You can directly ask your question in our online chat, which appears at the bottom right.
If you need a quick answer or want to discuss your issue in more detail, you can reach Loic at 06.07.03.38.93.
Why choose a Blue Steel bit for my horse?
When it comes to choosing a bit for your horse, the material used plays a crucial role in the animal's comfort and reaction. Among the modern materials gaining popularity, Blue Steel stands out for its unique properties and is favored by bit fitters. But what exactly is Blue Steel, and is it suitable for all horses? In this article, we will explore this innovation in detail to help you make the best choice for your equine.
What is Blue Steel?
Blue Steel is a heat-treated steel alloy, which gives it a characteristic bluish tint. This heat treatment process improves its mechanical properties and makes it more wear-resistant. One of the most interesting aspects of Blue Steel is its ability to oxidize slightly when it comes into contact with the horse's saliva, giving it a slightly sweet taste (also known as "sweet iron") and encouraging chewing and salivation.
Blue Steel bits are often compared to stainless steel bits, but with some notable differences, especially in terms of responsiveness and comfort for the horse.
Advantages of Blue Steel
1. Better Bit Acceptance
The main advantage of Blue Steel is its ability to promote salivation and chewing. This natural reaction from the horse allows for better relaxation and promotes better bit acceptance, linked to good jaw mobilization. A horse that salivates well will generally be more relaxed and more responsive to its rider's actions. Blue Steel is therefore particularly recommended if your horse has a somewhat stiff mouth, or if it struggles to relax. It will be less advisable, however, for horses that already salivate a lot, as it risks causing excessive salivation, just like cyprium.
2. A Soft and Responsive Contact
Thanks to its oxidation, Blue Steel offers a more pleasant sensation for the horse. Unlike some stainless steel bits that can be cold and inert, Blue Steel adapts more quickly to the horse's mouth temperature, making it more comfortable and pleasant. Blue Steel is therefore perfect for young horses or for those with delicate mouths.
3. Increased Durability
The heat treatment applied to Blue Steel makes it more wear-resistant. It offers excellent longevity as long as it is well maintained. This increased resistance makes it a good investment for riders looking for a quality and durable bit.
4. Better Rider-Horse Communication
The natural oxidation of Blue Steel creates a taste effect that encourages the horse to stay in contact with the bit. It improves communication between the rider and the animal, especially for horses that tend to be stiff or have difficulty maintaining stable contact with the bit.
Disadvantages of Blue Steel
1. Regular Maintenance Required
The bluish color of Blue Steel fades over time, particularly due to natural oxidation. While some riders may be disappointed by the aesthetic evolution of the bit after several months of use, this color change only makes it more effective and comfortable thanks to the oxidation of the thermal coating.
Comparison: new bit at the bottom vs. oxidized bit at the top.
2. Appearance Can Change Over Time
The bluish color of Blue Steel can fade over time, particularly due to natural oxidation and wear. Although this does not affect its performance, some riders may be disappointed by the aesthetic evolution of the bit after several months of use.
3. Less Suitable for Humid Climates
In very humid environments, Blue Steel oxidizes more quickly. For riders living in regions with high humidity, it may be necessary to be particularly vigilant about bit maintenance to prevent excessive rust formation.
4. Potentially Higher Price
Blue Steel bits are sometimes more expensive than their stainless steel counterparts. Their specific manufacturing and unique properties justify this price. However, some brands, like Topmors, make Blue Steel accessible at affordable prices.
5. Some Horses Don't Like the Taste
Some horses are sensitive to the taste of materials and may not appreciate the oxidation that gives Blue Steel its particular flavor. They may prefer more neutral tastes, such as that of stainless steel.
How to Maintain a Blue Steel Bit?
To maximize the lifespan of your Blue Steel bit, here are some maintenance tips:
- Dry it after each use: avoid leaving moisture on the bit after riding.
- Store it in a dry place: avoid overly humid tack rooms.
- Apply a thin layer of oil to limit oxidation.
- Clean it regularly with a soft cloth and warm water.
By following these few precautions, your Blue Steel bit will remain in good condition longer and retain its optimal properties.
In Summary
Blue Steel can be a good choice for your horse if:
- You want to provide it with more comfort and if its mouth is delicate.
- If your horse needs relaxation and doesn't salivate enough.
- If you want to improve your horse's contact and tension on the bit.
- If your horse is sensitive to temperature changes and dislikes a cold bit in its mouth.
- You want a high-quality and durable bit.
Blue Steel may not be suitable if:
- Your horse dislikes its taste.
- You want to change bits in a short time and wish to optimize your budget.
- If your horse tends to salivate too much.
- If you live in a very humid environment that would accelerate oxidation.
The Pro's Note:
The action of Blue Steel is enhanced when combined with Cyprium. The combination of the two alloys multiplies relaxation and salivation.
OUR BITS IN BLUE STEEL
-
Original price 46,00 € - Original price 105,00 €Original price46,00 € - 105,00 €46,00 € - 105,00 €Current price 46,00 €Blue steel fine double-broken bit with brass rollers
Diameter: Rings 65mm - Stainless Steel Diameter: Canons 14mm - Blue Steel Rounded brass double break
Original price 46,00 € - Original price 105,00 €Original price46,00 € - 105,00 €46,00 € - 105,00 €Current price 46,00 € -
Original price 49,00 € - Original price 49,00 €Original price49,00 €49,00 € - 49,00 €Current price 49,00 €Double jointed loose ring snaffle, thick blue steel mouthpiece, brass rollers
Diameter: Rings 65mm - Stainless steel Diameter: Cannons 18 mm - Solid blue steel
Original price 49,00 € - Original price 49,00 €Original price49,00 €49,00 € - 49,00 €Current price 49,00 € -
Original price 55,00 € - Original price 55,00 €Original price55,00 €55,00 € - 55,00 €Current price 55,00 €
Blue steel double-jointed snaffle bit with copper inlay
Barrel diameter: 13 mm Rings: 70 mm Stainless steel, blue steel, and copper quality
Original price 55,00 € - Original price 55,00 €Original price55,00 €55,00 € - 55,00 €Current price 55,00 € -
Original price 65,00 € - Original price 65,00 €Original price65,00 €65,00 € - 65,00 €Current price 65,00 €Double-jointed "Blue Steel" needle bit with twisted cannons and copper roller
Diameter: 45mm rings - Stainless steel Diameter: 12mm cannons - Blue Steel - Copper roller Needle size: 120mm - Stainless steel
Original price 65,00 € - Original price 65,00 €Original price65,00 €65,00 € - 65,00 €Current price 65,00 € -
Original price 41,00 € - Original price 100,00 €Original price41,00 € - 100,00 €41,00 € - 100,00 €Current price 41,00 €Blue Steel Straight Bit with Tongue Port
Direct action: The straight mouthpiece exerts equal and direct pressure on the entire horse's mouth. It acts symmetrically, allowing for simple a...
View full detailsOriginal price 41,00 € - Original price 100,00 €Original price41,00 € - 100,00 €41,00 € - 100,00 €Current price 41,00 €
7-DAY TRIAL
Are you concerned that the bit you chose may not be suitable?
When you purchase your bit, you have 7 days after receiving your package to try it out. If the bit is not suitable, we will refund you so you can exchange it.