Gag bits are also occasionally seen in western-style competition, usually in the form of a sliding mouthpiece on a shanked curb-style bit (similar to the American gag). Gags are also never seen in the hunter arena, again because riders wish to portray that the horse is an easy ride, and because the ideal is a long, relaxed frame with the neck stretched out, rather than a high neck. Additionally, the horse is supposed to be completely submissive in dressage, and a gag bit gives the impression that it is not. They are not permitted at any level of dressage (only snaffles are permitted in dressage), since dressage riders are trying to get the horse to come down onto the bit, and want to encourage the horse to accept contact. They can also be used to help elevate a horse that is heavy on its front end. Gag bits are most commonly seen in polo, eventing (especially for cross-country), show jumping, and hacking, mainly for increased control at times where a horse may be excited or try to run off with the rider. Gag bits are used mainly for horses that are strong pullers or for horses that need retraining. The pressure on the lips tends to make the horse raise its head, which is useful for a horse that tends to lean on the bit. The gag bit works on the horse's lips and poll simultaneously. Inside the horse's mouth, the gag bit may be jointed like a snaffle bit or smooth like a Mullen mouth bit. Some styles of gag bit are integral to a special bridle, known as a gag bridle others are used with a standard bridle. The gag bit is related to a Pelham bit and a double bridle but the gag bit has no curb strap.

For example, in a Dutch Gag, the further the rein attachment from the mouthpiece the greater the leverage. Severity of leverage action depends on where the reins attach. Because the cheek piece and reins attach to different rings (instead of freely moving on the same ring, like in a snaffle bit) there is leverage action. The gag bit is a type of bit for a horse. The top rein has a snaffle effect, the bottom a gag effect. Gag bit used on a polo pony The 'gag snaffle', used with two reins, showing the sliding cheekpieces Dutch gag 'Elevator' gag bit. JSTOR ( June 2023) ( Learn how and when to remove this template message).Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. *Please Note - This item may drop ship from the manufacturer.This article does not cite any sources. The shank's tipped-back design and short length makes this bit milder than a similar style with straighter long shanks would be. When those measurements are not equal, the bit can pitch forward in your horse's mouth, lacking balance and reducing feel and responsiveness. This bit's shank length is identical to that of the purchase, which makes for optimal balance and feel. This mouthpiece also features the sliding 'gag' mechanism, allowing the horse to respond first to the poll pressure provided by the leverage of the shank tipping the purchase forward before the mouthpiece is fully engaged and applies pressure on the tongue and mouth.

Black rubber bit guards prevent pinching and maintain comfort. It is nice and soft, offering complete rate and body lift for turns. The 'short shank' design features a balanced 3' purchase and 3' shank to deliver moderate leverage suitable for horses starting barrel training or horses with a more sensitive mouth. This bit has an O-ring square mouthpiece. Mouthpieces of stainless steel and available in many options and degrees of control. Sherry Cervi's Signature Collection bits have an excellent feel for quick pickup and release.

O ring gag bit