Professional's Choice Bob Avila Signature Shank Bit - 5" Sweet Iron Mouthpiece with Fat Bars

Reclaim the effortless connection and nuanced control your seasoned partner has started to test. This Bob Avila Signature bit provides the perfect blend of medium leverage and palate pressure to soften a heavy horse without sacrificing trust.

Designed by legendary horseman Bob Avila and crafted by Professional’s Choice, this bit is a masterclass in balance and equine ergonomics. It combines the durability of stainless steel shanks with a sweet iron mouthpiece that encourages salivation, ensuring your experienced equine athlete remains focused, relaxed, and responsive during high-stakes performance or daily tuning.

Key Features & Specifications:

• 5" Signature Mouthpiece: The industry standard width for average-sized Western breeds, providing a snug, stable fit that prevents the bit from sliding through the mouth.
• Sweet Iron & Copper Inlay: Specifically designed to oxidize and rust, creating a "sweet" taste that promotes salivation and encourages a softer, more supple response.
• Medium Leverage 7-8" Shank: Translates subtle hand movements into clear, balanced signals via the curb and poll, ideal for refined communication with "strong" horses.
• 2" Port with Copper Roller: Provides necessary palate pressure for vertical collection while the roller gives the horse a tool for relaxation and mental focus.
• 1/2" Bar Thickness: Engineered with a moderate diameter that offers comfort for daily use while maintaining the "bite" required for effective corrections.
• Stainless Steel Shanks: High-quality, rust-resistant shanks ensure long-lasting durability and a professional, polished finish in the show ring.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Is this bit suitable for a horse transitioning out of a snaffle?
A: Absolutely. This is an elite "transition bit" for horses moving into a curb, as well as a "finishing bit" for seasoned athletes that require lighter, more refined cues to maintain their carriage.

Q: Why is the mouthpiece starting to rust, and is that a defect?
A: Not at all—the rust is a feature! The sweet iron and copper materials are designed to oxidize, creating a flavor that horses love, which promotes a "wet," responsive mouth and better bit acceptance.

Q: What disciplines is this bit most commonly used for?
A: It is a favorite for Western performance disciplines including Reining, Working Cow Horse, and Western Pleasure, where precise lateral flexion and vertical collection are paramount.

Item Number/SKU: AVB-116