The Shires Double Jointed Copper Lozenge Pelham is a classical leverage bit designed to provide extra braking power and vertical refinement for strong horses. It combines traditional Pelham shanks with a kind, mouth-conforming double-jointed centre. Unlike traditional straight-bar or single-jointed Pelhams, this design incorporates a central copper lozenge to protect the tongue and palate. It is commonly used in fast work like showjumping, eventing, and hunting, as well as in the showing ring to mimic the look of a full double bridle with less structural bulk.
Key Specifications:
- Mouthpiece Design and Material: Double-jointed with an oval, central copper lozenge in high-polish, rust-resistant stainless steel shanks paired with a warm, salivation-inducing solid copper lozenge.
- Mouthpiece Thickness: 16mm.
- Cheek Height/ Shank Length: 130mm (for 5" sizes).
How it Works:
- Elimination of Palate Pressure: The double-jointed lozenge contours naturally over the horse's tongue, laying completely flat. This entirely removes the sharp upward "V-shape" nutcracker action against the sensitive roof of the mouth found in single-jointed bits.
- Warmth and Salivation Acceptance: The central lozenge is made of solid copper, which naturally retains heat and warms up much faster than cold stainless steel. This pleasant texture stimulates salivation, encourages active mouthing, and coaxes a tense jaw to soften.
- Muted Curb Action: Because the mouthpiece is broken into three sections rather than a solid bar, it wraps slightly around the lower jaw. This configuration slightly dampens the immediate, harsh sharpness of the curb chain, shifting initial hand pressure onto the bars of the mouth instead.
- Single Rein Compatibility: For riders who struggle to manage double reins, it can be fitted with leather Pelham roundings. A single rein attaches to the loop of the rounding, distributing hand aids into a simultaneous blend of snaffle and curb action.
- Dual-Rein Mechanical Leverage: Designed to be ridden with a traditional two-rein system:
- The Snaffle Rein: Attaches to the large upper ring to provide direct, unassisted contact for steering and framing.
- The Curb Rein: Connects to the small bottom loop. When engaged, it pulls the shanks forward, applying downward containment pressure over the poll and pulling the curb chain snug against the chin groove for immediate stopping power.
This bit is not legal for British Dressage (BD) or FEI Competitions but widely permissible for Showjumping and Cross Country phases.