Eggbutt bits – Stability, Comfort, and Pinch-Free Design

The eggbutt snaffle is a fixed-ring bit whose oval ends – the "eggbutts" – provide increased stability, gentle lateral guidance, and a significant reduction in pinching at the corners of the mouth. Versatile and popular in many disciplines, it comes in a wide variety of mouthpieces, thicknesses, and materials, allowing the bit to be adapted to each horse's mouth and preferences.

What is an eggbutt snaffle used for?

1. To offer superior stability in the mouth

Thanks to its fixed rings, the bit remains more consistent, which can be well tolerated by horses that dislike highly mobile bits.

2. To limit the risk of pinching

The eggbutts prevent the corners of the mouth from being caught between the mouthpiece and the ring, a notable advantage over loose ring snaffles.

3. To offer gentle lateral guidance

The elongated shape of the rings contributes to clearer lateral guidance: more precise direction and better symmetry in contact.

4. To promote consistent contact

The bit does not rotate around the mouthpiece, which can allow for more stable and consistent communication.

Different types of eggbutt snaffles

1. Single-jointed eggbutt snaffle

The classic model, with a single joint in the center.
Characteristics:
• direct action,
• moderate central mobility,
• suitable for a large number of horses.

2. Double-jointed eggbutt snaffle

With two joints and a central plate.
Characteristics:
• more even pressure distribution,
• greater mobility in the center,
• appreciated by many palate-sensitive horses.

3. Straight bar eggbutt snaffle

Available in metal, rubber, resin, polymer.
Characteristics:
• maximum stability,
• uniform contact,
• an alternative for horses preferring a fixed bit.

4. Covered eggbutt snaffles

Made of rubber, resin, or synthetic material.
Characteristics:
• softer feel,
• greater volume in the mouth depending on the model,
• well tolerated by some sensitive horses.

Materials available for eggbutt snaffles

Stainless steel

• durable,
• easy to maintain,
• stable in the mouth.

Copper

• taste appreciated by some horses,
• encourages salivation.

Cyprium

• Technical alloy containing copper.
• promotes relaxation,
• pleasant conductivity for the horse.

Aurigan

• Premium alloy (copper + silicon + zinc).
• designed to stimulate chewing,
• high-end material.

Sweet Iron

• Blued steel that oxidizes slightly on contact with saliva.
• slightly sweet taste,
• pleasant for some horses.

Rubber (soft or vulcanized)

• soft contact,
• thick mouthpiece,
• used for horses that appreciate a soft feel.

Resin, polymers and synthetic materials

• lightweight,
• well accepted,
• comfortable for sensitive horses.

Solid mouthpieces vs. hollow mouthpieces

Hollow mouthpieces

• lighter,
• more mobile sensation in the mouth,
• often made of stainless steel.

Solid mouthpieces

• heavier,
• more stable,
• provide more consistent contact for some horses.
The choice mainly depends on the desired feel and the horse's preference.

How to choose an eggbutt snaffle?

A bit should be chosen considering:
• the morphology of the mouth (width, tongue, palate),
• the type of mouthpiece already well accepted,
• the material preferred by the horse,
• the desired stability in contact,
• the use (flatwork, dressage, leisure riding, etc.).
Correct fitting and a bit in good condition are essential. If in doubt, a professional (coach, bitfitter, veterinarian) can assist with the choice.

Bit care

• Clean after each session,
• Regularly check the condition of the mouthpiece,
• Monitor the mouthpiece/ring joint,
• Choose an appropriate size to avoid rubbing or pinching.

Case studies

• Horse sensitive at the corners of the mouth → The eggbutt snaffle limits pinching.
• Horse that appreciates consistent contact → The fixed rings offer interesting stability.
• Horse sensitive to metals → materials like resin, rubber, or certain alloys may be more suitable.
• Horse requiring more stability than with a loose ring snaffle → The eggbutts provide a more fixed position.

Mistakes to avoid

• using a damaged or scratched bit,
• choosing an incorrect size,
• neglecting cleaning,
• ignoring the material that best relaxes the horse.