Fulmer Bit: An olive bit variant offering stability and lateral limitation

The Verdun bit is a slight variant of the olive bit, recognizable by its solid, D-shaped side pieces. Unlike the olive bit, where the mouthpiece widens slightly towards the rings, the Verdun cannon remains narrow at the ends, making it particularly suitable for horses with limited space in their mouths or a thick tongue. This design ensures superior stability while providing clear and pinch-free lateral support.

What are the effects of the Fulmer bit?

1. Lateral limitation thanks to the D-rings

The Verdun's flat rings act as lateral support. The longer the vertical branches of the D, the more pronounced this support.
Effects:
• better framed shoulders,
• more straightforward direction,
• horse less likely to bolt,
• clearer aids in turns.

This is a major advantage for horses:
• that cross over,
• that escape with a shoulder,
• or that lack straightness.

2. Improved comfort for horses with sensitive mouth corners

The Verdun avoids a common phenomenon with loose ring bits: when one side is acted upon, the opposite ring does not press into the corner of the mouth.

Thus, the Verdun:
• stabilizes the bit in the mouth,
• reduces the risk of pinching,
• is suitable for sensitive horses or those defensive with the bit.

3. A stable bit that is easy for the horse to understand

Like the olive bit, from which it is derived, the Verdun remains fixed in the mouth.
The horse therefore receives clear, consistent aids without parasitic rotation.

This stability makes it a frequent choice for:
• young horses in training,
• horses that dislike mobile bits,
• horses that seek constant contact.

Fulmer Bit vs. Olive Bit: Key Differences

The Verdun bit is very similar to the olive bit, but several important elements distinguish them. First, the olive bit has oval rings, while the Verdun is equipped with D-shaped rings, which offer clearer lateral support. Unlike the olive bit, whose mouthpiece widens slightly near the rings, the Verdun's cannon remains narrow at the ends, making it particularly suitable for horses with limited space in their mouths or a thick tongue. The risk of pinching is low in both models, but the Verdun is generally even more stable, as its flat rings prevent the bit from turning or slipping in the mouth. This stability results in more constant contact, which many sensitive horses appreciate. Lateral support is also more effective with a Verdun, as the vertical branches of the D offer a more pronounced stop. This helps the rider achieve a more straightforward direction, while the olive bit provides more moderate support. Thus, the Verdun is ideal for horses that bolt slightly, escape with a shoulder, or lack straightness. In summary, the olive bit provides softness, stability, and comfort, while the Verdun bit adds superior lateral precision and better directional control, while remaining a direct action bit and not severe.

When to use a Fulmer bit?

• Horse with limited space in the mouth
• Horse sensitive at the corners of the lips
• Young horses or horses requiring stable guidance
• Horses that bolt or escape with a shoulder
• Discipline requiring clear direction (show jumping, flatwork)

Using the Fulmer bit

The Verdun remains a direct action bit, without leverage. The choice of cannon (single joint, double joint, straight, anatomical...) influences comfort. The size must be precisely adjusted to avoid any excessive lateral movement.