Choosing the Best Kimberwick Bit
A kimberwick bit is a curb styled bit with a slotted d-ring that connects to the reins and allows for different levels of leverage. This bit also comes with a curb chain that goes under the horse's chin to add extra pressure. The bit can also have different mouth pieces, like a jointed mouthpiece, port mouthpiece, wire mouthpiece, roller mouthpiece, or a combination of those options.
The kimberwick bit is also considered a type of correction bit. Many of the kimberwick correction bits have a higher port than other bits. They also can be used with double reins to give the rider more precision when giving the horse directions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kimberwick Bits
What are Kimblewick bits used for?
Kimberwick bits are typically used for stronger horses who might pull or need a curbed bit to understand when to lower their head. This is a great bit for young riders who ride ponies or horses that ignore rein aids.
How does a Kimberwick work?
The kimberwick bit works by allowing the rider to apply different levels of pressure to the horse’s mount in order to achieve the desired response. The Uexter Kimberwick bit has slots that the reins go through to keep the level of leverage consistent on the bit. The lower the rein is on the bit the more pressure will be applied to the horse's mouth. The normal kimberwick design works in a different way. If the rider lowers their hands the rein will go down the ring and apply stronger pressure, while if the rider raises their hands less leverage will be applied.
The curb chain prevents the bit from rotating too much in the horse's mouth. It is also used to apply pressure to the horse's chin when it is being used. The bit also applies pressure to the bars of the mouth, poll, and tongue depending on the mouthpiece.
What type of bit is a Kimberwick?
The kimberwick bit is a curb style bit. This is because the further down the reins are on the d-ring the more pressure the horse will feel when the rider gives rein aids.
What is the difference between a Kimberwick and a Pelham?
The main difference between a kimberwick bit and a pelham bit is the length of the shanks and the overall style of the bit. The kimberwick does not have shanks, but instead has a d-ring with slots for the reins. The pelham bit has shanks with rings to attach the reins. These bits are often used by experienced riders to enhance the precision of their hand aids.
Can you use a Kimberwick bit without the chain?
No, a curb chain should always be used on the kimberwick bit to prevent the bit from rotating too much in the horse's mouth. Not using a curb chain could potentially hurt your horse's mouth.