The ProTack Hanging Cheek Jointed Snaffle (also commonly known as a half cheek snaffle or Filet Baucher bit) is a classical training bit designed to encourage a stable, quiet contact and softer head carriage. It features a fixed hanging cheek structure paired with a traditional single-jointed mouthpiece. This configuration is ideal for sensitive horses that get anxious in loose rings, as well as horses that tend to poke their noses out or brace against a direct hand aid.
Key Specifications:
- Mouthpiece Thickness: 12mm
- Cheek Height: 110mm from the top bridle ring to the base of the main ring.
- Mouthpiece Design and Material: Single-jointed in high-polish, heavy-duty stainless steel that is tasteless, durable, and rust-resistant.
How it Works:
- Fixed Cheek Stability: The bridle’s cheekpieces attach directly to the separate small upper loops. This suspends the bit cleanly inside the mouth, keeping the mouthpiece perfectly still across the tongue and bars while completely eliminating sideways sliding or lip pinching.
- The Baucher Effect: When contact is taken on the main rings, the upper arms tilt forward slightly. This rotation lifts the mouthpiece slightly off the sensitive bars of the mouth, reducing localised tongue pressure. At the same time, it guides the horse into a softer vertical frame by applying a very mild containment cue through the poll.
- Classic Nutcracker Action: The single-jointed centre collapses into a classic V-shape when rein pressure is actively engaged. This applies targeted pressure to the bars of the lower jaw and the outer edges of the tongue, providing a clear and immediate stopping or slowing cue.
This bit is fully legal for British Dressage (BD) and FEI competitions.