Bit Materials

Horse bits are made from a variety of materials, each chosen for its specific properties like taste, durability, and how it affects the horse's comfort and response.

Stainless Steel

Durable, rust-resistant, and tasteless.
Common and economical.

Copper or Copper-Alloy (e.g. Aurigan, Sensogan, Sweet Iron)

Promotes salivation and acceptance due to taste.
Sweet iron (a type of carbon steel that rusts slightly) is particularly popular for encouraging chewing.

Brass or German Silver (nickel alloy)

Has a warmer feel than stainless steel.
May encourage salivation.

Titanium

Lightweight, strong, and biocompatible.

Often well-accepted by sensitive horses.

Synthetics & Plastics

Rubber

Softer and milder on the horse’s mouth.

Can be thick, so not ideal for horses with small mouths.

Plastic/Polyurethane (e.g. Happy Mouth bits)

Gentle and lightweight.

Some are flavored to encourage acceptance.

Leather

Soft and flexible.
Often used for young or very sensitive horses.
Needs regular maintenance to stay safe and effective.