Professional's Choice Bob Avila AV Byron Seven-Style Shank Bit - 5 1/4" Sweet Iron Mouthpiece, Copper Inlays, 7" Shank

Achieve unparalleled responsiveness and effortless collection with a bit designed to eliminate evasion and reward softness. The Bob Avila AV Byron Bit is the ultimate transition tool for riders ready to move from a basic snaffle to professional-level cues with total comfort and precision.

Part of the prestigious Bob Avila Collection by Professional’s Choice, this bit is engineered for the high-stakes demands of Western performance disciplines like Reining, Cutting, and Working Cow Horse. By combining the natural oxidation of sweet iron with strategically placed copper inlays, the mouthpiece encourages a moist, receptive mouth while the signature 7-style shank ensures your signals are never neutralized by a horse trying to "lip" the bit to evade pressure.

Key Features & Specifications:

• 7-Style 7" Shank: Features a signature S-curve design that provides moderate leverage for refinement while physically preventing the horse from grabbing the shank to evade rider cues.
• 5 1/4" Sweet Iron Mouthpiece: Sized with a "roomy" 1/4-inch extension beyond the standard average to prevent pinching at the corners of the mouth, making it ideal for Quarter Horses and performance builds.
• Copper Inlays: Integrated copper promotes salivation and keeps the mouth soft and moist, ensuring your horse remains focused and responsive during intense training or arena competition.
• Independent Rein Action: The multi-part mouthpiece allows for precise lateral cues, giving the rider the ability to lift a shoulder or encourage a bend with subtle, independent pressure.
• Professional Transition Tool: An essential correction and finishing bit that offers the tongue relief and nuance required for advanced Western disciplines and neck reining.
• Durable Craftsmanship: Built to the rigorous quality standards of Professional's Choice for long-lasting performance and reliability in both the training pen and the show ring.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Why should I choose a 5 1/4" mouthpiece instead of a standard 5" size?
A: The 5 1/4" width is a preferred standard for many Western riders because it provides extra clearance to prevent pinching at the bars and corners of the mouth, especially for horses transitioning from a snaffle who need a bit more room for comfort.

Q: What is the benefit of the "7-style" shank design?
A: The S-curve (or 7-style) shape is specifically engineered to prevent "lipping." It makes it physically difficult for the horse to grab the shank with its lips to neutralize your cues, ensuring consistent and clear communication at all times.

Q: Is this bit appropriate for a young horse just starting its training?
A: This bit is designed as a refinement tool for "finished" or more mature horses that already understand basic cues. It is the perfect choice for horses ready to move into a curb bit for advanced Western performance and lateral work.

Item Number/SKU: AVB-220