civiian curb bit

[Doughboy]

I listed in WTB forums but thought to try here as well
Looking for civvie curb bit. 5"

Nothing fancy. Thanks

[Longrope]

Re: civiian curb bit

Chris, I've got one or two bits that might work. Let me get a picture off to you.

[Doughboy]

Re: civiian curb bit

Thanks Casey. I think you have my email but just in case:

antifarb@outlook.com

and you know it has to pass muster with TK! LOL

[Mark Choate]

Re: civiian curb bit

Chris,

Have you checked some of the originals on Ken Knopp's site?

http://confederatesaddles.com/cswp/?page_id=53&category=4

Mark

[Doughboy]

Re: civiian curb bit

I did look. nothing quite right. Most of his are Western confed.
Thanks

[Mark Choate]

Re: civiian curb bit

He has a lot of stuff cycling in and out so keeping your eyes on it might help.

thx,
Mark

[Doughboy]

Re: civiian curb bit

will do. Thanks

[Ken Knopp]

Re: civiian curb bit

Christopher,

What kind of civilian curb are you seeking? Single rein?, double rein? A straight up "civie" curb? Something simple or perhaps one with a flash or more of military influence? Most important.....the "first" question is.....what is your impression goal? That determines alot.
Riding horses was far more common in the South than in the north where horse drawn buggies, wagons, train and canal boat travel and, just plain walking prevailed over horseback riding. This is true! The north had closer towns & cities, better roads and "mass" transit (more train mileage and steam and canal boats). In the South rural farms, towns, agriculture, far greater distances, very poor roads (rarely macadamized) and far less rail road miles necessitated the demand for horseback riding with all of its influences.
Bits?.....For the straight up civilian bits, geographically speaking, in the eastern South more "English" variations might be more common but not pervasive. It is worthy to note that just prior to the war there was increasingly more western influence to riding bits and, the "catalog trade" was just beginning so this opens up the door to many other influences and patterns even including Spanish (Mexican) and even Indian.
Depending upon your impression goal, for the straight up and common Southern civilian bit you could go with a simple and easy to find Pelham bit or any other basic but common European curb bits such as Hanovarian, Buxton- all with wide variations for the middle class or perhaps, something fancier for the wealthy person. Or, as a "well to do" farmer, merchant or townsman a cast curb bit of which there are many varations on the market. For rural, yeoman farmer maybe something very hand forged like a "Plain" bit or something with a bit more style but still hand forged.
Maybe you want to add a military flare to the upper or lower cheek piece with something of a dash of military influence- an "S" curb cheek piece, military boss, shield or whatever.
First, you have to decide upon your impression goal but in any event, stick with iron or brass varations for the most typical materials in either cast or hand forged patterns. In general, stay away from nickel plating, but certainly stainless steel and GOD forbid- chrome!
For ideas?...., Educate yourself. Check out the books out there on bits, period saddlery and even some of the post war catalogs.
Where to find them? Ebay, collectors, CW and gun shows, antique shops, flea markets, or "make" your own!
So many ways to go limited only by your impression persona, personal wealth, style and imagination.

Ken R Knopp

https://www.confederatesaddles.com

[Paul L Muller]

Re: civiian curb bit

I know that you asked for pics of my bits, please know that as per what Ken said, I would make a bit to meet your needs once you know what it is you are looking for. There are so many styles it is amazing, a lot to choose from. Let me know if I can help. plm

[Doughboy]

Re: civiian curb bit

Paul/Ken,
Looking for basic civilian curb for Eastern CS impression. I did see the ones on your site Paul that I think could work for me. I will be in touch.
Thanks

[IowaYank]

Re: civiian curb bit

Chris, Paul's handforged civilian bit is what I ride with. Great bit that is spot on with originals.You really can't go wrong with a bit from Paul!

[Doughboy]

Re: civiian curb bit

Thanks Dan. In contact now. Actually looking for Ned, to go with civvie bridle