{"product_id":"brass-alloy-universal-with-lozenge","title":"Shires Brass Alloy Universal Horse Bit with Lozenge - Warm Brass Alloy Mouthpiece","description":"\u003ch2\u003eVersatile Control for the Spirited Horse\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFinding the right balance of control and comfort can be a challenge, especially when your horse gets a bit \"on the job\" during jumping or fast work. The Shires Brass Alloy Universal with Lozenge is designed to bridge that gap, offering adjustable leverage that lets you fine-tune your communication from our barn to yours.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis bit features a double-jointed mouthpiece with a smooth lozenge, which avoids the uncomfortable \"nutcracker\" effect on the palate. The brass alloy construction—rich in copper—is a \"warm\" metal that encourages salivation and helps your horse accept the bit more readily, making it a favorite for horses that can be a bit fussy or dry in the mouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eKey Benefits\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdjustable Leverage:\u003c\/strong\u003e The universal cheek design allows for multiple rein configurations, providing everything from a mild snaffle action to extra poll pressure for added brakes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDouble-Jointed Comfort:\u003c\/strong\u003e The central lozenge ensures even pressure distribution across the tongue, protecting the sensitive roof of the mouth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePromotes Salivation:\u003c\/strong\u003e High-copper brass alloy naturally encourages a \"wet\" mouth, leading to better relaxation and bit acceptance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVersatile Performance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ideal for show jumping and cross-country, giving you the precision needed to steady your horse between fences.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStandard 14mm Thickness:\u003c\/strong\u003e A balanced mouthpiece size that provides clear communication without being too thin or intrusive.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBest For\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShow jumping and cross-country riders\u003c\/strong\u003e looking for \u003cstrong\u003eadjustable leverage and improved control during fast work without sacrificing the horse's comfort.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: How do I ensure the correct fit for this bit?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor the Shires Brass Alloy Universal with Lozenge, you should aim for about a 1\/4\" (5mm) gap on either side of the lips—roughly a one-finger width between the ring and the cheek. When fitted to the bridle, look for 1–2 soft wrinkles at the corners of the mouth to ensure it sits at the correct height.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: Is the Universal cheek legal for dressage?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile the lozenge mouthpiece is often accepted, the Universal cheek is generally not legal for British Dressage (BD) or most standard dressage tests due to its leverage action. It is primarily intended for jumping, eventing, and general schooling.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem Number\/SKU:\u003c\/strong\u003e 62984.5\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shires","offers":[{"title":"4.5","offer_id":47703832789213,"sku":"62984.5","price":71.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5","offer_id":47703832821981,"sku":"62985","price":71.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"5.5","offer_id":47703832854749,"sku":"62985.5","price":71.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"6","offer_id":47703832887517,"sku":"62986","price":71.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0619\/8748\/7965\/files\/shires-brass-alloy-universal-horse-bit-with-lozenge-warm-brass-alloy-mouthpiece-62984-5.webp?v=1774468805","url":"https:\/\/hoovesandpaws.com\/products\/brass-alloy-universal-with-lozenge","provider":"Hooves and Paws","version":"1.0","type":"link"}