse Stables & Equipment