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Combination Bit Guide
Meet the Otto Hackamore Combination Bit – It's Your Horse's Next-Level Riding Gear!
Otto is a game-changer. It works like a hackamore and a combination bit, giving your horse top-notch performance.
What's so special about Otto Hackamore combination bit?
Versatility: Otto can be both a hackamore and a bit. You can adjust and change the chain/curb strap, nosepiece, mouthpiece, and shank length easy at home!
This means that you don't have to buy a brand-new combination bit if you need a different size of the mouthpiece, length of the shank, or model on the nosepart.
How to change mouthpiece:
Use the tool (A) to loosen the stabilizer (B). Do now unscrew it all the way, just until it can slide freely on the shank.
Unscrew the upper shank (C) until it's detached.
Lift the upper shank (C) and take off the mouthpiece (D).
Put the new mouthpiece on the bit, remember that the horse on the side of the bit should be on the right side running forward.
Attach and screw back the upper shank (C). The shank will lock when it's fully attached.
Tighten the stabilizer (B) close to the mouthpiece with the tool (A).
Ready to be put on the bridle for a ride! But don't forget the chain/curb strap and nosepart that we will talk about further down.
You can also remove the stabilizer for a more flexible feeling:
Use the tool (A) to loosen the stabilizer (B). Do now unscrew it all the way, just until it can slide freely on the shank.
Unscrew the upper shank (C) until it's detached.
Lift the upper shank (C) and take off the mouthpiece (D).
Take off the stabilizer (B), and put back the mouthpiece (D).
Attach and screw back the upper shank (C). The shank will lock when it's fully attached.
Ready to be put on the bridle for a ride! But don't forget the chain/curb strap and nosepart that we will talk about further down.
When riding without the stabilizer, we recommend using bit guards on the bit to minimize the risk of pinching.
Noseparts: Choose between different noseparts
The Marco Leather Nosepart is a special design that spreads pressure evenly and helps stabilize the bit and bridle for sensitive horses. Extra-soft padding is positioned between the upper and lower straps of the noseband.
Our Paula Leather Nosepart is made from very soft, top-quality leather to keep your horse comfortable. It has extra padding that's shaped to be wider in the middle and narrower on the sides.
You can adjust it on both sides to make sure it fits your horse just right.
Sidepieces: Choose between different shank length
Otto Short shank
The short shank gives less leverage and can be good for a horse that's strong but still sensitive. Thanks to the bubble shape of the shank, the rein will slide inside the lower ring and not give as much effect as the other shanks.
Otto Medium shank
The medium shank gives a choice of medium leverage. This can be good for a horse that's strong and high in the neck but doesn't need too much effect.
Otto Long shank
The long shank offers more leverage. This can be good for a horse that's strong and high in the neck where you need more control.
Accessories: Delta, curb strap, and bit guards. Mix and match!
With Fager adjustable delta straps, you can adjust the strength without having to use two reins. By shortening the strap that goes to the lower ring you get more leverage and by shortening the strap to the upper part of the bit, you will get less leverage.
With the Otto combination bit, you can use bit guards, chain guards, leather chains, or curb chains. Choose whatever fits your horse the best!
When using 2 reins, you can adjust the strength easily while riding. By shortening the rein that goes to the lower ring you get more leverage and by shortening the rein to the upper part of the bit, you will get less leverage.
Most frequently asked questions
Do I need to size up when ordering the mouthpiece to my Otto combination bit?
Yes, when you order a mouthpiece for your combination bit, please select a size that's 1cm larger.
Which mouthpieces can I choose between?
You can choose between all the mouthpieces we have with loose rings! We create them from our standard loose ring bits to fit your needs. This lets us give you a variety of mouthpiece options and sizes for your custom bit! You can find all the mouthpieces here.
Can I remove the hooks for the chain if I want to use a curb strap?
Yes, the hooks for the chain can be removed. If you later on change your mind and want to use the hooks, they can be attached again.
Can I return a mouthpiece?
We make the mouthpieces just for you once you order. This means that you can't return or exchange them.
We create them from our standard loose ring bits to fit your needs. This lets us give you a variety of mouthpiece options and sizes for your custom bit.
How do I get the bit guards on the bit?
The easiest way to get the bit guards on the bit is to open the shank and put it on the mouthpiece directly. You can find the instructions on how to open above.
I have lost the tool to open the stabilizer, what can I do?
Do not worry, we know how easily they disappear! That's why we sell them separately as well, you can find them here.
Do I need to use the combination bit with a nosepart?
Yes, the Otto combination bit should never be used without a nosepart. The nosepart is what makes the bit stable and divides the pressure.
Do I need to use the combination bit with a chain or curb strap?
Yes, the Otto combination bit should never be used without a chain or curb strap. The chain/curb strap is what stops the bit when you take the reins, create leverage, and divide the pressure.
Can I use the Otto combination bit as a hackamore without a mouthpiece?
Yes, the Otto combination bit can be used without a mouthpiece. Important is to add a curb strap between the lower part of the shanks to keep it stable.
Enjoy the ride with your new Otto Hackamore Combination bit!
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