Fager Gustav Sweet Iron Mouthpiece

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Browse through the most frequently asked questions

BITS

Important information to read before purchasing your first Fager bit

All Fager bits are individually crafted by hand rather than mass-produced by machinery. This enables us to pay attention to the smallest detail, however sometimes this can produce natural variation between finished bits. Unlike a mass-production line, when crafting by hand the final finish may vary in appearance. This variation is to be expected when producing each piece individually and is purely aesthetic, and in no way affects the functionality or the comfort of the bits.

Fager bits undergo rigorous quality checks prior to leaving our warehouse, whether they are being sold direct to you, the consumer, or to an authorized Fager stockist.

On receipt of your bit if you are dissatisfied with your purchase in anyway, please do get in touch with us BEFORE removing the tags or using the bit. Thank you.

Please feel free to get in touch if you are unsure about which bit to order or have any questions about the fit etc.

Due to current demand for the bits being extremely high, there will be no upcoming new designs or different sizes available, other than what is currently offered on the website.

How should I place my Fager Bit in the horses mouth?

The Horse-logo should always be on your horse right side, running forward. FAGER in front.

How do I know if I have the correct size?

If you are unsure of what size of bit to purchase for your horse, we recommend measuring an existing bit which correctly fits the horse.

Alternatively you can measure the mouth of the horse. To do this, we recommend using a whip and placing a piece of sticky tape onto the shaft of the whip. Then carefully place the whip into the mouth with the tape just showing/sitting on the outside of the mouth corners, where the flesh ends.

Next place some sticky tape on the other side (or simply mark the spot by holding your fingers) then remove the whip and measure between the two pieces of tape on the whip. Should your measurement fall in between two sizes, always choose the bigger size.

How do I measure the size of the bit?

Loose rings it is important to measure from inside of the hole. When the bits are made, they are being measured where the hole is placed. Different sizes on the hole between brands.

Fixed Rings/Eggbutts are measured from the inside of the side piece.

What is the difference between the various sidepieces?

Learn more from the sidepieces guide.

This guide is made after Fager’s knowledge and philosophy.

Can I try a Fager Bit before I buy it?

Learn more about our Bit Trial Program.

How can I check if the bit is approved for competition?

This link lists the competition approved bits in various categories and disciplines.

We regularly update the lists, however, we cannot guarantee that all rules changes are up to date.

What material should I pick?

Titanium, Sweet Iron, Sweet Gold, or Leather?

Titanium is valued for its low density, high strength and resistance to corrosion.

All Fager Titanium bits are quality checked and made of 100% medical Titanium, ensuring you utilise and feel the full benefits of this fantastic metal.

Titanium is a tasteless metal which naturally adapts to the temperature of the mouth, encouraging the horse to accept the bit and be more comfortable.

We usually recommend a Titanium bit for sensitive mouthed horses who can react to other metals e.g. red marks or sores developing, despite a soft contact from the hands.

Titanium gives a super light feeling in the hand and quicker response when compared to a heavier bit, particularly when combined with the correct mouthpiece for the individual horse.

Sweet iron is a covering on top of a bit made of stainless steel. The purpose is to disguise the metal taste from stainless steel and create a pleasant, sweet taste, encouraging the horse to seek more contact and hold on to the bit. Following use, sweet iron will start to oxidize and turn brownish grey, which means that the bit will start to rust but this is to be expected.  The more the sweet iron oxidizes, more ‘sweet’ taste will be released. When this happens the ‘blue’ will almost disappear.

Sweet Gold™ Bit incorporates advanced materials and thoughtful design, ensuring optimal comfort for your horse while promoting a steady connection between rider and mount. With its unique composition, Sweet Gold™ the bit not only maintains its natural glossy appearance but also provides lasting durability for years of reliable use. The perfect balance – a material rich in copper, soft yet durable, with a stunning gold hue that maintains its brilliance over time.

Fager's Leather bits are highly beneficial for horses that exhibit sensitivity to most bits, dislike metal bits, and can get wear on the teeth. The leather material possesses the ability to adapt to the contour of the horse's mouth, thereby rendering the bit uniquely suited to that particular horse.

