Introduction to Equestrian Bit Collection

Bits have been used to control the horse via its mouth since the 2nd millennium BC. Many materials have been used, bronze and iron, being the most common. Rope too, was attached to a bridle and used to guide the horse. Bronze bits dating from this period have been found in southwestern Iran. Scythians, Hittites, Mitanni, Egyptians all utilized this mode of control.

The designs of bits have little changed, the most common being the snaffle. Equally the straight bar and the cathedral curb were common. Today bits are made from iron, stainless steel, copper, rubber, plastic and composite materials. But if we look through the old catalogues of horse requisites very little has changed with regard to style and type.