The Kimberwick Bit
The Kimberwick bit (or Kimblewick bit) is named after the British town, Kimblewick, where it was created.
Kimberwick bits have a D ring cheek piece, typically with several rein slots, an attached curb chain and typically a straight ported mouthpiece. Kimberwick bits work by applying leveraged pressure to the poll of the horse and are considered a strong bit.
Although most kimberwick bits are ported, there are other variations utilizing jointed twisted wire or jointed with rollers.
When the Kimberwick bit is designed with multiple rein slots, it allows the rider to decide the amount of leverage applied to the horse. The lower the ring used the more leverage is applied. While the top ring applies less leverage than the bottom ring, it still applies leveraged pressure.
When a curb chain or curb strap is attached to a kimberwick, it keeps the bit in the proper place inside the horse’s mouth, reducing the risk of injury. A curb chain or curb strap applies pressure to the chin and helps activate the bit on the bars of the mouth and properly apply pressure to the poll when the rider cues with the reins. If you are show rider, you should check with the rules and regulations of your discipline as Kimberwick bits are illegal in some competitions.