HARNESSING THE HORSE 397 



too much is expected from the bit alone. Some persons 

 seem to think that by using a severe bit they should be 

 able to control the horse, even though he has not been 

 properly trained. Because of this feeling many types of 

 bits have been devised to meet the various and peculiar 

 habits of the horse, most of which have been designated 

 to punish him and to irritate the sensitive parts, thus 

 defeating the object they were devised to accomplish. 

 In the control of the horse it must be remembered that 

 if the bit is to be effective, it is essential that the bars of 

 the mouth retain their natural sensitiveness, which can 

 be attained by the use of an easy and light bit handled 

 with care. 



Bridle bits may be classified in two ways : First, ac- 

 cording to their form, such as straight bar, jointed and 

 curb ; and, second, according to their function, as mild, 

 medium and severe. The straight bar bit consists of a 

 solid mouthpiece without lever action. It is the mildest 

 form of bit, as there is a minimum amount of 

 pressure on the bars of the horse's mouth. The 

 jointed or snaffle bit consists of a jointed mouthpiece, 

 also without lever action. This is a mild bit, although 

 considerable pressure may be brought to bear upon the 

 bars of the horse's mouth. Curb bits are made in a num- 

 ber of styles, but each consists primarily of a solid mouth- 

 piece, which may be straight or slightly curved. This bit 

 is used with a curb chain or strap attached and a lever 

 action is obtained, the efficiency of which depends on the 

 manner in which the bit and chain are arranged. There 

 are also a number of styles of severe bits upon the mar- 

 ket, each having for its main object that of punishment, 

 which is always to be avoided, as it destroys the natural 

 sensitiveness of the mouth. These bits usually consist 

 of double bars so arranged that when drawn tightly by 

 the lines they have a tendency to pinch the jaws and may 

 cause the horse much pain. (Fig. 174.) 



The straight bar bit is useful for horses with tender 



