Selecting a Bit

1. THE MYLER BITTING SYSTEM
2. Bitting Assistant
3. Equine Mouth Structure
4. Test Your Current Bit
5. Pointers

Myler Bitting System
Every horse and rider combination has specific needs and therefore require the proper bit. As the needs of horse and rider change over time and progress, it may become necessary to upgrade to a different bit, or downgrade depending upon the level of your horse’s training.

A rider's experience is also a consideration for selecting a bit. Are you a beginner, intermediate or advanced rider? How are your hands? If you are building basic skills and/or have overactive hands, be mindful of bits which send too quick of a signal, including long shanks and/or straight shanks.

In order to properly bit your horse it is essential to evaluate all of the factors below.

Level 1
Horse Level The Myler Bitting System is a graduated system, meaning that as your horse learns and progresses through his training, you will change the way you communicate with him by re-bitting him periodically. Each Myler Bit is designed to use select pressure points for the best communication for that Level.
	Horse has just begun training or has had little training
	Is learning basic gaits, transitions and obedience
	Has begun to “break at the poll”
Level 2
	Basic training is established
	Relaxed at the poll; holds position when rein is released
	Possesses more complex skills such as bending, collection, side passes and lead changes
Level 2-3
	A Level 2 horse with a good mindset, can benefit from more tongue relief.
	A Level 3 horse with advanced skills but requiring more control; not ready for Level 3 freedom.
Level 3
	Horse considered broke or finished; willing to obey commands
	Relaxed at the poll
	Possesses advanced skills; works well off seat, legs and hands

Level 1
Mouthpiece Level Though some categories overlap, training and skill levels correlate to the three levels of Myler Bits, all of them suitable for both Western and English riding. (If you compete, check with your sport's governing body to confirm which bits are legal for your event.)
	Feature curved mouthpiece that allows horse to swallow.
	Uses tongue pressure and bar pressure - working mostly off of the tongue. Myler Bits® distribute tongue pressure more evenly than traditional designs
	Uses restrict and release action
	May offer curb or poll pressure depending on cheek or shank design
	May offer Independent Side Movement™
Level 2
	Features curved mouthpiece
	Uses less tongue pressure and more bar pressure, with the mouthpiece rolling on the bars. Applies pressure across the tongue versus more in the center. May collapse into the bars
	May offer curb and/or poll pressure depending on the cheek or shank design
	May offer Independent Side Movement™
Level 2-3
	Features curved, ported mouthpiece for tongue relief
	Offers variety of pressure points. Uses tongue pressure and more bar pressure, rolling on the bars. May collapse into the bars
	May offer palate pressure depending on port height
	May offer curb and/or poll pressure depending on cheek design
	May offer Independent Side Movement™
Level 3
	Features curved mouthpiece with tongue relief
	Offers a variety of pressure points to take the horse as soft as possible. Uses mostly bar pressure, rolling on the bars
	May offer palate pressure depending on port height
	May use curb and/or poll pressure depending on the cheek or shank design
	May offer Independent Side Movement™

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