Curb Gag
A Curb Gag is a kind of gag with a cord through the bit and behind the chin.
Taking the reins pushes the bit up into the mouth and puts pressure on the lower jaw / chin.
A Curb Gag is a kind of gag with a cord through the bit and behind the chin.
Taking the reins pushes the bit up into the mouth and puts pressure on the lower jaw / chin.
A curb gag is similar to a elevator bit, but its action is slightly different. With an elevator bit, you attach the cords to the cheekpiece. With the curb gag, there is an additional ring on the bit ring. The extra ring is attached to the cheekpiece, and the cord goes through the bit's eyelets. This cord runs behind the chin, causing the bit to apply pressure to the chin and lower jaw when there is extra rein pressure, instead of behind the ears.
Always use a chin guard or a cord with a leather chin piece. The lower jaw of a horse is very sensitive and has only a thin layer of skin. This bit is only suitable for strong and hot-blooded horses that seek contact with a basic bit. The horse is asked to lift its head with rein pressure, which can be advantageous for horses that tend to hang too much on the bit and dive forward.
A curb gag is often used in equestrian sports by professionals. It is a sidepiece that should be used with care. The bit has a lever effect, making it suitable only for horses that are strong in the hand. The horse should have a solid foundation before being ridden with a curb gag. At HorseOnline, you can test the bit before purchasing it. A curb gag is FEI-approved but is only allowed to be used for show jumping competitions.