Beris gag bits

Beris gag bits: a gag cheekpiece system combined with a range of anatomical mouthpieces

Beris gag bits combine the gag cheekpiece system with the wide range of mouthpieces developed by the German manufacturer. While the mechanical action of the gag cheekpieces remains the same from one model to another, the geometry of the mouthpiece directly influences how the horse perceives the contact.

How do Beris gag bits work?

From a bit fitting perspective, it is essential to distinguish between these two components: the gag cheekpieces determine the mechanical action of the bit, while the mouthpiece influences pressure distribution within the horse's mouth and the way the horse accepts the contact.

The Beris gag bit provides an effective lifting action on the forehand while protecting the delicate oral tissues thanks to Beris' food-grade synthetic material. It is designed to encourage weight transfer towards the hindquarters when rein pressure is applied. This mechanical action is independent of the mouthpiece design. Consequently, two Beris gag bits fitted with identical gag cheekpieces will operate according to the same mechanical principle, even if their mouthpieces create different sensations for the horse. However, the finesse of the communication always depends on the rider's feel and the precision of their hands.

Elevating the forehand and regulating vertical balance

This bit acts simultaneously on the poll and the corners of the mouth to raise the base of the neck. The characteristic sliding action of the reins through the gag cheekpieces generates an upward force as rein tension increases. This helps prevent pressure from being directed downward onto the bars of the mouth. The rider therefore experiences a lighter feel in the hand together with greater responsiveness during transitions, allowing for improved regulation of rhythm and balance.

A range of mouthpieces for different oral conformations

Beris offers its gag bits with several mouthpiece profiles to accommodate different oral anatomies and levels of sensitivity.

• Comfort mouthpiece: an anatomically shaped design providing even pressure distribution and stable contact.
• Thin mouthpiece: a slimmer version intended for horses with limited space inside the mouth.
• Konnex mouthpiece: its curved anatomical profile provides greater tongue relief while maintaining excellent stability.
• Tongue relief mouthpiece: its geometry reduces pressure on the tongue by redistributing more pressure onto the bars.
• Butterfly mouthpiece: its wide central plate lies flat on the tongue and can apply significant tongue pressure during rein aids while providing outstanding contact stability.
• Prime ultra-soft mouthpiece: features an exceptionally flexible texture that adapts to the shape of the horse's mouth, creating a cushioned feel in the rider's hands, as illustrated by the Beris Prime Ultra Soft Gag Bit.

Beris synthetic material: enhancing the horse's acceptance of the contact

Beris gag bits are manufactured from food-grade synthetic material. Warmer to the touch and slightly more flexible than traditional metal, it influences how the horse accepts the bit. This characteristic complements the role of the mouthpiece geometry without altering its mechanical principles. Beris offers three levels of flexibility: firm, soft and ultra-soft.

Points to consider

The gag cheekpiece system is a technical design whose action depends on both the adjustment of the bit and the rein attachment point.

• The mechanical action is determined by the gag cheekpieces.
• The shape of the mouthpiece influences pressure distribution and the horse's acceptance of the bit.
• The combination of a gag action with an anatomical mouthpiece should always be assessed as a whole, as each element contributes to the bit's overall function.

Choosing a Beris gag bit therefore involves more than selecting either the gag cheekpieces or the mouthpiece alone; it is the combination of both that determines how the horse perceives the rider's aids.

Beris gag bits are integrated both in the full range of Beris bits and in the category of gag bits, allowing to choose a mouthpiece adapted to the needs and sensitivity of each horse.