When to Use a Twisted Snaffle Bit

If your horse tends to pull, get strong, lean in your hands, or has a hard mouth and needs a little extra sharpness when it comes to getting their attention, a twisted snaffle bit or twisted wire snaffle bit may be necessary. Twisted snaffle bits are used for both English and Western disciplines and have benefits for both types of riders. There are different levels of twisted bits with each having a purpose that correlates to the severity of the twist:

• Single Joint Twisted Snaffle Bits: These bits give a strong, clear signal on the bars of the mouth and tongue and come in various styles from a slow twist, corkscrew, copper twist, with d-rings or full cheek sides.
• Single Twisted Wire Snaffle Bits: These bits can give riders a more controlled feel of the horse's mouth with a light feel.
• Slow Twist or Square Twist Bits: Popular in the hunters and hunt seat under saddle, these bits give you a little extra “bite” when needed while still allowing for a light feel when riding on a looser rein.

Frequently Asked Questions About Twisted Wire Snaffle Bits

What is a twisted snaffle bit used for?

Twisted snaffle bits are commonly used for horses that can have hard mouths, pull or hang in your hands, get strong, or need a little extra correction when needed while still being able to have a light feel on their mouth when they are listening and respecting your hands. A slow twist or square twist bit type snaffle bit is popular among hunter riders when you want your horse to be light in your hand yet come back to you between jumps when you need them to be adjustable at a moment's notice. Twisted wire snaffle bits can offer even more control for a horse that needs just a little bit more correction.

Want to learn more about snaffle bits? Check out Horse Bits 101: What is a Snaffle Bit?