The Sprenger KK Ultra has been a bit that I have come to rely upon through out the years. It is a French link (double jointed) bit with some innovations unique to Sprenger.
This bit was developed as a result of collaboration with University of Hanover in Germany. They measured dozens of horse's mouths and found that the pallet (the roof of the horse's mouth) on average is lower than many believed. So Sprenger shortened the middle piece (they call it the lozenge, some here call it the bean), so that the bit would not apply palate pressure. Then the angle of the joint was twisted to 45 degrees so that it sits comfortably on the horse's tongue.
The result is a very dependable bit that works great with a variety of horses. I always pack several versions of this bit when I head off to a clinic. Almost invariably I find a use for these bits, especially on light horses such Morgans, Thoroughbreds and Arabians.
The Ultra mouth piece is made from Sprenger's proprietary metal Aurigan. The advantage this metal provides is a taste in the horse's mouth that leads to salivation. Salivation is good, because as the horse's mouth salivates, there is increased circulation and proprioception in the horse's mouth. In other words, the mouth becomes more acutely aware of the bit and it's movements. That leads to heightened communication between the horse and driver (or rider).
Liverpool Cheek
The Liverpool cheek piece is a traditional cheek piece for carriage driving. It provides two slots for rotational curb action, as well a snaffle setting which does not put any leverage on the bit. The curb chain is a gentle broad link, well finished stainless steel chain carried by no pinch curb hangers.
