Kimblewick Bit wtih Jointed Mouth COB

The design of the Kimberwick bit allows the rider to have the option of using it just like a snaffle or use a bit of leverage depending on the position of his or her hands. If the rider wants to have these two options, the reins are attached to the lower slot on the curve of the D-ring. Kimberwicks that have slots on the D-rings are called the Uxeter Kimblewick. 

Some Kimberwicks have no slots, and the rider instead uses his skills to let the reins slide down or up the D-rings. When the hand action of the rider is executed up high, the Kimberwick bit acts just like a snaffle imparting the same pressure exerted by the rider on the mouth of the horse. If the rider places his or her hands on the side, this action makes use of the leverage, thus imparting a slightly stronger pressure on the horse.

Due to its leverage effect, the severity of the Kimberwick bit can be considered as slightly stronger than the snaffle. With such a short shank, however, the curb effect should be nominal. Nevertheless, the Kimberwick can only be used properly be an experienced rider with good hand action. Novice riders should settle with the snaffle until their hand actions improve. It must be noted that horses also prefer one type of bit to another, so if the horse has gotten used to the Kimberwick, it might resist or feel uncomfortable when fitted with a different bit.

The Kimberwick bit is not allowed for dressage and show hunting competitions. The bit has been criticized as being an unconventional type of bit, and that its shape will make the horse develop bad habits like leaning into the bit or become confused due to the subtle changes in pressure and action. Nevertheless, the curb effect despite the D-ring lessens the risk of the shank on getting snagged on anything, which is ideal for contact sports like polo or polocrosse. The shape and action of the Kimberwick also benefits smaller riders on bigger horses.