Sweet Iron Kimblewick Locked

The Sweet Iron Kimblewick Locked Bit is a specialised bit combining the properties of sweet iron, a Kimblewick design, and a locked mechanism for control. Here’s a breakdown of its features and how it works:

Key Features of the Sweet Iron Kimblewick Locked Bit:

Sweet Iron Material:

Sweet iron is a popular material used in horse bits because it rusts slightly over time, giving it a natural taste that encourages horses to salivate more. The increased salivation can help the horse relax and soften their mouth, improving acceptance of the bit. The taste and slight oxidation make it a gentler option compared to traditional steel bits.

Kimblewick Design:

The Kimblewick is a type of cheeked bit with a lower port and reins attached to the rings or a fixed point of the cheek. This design gives the rider more leverage and control, especially in strong horses or those that are difficult to manage.

The Kimblewick has a slightly angled action, which provides poll pressure as well as pressure on the horse’s mouth. It can be particularly useful for horses that need more guidance but are sensitive to more severe bits.

The design is similar to a Pelham bit, but the Kimblewick is simpler, typically requiring fewer rein attachments.

Locked Mechanism:

The locked feature in this bit refers to the mechanism that prevents the bit from moving freely in the horse's mouth. The locked action ensures that the bit’s leverage effect is controlled and doesn’t move too much, giving the rider more consistent control.

In this bit, the locked action helps to prevent the bit from sliding around excessively and stabilizes the pressure applied when reins are engaged. The fixed position helps to ensure the rider's aids are clear and precise.

Effect on the Horse:

The combination of mouth pressure, poll pressure, and leverage from the Kimblewick design makes it a good choice for strong, eager, or less responsive horses. The sweet iron material helps make the bit more comfortable and more acceptable to the horse.

This bit is often used to encourage more responsiveness from horses without resorting to more severe bits like curb bits.