The Complete Book of Bits & Bitting

by Elwyn Hartley Edwards

Merely changing a bit can transform a balky, hard-to-control horse into a smooth, contented partner. With this comprehensive, practical guide, every equestrian will experience the rewards of using exactly the right piece of equipment. Descriptions cover every known bit -- from the simple snaffle to the double bridle. And, because the he paraphernalia can't be isolated from riding practice, there are suggestions for making the best use of the information and for bridle and bit combinations that solve specific problems.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2000

About the author

Captain Elwyn Hartley Edwards, MC, was an equestrian writer and editor, born on 17 April 1927 on a boat between India and Britain, and his birth recorded in North Wales. He died on 9 December 2007, aged 80.

Elwyn Edwards was the editor of Riding magazine for 18 years. And the consultant editor for Horse & Hound for five years, he also served as a regional chairman of the British Horse Society and as a member of the BHS council, receiving the society's Award of Merit in 1993. He was also a vice-president of the Riding for the Disabled Association and vice-patron of the Horse and Pony Protection Association.

He used to regularly judge horse shows in the UK. He had written more than 30 books on horse-related subjects and was an authority on lorinery and saddlery

Reviews

[Tara Tibbetts · Rating 5 out of 5]

While the author is a bit of a curmudgeon and is not hesitant to voice his opinion, this book is very informative about the types of bits and how they work. The author is English and thus has an English riding perspective, so this book isn't terribly valuable for the western rider, but he does explain the basics of the most predominantly used bits.

[Kathleen Finucane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Comprehensive, one stop book for bitting questions. Also surprisingly witty and sassy at times. Unfortunately a book can't "diagnose" or "scan" your horse and tell you what bit they'll like most.

[Roya Moallem · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book might be helpful for those horsey people who do not have any information about bits. However after reading it (on a forward pace), I figured it would have been better if I watched several videos on the subject instead. This subject needs visual aids rather than mere theoretical information.

[Sue Ramlo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't think there's another book like this one... from historical to present day, it's all about bits. I've learned a lot reading this book and it will make a great reference for the future.