Updates

Just wanted to say I received my bit yesterday so I immediately put it on a headstall and saddled up. My mare had been gaping her mouth no matter what bit or mouthpiece she had on. Vet checked good. I put the short shanked dog chain bit on her and she immediately dropped her head and started licking her lips. She rode amazing, head low and seemed happy.  I made one cruise thru the barrel pattern and oh my goodness it felt great and no more gaping.  Thank you! My bit change really had nothing to do with needing control...

Just wanted to give a little testimonial on how much I love my Merrill bits!! It would be an understatement to say they're all I use... I run two geldings in the hackamore, tune them both in the twisted dog bone medium shank, run my mare in the twisted dog bone combo, and ride her daily in the short shank twisted dog bone. I ride everything else I own either in the short or medium shank... These have been a godsend for my hands and horses!!! The hackamore has absolutely worked miracles on my 13-year-old and the combo has done...

I ordered the short shank dog chain bit for a really picky horse with bits, and it has extremely calmed his anxiousness down! I tried the bit on everyone else in my barn, and they all love it! Everyone seems so relaxed in it, and it never makes them freak out like some bits do! I will use another bit sometimes to change ups bits, and I always go back to my Merrill bit bc they are so responsive to it, and they stay so much calmer with the Merrill bit! It seems to send a much clearer signal to...

Shank/Purchase Lengths:  The Short Shank is a great first bit and, including purchase, is 5". A soft but direct bit. The Medium Shank, including purchase, is 7". This bit sends a clear signal with more authority than the Short. The Long Shank, including purchase, is 8". The Long Shank has more hold back but is not harsh.  

Mouthpieces: Dog chain mouthpiece is mild and less offensive. Three-piece smooth mouthpiece is medium firm. The three-piece twisted wire mouthpiece is firmer.