[canine46]

Looking to replace this one that has started pitting, old horse has used this one for a couple of years and doesn't tolerate really any other bits.

So any idea of what maybe besides a TT would it be called, where i can get one, etc. thanks so much

notice the really short shanks and the mouthpiece is 51/4.

And yes i know alot of people have thoughts on TT, but..... our old horse likes it, goes well in it and no I don't want to change him to a different bit.

If you can be of help, finding another bit like this it would be greatly appreciated

[CharliesGirl]

I think it's called an American Gag? Bit rusty on my bits though. Haha oops that was totally not meant to be funny!

[CharliesGirl]

Try http://www.worldchampionhorseequipment.com/ they have a big selection

[bludejavu]

It looks similar to an Argentine Training Snaffle, although your bit has a little less curve in the shanks than mine. I have an Argentine and it is an excellent bit to graduate to a little bit before starting training with a true curb.

[canine46]

thanks for the replies, It's not an american gag, just looked that up, nope
oh well, will keep trying , please keep the ideas or info coming, it's greatly appreciated!

[Dawn]

The specific name is 'tom thumb'. You're not going to find a different name because, well, it's a tom thumb.

It's definately not an argentine snaffle as it's missing the snaffle rings (which is what makes an argentine snaffle what it is).

You should have very little problem finding another bit just like the one you have pictured.

[bludejavu]

Originally Posted by Dawn

It's definately not an argentine snaffle as it's missing the snaffle rings (which is what makes an argentine snaffle what it is).

You should have very little problem finding another bit just like the one you have pictured.

I did not say it was definitely an Argentine - just said there was a similarity. My suggestion is that if you don't find one similar to what you are using, you might want to consider an Argentine. There are multiple styles out there that are similar in control and unless he has a problem with a chin strap or chain, it might duplicate what you have pretty closely.

[Dawn]

Originally Posted by bludejavu

I did not say it was definitely an Argentine - just said there was a similarity. My suggestion is that if you don't find one similar to what you are using, you might want to consider an Argentine. There are multiple styles out there that are similar in control and unless he has a problem with a chin strap or chain, it might duplicate what you have pretty closely.

I was just pointing out the fact that it definately is not an argentine snaffle.

Argentine snaffles also typically have at least moderately long shanks. The shanks are also swept back (sometimes quite abruptly). They have a ring to place a snaffle rein (making it a good transition bit to be used with two reins). The shank to purchase ratio is typically 1:1 or close.

Tom thumbs have a short shank that is quite straight (with only being ever so slightly swept back occasionally). They can only operate as a curb bit. And the shank to purchase ratio is typically closer to 1.5:1.

Those are the main differences between the two and how they operate. Also the original bit (tom thumb) should never be used without a curb strap/chain. So I'm hoping it was just removed for the photos.

[bludejavu]

Thank you for that wonderful education Dawn. I'll be sure and put to good use with the 40+ years experience that I have in using Argentines and other bits.

[Dawn]

Originally Posted by bludejavu

Thank you for that wonderful education Dawn. I'll be sure and put to good use with the 40+ years experience that I have in using Argentines and other bits.

If you know the difference, that's great! But I'm sure there are several people reading this thread that might not know the differences between the two types of bits.

If you'll notice, I never disputed your original post. I merely clarifed that while it may look 'similar' it is not that specific bit. If I had not known the differences, I think I might have thought from your post that the bits behaved the same/nearly the same and/or possibly were the same.

By all means, if the op can't find a tom thumb (doubtful but still), an argentine snaffle might make a great alternative. But (as with all bits) you should be fully aware of how it works before using it.

If you don't think that my post was helpful to you (I do believe I detect some snide sarcasm in that last post), then by all means, skip right over it and forget you ever read it! It was afterall intended primarily for the original poster, but also for anyone else that might have wanted to read. Hopefully someone else will find it more helpful. Otherwise I just wasted a precious minute or so of my life