Portuguese Elliptical Gag

Portuguese Elliptical Gag Bit

The Portuguese elliptical gag is a stainless steel two-ring gag bit designed to lower the horse's head through poll pressure while giving the rider multiple rein options for varying degrees of control. The elliptical link reduces nutcracker action and distributes pressure more evenly across the bars of the mouth.

Key Features

• Stainless steel construction for durability and easy cleaning
• Two-ring loose ring snaffle design with smaller upper and lower rings
• Lowers the head through targeted poll pressure
• Elliptical (oval) link reduces nutcracker action across the tongue
• Multiple rein attachment options for graduated control
• Independent control over each side of the mouth, similar to a French link
• Available in 125mm and 135mm mouthpiece sizes

How the Bit Works

This bit functions like a snaffle with added leverage. A loose ring snaffle has smaller rings attached to the top and bottom of the larger main ring, allowing the rider to adjust the action by changing where the reins are attached.

When the reins are attached to the main large ring, the bit acts as a loose ring snaffle with slightly more poll pressure due to the cheek pieces attaching to the smaller top ring. Attaching the reins to the lower ring increases poll pressure, giving the rider more control and applying more pressure on the mouth. The bit can also be used with multiple reins or connectors to soften the leverage.

Benefits of the Elliptical Link

The oval elliptical link offers similar benefits to a French link: reduced nutcracker action, more even pressure across the bars, and independent control over each side of the mouth. This makes it a kinder option for horses that resist a single-jointed mouthpiece while still offering the leverage needed for stronger horses or jumping.

Best For

Show jumpers, eventers and riders schooling strong horses who need extra brakes without a harsh mouthpiece. Pair with appropriate reins for your chosen rein configuration and the right bridle with cheekpieces that suit a two-ring gag. Browse the full bits collection for more options across snaffles, gags and leverage bits.