The Lorina Flexi Jointed Continental 3 Ring Gag (often called a Dutch Gag) works entirely different from the Cheltenham Gag. Instead of requiring gag cheeks through the bit, it connects directly to a standard bridle cheekpiece using its integrated stainless steel rings. This specific design balances strong rider control with a gentler mouth feel, combining a leverage frame with a soft, flexible mouthpiece.
Key Specifications:
- The mouthpiece is coated in a durable, FDA-approved polyurethane plastic. It is warmer to the touch and softer than standard stainless steel, making it excellent for sensitive or young horses that still require extra brakes.
- Inside the flexible plastic is a sturdy, flexible stainless steel core to ensure the bit cannot snap or break under tension.
- The single joint creates a classic "nutcracker" action, applying pressure to the tongue, lips, and bars of the mouth when the reins are engaged.
How to Attach it to a Standard Bridle:
Unlike a Cheltenham gag, you do not need to take your bridle apart to fit this bit.
- Top Small Ring: Buckle the standard cheekpieces of your bridle directly to the topmost small ring on each side.
- Main Large Ring: This sits inline with the mouthpiece. This is your baseline snaffle ring.
- Lower Small Rings: These extend downward to create the leverage shanks.
Usage Tips:
You should ideally use this bit with two reins or a single rein attached to roundings to prevent continuous, harsh leverage on the horse's poll.
- Snaffle Setting (Mildest): Attach one rein to the main large ring. This acts as a standard jointed snaffle with zero poll pressure.
- Middle Ring Setting (Moderate): Attach your second rein to the ring directly below the main snaffle ring. When pulled, it introduces a mild gag action and poll pressure, encouraging the horse to lower its head.
- Bottom Ring Setting (Strongest): Attach the second rein to the lowest ring. This maximizes the leverage shank, drastically increasing poll pressure and bit raise inside the mouth.
- Roundings: If you must use a single rein, loop a leather strap (rounding) between the main ring and a lower ring, then attach your rein to the rounding loop.
This bit is strictly forbidden in British Dressage (BD) and FEI dressage tests.