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Shank Snaffle Bits

Shank Snaffle Bits
Shank Snaffle Bits
Outfit your horse with a shank snaffle bit to improve your hand aids while you ride. Shop our large selection of shank snaffle bits to choose the perfect bit for you and your western horse.
Myler HBT Shank Low Port Comfort Snaffle Bit
$161.99
Free Shipping
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 21 Reviews
Dutton Teardrop Dog Bone Snaffle Bit
$119.99
Free Shipping
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 15 Reviews
Myler Black Seven Shank Low Port Comfort Snaffle Bit
$171.99
Free Shipping
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 3 Reviews
Dutton Swept Back Dog Bone Snaffle Bit
$119.99
Free Shipping
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 12 Reviews
Myler Comfort Snaffle with Copper Roller
$173.99
Free Shipping
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 19 Reviews
Schneiders® Twisted Wire Snaffle Bit
$74.99
$49.99
save 33%
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 9 Reviews
Schneiders® Sweet Iron Argentine Snaffle Bit
$74.99
$49.99
save 33%
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 10 Reviews
Schneiders® Jointed Training Snaffle
$59.99
$39.99
save 33%
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 20 Reviews
Schneiders® Tom Thumb Snaffle
$35.99
$24.99
save 31%
The average rating for this product is 4.5 out of 5 stars 8 Reviews
Schneiders® Swept Back Junior Cow Horse Western Snaffle Bit
$74.99
$49.99
save 33%
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 6 Reviews
Metalab F.G. Non-Collapse Shank Snaffle Bit
$74.99
$49.99
save 33%
The average rating for this product is 5 out of 5 stars 26 Reviews

When to use a Shank Snaffle Bit

A shank snaffle bit is a bit with a snaffle mouthpiece and shanks on either side of the mouthpiece. These shanks make the bit a good tool for green horses who may not obey rein aids. There are many different variations of shank snaffle bits but here are the main two:

The Long Shank Snaffle Bit

The long shank snaffle bit has long shanks on either side of the bit to provide the rider with more leverage to communicate with the horse. This kind of shank snaffle bit is more severe than the short shank snaffle as it provides more leverage.

The Short Shank Snaffle Bit

The short shank snaffle bit has shorter shanks on either side of the bit. This bit still provides the rider with leverage but it is less severe than bits with longer shanks.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Shank Snaffle Bit

What is a shank snaffle bit?

A shank snaffle bit is a popular bit used by western riders with a jointed snaffle mouthpiece and shanks on either side of the bit that connect to the reins. Shank bits for horses have a variety of mouthpiece options from the single jointed snaffle with shanks to a ported mouthpiece with shanks. In addition to action, shank bits are also available in various materials such as stainless steel, copper, rubber coated, and sweet iron.

Why use a short shank bit?

You would use a Short Shank Bit if you’re an experienced rider who is trying to teach a green horse to obey hand aids correctly. Short shank bits are not as severe as the longer shanked bits, but they still put more pressure on the horse to stop than other simpler bits.

Do you need a chin strap with a shank bit?

Yes, it is recommended to use a curb strap with a shank bit so the bit will not rotate too far in the horse's mouth.

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