Bit Question - Triangular Mouth Bit?

[sherriawright]

I am using a full cheek snafffle bit for my 4 year old paint mare. It is a pretty basic bit. Anway, I think according to APHA rules, that this bit is illegal, yet a full cheek corkscrew, twisted wire and correction bit are fine. I think they are calling my bit a triangular mouth or perhaps I am reading the rules wrong? The triangular mouth looks exactly what I am using, but I can't find any help on it.

In case anyone wants to look at what I am talking about, it's on page 107 of the handbook.

Sherri

[beth55051]

If it is a triangular mouth it is illegal in just about everything that I know of except maybe jumpers or x-country.
A triangular bit is just that. The bottom of the "triangle" would rest on the bars/toungue of the horse and of course dig in when pressure is applied.

But a slow twist which is basically a square piece twisted is generally legal and not quite as harsh as long as the edges are rounded.

I think the main reason why they are illegal is because it is too easy for a dishonest person to "sharpen" the edges and make it into a torture device.

Personally I'm not fond of any bit with an "edge" on it. I prefer smooth rounded mouthpieces or a "wrapped" mouthpiece.

[sherriawright]

Ok, that is NOT what I am using. I am just using a full cheek snaffle then, no twist or anything fancy to it. I was told it's the gentlest bit. The picture wasn't too clear and it looked like it was just a snaffle bit, wasn't sure why they were calling it a triangular bit.

Thanks for clearing that up.

Sherri

[beth55051]

Sure thing, no problemo.