AV Santa Maria Bit - Bob Avila Collection

The AV Santa Maria Bit, a signature piece from the Bob Avila Collection by Professional’s Choice, is a highly specialized Western curb bit engineered for the ultimate in refined communication. Designed specifically for performance and show settings, this "signal" bit is the premier choice for riders looking to achieve subtle, nuanced cues with mature, well-trained horses.

SKU: AVB-170

Product Features

• Sweet Iron & Copper Inlays: The mouthpiece is crafted from sweet iron, which is designed to oxidize and rust over time. This process creates a sweet taste that, when combined with integrated copper inlays, promotes salivation and keeps the horse's mouth soft, moist, and responsive.
• Independent Rein Action: Featuring a swivel/hinged port design, this bit allows for independent movement on each side. This enables the rider to lift one shoulder or tip the nose without the entire bit tilting, providing superior lateral control.
• Balanced Leverage: With a standard 7" to 7.25" shank, the Santa Maria delivers a moderate amount of leverage. It is perfectly balanced to ensure the horse feels even the slightest shift in the rider's hand.
• Refined Port Design: Whether configured with a medium or correction port, the bit uses bar and palate pressure to encourage the horse to "break" at the poll and maintain a collected, professional frame.
• Integrated Copper Roller: Many models include a copper "cricket" in the port. This provides a tactile element for "busy-mouthed" horses to play with, preventing them from bracing against the bit or attempting to get their tongue over it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this bit too "harsh" for my horse?
The Santa Maria is categorized as a "skilled hands" bit. While not inherently cruel, its design (particularly the palate pressure from the port) requires a rider with a stable, soft hand. It is intended for horses that are already light in the bridle and responsive to subtle pressure.

Why is my bit turning orange or rusty?
Do not be alarmed—the bit is intended to rust. The oxidation of the sweet iron is a key feature that horses find palatable. This encourages the horse to "mouth" the bit and remain relaxed during performance.

What is the benefit of "independent rein action"?
Traditional solid curb bits move as one rigid unit. The swivel feature on the Santa Maria allows the rider to isolate one side of the mouth, making it much easier to correct a horse's position or perform complex lateral maneuvers in disciplines like Reining or Working Cow Horse.

Is it suitable for a young horse?
Professional advice suggests this is not a bit for starting young horses. It is a "finishing" bit. Horses should be well-established in a snaffle and a basic curb before transitioning to the specialized signals of the Santa Maria.

What does the roller do?
The copper roller (cricket) serves two purposes: it creates a soothing clicking sound that can calm a nervous horse, and it keeps the horse's tongue occupied. This prevents the horse from becoming rigid in the jaw or fighting the bit.

Ideal Applications

• Disciplines: Western Pleasure, Reining, Working Cow Horse, and Western Performance.
• Horse Maturity: Mature, finished horses requiring light contact.
• Rider Level: Intermediate to advanced.