AV California Cow Horse Bit

SKU: AVB-630

The AV California Cow Horse Bit is a premier design from the Bob Avila (AV) collection by Professional's Choice. Engineered for precision and style, this bit is a staple in Western performance disciplines, including Reined Cow Horse, Reining, and Western Pleasure. It is crafted to offer clear, signal-based communication for the finished horse.

Key Features

• Solid Slobber Bar: Connects the bottom of the shanks to add weight for a faster "release" and ensures the bit is show-legal for NRCHA, AQHA, and other major associations.
• 8-Inch Decorative Shanks: Provides moderate to high leverage with classic Western engravings and silver overlays for professional eye appeal in the show ring.
• 2-Inch Port with Copper Roller: The port offers tongue relief, while the copper roller (cricket) encourages salivation and helps the horse maintain a soft, relaxed jaw.
• 5-Inch Mouthpiece: The standard width designed to fit most average-sized stock horses comfortably.
• Sweet Iron Construction: Designed to rust over time, creating a sweet taste that horses prefer, which promotes a "wet" and responsive mouth.
• Balanced Design: Provides immediate feedback and reward, making it an ideal tool for refinement and subtle cueing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this bit show-legal?
Yes. The solid slobber bar is specifically designed to meet the requirements for Reining and Cow Horse competitions. It prevents independent shank movement, which is a common requirement for curb bits in sanctioned classes.

Is an 8-inch shank too severe for my horse?
While 8 inches provides significant leverage, the bit is considered "fair" due to its excellent balance. It is intended for finished horses that understand neck reining. It is not recommended for green horses or riders with heavy hands.

What does the roller/cricket actually do?
The copper roller serves two purposes: the material promotes salivation to keep the mouth lubricated, and the spinning motion helps nervous horses relax by giving them something to play with, reducing overall jaw tension.

How does the "slobber bar" affect the feel for the rider?
The bar adds weight to the bottom of the bit. When the rider releases the reins, the extra weight causes the bit to drop back into a neutral position faster than bits without a bar, providing the horse with an instant reward for the correct response.

Is this a "Correction Bit"?
No. Unlike a correction bit, which has joints in the port, the AV California Cow Horse Bit features a solid port. This makes it a "signal bit," used primarily for refinement in horses that are already well-trained.

Will the "rust" on the mouthpiece hurt my horse?
No. The oxidation of the sweet iron is intentional. The brownish "rust" creates the sweet taste that encourages horses to accept the bit more readily. It is non-toxic and highly desirable in Western performance tack.

Ideal For:

• The Horse: Finished horses (typically 5+ years old) transitioning out of a snaffle or hackamore into a curb bit.
• The Rider: Intermediate to advanced riders seeking a high level of "feel" and the ability to deliver subtle cues in the show ring or while working cattle.