The Colin Miles blue sweet iron full cheek running gag from Bombers Bits has a 55mm centre piece with rings. This creates tongue pressure if the horse becomes strong and also gives the horse something to play with, which encourages a soft contact and helps to keep the horse's attention on the bit.
The running gag helps to lift the horse's head, and is often used on horses that tend to lean, go on the forehand or pull. The cheekpieces slide through the holes in the bit rings, moving the mouthpiece upwards against the corners of the mouth and lips, which gives a clear indication to the horse to lift his head. It also exerts pressure against the mouth to bring the horse's nose inwards.
The full cheeks offer more precise steering, as pressure is applied to the cheek when a turning aid is given. They also ensure that the mouthpiece remains in a central position and cannot slide through the horse's mouth. This bit can be used with two reins - one attached to the bit ring and one attached to the rope - so the gag action only comes into play when it is required.
We offer both rope and leather gag cheeks for your Nelson gag. The rope slides through the rings more quickly than the leather, giving a more immediate command, whereas many people prefer the aesthetic appearance of the leather.
The blue sweet iron mouthpiece encourages salivation, softening and acceptance of the bit because it oxidises easily, creating a warm, sweet taste in the horse's mouth. Please note that the blue will fade with use.
