How to Use a Horse Pelham Bit

People unfamiliar with riding horses may not realize how many different types of bits are available. Different types of bits and bridles are used for different types of horses and in various situations. A Pelham bit is not suggested for novice riders as it makes use of two reins, which may be difficult for beginner riders. If you feel you're ready to use a Pelham bit, here's how.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Place the Pelham bit into the horse's mouth. It should be placed lower than a snaffle bit, just touching the corners of the horse's mouth without too much pressure.
2. Adjust the curb chain so that it lies flatly against the groove of the horse's chin alongside the jaw. Adjust the curb chain so that it comes into use only when the curb ring is rotated 45 degrees.
3. Mount the horse. Hold one set of reins in one hand and the other set in the other hand. The reins for the curb control raising and lowering the horse's head with pressure on his jaw and the reins for the bit, or the snaffle reins, control how high or low he holds his head while you're riding.
4. Start by controlling the horse with the snaffle reins at first, especially if she has been trained with a snaffle bit. Allow slack in the curb rein and apply more tension to the snaffle rein.
5. Work between applying tension and easing off the two reins until you get the horse's head positioned exactly the way you want it. Then start to take pressure off the snaffle rein and give more tension to the curb rein until you're guiding the horse using the curb rein more than the snaffle.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid using a Pelham bit with only one rein. This doesn't allow for a firm curb or snaffle effect and doesn't make the best use of the bit.
• Pelhams have different types of mouth peices. Try going for one similar to the snaffle your horse goes in or slightly softer mouth peice to begin with.