Portuguese Sweet Iron Brass Rollers

This bit is a great option for horses that like to be heavy in your hands and hang on the bit.

This bit works like a snaffle with extra leverage. The main purpose of this bit is to lower the horse's head through poll pressure, and to provide stronger control.

How to Use the Portuguese Gag Bit

The reins can be attached in a variety of ways:

• Main large ring: The bit has the same effect as a loose ring snaffle, with slightly more poll pressure due to the cheek pieces attaching to the smaller top ring.
• Lower ring: Poll pressure is increased, giving the rider more control and putting more pressure on the mouth.
• Multiple reins or connectors: Softens the leverage and pressure for a more subtle aid.

Key Features

• Sweet iron mouthpiece encourages salivation, making the horse lighter in the rider's hands
• Brass rollers encourage the horse to mouth the bit, promoting a relaxed jaw
• Roller link reduces nutcracker action with more even pressure over the bars
• Allows independent control over both sides of the mouth
• Slightly curved mouthpiece for comfort and extra tongue space
• Available in 125mm and 135mm sizes

Ideal For

This Portuguese gag bit suits horses that tend to lean on the bit or need additional poll pressure for head carriage. It's popular in show jumping and cross-country work where stronger control may be needed without resorting to a harsher mouthpiece.

Browse our full range of horse bits, or explore our reins and bridles for a complete bridle setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a Portuguese gag different from a snaffle?

It works like a snaffle but adds leverage. Reins on the main ring act much like a loose ring snaffle, while the lower ring increases poll pressure for stronger control.

What disciplines is it used for?

It is popular in show jumping and cross-country, where stronger control may be needed without moving to a harsher mouthpiece. Multiple reins soften the action for subtler aids.