Sprenger has been a trusted partner for riders and horse owners worldwide for over 150 years. Priding themselves on their careful workmanship and high quality materials, Sprenger are at the forefront of bit designs that promote effective communication between horse and rider.
The bit operates as a method of communication between rider and horse, directly the rein aids to the horse’s mouth. As the mouth is one of the most sensitive parts of the horse’s body it is important to treat it very carefully. A bit should be adapted to the individual shape of a horse’s mouth and should neither be uncomfortable nor awkward for the horse in any way. Choosing the right bit allows effective communication through the reins between rider and horse – a basic requirement for correct riding.
Offering a wide variety of mouthpieces, side parts and materials, Sprenger have a solution for every horse and rider. Read on to discover more about their extensive range.
Sprenger Bit Materials
The advantage of using metal alloys for horse bits is that they have a high breaking strength and long lasting durability, and there are various types available. Copper alloys are very popular as copper has a natural oxidation process which can be used to encourage the mouthing activity of a horse. Because copper alone is fairly soft, it needs to be hardened by other metals – the metal used to harden copper has a big influence on the functionality of the bit.
Sprenger has developed two innovative bit materials based on scientific research, toxicologically tested by the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, and practically tested by professionals. Both materials increase the salivation and mouthing activity to positively influence the horse’s comfort, concentration and willingness to perform.
Sensogan
Sensogan is a further development of Sprenger’s former material, Augrigan. Sensogan metal material is an alloy of copper, manganese and zinc. Manganese hardens the copper without influencing the natural oxidation process of it. Due to the manganese being present, the alloy doesn’t require a high copper content, but achieves an equivalent oxidation behaviour as Aurigan. Plus it is easier to maintain and keeps a shiny appearance.
Being a nickel-free alloy, Sensogan eliminates the risk of allergic reactions against nickel. All Sprenger Sensogan bits are stamped with black ring on the edge of the mouthpiece.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is another material that Sprenger use for a selection of their equestrian bits. This metal is an alloy of iron, chrome and nickel, and has a high breaking strength. It is neutral in taste, has no saliva activating properties and therefore does not increase the mouthing activity of a horse.
Synthetic, Plastic & Rubber
Compared to metal bits, plastic and rubber bits are softer in the mouth, and so Sprenger recommend only using rubber bits for horses that are salivating and chewing well in order to prevent it from being uncomfortable. As the material is softer, they shouldn’t come into contact with the horse’s teeth.
Sprenger’s Duo range of horse bits feature flexible plastic mouthpieces which are food-safe, solvent free and do not contain plasticisers. All Sprenger’s Duo and rubber bits have a steel cable running through them for durability, and to prevent them from being bitten through.
Rubber generally has an ‘eraser-effect’ in the horse’s mouth, so Sprenger only using rubber bits for horses that are salivating and chewing well in order to prevent it from being uncomfortable.
Sprenger Bit Mouthpieces
Every horse is different, which is why Sprenger offer such an extensive range of bits. Some horses have a thicker tongue, leaving less room for a bit to sit in their mouth. Others can resist the rein contact, so require something that gives a clear aid without exerting too much pressure on specific points. Sprenger have various mouthpiece styles so you can find exactly what your horse needs.
It is important that any bit is well-fitted and takes into account the horse’s anatomy.
KK ULTRA Bits
The double jointed KK ULTRA bits from Sprenger get their unique and precise effect from the shortened central lozenge, which is angled forward by 45°. This means that the shape of the bit adapts perfectly to the anatomy of the horse’s mouth. They enable a gentle impact, which is the basis for a finer aid transmission. When used correctly, the horse’s confidence in the rider’s hand is enhanced – a difference you will certainly notice!
Dynamic RS Bits
Sprenger’s Dynamic RS horse bits are a further development of their KK ULTRA bits described above. In addition to the innovative 45° angle of the central section of the mouthpiece, the Dynamic RS bits also have an ergonomic shape that enables an effective and precise impact. This carefully designed shape also helps to avoids pressure on the sensitive palate.
When used correctly, the the Sprenger Dynamic RS bits promote a trusting contact even with sensitive horses, and have been found to be especially suited for horses with a thick tongue. The Dynamic RS bits with eggbutt rings are a great choice for horses that have smaller, thinner lips, as they prevent the sensitive corners of the mouth from being pinched.
