An old Tickler or Mouthing Snaffle bit with a central rotating disc - Bit557 stable These are a feature often

These are a feature often seen in late 18th & early 19th century whips

Width of ring 2¼" (6cm)

although some of the beads are missing

13cm (5¼")long

The suspension arches are thick

An old Tickler or Mouthing Snaffle bit with a central rotating disc - Bit557 stable These are a feature oftenThis is a hand forged heavy steel with a dark aged patina. It is very heavy and was probably made for a farm or draft horse. It is a straight bar loose ring snaffle with a central rotating disc. The disc has a pendant with three holes in itMetal "keys" or players could be attached through these holes. Such bits were used when breaking in, the moving parts were supposed to encourage the young horse to relax its mouth. I have seen similar bits described