Mouthpiece
Level: Three
Design: Curved, solid mouthpiece with a wide upward curve in the center. Port measures 1½". 5" mouth.
Function:
• Bar and some tongue pressure
• Tongue relief from port
• Slight palate pressure on some horses
Usage: A mild mouthpiece well suited for finished horses with wide and/or thick tongues. Also good for horses with injured or scarred tongues.
Cheek
Design: A length of metal with two rings and fixed mouhtpiece attachment. The top ring is for headstall and curb strap attachment; the bottom ring is for the reins. The length of metal below the mouthpiece is round and bent at an angle toward the rider's hands. The top, or purchase, is angled away from the horse and the ring is squared. 7" shank.
Function: Shanks are used for leverage and, typically, with a curb strap or chain. Depending upon the mouthpiece used, backward and upward pressure on the reins transfers into downward pressure on the poll, pressure on the curb, and forward and downward pressure on the palate. The tops, or purchases are bent away from the horse to prevent discomfort or rubbing.
Usage: Used in Western disciplines.