Description

The J.P. Korsteel jointed dutch gag 3 Ring is a curved mouth single jointed continental snaffle bit, also sometimes known as a 4 ring continental snaffle. The curved mouthpiece follows the contours of the horses mouth and is good for horses with a larger tongue. The continental cheek of the jointed J.P. dutch gag involves a series of stainless steel rings, the main snaffle ring with one smaller ring above and two below, which enables a number of different positions for the reins. Correctly, the dutch gag should be used with two reins, one on the main snaffle ring, and a second on either of the lower two smaller rings depending how much poll pressure is required. Often this bit is only used with one rein on the lower rings, but ideally if only one rein is to be used the bit should be used with roundings to maintain a better contact with the horses mouth. Originally designed to emulate the effect of draw reins in the showjumping arena, the continental snaffle is a popular bit for horses and ponies, and useful for horses that dislike a curb but respond well to poll pressure. Continental bits work by raising the bit up in the horse or ponies mouth in a similar manor to a conventional gag, but there is a limit to the extent this can happen thus lessening the severity. In addition to this, a lot of poll pressure can be achieved on the lower setting on the dutch gag which is why ideally two reins should be used to ensure a correct contact can be maintained on the snaffle rein when the poll pressure is not needed.