Improvement in Bits for Horses

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This bit, known as the " Baldwin Bit," was patented May 23,1868. Its appearajice is shown in the accompanying engraving, and the principle of its working may be easily understood. It consists of two parallel bars, one of which sets into a rabbet in the other which answers to the ordinary bit. The rings into which the reins are buckled are formed with two parallel projections, which extend forward to the ends of the principal mouth-p.ece, and are pivoted to the same. They are also pivoted further back, to the second mouth-piece, which plays in the rabbet in the principal mouth-piece, so that any change in the position of the parts gives a sliding mo- iion of one of the mouth-pieces upon the other. This prevents the horse from seizing the bit and holding it in his teeth. The proprietors of this bit have full confidence that those who believe in treating the horse rationally and humanely will realize its merits. It is the habit of many to place a very severe and cruel bit in the mouths of horses in-chned to be vicious and unreliable. It is claimed that this bit will secure full control of the horse without cruelty. As soon as the horse attempts to catch the bit in his teeth, the weakest driver acquires great power over him by gently working one rein at a time, as it is so arranged that while one mouth-piece is stationary the other is moved at the will of the driver, so long as the reins are pulled unequally. It is well adapted for ladies' use, and is claimed to be equally adapted to driving all horses, as its governing powers are such that a horse will obey it without fear, and it is easy for both the horse and the driver. For further information address Jos. Baldwin Co., 254 Market street, Newark, N. J.

Scientific American Magazine Vol 21 Issue 19This article was published with the title “Improvement in Bits for Horses” in Scientific American Magazine Vol. 21 No. 19 (), p. 293
doi:10.1038/scientificamerican11061869-293a

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