Professional's Choice Bob Avila AV Leaf Shank Medium Port Western Horse Bit - 5" Mouth, Sweet Iron & Copper, 7.5" Shank

Achieve effortless collection and a soft, responsive mouth with a bit designed for the ultimate level of Western performance. This Bob Avila masterpiece bridges the gap between subtle cues and high-level maneuvers, ensuring your finished horse remains light and collected under the lightest contact.

Part of the prestigious Bob Avila Collection by Professional’s Choice, this Stage C bit is engineered for the discerning rider who demands technical precision and show-ring artistry. The combination of a sweet iron mouthpiece and copper inlays naturally promotes salivation and a moist, accepting mouth, while the antique varnish finish and intricate leaf engraving provide a classic, professional aesthetic that commands attention in the arena.

Key Features & Specifications:

• 2-Inch Medium Port: Provides moderate tongue relief for horses with thicker tongues while applying precise pressure to the bars and palate for superior vertical flexion and breaking at the poll.
• Sweet Iron & Copper Mouthpiece: Designed to naturally oxidize and rust, creating a sweet taste that stimulates salivation and encourages a soft, responsive mouth during high-level maneuvers.
• 7.5" Decorative Leaf Shank: Features a stunning, engraved leaf pattern that offers an elegant, professional look ideal for Western Pleasure, Reining, and Trail disciplines.
• Stage C Leverage Action: Specifically classified for advanced, finished horses, the shank length provides a clear "pre-signal" for refined communication and effortless control.
• Standard 5" Mouth Width: Expertly sized for most Western performance breeds, ensuring the bit sits flush against the lips without pinching or discomfort.
• Refined Collection & Control: The weighted feel and mid-range shank length assist with lateral control and collection, making it a cornerstone for Reining, Cutting, and Roping.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Is this bit suitable for a young horse just starting under saddle?
A: No, this is a Stage C bit designed specifically for older, "finished" horses that are already broke and responsive to light rein signals. It is intended for refined communication rather than initial training.

Q: Why is the mouthpiece designed to rust?
A: The sweet iron material is engineered to oxidize, which creates a sweet taste that horses find highly palatable. This encourages salivation and a "soft" mouth, leading to better acceptance of the bit.

Q: How should I adjust the curb chain for this specific shank length?
A: Due to the 7.5" leverage shank, it is recommended to maintain a two-finger gap behind the curb strap to allow the bit to rotate properly and provide a clear signal before the leverage engages.

Item Number/SKU: AVB-140