🐴 How to Measure Your Horse for a Bit – and Why It Matters

Getting the right bit size for your horse is essential — not just for comfort, but for communication, training, and overall performance. Yet many riders unknowingly use bits that are too tight or too wide, which can lead to discomfort and unwanted behaviors.

The Bombers Bit Measure is a simple, lightweight tool measurement tool that makes it easy to accurately measure your horse’s mouth. With the right size in hand, choosing the correct bit becomes far less confusing — and far more effective.

📏 What Is the Bombers Bit Measure?

The Bombers Bit Measure helps riders determine the exact width of their horse’s mouth — making it easier to choose the right size horse bit the first time.

Using the wrong size bit can:

• Cause pinching or pressure points

• Interfere with rein aids

• Disrupt the function of the mouthpiece

• Lead to resistance, fussiness, or poor contact

By using the Bombers Bit Measure, you remove the guesswork and give your horse the comfort and clarity they deserve.

🔍 Why Bit Sizing Is So Important for Horses

Even the most thoughtfully designed bit won’t perform properly if it doesn’t fit.

Some common issues caused by incorrect bit sizing:

• ❌ Too narrow: can pinch the lips, create pressure points, or restrict natural movement

• ❌ Too wide: can slide back and forth, reducing stability and responsiveness

• ❌ Wrong sizing in jointed bits: alters how the bit functions in the mouth

Horses may show discomfort through head tossing, gaping, or evasion — but some adapt silently, making the problem easy to miss. This is particularly true in Thoroughbreds and other breeds with narrow jaws, where guessing the size just isn’t reliable.

⚖️ Quick Guide: How to Size Different Horse Bits

Different bit styles require slightly different fits. Here’s what to keep in mind once you’ve measured:

🔹 Loose Ring Bits

➕ Add +5mm to your horse’s mouth measurement to allow free ring movement and prevent pinching.

🔹 Fixed Cheek Bits (Dee rings, Eggbutts)

These can sit flush with the corners of the lips — no additional space is needed.

🔹 Broken/Jointed Mouthpieces

➕ Add +5mm to accommodate the movement of the jointed mouthpiece.

🛍️ Where to Find the Bombers Bit Measure

Want to get the size right from the start? Ask your local Bombers Bits retailer if they stock the Bombers Bit Measure. It’s one of the most useful tools you can have for selecting the best-fitting bit for your horse.

🧰 Can’t Get One? Try These DIY Bit Measuring Methods

If you don’t have access to a Bombers Bit Measure, you can try one of these quick at-home alternatives:

• ✅ A clean piece of wooden dowel gently placed across the mouth

• ✅ A piece of string or soft rope, marked where the lips meet and then measured with a ruler

These methods provide a basic idea of your horse’s mouth width — but for precision and accuracy, the Bombers Bit Measure is the gold standard.

📣 Final Thoughts: Bit Fit Is Everything

Correct bit sizing sets the foundation for good riding. Whether you’re schooling, competing, or just trail riding, a well-fitting bit means:

✅ Better comfort
✅ Clearer communication
✅ Fewer behavioral issues

The Bombers Bit Measure makes the process simple — and helps ensure your horse’s bit works exactly as it’s designed to.

Check out our video below with a bit more of an explanation on the Bombers Bit Measure. 

To find your local Bombers Bit retailer click here.