Curb-bits Improve the Action 



137 



overdraw check-rein and by holding his nose in with 

 the curb-bit, he will when urged and restrained ^^step 

 up" instead of stepping forward. 



Curb-bits are so constructed that different de- 

 grees of leverage can be exerted, and they may be- 

 come instruments of torture in the hands of the 

 inexperienced (Fig. 94, 34 to 36). If properly used, 



Fig. 30. — Coach horse properly bitted to favor action. 



however, they are really easier in many mouths 

 than less severe bits, as the leverage they bring to 

 bear will make some horses bend that cannot be 

 made to do so without them. As soon as the horse 

 bends his head, very little pressure need be exerted 

 to hold the nose in. Never pull more than the 

 exigency of the case requires, for injury and irri- 

 tating sores will result. To encourage high stepping, 

 simply exert sufficient pressure on the lines to hold 

 the head up and the nose in (Figs. 30 and 31). 



