Achieve a new level of responsiveness and relaxation with a bit designed to encourage a soft, willing mouth while maintaining the classic aesthetic of the hunter ring. The Shires Blue Alloy Hunter Dee with Lozenge eliminates communication barriers by combining a sweet-tasting mouthpiece with a gentle, double-jointed action that prioritizes your horse’s comfort.Expertly engineered for the discerning equestrian, this bit features a specialized Blue Alloy mouthpiece that naturally oxidizes to create a warm, sweet taste, effectively stimulating salivation and bit acceptance. The fixed "D" ring design provides superior lateral stability and prevents the bit from pulling through the mouth, making it an ideal choice for both green horses needing guidance and seasoned show hunters requiring a steady, reliable contact without the harshness of a single-jointed nutcracker effect.Key Features & Specifications: Blue Alloy (Sweet Iron) Mouthpiece: Specifically formulated to oxidize over time, creating a "sweet" taste that encourages salivation and a relaxed, responsive jaw. Double-Jointed Lozenge: The smooth "peanut" center distributes pressure evenly across the tongue and bars, protecting the sensitive palate from the "nutcracker" action of single-jointed bits. Traditional Hunter Dee Rings: Provides the gold-standard aesthetic for the Hunter and Equitation rings while offering gentle lateral guiding support for improved steering. Medium Thickness (14mm-16mm): Offers a stable feel for the horse to lean on slightly while remaining thin enough to fit comfortably in horses with lower palates. Stainless Steel Construction: The durable "D" rings are crafted from high-quality stainless steel to ensure longevity, rust resistance, and a polished show-ring finish. Versatile Sizing Options: Available in standard widths including 5", 5.5", and 6" to ensure a snug, precise fit that prevents sliding and maximizes communication. Show Ring Legal: Widely USEF and USDF legal for Hunters, Jumpers, and Equitation, making it a versatile investment for your competitive toolkit.Frequently Asked Questions:Q: Why is the mouthpiece blue, and will the color change?A: The blue finish is a signature of the "sweet iron" alloy. It is designed to oxidize (rust) with use, which creates the sweet taste horses love; this transition to a brownish-grey is normal and indicates the bit is functioning to encourage salivation.Q: Is this bit appropriate for a horse that is sensitive to mouth pressure?A: Absolutely. The lozenge design is specifically intended for sensitive horses because it lays flat across the tongue, preventing the joint from poking the roof of the mouth, which often causes resistance or head-tossing.Q: How do I ensure I choose the correct size?A: You should measure your horse's mouth from the inside of one cheek to the other. Because the Hunter Dee is a fixed-ring bit, it should fit snugly against the lips without pinching to provide the best lateral guidance and stability.Item Number/SKU: 87874BLSWIR5
