AV Stainless Steel D-Ring Snaffle Horse Bit with Silver Details

Bob Avila Collection: AV D Ring Snaffle with Silver

The AV D Ring Snaffle with Silver from the Bob Avila Collection by Professional's Choice is a premier choice for riders seeking a versatile, high-quality "go-to" bit. Designed for both training and everyday riding, this bit combines functional excellence with the classic styling of the Bob Avila signature line.

Key Features

• Sweet Iron Mouthpiece: Specifically designed to oxidize and rust when exposed to moisture, creating a sweet taste that encourages salivation and relaxation.
• Curved Design: The mouthpiece features a gentle curve to provide extra tongue relief and reduce direct pressure on the bars of the horse's mouth.
• D-Ring (Dee Ring) Cheeks: Fixed rings provide superior lateral control by applying gentle pressure to the horse’s face during turns, making it an excellent tool for guiding green or young horses.
• Silver Accents: Beautifully etched silver detailing on the cheekpieces offers a professional look suitable for the show ring.
• Direct Pressure: As a true snaffle with no shanks, it operates on a 1:1 pressure ratio, providing a mild and clear communication channel between horse and rider.
• Product SKU: AVB-400

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my bit rusting? Is it ruined?
The rust is completely intentional! This is a "sweet iron" bit, and the orange-brown oxidation provides the flavor that horses enjoy. It is a sign of a high-quality sweet iron mouthpiece and should not be polished off.

What size should I get for my horse?
The standard size for this bit (SKU: AVB-400) features a 5-inch mouthpiece with 3.5-inch rings. This size fits most average-sized Quarter Horses and light breeds. For very large horses, a 5.5-inch version may be required.

Will this bit pinch my horse's lips?
No. One of the primary benefits of the D-ring design is that the rings are fixed. Unlike a loose-ring snaffle, the mouthpiece cannot slide through the rings and catch or pinch the corners of the horse's mouth.

Is this bit legal for horse shows?
Generally, yes. Plain snaffles with standard D-rings are legal in most Western and English disciplines, including AQHA and NRHA. However, always consult your specific association’s rulebook regarding silver decorative details to ensure compliance for your specific class.

How do I clean the silver without damaging the sweet iron?
To keep the silver accents shiny, apply a small amount of silver polish to a cloth and buff the outer cheekpieces only. Avoid getting polish on the mouthpiece; the sweet iron should simply be rinsed with water and dried after use.

Is it suitable for a green (young) horse?
Absolutely. This is one of the most highly recommended bits for starting young horses. The sweet iron encourages acceptance of the bit, while the lateral pressure from the D-rings assists with steering and basic cues.