How do I choose the correct bit for my horse?

At Fager, we work with pressure points. To know what suits your horse, we ask certain questions that lead the way to a bit your horse feel it's best. If your horse is new to you, it can be difficult to know the right answers. You can always contact us if you are unsure about what to choose, we have the knowledge and love to share it.

Fager has developed and designed the range using their knowledge and experience of the practical benefits they can bring and we love to share it.  We believe that a truly suitable bit can absolutely improve your horse movements and response to your aids. We recognize that having the correct equipment for your purpose is the ideal starting point for a successful partnership with your horse.

Is one bit enough or do I need more than one?

The answer is – Yes you do! You need a minimum of 2-3 bits at your disposal. Varying pressure needs to be available to avoid any numbness and unwillingness to work.

Rotation is key – even if your bit feels amazing, it is really important to change it before you lose it.  Depending on the individual horse and bit, we usually advice rotating between 2-7 uses, changing to another model for at least 2 times before changing back.

The mouth of your horse is sensitive and applying consistent, constant pressure unfortunately can result in bruising without us realizing. These pressure spots need to be alternated to avoid any discomfort, ideally before bruising occurs.

Where are Fager bits produced?

Since 2020 all Fager bits are produced from start to finish in our dedicated factory by our highly knowledgeable and experienced team.  This enables us to have full control over quality, design and materials.  The production is a highly skilled handcraft and not a skill which can be easily learned in a year or two. Everyone works together as one team and we love what we do – bringing to life our unique designs and having absolute pride in what we produce.

The Fager warehouse and Head Office is located in southern Sweden where we handle all inquiries and process your orders.

Clothes

Size guide

You will find a size guide on every product page.  Our clothing is generally true to size however we do add a little extra length to our full sleeves to enhance comfort and flexibility when riding.

What is the difference between our leggings and breeches?

Our breeches always have a zip opening at the front whereas leggings are ‘pull-up’ models.

Both are constructed from stretchy, comfortable fabric though you will find that our leggings are more stretchy and the breeches’ fabric is slightly thicker.

Please note: We do not take any responsibility for damage caused to your saddle from the seams, pockets, buttons, silicone etc.

My size is out of stock

Please complete the contact form to reach us with any questions or call/text 407-448-1353.

All items ship from our warehouse in Virginia. Our office/warehouse may be visited by appointment only. Please email us if you would like to arrange a visit.

We have a 30-day return policy (excludes bits, sale items and gift cards), which means you have 30 days from that the date of purchasing your item to request a return.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase. We reserve the right to refuse a return of any item not following these conditions. Clothing items that are returned with make-up marks, horse hair or other stains will not be accepted.

To start a return, you can contact us at sales@eliteequestriansupply.com. If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted. Please note that the original shipping costs will not be refunded to you and we will also deduct the cost of the return shipping label that we email to you from your refund. If you prefer to send the item back to us and pay for the shipping yourself, you must still email us in the first instance, in order for us to approve your return prior to sending the item back. If you wish to pay for the return shipping yourself, please send the item to the below address:

Elite Equestrian Supply

14900 Bogle Drive

Suite 100

Chantilly VA 20151

Please note customers outside of the USA must pay for their own return shipping as we are unable to provide you with a return shipping label.

Customers in Canada are responsible for all import duties on orders. If for any reason you fail to pay the duties on your order and the order is return to us, we will issue you a refund for the original order amount less shipping costs incurred by us both ways and any duties we have to pay.

You can always contact us for any return question at sales@eliteequestriansupply.com.

Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon receipt and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.

Exceptions / non-returnable items
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items, gift cards or bits (for hygiene reasons). Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.

Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.

Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.

If you have questions about this policy, please contact us on 407-448-1353.

We are not responsible for any packages that are lost in the mail. If you would like to insure your package their is an additional charge for that. Please call us at the above number prior to placing your order if you would like to add insurance. Once packages leave the building you receive a confirmation email via text or email (or both) and then it is the carriers responsibility to deliver the package to you. In the event your package is not delivered, please contact the carrier and provide them with your tracking number.