Favorite bits for your youngsters as you start hauling? We are currently in a Jr Cowhorse and I'm just not sure it's a great fit for our colt. 

What are you running your babies in? 
Why do you think it's the best? 

Send a girl some suggestions!!

I'm no bit guru but what are you feeling that you think needs to be fixed or needs some help?

We don't have a real issue. I have noticed that he is opening his mouth to get away from the bit though. We ride really soft, but I know with speed and jitters in a run, sometimes things get a little jerkier than normal.

His weaknesses at the moment, which we are slowing back down to work on more.. He has a booty dragging stop in and out of the arena, but when he's at a race... it's like all that goes out the window. He has very little whoa coming home, and honestly, not a lot of check going to first. He is also blowing out his turns a little. Like I said, we are slowing down and going back right fundamentals to work on those issues. He's got a motor bigger than Texas, and he is just learning to really put it to use. I'm not a big believer in using a bit to correct an issue, but I think there must me something else to try that he might be more comfortable in (less gaping mouth.) 

I sold a lot of the "extras" we had around here, and now I'm kicking myself in the rear for not having a tub of options to try. 

JMHO, I would have a good equine dentist look at his teeth & go from there. I love the ed wright 3 piece mouth piece bits. 

I agree w okhorselover, the Ed Wright 3 piece gags and lifters are universally great Bit’s on most horses! And as you get faster or are progressing with him into being a finished horse, if you need more whoa or leverage, you can go to a longer shank! Short, medium or long -- you can get them how you want them when/if  you want them! I love the short shank on all my babies and they move from a O-ring into one easily usually!

Let me add that your doing great by slowing back down!!!!

I would also have TMJ checked out; one that is sore can cause them to gape their mouths.

Horses that gape their mouth do well in a chain.  There is an inexpensive version, a Rosie Gag.  One of my favs is a Hodges Futurity Bit with chain mouthpiece.  L&W carries both.  

Thanks y'all!! I had his teeth checked at his yearly, by our vet, but I certainly didn't think to ask about checking TMJ. And, I know a dentist is a lot more thorough. I'll definitely get that scheduled. 

This guy is extremely special to us, and he has been the easiest and most willing baby I've ever had the pleasure of working with.. we want him solid, and loving his job. So, I have no issue slowing down and re-evaluating to ensure that.. no matter how many times we have do it. 

I missed you guys, and all the positive feedback! 

If your horse is gapping his mouth then I agree with the chain mouth or a 3 piece bit, Like a Dog Bone Sweet Iron. You need to try a bit that will form to his mouth.