Western short, medium and long shank bits with port, correction, mullen, chain and dog bone mouthpieces.
New
Curb & Shank Bits
Price range: $71.99 through $75.99
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page New
Curb & Shank Bits
Price range: $84.99 through $87.99
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page New
Curb & Shank Bits
Price range: $62.99 through $98.99
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page New
Curb & Shank Bits
$116.99
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page New
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New
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Find the right fit
Western bit fit guide
Fit guide
Western bit sizes and fit
| Mouthpiece | Usually fits |
|---|---|
| 3 1/2"–4" | Miniature horses |
| 4"–4 1/2" | Ponies |
| 4 3/4"–5" | Arabians and smaller horses |
| 5"–5 1/4" | Most Quarter Horses |
| 5 1/2"–6" | Drafts and big heads |
A good fit
- Width: about 1/4" of mouthpiece should show on each side of the mouth. Measure across the mouth at the corners, or check the size on a bit that fits now.
- Height: adjust the headstall so the bit makes one or two soft wrinkles at the corners of the mouth.
- Curb strap: fit two fingers between the strap and the chin. It should engage when the shanks rotate back about 45 degrees.
- Leverage: longer shanks and a longer purchase give more leverage, so match the bit to your horse's training.
Not sure? Use Ask a question and we'll help.
Questions, answered
What size bit do I need?
Most Quarter Horses take a 5" mouthpiece, smaller horses and Arabians 4 3/4", ponies 4" to 4 1/2" and minis 3 1/2" to 4". About 1/4" should show on each side of the mouth. Measure across the mouth at the corners, or check the size on a bit that fits now.
How do I choose a Western bit?
Start with a snaffle for young horses and direct rein work, move to a transition bit like a Tom Thumb or junior cowhorse, then to a shank bit for neck reining and finished horses. Longer shanks and higher ports add leverage and signal, so match the bit to your horse's training.
Do shank bits need a curb strap?
Yes. Shank and gag bits work with a curb strap or chain. Adjust it so two fingers fit between the strap and the chin.
What do the Cowboy Tack levels mean?
Cowboy Tack sorts its bits into five levels to help match a bit to your horse's stage of training, from Level One for horses early in training to Level Five for finished horses.
Can I return it?
Yes. Regularly priced items can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of purchase if they are new and unused, with original tags and packaging (domestic orders, $30 minimum). Sale and discounted items are final sale. See our Shipping & Returns page for details.
How fast does it ship?
Order by 11 am CT and it ships within 48 hours. Add an item to your cart and enter your ZIP to see delivery time and cost.
Western curb and shank bits
Shop Western curb and shank bits from Cowboy Tack, Tough1 and Metalab: Tom Thumb and junior cowhorse transition bits, short, medium and long shank bits, port, low port, correction and correctional mouthpieces, mullen, chain and dog bone mouthpieces, sweet iron and copper bits, reining, cutting and barrel bits, and mini and pony shank bits.