The Blue Sweet Iron Bombers Control Plate 45 Curb Gag from Bombers Bits has a central control plate set at a 45 degree angle to follow the contours of the horse's tongue. As a result, a horse who uses his tongue as a means of pushing against the bit and becoming strong will draw back and tuck his chin in, coming back to a better point of control. The curb gag has a sliding rope action on the cheekpieces, which applies pressure to the horse's curb groove via a leather pad, rather than the strong poll pressure applied with a conventional gag bit. There is still a small amount of poll pressure, as the upper ring acts in a similar way to a hanging cheek snaffle. The blue sweet iron mouthpiece oxidises easily, creating a warm, sweet taste in the horse's mouth. This encourages mouthing, salivation and acceptance of the bit. This bit is designed to be used with two reins, so the curb pressure only comes into play when it is really needed. Please note that the blue will fade with use. Please note that the curb gag is only legal for the jumping phases of eventing under FEI rules if two reins are used (with one attached to the main ring of the bit). Bombers recommend that two reins are used in all circumstances.
