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Description, Action and Uses of a Kimberwick

By Katherine Blocksdorf, About.com

Uxeter Kimberwick

An Uxeter Kimberwick. A plain Kimberwick bit would not have the slots along the sides of the D rings.

2005 K. Blocksdorf
Appearance:
The mouthpiece of the Kimberwick terminates at the top of ‘D’ shaped rings. The rings of the Uxeter Kimberwick have slots in them. Kimberwicks can have straight mouthpieces, jointed or a straight mouthpiece with a port—an inverted “U” in the middle of the mouthpiece. There is a small ring to attach the curb strap or chain.
Uses:
This is a bit commonly used in general riding and provides more curb action to a horse that may be a strong puller or needs slight curb action to lower its head. It is quite common to see ponies wearing these bits.
How It Works:
A Kimberwick is a curb (leverage) bit. The further the reins slide down the D ring, the more leverage is applied. On the Uxeter Kimberwick the reins can be attached through the slots. The lower slot will have more curb action than the upper slot. The curb chain or straps prevents the bit from rotating too far in the horse’s mouth. When the reins are pulled back the bit applies pressure to the bars of the mouth, the chin and the poll. If there is a port, there may be pressure on the roof of the mouth.This is a bit commonly used in general riding and provides more aids to a horse that may be a strong puller or needs slight curb action to lower its head. It is quite common to see ponies wearing these bits. Compare Kimberwick Prices
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