This TRUST Hackamore Comination Short Shank Eliptical bit or Hack-A-Bit as they are sometimes called is designed for stronger horses.  Utilizing multiple contact points, the hackmore combination bit applies pressure to the nose, jaw, poll and mouth.  The amount of leverage depends on the length of the shanks.  This short shank option is a milder leverage option than the long shank style and is often used in the jumper ring or cross country.

The eliptical mouthpiece is a double-jointed mouthpiece with a smooth peanut link in the middle that exerts equal pressure on the tongue. This mouthpiece has two hinge points, is shaped more towards the mouth and lies somewhat looser in the mouth.

The Sweet Iron bits are made of steel and have a recognizable blue color. Sweet Iron will rust when it comes into contact with air and moisture, the surface rust tastes sweet and naturally stimulates the saliva production. This will cause the horse to salivate more, which in turn will encourage a better acceptance of the bit. The process of rusting (oxidation) changes the blue color of the TRUST bits to a brownish-grey. This is the desired effect of the Sweet Iron bits. If a Sweet Iron bit is not used for a while, an orange-brown rust layer may form on the mouthpiece. Simply remove this by wiping the bit with a damp cloth.

Sweet Iron bits are suitable for all horses. Sweet Iron helps the horse to salivate more, which will encourage a better acceptance of the bit.