The Continental Cheek Bit

The continental bit is know by many names including the bubble bit, dutch gag and 3 ring bit. Some confusion can arise as the correct way to refer to a bit with 4 rings in the cheek i.e. a small top ring, large main ring and two further small rings, is as a 3 ring bit. This bit is often called a 4 ring bit, and the shorter style continental bit as a 3 ring (only one small ring top and bottom) which is incorrect and can lead to much confusion!

Continental bits were invented to try and emulate the effect of draw reins on show jumpers in the ring, and as such should not be looked upon as a particularly kind bit (especially with some of the more sever mouthpieces) as they are capable of a lot of leverage and hence poll pressure.

Being a cross between a pelham and a gag, often referred to as a Dutch gag this cheek causes the bit to raise up in the horses mouth slightly as the true gag does, but also asks the horse to lower at the same time through the use of poll pressure which can send quite a confusing signal.

They are not as strong as a pelham, and there is no doubt that some horses, particularly those that need persuasion to break at the poll, do seem to like the action of the cheek as it gives control without a curb action.

The 2 ring continental is a more modern addition and has become very popular for horses that do not need the strength of the 3rd ring and thus does away with the bulk of a spare ring. Correctly, both the 2 or 3 ring should be used with two reins, one on the main ring, and another on a lower ring to ensure the action is properly monitored by the rider. Care should be taken with fixed mouth versions of this horse bit as they can tend to ‘stick’ in their action and not release immediately which can cause confusion and fear for the horse so are best avoided if this is the case.