How to Attach Gag Straps Correctly and Safely

The Gag bit (Ophaal Bustrens) is a precise tool whose heart is not the metal mouthpiece itself, but the gag straps. They are responsible for the unique “lifting” effect (raising the mouth). If they are attached sloppily or at the wrong angle, the entire mechanics of the bit will fall apart.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare a bridle with a Gag bit.

1. Choosing the right straps (Gag Straps)

Before you start the assembly, check what straps you have. At Balotade you will usually encounter two types:

Leather straps: More traditional, stable, but offering slightly more resistance while sliding through the eyelets.
Nylon/cord straps: More “aggressive” in action, because they slide instantly. They give a very direct signal.

2. Step-by-step assembly

Step 1: Attaching to the bridle

We attach the upper part of the gag strap (the one with the buckle or loop) directly to the cheekpieces of the bridle instead of a traditional bit.

Step 2: Threading through the eyelets

Thread the lower part of the strap through the holes in the bit rings.

Important: The strap must pass from top to bottom. The mouthpiece should slide freely along the strap up and down without any resistance.

Step 3: Attaching the reins

This is where the “magic” happens. The lower ring of the gag strap (the one that hangs under the bit) is used to attach the Gag rein.

3. The golden rule: Riding on two pairs of reins

Although the sight of riders with one pair of reins attached only to the Gag straps is common, the safer and more professional method is to use two pairs of reins:

The snaffle rein: Attached directly to the large bit ring. You use it for 90% of the training time. It works like an ordinary egg-butt.
The Gag rein: Attached to the rings of the gag straps. You reach for it only when the horse “loads onto the forehand” or tries to pull the reins out.

Thanks to this you avoid the constant, unnecessary pressure on the poll and corners of the mouth, which could desensitise the horse to the aids.

4. What to pay attention to? (Safety checklist)

Strap length: The straps must not be too long. After attaching the reins the bit should be at a natural height in the mouth (about 1-2 wrinkles in the corners).
Technical condition: Regularly check the places where the strap contacts the metal eyelet of the bit. Friction can cause the leather or cord to wear through.
Symmetry: Make sure the straps on both sides are fastened on the same hole. Even a 1 cm difference can cause a crooked head position in the horse.

Comparison of fastenings in a Gag-type bit

Type of fastening	Characteristics	Difficulty level
Two pairs of reins	The highest precision, mouth protection.	For advanced riders
One rein (on the strap)	Constant leverage, very strong action.	Risky
Connector (rounding)	Balancing the force onto a single rein.	For amateurs

Summary

A well-fitted Gag is a guarantee of control without the need to wrestle with the horse. It is a bit that is meant to “hint”, not to “punish”. If the straps are clean, smooth and correctly assembled, your horse will understand the signal to unload the forehand much faster.