Is a tomthumb bit more severe than a curb bit?

Question

Is a tomthumb bit more severe than a curb bit?

Answer 1

no

Answer 2

It depends on the mouthpiece.  Both bits have longer shanks - more leverage and poll pressure than a ring snaffle.  However, the snaffle (or broken) mouth piece of the tomthumb bit is genrally milder than the solid mouthpiece of the curb bit.

Any bit is severe in untrained or unsteady hands.

http://www.equiworld.net/uk/horsecare/em...

Answer 3

The Tomthumb bit is a kind of pelham- and it can be very severe in the wrong hands. The longer the shank, the more leverage you have- and the more severe it is. This bit works by producing a "nutcracker" effect on the roof of the horse's mouth when the reins are pulled. If you don't want your horse to learn to throw his head around, then use something a little more mild, like a snaffle. I don't like or use these bits because of their action, but there are plenty of people who ride Western style and swear by them. Hope that helps.