Mackey Large Ring Thick Race Snaffle Horse Bit
Description
Mackey Large Ring (Thick) Race Snaffle
The Mackey Large Ring (Thick) Race Snaffle is a loose ring racing bit with a thick 2.3cm mouthpiece and large 10cm rings. It is designed for racehorses in training, point-to-pointers and any horse doing fast work, as well as riders who want a wider, milder mouthpiece with clear steering for schooling at home.
The thicker mouthpiece spreads pressure across a wider area of the bars and tongue rather than concentrating it, while the oversized rings lie flat against the cheeks to reinforce turning aids and help discourage the bit being pulled through the mouth. Browse more options in our horse bits collection.
Key Features
- Large 10cm rings give clear lateral guidance and help prevent the bit sliding through the mouth
- Thick 2.3cm mouthpiece distributes rein pressure over a broader surface
- Race snaffle design proven on racing and point-to-point yards
- Smooth, rounded finish for comfortable contact
- Best for keen or strong horses, young horses in early education and fast work
- Works with any standard bridle and conventional reins
Specifications
| Brand | Mackey |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Race snaffle bit, large loose ring |
| Ring Width | 10cm |
| Bit Thickness | 2.3cm |
| Suitable For | Racing, fast work, schooling, general riding |
| Country of Origin | China |
How to Use
- Measure your horse's current bit from the inside of one ring to the inside of the other, or use a bit measurer, to confirm the correct mouthpiece width.
- Attach the bit to your bridle cheekpieces, keeping any joint or curve facing the correct way for the mouth.
- Bridle up and check the bit sits level, with roughly 5mm clear either side of the lips and one to two small wrinkles at the corners.
- Check the rings move freely and are not pinching the lips; fit bit guards if your horse is sensitive at the corners.
- Ride in walk first to let the horse settle before asking for faster work.
- Rinse in clean water after every use, dry thoroughly and inspect for wear before the next ride.
FAQ
What size are the rings and mouthpiece?
The rings measure 10cm across and the mouthpiece is 2.3cm thick.
Is a thicker bit milder than a thin one?
Generally yes, because pressure is spread over a wider area rather than concentrated. This only holds true if the horse has enough room in its mouth for the thicker mouthpiece.
How do I choose the right bit width?
Measure a bit your horse already goes well in from the inside of one ring to the inside of the other, or use a bit measurer. You want around 5mm of clearance either side of the lips so the bit does not pinch or slide.
Why are the rings so large?
Large rings lie flat against the cheeks, reinforce turning aids and make it much harder for the bit to be pulled through the mouth, which is useful with keen or green horses.
Is this bit only for racehorses?
No. It is a racing pattern but it is widely used for schooling, hacking and everyday riding where a wide mouthpiece and clear steering are wanted.
How should I care for the bit?
Rinse in clean water after each use and dry it. Check the rings, joints and mouthpiece regularly for roughness, wear or damage and replace the bit if you find any.
About Mackey
Mackey supply practical equestrian and racing equipment used on busy working yards, with a long-standing following in racing and point-to-point. The range concentrates on hard-wearing, no-nonsense tack for horses in daily work.

