{"product_id":"shires-18mm-cop-alloy-french-link-training-bit","title":"Shires Copper Alloy French Link Training Horse Bit - 18mm Mouthpiece Thickness","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGentle Communication for a Relaxed, Responsive Ride\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFinding the right foundation for a young horse or a sensitive mount starts with the bit. The Shires 18mm Copper Alloy French Link Training Bit is designed to encourage a soft, relaxed jaw by providing a \"kind\" mouthpiece that prioritizes comfort. If you’ve been struggling with a horse that’s fussy in the contact or has a sensitive palate, this bit offers a gentle solution that speaks clearly without being harsh.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCrafted with a generous 18mm diameter, this bit spreads pressure across a larger surface area of the tongue and bars, making it significantly softer than thinner alternatives. The copper alloy mouthpiece—often referred to as Cyprium—is naturally warmer to the touch than traditional stainless steel and offers a sweet taste that encourages salivation, helping your horse stay focused and accepting of the aids.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eKey Benefits for Your Training Program\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePromotes Salivation and Relaxation:\u003c\/strong\u003e The copper alloy mouthpiece creates a pleasant taste and stays warm in the mouth, encouraging the horse to play with the bit and relax their jaw.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGentle Pressure Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e The 18mm thickness provides a larger surface area, ensuring that pressure is distributed evenly and softly across the tongue and bars.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEliminates the Nutcracker Effect:\u003c\/strong\u003e The French link center plate lays flat on the tongue, preventing the joint from hitting the roof of the mouth and providing a more consistent feel.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEncourages Independent Movement:\u003c\/strong\u003e The loose ring design allows the mouthpiece to move more freely, helping the horse find their own comfortable position while discouraging leaning.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-Quality Shires Craftsmanship:\u003c\/strong\u003e Built for the long haul, this bit combines durable materials with a smooth finish to ensure your horse’s comfort during every schooling session.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBest For\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoung horses and riders\u003c\/strong\u003e looking for \u003cstrong\u003ea gentle, dressage-legal foundation that encourages steady contact and jaw relaxation.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: How should I size the Shires 18mm Copper Alloy French Link Training Bit to prevent pinching?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause this is a loose ring bit, you should ensure there is approximately 1\/4 inch (5mm) of clearance on either side of the horse's mouth. This prevents the rings from pinching the lips when the reins are engaged.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: Is this bit suitable for horses with a low palate?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes, the French link design is excellent for horses with lower palates because the flat center link prevents the \"nutcracker\" action associated with single-jointed bits, ensuring the bit doesn't poke the roof of the mouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: Is the Shires French Link Training Bit legal for Dressage?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes, French link bits are widely accepted in Dressage competitions, making this an ideal choice for riders building a foundation in the arena.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem Number\/SKU:\u003c\/strong\u003e 62015\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shires","offers":[{"title":"5","offer_id":48021327642845,"sku":"62015","price":56.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5.5","offer_id":48021327675613,"sku":"62015.5","price":56.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"6","offer_id":48021327708381,"sku":"62016","price":56.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0619\/8748\/7965\/files\/shires-copper-alloy-french-link-training-horse-bit-18mm-mouthpiece-thickness-62015.webp?v=1781190668","url":"https:\/\/hoovesandpaws.com\/products\/shires-18mm-cop-alloy-french-link-training-bit","provider":"Hooves and Paws","version":"1.0","type":"link"}