WH ULTRA Bits
WH ULTRA bits are also a further development of Sprenger’s KK ULTRA series. They combine the anatomically adapted shape of the KK ULTRA mouthpiece with a unique roller set in the centre of the lozenge. When a contact is placed on the reins, the lozenge rolls gently over the middle of the tongue, thereby stimulating the sense of touch and focusing attention on the bit, which leads to better acceptance of the rein aids.
The rolling element encourages horses to play with the bit and thus promotes mouth activity and chewing, which in turn promotes relaxation of the jaw muscles. The WH ULTRA bits can lead to a relaxed topline, resulting in more harmony and suppleness when riding. Made from Sensogan, the WH ULTRA bits guarantee optimum acceptance and tolerance.
novocontact
The unique oval shape of the novocontact bits give a wider contact surface on the tongue, while ensuring that the mouthpiece of the bit isn’t too thick. This innovative design is well suited to horses with little space in their mouths.
The large contact area allows the rider to give soft rein aids without exerting pressure on the sensitive palate. The wide surface lies flush on the tongue when rein aids are applied. Only when a stronger aid is transmitted will the mouthpiece turn forward, reducing the contact area and enabling more direct aid transmission.
Made from SENSOGAN, the novocontact range is compatible with many horses:
- Single jointed novocontact models are recommended for horses that do not seek the contact properly. They also enable a soft yet targeted impact on sensitive horses.
- Double jointed novocontact bits have been found to be beneficial for horses that can occasionally become strong, but are too sensitive to bits with a stronger impact.
MAX Control
The SPRENGER MAX Control bits are a clever solution for correcting horses or if you need a stronger impact in certain situations. When used with a soft contact, the bit is comparable to any normal double jointed design. If the horse starts to go against the reins, the bit ‘locks up’ and becomes a mullen mouth. This allows for a stronger impact at that moment, but allows the bit to immediately soften once the horse reaccepts the correct contact.
TURNADO
The Sprenger TURNADO bits are shaped to allow an even distribution of pressure on each side of the tongue. Each side of these bits is the same length, and the central joint is angled at 45°. Conventional single jointed horse bits often have one side marginally longer than the other, so the pressure isn’t consistent across the mouthpiece. The even pressure distribution of the TURNADO helps to counteract a horse’s natural asymmetry.
TURNADO bits are characterised by a slightly roughened surface (sandblasting) of central area of the mouthpiece.
Pronamic
This range of bits was developed with bit specialist Heiko Schmidt-Sentek, Jessica von Bredow-Werndl and Benjamin Werndl. In addition to a curved anatomical shape, the Pronamic bits feature a slight forward angled port. They are particularly suitable for horses that have completed a correct basic training. The special shape of the mouthpiece relieves the pressure on the lower bars and is therefore particularly suitable for sensitive horses and horses with a thin tongue. The bit allows an effective impact without having to become strong.
Satinox
Sprenger’s Satinox range is available at an attractive entry-level price. With a wide selection of mouthpieces and side pieces, everyone will find what they are looking for. In the usual Sprenger quality, the bits are made of stainless steel and have an ergonomic shape that leaves plenty of room for the horse’s tongue. They ensure an even distribution of pressure which enables accurate aids to be given. The satin finish not only looks classy but also ensures a pleasant feeling in the horse’s mouth.
The Redpost Bit Bank
To help you find the bit that suits your horse the best, we are pleased to introduce the Redpost Bit Bank! This is a horse bit trial service which allows you to try a bit out with your horse with the confidence it can be easily exchanged or returned if it isn’t suitable. It features a selection of Sprenger bits with different mouthpieces and cheek options.
Each trial bit we offer is available on a trial period. During this timeframe, if you find the bit isn’t quite right or you would like to try a different size or style, you can easily return it to Redpost for an exchange, or send it back for a refund (minus a trial fee). Click the button below to find out more.
If you would like to discuss bit options for your horse in more detail, pop into our Devon-based Totnes Store, or contact our friendly team for guidance. Many of the team are experienced horse owners who have undergone specific bit training sessions, so we have a wealth of knowledge and are ready to help you find the bit that works best for you.
