If you've spent any time around the barrel pattern, you've probably noticed that sharon camarillo bits are a staple in many tack rooms. It's not just because of the name recognition, either; there's a real philosophy behind how these bits are designed. Sharon has been a massive influence in the Western world for decades, and her approach to horsemanship really shines through in the hardware she puts out. Whether you're just starting out with a young horse or you're looking to shave some time off your runs on a seasoned pro, understanding how these bits work can make a world of difference in your communication.
I've always felt that choosing a bit is one of the most personal decisions you can make for your horse. It's the primary way we talk to them when we're in the saddle, and if the "phone line" is fuzzy or too loud, things can go south pretty quickly. What I love about the Sharon Camarillo line is that it isn't about "fixing" a horse with force. Instead, these bits are designed to encourage a horse to find their own balance and stay light in the bridle.
The Philosophy of the Better Control System
Sharon's "Better Control" series is probably her most famous contribution to tack design. The idea here isn't just about stopping power—though we all need a little of that sometimes—it's more about refinement and transition. If you look at her bits, you'll see a lot of thought put into the leverage and the way the mouthpiece sits.
One thing you'll notice is that many of her bits feature sweet iron and copper. Horses generally love the taste of sweet iron because it oxidizes, which creates a sweet flavor and encourages the horse to salivate. Why does that matter? Well, a "wet" mouth is a soft, responsive mouth. A dry mouth can become numb or resistant, and that's the last thing you want when you're trying to navigate a tight turn at a gallop.
The bits are often categorized by the level of experience the horse (and the rider) has. You've got your transition bits, your competition bits, and those specialized tools for horses that might be a bit too "pushy" or heavy on the forehand. It's all about finding that sweet spot where the horse understands the cue without feeling like they need to fight back.
Breaking Down the Mouthpieces
When you start looking at sharon camarillo bits, the variety of mouthpieces can be a little overwhelming at first. You've got your classic three-piece designs, dog bones, and various port heights. Each one serves a specific purpose.
The three-piece mouthpieces are fantastic because they eliminate the "nutcracker" effect that a standard two-piece snaffle can have. Instead of pinching the bars of the mouth or poking the roof, the three-piece design wraps more comfortably around the tongue. This provides a very even pressure, which is great for horses that are a bit sensitive or those that tend to get "fussy" with their head when they feel a sharp pinch.
Then you have the bits with a bit of a port. Now, don't let a port scare you off. A medium port isn't necessarily more "harsh"; in many cases, it actually provides tongue relief. By giving the tongue a little more room, the bit puts more pressure on the bars of the mouth. For a horse that has a thick tongue or just hates constant tongue pressure, switching to a bit with a slight port can be like a breath of fresh air for them. They'll suddenly stop tossing their head and start actually listening to your hands.
Let's Talk About the Shanks
The shanks on a bit are what determine the leverage. Sharon's designs often use what she calls the "7-style" shank. If you look at it, the shank isn't just a straight line; it has a specific curve. This design is clever because it changes the timing of the signal.
When you pull on the reins with a straight-shanked bit, the horse feels it almost instantly. With a curved shank, there's a fraction of a second of "warning" before the full pressure of the curb chain kicks in. This gives the horse a chance to respond to the slight movement of the bit before they get the full signal. It's all about being as soft as possible while still having the backup you need when things get fast.
Short shanks are generally great for younger horses or those that don't need much help. They offer a quicker, lighter signal. Long shanks, on the other hand, provide more leverage. These are usually reserved for finished horses that need a little more "lift" in their shoulders or horses that tend to lean on the bit when they're under pressure.
Why the "Lifter" Bits are a Game Changer
If I had a nickel for every time I saw a horse "dump" their weight onto their front end going into a turn, I'd be retired by now. It's a common problem, especially in barrel racing. This is where the Sharon Camarillo lifter bits really shine.
These bits are specifically designed to help you pick up a horse's shoulder. When you use a lifter bit, the mouthpiece has a bit of slide on the shanks. This means when you pull up, the bit moves slightly before the leverage kicks in, encouraging the horse to tuck their nose and lift their front end. It's not about pulling their head up—it's about signaling the whole body to stay collected.
Using one of these bits properly can feel like you've suddenly gained power steering. Instead of the horse "washing out" in the turn, they stay upright and driven through their hindquarters. But a word of caution: these bits require a soft hand. Because they are so effective at providing lift, you don't need to go "yanking" on them. A little bit goes a long way.
Matching the Bit to the Horse's Personality
Every horse is an individual, and honestly, what works for one might be a total disaster for another. I've seen horses that look amazing in a simple Sharon Camarillo gag bit but get completely confused in a more stable shanked bit.
If you have a horse that's "hot" and sensitive, you want to stay away from anything too busy. A simple sweet iron mouthpiece with short shanks is usually a good starting point. You want to keep the communication clear and quiet so you don't over-stimulate them.
On the flip side, if you've got a "pushy" horse—one of those big, strong types that likes to run through the bit—you might need something with a bit more "bite" or leverage. That doesn't mean you want to hurt them; it just means you need a tool that commands a bit more respect so you can keep them safe and under control during a run.
Tips for Success with Sharon Camarillo Bits
First things first: check your adjustment. I can't tell you how many times I've seen a great bit get a bad rap because it was hanging too low or pulled too tight in a horse's mouth. Generally, you're looking for one or two soft wrinkles in the corner of the mouth. If the bit is clanking against their teeth, it's too low. If it looks like they're smiling like a Cheshire cat, it's too tight.
Also, don't forget the curb chain. The curb chain is what engages the leverage of the shank. If it's too loose, the bit will just rotate in the horse's mouth without doing much. If it's too tight, the horse will feel constant pressure and likely get frustrated. The "two-finger" rule is a good baseline, but you'll have to feel it out based on your horse's reaction.
Another thing to keep in mind is that no bit can replace training. Sharon Camarillo herself is a huge advocate for foundational work. If your horse doesn't understand how to give to pressure on the ground or at a walk, a fancy bit isn't going to fix your problems at a dead run. These bits are meant to be tools that enhance your communication, not crutches to fix bad habits.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Bit
When it's all said and done, finding the right sharon camarillo bits for your tack room is about trial and error. Don't be afraid to try a few different styles to see what your horse likes. Sometimes, they'll tell you immediately. Their ears will perk up, they'll stop grinding their teeth, and they'll start working with you instead of against you.
It's really satisfying when you find that perfect match. The run feels smoother, the turns are tighter, and you feel like you and your horse are finally on the same page. Whether you're chasing a personal best or just enjoying the ride, having the right equipment makes the whole experience a lot more rewarding. Just remember to keep your hands soft, your cues clear, and always listen to what your horse is trying to tell you. They're the best teachers we'll ever have, after all.