Icelandic Bits About the Icelandic Bit Although there are a lot of good bits and bridles available you must remember that the bridle cannot train the horse, it can not fix your seat, rein contact or riding skills, which are of course what matters most. The bit can never be softer or harder than the hand holding the reins. The Icelandic bits are unique in the equestrian world. In times gone by Icelandic bits were often elaborately decorated. The curb bit was not common in Iceland until the 18th century. Up until that time snaffle bits were used. The attachment of the bit itself to the shank is designed to make the bit move in all directions, and in circles. It is important for the Icelandic bit to be flexible and easy to move sideways. The special feature of the Icelandic bit is the loose chain. The chain is not fastened more than needed to make the shank angle at 90 – 100 degrees from the mouth and it is often looser. The chain on the Icelandic bit is set so that it touches the horse only slightly or not at all when the horse is vertical flexed at the poll. If the horse moves its head upwards and against the rein the chain immediately takes effect and the horse feels an increased pressure, which in turn guides the horse to seek the position where there is no pressure and it is comfortable.  When the horse has been taught to follow the chain it is easy for the horse to find the best head carriage, and the rider’s wish has become the will of the horse, which must be the basic goal of any training. A good, supple, head carriage position has a lot to do with the quality of the gait. Correct training improves movements in all horses. A well educated horse will become even better when ridden with an Icelandic bit - but a badly trained horse can become even worse.

	The Master Icelandic Bit - NEW!!   The best Icelandic bit designed by Eyjolfur so far. A special handmade bit with a mouthpiece made from three different metals with no risk of the “nutcracker effect. It "rotates" in the middle and the rider can use the reins seperately.    Contact mail@toltmaster.com for further information.
	The Jolli Icelandic Bit   A special handmade Icelandic bit, designed by Eyjolfur. The mouthpiece is made from three different metals: steel, sweet iron and copper. Sweet iron is a natural metal which will rust. The mouthpiece has a port and a copper link which is slightly bent. This helps the horse to relax, salivate and to be able to swallow more easily. This is especially important for competition horses, and for all horses when exercising. This bit requires an educated horse and rider, and sensitive hands. Eyjolfur used this bit on Rás when they won the Tolt competition at Landsmót 2002, and also when he won the Icelandic Championship in Tolt the same year. Sold by www.astund.is
	The Pearl Icelandic Bit   Handmade Icelandic bit with the mouthpiece made of three types of metal. The soft iron and copper help make the horse’s mouth softer and more sensitive. This bit is designed by Eyjolfur. This bit is double-jointed; which secures even pressure on the horse’s mouth, however the chain is set. The Pearl Icelandic bit is a great bit for competition and training; a superb choice for the discerning rider, Eyjolfur’s favourite Icelandic bit. This bit requires an educated horse and rider, and sensitive hands.   Sold by www.astund.is
	The Astund Icelandic Bit   An Icelandic bit with one whole mouthpiece and a port, designed by Eyjolfur. There is no risk of the “nutcracker effect” when using straight bar bits. Some horses are more comfortable with an Icelandic bit like this one. This bit requires an educated horse and rider, and sensitive hands.   Sold by www.astund.is

This halter is designed for Icelandic horses by Eyjolfur. Halter knots are strategically located on the pressure points of the nose to help get the horse's attention. Used in all basic exercises from the ground. This groundwork creates trust, respect and understanding; which leads to the moment when the horse accepts the man as its leader. The lead rope must be 5m in length in order to be sufficiently long for you to be able to do all your ground work. The halter is also used for riding.

Sold by www.astund.is 

Sold by www.astund.is

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"There are many types of bits, for many different disiplines, but the severity of ALL bits, lies in the hand of who's holding them." Monty Roberts