The Blue Sweet Iron Bombers Control Plate 45 2.5 Ring Gag from Bombers Bits has a central control plate set at a 45 degree angle to follow the contours of the horse's tongue. Consequently, a horse who uses his tongue as a means of pushing against the bit and therefore taking control, will draw back and tuck his chin in, coming back to a better point of control.
The 2.5 Ring Gag offers a mild gag action, which can be useful for horses that require a stronger bit than a snaffle for show jumping and cross-country. The top ring is attached to the cheekpieces to apply poll pressure, resulting in the horse's head lowering, while the half-ring gives leverage, causing a head raising action. When these actions are combined, it results in a gag action. The 2.5 ring, sometimes known as a Universal, is the mildest version of a ring gag as the half-ring softens the leverage on the mouthpiece.
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.
The reins can be attached to this bit in a number of ways to create the desired action: when attached to the big main ring it results in a hanging cheek action with poll pressure, and if attached to the bottom ring it creates a mild gag action.
Please note that the blue will fade with use.
