The Jonathan Field Horsemanship bitting program advocates using a bit to achieve a greater, more refined communication – not one of force, fear or pain. It is a refinement of skills for both horse and rider. “A bit does not train the horse” – Dale, Ron and Bob Myler. This is the defining principle that aligned Jonathan Field and the Mylers. A bit in fact does not train a horse. You can prepare a horse entirely without ever using a bit. With a proper understanding of bits and a horse’s anatomy, many horses can have a more positive experience because the communication will be clearer and more concise using a bit: Only with the proper knowledge and approach. In this new line, we have developed a unique line of Myler/JF English bits with sweet iron mouthpieces to make the bit taste better for the horse. The copper inlay encourages salivation.
Bit designs have a different focus, but primarily they move towards one of two objectives: Disengage, bend and de-power or engage, straighten and power a horse.
Explaining Bit Pressures:
Cheek and Lip:
This pressure is created when the reins are engaged.
Tongue Pressure:
The tongue is a sensitive part of a horse; pressure on this area can be uncomfortable and challenging to swallow. The goal of this program is to have relief through the entire process without any periods of sustained tongue pressure.
Bar Pressure:
The Bar is between the incisors and premolars and is simply skin-covered bone. It is highly sensitive. Bar pressure encourages your horse to flex at the Pole to find relief, much like tongue pressure.
Palate Pressure:
JFH bits are not active palate pressure bits as the ports are no higher than 3/4″. At this foundational level of horsemanship, palate pressure would confuse your horse and cause unnecessary pain and discomfort.
Chin Pressure:
Chin Pressure is applied when a curb strap is attached to the bit and the reins are connected to the shank. This outside-of-the-mouth pressure can relieve the inside of the mouth because it helps disperse pressure over a greater surface area. Jonathan Field Horsemanship introduces curb action in the intermediate to advanced levels through the Western-style bits, which have shanks.
Pole Pressure:
Very subtle in comparison to other pressures and is only activated when the curb is attached to a shanked bit.
Development through the Jonathan Field Horsemanship Program teaches techniques which don’t require longer contact with the reins until the bits are giving maximum tongue relief.
*These bits are not available in stores. Available online here only.
FAQ’s:
Bit Size?
In this line, we offer only a 5″ size for the bits. In fact, all of Jonathan’s current horses use a 5″ bit. People often express concern about the exact fit in terms of width, but there is a certain degree of flexibility allowed with these particular bits. The rule that Jonathan uses for sizing and fit with these eggbutt or D-ring bits in this line is as follows:
- If the horse’s lips are just touching the bit but not being compressed, that is acceptable.
- If there is a quarter-inch or slightly more space on each side of the bit, this is also completely fine.
Due to the flat surface of a D-ring or eggbutt bit, there is more tolerance for variance in fit compared to a loose ring. This design allows for a comfortable and secure fit for the horse without causing discomfort or compromising communication between horse and rider.
Remember, it’s always essential to ensure the proper fit for your horse’s comfort and well-being, so it’s a good idea to consult with an experienced professional if you’re uncertain about the fit of your horse’s bit.
Picking a Bit?
Once you have decided whether you’re going English or Western, the decision becomes more about the combined level of the horse and rider. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right bit for your needs:
- If the horse requires a lot of bend, lateral movement, side-to-side disengagement, and precise control of the shoulder and hindquarters, then Bit 1 in both English and Western styles is the direction you want to go.
- If the horse is further along in their training and you are seeking more contact to keep the horse straight and working through their body with a higher degree of flexion, you will want to consider Bit 2 or 3 in E or W. These options relieve some tongue pressure and provide a stiffer bit for more refined communication.
Sweet Iron Bits?
Sweet Iron bits are commonly used in Western riding. The oxidization process of Sweet Iron creates a taste that horses find appealing, which encourages salivation and promotes relaxation and acceptance of the bit. This is because Sweet Iron is a live metal, as opposed to “dead steel” where all the minerals have been cooked out.
Many English riders prefer the appearance of stainless steel bits, as they resist rust and oxidation, maintaining a shiny appearance. However, in this unique collaboration between Jonathan Field Horsemanship and the Myler Bit Line, we have created a line of English bits that combine the benefits of both materials. These bits feature Sweet Iron mouthpieces for enhanced taste and horse comfort, and stainless steel rings to maintain a polished appearance that is popular in the English discipline. Bottom line, we made English bits that horse’s will like better that still look good on the outside!
How is port Measured?
Measure by putting a ruler across the base of the port (the rounded edges) and measuring to the top of the barrel, to create fixed, consistent points for measuring.
The overall height of the Bit 1 Mouthpiece is ¾”. The actual opening under the barrel port is ¼”.
The overall height of Bit 2 & 3 mouthpiece is 1 ¼”. The opening of the port is 1”.
Bit Return Policy
At Jonathan Field company LTD. we value your satisfaction and strive to provide you with the best products for your horse. However, due to hygiene and safety concerns, we cannot accept returns for used bits. Our return policy for bits is as follows:
- Return Period: You may return the bit within 30 days of the delivery date, provided it meets our return conditions.
- Return Conditions: To be eligible for a return, the bit must be in new, unused condition, with all original tags and packaging intact. We cannot accept returns for bits that show any signs of use or wear.
- Trial Suggestions: We recommend giving your horse six or seven rides to determine if a bit is suitable for them. If you’re uncertain about a bit, you can sometimes find a retailer who offers a trial program or bit-renting service, allowing you to test the bit. Myler does have similar mouth pieces outside of the JFH Myler Bit line. Additionally, Jonathan typically carries loaner bits on his clinic tours, which offers a great opportunity for people to test the bits at no charge.
- Return Shipping: The customer is responsible for the return shipping costs. We recommend using a shipping method with tracking to ensure the safe return of the product. Once we receive the returned bit and confirm that it meets our return conditions, we will process the refund.
- Processing Time: Please allow 10 business days for the refund to be processed once we receive the returned bit.
- Contact Us: To initiate a return, please contact our customer service team at info@jonathanfield.net with your order number and details about the reason for the return. Our team will provide further instructions on how to proceed with the return process.
Thank you for your understanding and adherence to our return policy, which ensures the safety and well-being of all our customers and their horses. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer service team.
