The WRANGLER Horse and Rodeo News is an equine and rodeo publication with circulation in Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota, Utah and Idaho.
Issue link: http://thewrangler.uberflip.com/i/1528209
September, 2024 • The WRANGLER • 43 Campbell stated, "It was too clunky and too heavy. The action didn't work right. We built multiple prototypes using different weights of steel trying to get it to feel just right on a horse." Campbell remarked that it can be a fine line between innovation and duplication with bit making, because no one can completely reinvent the wheel. She is very conscientious about not copying the designs of other respected bit makers, especially when there is already a quality, barrel specific design available. As any seasoned horseman or horsewoman knows, just because two bits may look similar, does not mean they will ride the same. The bits in Kelley and Campbell's line have all undergone extensive testing in the field with Campbell. Kelley will continue to tweak a design until Campbell believes that they have perfected the feel she was hoping to achieve. Each component of the bit can affect how it ultimately rides, from the angles and mechanical structure, to the raw materials used. Campbell explained, "It can feel different based on the weight of the shank." This is why a mass production and handmade bit could look identical, but not feel the same in a rider's hands. People often ask how to adjust their bits properly and Campbell shared her preferences, "I don't like the mouthpiece sliding through their mouth or across their lips. I personally will ride one up in their mouth a little higher, because I want that stability. I don't want it moving unless I touch the rein." Curb straps are another source of discussion, with every rider or trainer having a different stance. Campbell listed several options including chain, string, leather, or beaded curbs, "I generally use a leather curb strap on almost every bit. Kerry sells some that are phenomenal. They are amazing, the weight and how they fit on the horse." Campbell and the employees at Kelley's shop are happy to discuss a customer's needs and help them choose the right bit for their situation. "When I know the person and I know how they ride, it's easy for me to suggest bits. We get a lot (of requests for help) through the store and through me and it's not always easy to get the perfect thing. A lot of it is trial and error. There will be times that a bit might not fix what's going on. A video is very helpful to see how someone rides, preferably not blurry or taken too far away. If people can send a picture of the bit they're currently using helps. It is easier to help someone hands on, but the more information you have, the more you can help." Campbell emphasized the importance of being open minded when it comes to bit selection and that less truly can be more. "Over the years, a number of people have come to me and think they have a strong, runaway horse, and then I might recommend something lighter. If you have a death grip, your horse feels trapped. Or if you have all this leverage from a chin strap and shank. Sometimes if you take all that off, your horse no longer has anything to brace against and you'd be stunned." Regarding her favorite bits in the line, Campbell told us, "I absolutely love the ticket in a two piece twisted wire. It has a lot of feel and gives me control on harder running horses, but doesn't scare young horses either. I also love a locked o-ring snaffle with a two piece square mouth. That's a bit that I cannot function without." For more information or to order, check out their website at kerrykelleyspurs.com or call the shop at 817-594-1775. Left: Danyelle with a bit from her collaboration. Photo Credit: Suade Furr. Right: Kerry Kelley offers lots of options concerning bits. This display is full of barrel racing bits. Photo Credit: EC Marketing.