{"product_id":"shires-tom-thumb-rubber-jointed-pelham-87692","title":"Shires Tom Thumb Rubber Jointed Pelham Horse Bit - Stainless Steel \u0026 Rubber - Multiple Sizes","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAchieve the perfect balance of refined control and gentle communication with a bit designed specifically for sensitive mouths and precision performance.\u003c\/strong\u003e The Shires Tom Thumb Rubber Jointed Pelham offers a softer alternative to traditional metal bits, encouraging your horse to accept the contact while providing the subtle leverage needed for clear, confident signals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMeticulously engineered for durability and horse comfort, this Pelham features a high-quality stainless steel core wrapped in a thick, soft rubber mouthpiece. The \"Tom Thumb\" short-shank design significantly reduces leverage compared to standard Pelhams, making it an ideal \"entry-level\" leverage bit for the Hunter ring, Equitation classes, or junior riders seeking a more harmonious connection without the severity of longer shanks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Specifications:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMild Tom Thumb Shanks:\u003c\/strong\u003e The shorter 4–5\" shanks provide effective yet gentle leverage, offering a refined feel that bridges the gap between a snaffle and a traditional Pelham.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRubber-Covered Single Joint:\u003c\/strong\u003e The thick 18mm–21mm rubber mouthpiece softens the \"nutcracker\" action, dispersing pressure evenly across the bars and tongue to encourage bit acceptance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-Quality Stainless Steel:\u003c\/strong\u003e Constructed with a rust-resistant stainless steel core and shanks, ensuring long-lasting performance and structural integrity through daily training and competition.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhanced Lateral Control:\u003c\/strong\u003e The single-jointed design provides superior lateral cues compared to mullen-mouth bits, making it an excellent choice for horses requiring more steering precision.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComplete Hardware Set:\u003c\/strong\u003e Comes ready for use with a flat link stainless steel curb chain and hooks included, ensuring optimal pressure distribution across the poll and chin groove.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVersatile Rein Options:\u003c\/strong\u003e Can be used with traditional double reins for nuanced communication or with Pelham converters (sold separately) for a simplified single-rein configuration.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrecision Sizing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Available in 4.5\" (Pony), 5\" (Cob), and 5.5\" (Horse) sizes; the fixed-cheek design ensures a snug fit that prevents side-to-side sliding in the mouth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Is this bit suitable for a horse that is sensitive but occasionally strong?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA: Absolutely. The thick rubber mouthpiece is exceptionally gentle on the bars and tongue, while the short Tom Thumb shanks provide just enough leverage to assist with collection and \"brakes\" without over-bitting a sensitive animal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: How do I ensure the correct fit for this Pelham?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA: Because this is a fixed-cheek bit, it should fit snugly with only 1\/8\" to 1\/4\" of space between the horse's lips and the shanks. Due to the thickness of the rubber, horses with a low palate or large tongue may benefit from sizing up by 1\/4 inch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Can I use this bit in the show ring?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA: This bit is a staple for Hunter and Equitation disciplines where a Pelham is traditional. Please note that while it is excellent for schooling and many show divisions, it is not legal for USEF\/FEI Dressage tests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem Number\/SKU:\u003c\/strong\u003e 87692STEEL4.5\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shires","offers":[{"title":"4.5\"","offer_id":46598605275357,"sku":"87692STEEL4.5","price":54.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"5\"","offer_id":46598605308125,"sku":"87692STEEL5","price":64.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"5.5\"","offer_id":46598605340893,"sku":"87692STEEL5.5","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"6\"","offer_id":46598605373661,"sku":"87692STEEL6","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0619\/8748\/7965\/files\/upscaled-1774911569763.webp?v=1774911569","url":"https:\/\/hoovesandpaws.com\/products\/shires-tom-thumb-rubber-jointed-pelham-87692","provider":"Hooves and Paws","version":"1.0","type":"link"}