11,5 - 12 cm wide Bits

Western bits in 11.5 to 12 cm

These sizes correspond to 4½ to 4¾ inches and suit small horses, ponies, Arabians and narrow heads. 8 models are available here.

How to measure mouth width

Take a thin wooden dowel or a piece of string and hold it where the bit would sit – on the bars, the toothless gap between the incisors and the molars. Mark left and right at the corners of the lips and measure the distance. That is the mouth width. For jointed bits add roughly half a centimetre per side so nothing pinches; curb bits are fitted closer and sit almost flush.

When the bit is too small

A bit that is too narrow presses on the corners of the mouth and rubs. The horse gets busy in the mouth, throws its head or bends less well to one side – behaviour that is quickly blamed on training when the equipment is at fault. When in doubt, half a centimetre too much beats too little.

Looking further

Which type of bit suits horse and rider is covered in western bits. Other sizes: 12.5–13 cm and 13.5–14 cm.

Frequently asked questions

Which horses take 11.5–12 cm?
Ponies, small horses, Arabians and narrow heads. Larger Quarter Horses usually need more.

How do I measure mouth width?
With a dowel or string on the bars, marking left and right at the corners of the lips and measuring.

What happens if the bit is too narrow?
It presses and rubs at the corners of the mouth. The horse becomes restless, throws its head or bends worse on one side.