Bits and Barrels???

Question

I run barrels and i should know this by now but are there any bits you cant use in a barrel race? like illegal ones. i heard someone in my barn got disqualified for an illegal bit in the barrel race she was in but i cant for the life of me remember what they said the bit was. I use a bit-less briddle when i run so any advie on what bits i should stay away from would be great. im going to have to use a bit in an upcoming race because bitless isnt allowed....dang

Answer 1

Hello,

Well, my daughters chase cans they do it in local clubs, jr. rodeo and high school rodeo...

THEY don't check you bits in these associations.  You should check with your friend about the club and bit that got her disqualified.  I suppose different clubs may enforce different rules.

OKAY>>>>  we have one horse that runs in a snaffle (broken curb with 6" shanks), one that runs in a Jr. Cowhorse Bit,  and one that runs in a Martha Josey S Hack with twisted mouth piece....

IT just depends on your horse.  I HAVE never heard any rules about running bitless either.  I WOULD call the club and find out.  If you run your horse in that gear, they shouldn't disqualify you???  I don't know how they expect you to change bits, if its what you get your best performance to race in their club????

CHECK into it.  BITS are something you need to work with on your performance horse or you can ruin your chances on a top run time.

Answer 2

I used to use a snaffle bit with big rings on the side of the bit, and I seen alot of other people using them as well. Not sure the exact name of the bit it's been awhile since I barrel raced. I can say one thing for sure, no matter what kind of bit you use make sure it is not a solid bit and it flexes in the middle.

Answer 3

Sorry, but I haven't barrel raced in many years so I couldn't tell you what is or isn't legal these days.  Although, I did read something not too long ago about the tiny twisted wires were not allowed for showing.  When I was racing I used the Wonder Bit.  You can find it in just about all magizines or online.  If you aren't familiar with it you can google it, but it is a slight gag bit which works really well if you choose not to use a tie down.  Maybe you could borrow a bit that a friend uses or others that they may have before you buy one to see what works best for you and your horse.  The only bits I would recommend staying away from would be anything that has a solid bar as they restrict your abilities with flexibility.  I would think that just about any snaffle (without shanks) would be acceptable; given the diameter of the mouth piece is large enough.  Most Clubs will resort to AQHA rules if their own rules are not definitive enough.  You can download their rule book from AQHA.com.  Good luck.  I hope this helps some.

Answer 4

use a bit

Answer 5

as far as i know there arent any but whre i run barrels at is just like the local arena so maybe the dont enforce stuff