The Shires Full Cheek Eggbutt Snaffle is a classical, highly supportive training bit designed specifically for young, green or uneducated horses. It combines the targeted lateral steering assistance of a full cheek bit with the pinched-lip prevention of a fixed eggbutt joint. Constructed entirely from high-grade stainless steel, this bit provides standard, clear communication cues to guide a developing horse into a steady contact and consistent rhythm.
Key Specifications:
- Mouthpiece Thickness: 15mm.
- Cheek Height/ Shank Length: 165mm.
- Mouthpiece Design and Material: Traditional single-joint in high-polish, solid stainless steel that is durable, tasteless, and rust-resistant.
How it Works:
- Enhanced Lateral Steering: The extended vertical cheeks sit flush against the outside of the horse's muzzle. When a turning rein aid is applied, the opposite cheek bar pushes gently against the face, giving a clear structural signal that pushes the horse's head in the desired direction.
- Prevention of Mouth Pull-Through: The long full cheeks physically block the bit from being accidentally pulled sideways through the mouth if a young horse panics, resists, or runs out through the shoulder.
- Pinch-Free Stability: The fixed eggbutt design joins the mouthpiece directly to the cheek bars. Because there are no sliding loose rings, the bit remains perfectly stable across the tongue, completely eliminating the risk of pinching the sensitive corners of the horse's lips.
- Classic Nutcracker Action: The single-jointed mouthpiece collapses into a traditional V-shape when rein pressure is applied. This mechanism focuses direct pressure onto the lower bars of the jaw and the outer edges of the tongue to reinforce prompt stopping and slowing cues.
This bit is fully legal for British Dressage (BD) and FEI competitions.