email: info@mikmar.com

If the Mikmar Training Bit has been around for 50 years, how come I've never heard of it?

Legendary horse trainer Frank Evans designed the Mikmar Training Bit back in the early 1950's and he never marketed it outside of Southern California. The way most people heard about it was “word of mouth” among trainers, and because it worked so well, many competitive trainers were happy to not "get the word out". Frank made them one at a time, while still running a full training operation, so production was slow, and you had to wait to get one. In November of 2001, a national ad campaign began, and now the "secret" is out, and the bit is available to all!

How does it work?

When a rider applies pressure (pulls) on the reins it sends a signal to the nose, jaw, poll, bar and tongue simultaneously instead of to just one focused area. The horse receives pressure to the nose rope and curb strap, through the shanks, just ahead of the mouthpiece. The nose rope applies downward and backward pressure and the curb strap applies upward or forward pressure. This encourages the horse to relax at the poll, which gives vertical flexion. Because of the 4 points of pressure, the rider has more control, and at the same time, it helps to keep the horses mouth soft and fresh.

The Training Bit looks too severe. Isn’t this too much metal in my horse's mouth?

Although this mouthpiece makes a curious first impression, it is a kind yet effective way to communicate with the horse. In general a wide mouthpiece is milder than a thin one. The Mikmar mouthpiece is wide, flat and lightweight. It incorporates a copper roller to stimulate saliva production and relax the horse. It is very slow activating and covers a lot of surface with out being sharp. The shape of the mouthpiece combined with the function of the four points of pressure results less wear and tear on the horses mouth with good results..

Do I just use it for Training or fixing a problem, then go back to what I was using before?

Although it is called "The Training Bit", that doesn’t mean it is a temporary bit for a particular problem. Horses ride in nothing but the Training Bit for years. Maybe it should be called "The Mikmar Long Shank" so people think of it as a bit for all time. Using it on a regular basis keeps the horses mouth soft and fresh.

I don’t usually buy "gimmicks" for my horse. Is that what this is?

Just because it’s different, it should not be thrown into the "gimmick" category! The bit has been around for 50 years and what it does is simply disperse the pressure to other areas of the horse’s head in addition to the mouth. It is a proven, effective way to communicate with your horse. It helps to solve many problems, and take years off the training process of a young horse.

Can I show in the Training Bit?

The bit may be used in many disciplines, but not all. If not, horses transition well from the Training bit to a show bit with excellent results. We do offer a western show bit that works well as a companion to the Training bit. Check your association's rulebook.

What types of mouthpieces do you offer?

Mikmar offers a wide variety of mouthpieces in solid or jointed styles. They offer different feel, fit and function. All are made of our unique, light- weight metal alloy and incorporate a copper roller.
Solid Types:
1. Standard Mouthpiece: The original Mikmar mouthpiece style. Solid, wide and flat, with a port.
2. Low Port Mouthpiece: The Standard Mouthpiece style with a lower port.
3. Curved Low Port Mouthpiece: The standard mouthpiece offered with a curved shape and a lower port.
Jointed Types:
1.Double Jointed mouthpiece. Similar in looks to our Low port mouthpiece yet jointed in two places.
2. Double Jointed/Slanted mouthpiece. The Double Jointed type with a slanted mouthpiece.
3. Cupreon Ergom Lozenge Mouthpiece. Double Jointed and made of Cupreon this mouthpiece is approved for Dressage.
4. Cupreon French Link Roller. Double Jointed and made of Cupreon this mouthpiece transistions weel from our traditional Mikmar Bits.

Do the mouthpieces come in different sizes?

Yes, the Standard, Low port and Curved Low Port, all solid type mouthpieces, come in the following sizes. 5.25, and 5.5 The Standard mouthpiece is also offered in a 6.25 for Draft horses. In general, the 5.25 fits most horses. It fits large ponies and Arabian types all the way up to Warmbloods. The 5.5 is needed when you have a very wide -headed or thick-lipped horse. Mikmars Jointed and Jointed/Slanted mouthpieces come in the following sizes: 5, 5.25, 5.5 and 5.75. We also offer our Jointed/Slanted mouthpiece in a pony size 4.75.

Do you guarantee it?

Yes, against any manufacturing defects. The claims we make on its effectiveness are proven and true, but we obviously can't guarantee that you will get the same results as everyone else. That part is up to you and your horse. We go to great lengths to provide extensive information and video demonstration of how to use the bits. Once it leaves our hands, it’s up to the individual to use the product properly. We do accept bits back in new condition for immediate return.

Can I use a tie down with it?

Yes, however one of the best results you can get from a Mikmar Bit is a proper headset, without the use of a tie down. A tie down used over time tends to teach the horse to lean into it, and develop a large under-neck muscle. The Mikmar Bits encourage proper carriage.

Is it like a Hackamore?

The only resemblance to a Hackamore is the downward pressure dispersed across the nose.

How do I get more information on Mikmar Bits before purchasing one?

There are many ways to educate your self on the bits. The web site is full of written information. Go to the homepage and click on your style of riding and it will take you to bits recommended for your needs, or check out our video clips. If you’d like to receive the free Mikmar Bit DVD or would like to talk to a knowledgeable company representitive call (760) 728-0550. We are happy to help.

Can I use the bits with any headstall?

Yes, just make sure that the nose rope can pass freely through the bridle loops.

Are the Mikmar D Ring and Pelhams legal in the Hunter show ring?

Yes, and they are very popular all over the country.

Which style of Mikmar Pelham is most popular in the Hunter and Equitation ring?

The Mikmar Tom Thumb Pelham with either solid or jointed mouthpieces are favorites of trainers and riders.

Are the Mikmar Bits legal in the Dressage show ring?

The USEF/USDF has APPROVED the Cupreon Ergom Lozenge Mouthpiece for Dressage Competition. It is available in 5 styles.