interesting hand forged bit

[Ken Knopp]

Here's something a bit different....This hand forged "loose ring" bit was dug in Red Springs Tennessee. Its of the Confederate Trooper's or Dragoon style but with a very interesting coiled branch variation of the cheek piece. I have never seen anything like this before. It does not (in my opinion) appear to offer any advantage. The coil does not have much (if any) spring to it. However, even if it did I do not know what or how that might assist a rider in the control of his horse. Which leaves me to surmise it was for decoration. Anyone ever had any experience with a bit like this. Any ideas?

Ken R Knopp

https://www.confederatesaddles.com

[Prodical Reb]

Re: interesting hand forged bit

Could be useful in attaching leads or other types of straps to.

[J. Donaldson]

Re: interesting hand forged bit

Could it simply represent an easier step in the manufacturing process? Being a hand forged piece, perhaps the smith/maker resorted to the coil as a time expedient?

[Linkstrap]

Re: interesting hand forged bit

At first sight, (and it's a bit of a 'reach'), the only possible practical purpose that I could think of for that coil might be for attaching a second set of reins, but even that doesn't really work for me. Surely, it's a purely decorative feature? I've certainly never seen the like of it before, fascinating!!

[Mike Nickerson]

Re: interesting hand forged bit

Pure WAGs:
1) Provides a way to reduce or increase the shank length (reins hooked to the middle loops being less severe then the bottom rings).
2) To add weight due to the shank being made of lighter than normal stock (weight being needed to hold the curb in a neutral position).
3) Connection point for a hackamore nose band (creating a combo curb/hack bit).
4) Made from recycled springs from a plow or other farm equipment.

Mike Nickerson