Frank Turley Posted November 27, 2011 Share Posted November 27, 2011 The Ring Bit: History, Form & Function Donald Minzenmayer ISBN 978-0-7643-3887-8 189 pp + an Afterword Schiffer Publications Ltd. info@schifferbooks.com This is a new book (November, 2011), letter sized, full of photos, some in color, and a good text. The author talks about a bridle bit style, a bit that is not used much anymore in the U.S. The bit has an iron ring integral with the port of the mouthpiece, and the ring encircles the horse's lower jaw. It acts as a curb, whereas most modern curb bits have a leather strap or small flat chain fitting in the horse's chin groove.The book shows much research and took several years to complete. I met the author in 2006 when I demoed at Oldenburg, Texas, for the Houston Area Blacksmiths Association. He included a couple pages of color photos of me forge welding a small ring to dimension. I used 3/8"D mild steel. There are numerous photos of antique and early bits as well as some currently made bits, several of which are works of art. An exquisitely made ring bit by contemporary bitsmith, Mark Dahl, is on the front and back covers (hard back). I recommend the book to horsey people, but also to those who want to see some incredible iron and steel workmanship. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jeremy k Posted November 27, 2011 Share Posted November 27, 2011 Very impressive cover photo, would hate to know how much time went into the making of that bit.(actually I would) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.