The MB 04 is similar to the MB 02 in that it will rotate on the tongue and apply tongue pressure, however, it has a small (¼") port that introduces some tongue relief to the horse. The port allows the horse to swallow and move his tongue when he is moving forward and relaxed, which acts as a release or reward. The mouthpiece is curved, and it wraps around the bars and lips instead of pinching. Sweet iron mouthpiece oxidizes and encourages salivation.
Notes: The MB 04 provides an excellent transition from Level One to Level Two. It is suitable for a wide range of horses including green horses, experienced horses entering the Myler System, horses that have been ridden exclusively in a single-jointed mouthpiece, or horses that have not been ridden for a while needing re-schooling.
The MBB shank is a length of flat black steel curved slightly back towards the horse, with a teardrop purchase and a rein ring. The mouthpiece has a fixed attachment to the cheek with a decorative “stack.” The shank is decorated with stainless steel dots. The purchase is angled slightly away from the cheek to avoid rubbing. The black steel will discolor over time to an antique brown.
The MBB flat shank is an indirect (curb) rein action designed to be used with a curb strap which attaches to the purchase. This shank uses the combination of fixed cheek and fixed rein to apply pressure to the mouth, chin and poll.
Size: 6 3/4"
Action: Indirect
Discipline: Western
Degree of Leverage: Moderate