Know your horse bits – The FM or Fulmer Snaffle Bit
The FM or Fulmer snaffle bit is almost identical to the full cheek, with long cheek pieces extending from either side of the ends of the mouthpiece. Indeed, many people, and many websites, don’t distinguish between them.
They are however 2 different bits with several significant differences. The Fulmer is also known as the FM in Australia.
The differences between the FM, Fulmer and Full Cheek bit
1. The full cheek has swivel joints on the cheek pieces attaching its fixed bit rings to the cheeks in a similar configuration to a D-ring whilst the FM’s mouthpiece and cheeks are one solid mould.
2. The FM or Fulmer has loose bit rings that run through small sleeves or lugs on the outside of the cheek pieces opposite the mouthpiece. This is a significant difference because it means the mouthpiece functions slightly differently to the full cheek, similar to the way a loose ring mouthpiece functions differently to a fixed cheek mouthpiece like a D-ring or eggbutt.
3. FMs are also always used with a bit keeper. The loose ring design of the bit rings allows this more easily than the full cheek does. They also have a slight bend at the top of the cheek pieces to facilitate this.
The Fulmer is often called an FM in Australia. This is courtesy of the initials of the Spanish Riding School instructor Franz Maringer who migrated to Australia after WW2 and popularised it here.
The different types of FM Snaffle bits
The FM Snaffle bit comes in various mouthpieces, each designed to suit different riding disciplines and individual horse preferences. Some common types include…
Single Jointed
The most traditional and widely used mouthpiece type on an FM bit.
Double Jointed or French Link
Also known as a French link Fulmer snaffle, this bit uses the double-jointed French link mouthpiece.
Ported Mouth
This has a solid port mouth mouthpiece.
Mullen Mouth
This has a solid Mullen mouth mouthpiece.
Benefits of FM/Fulmer Snaffle bits
FM / Fulmer Snaffle bits offer several benefits…
Comfortable
Although FM bits can be heavy, it is generally a comfortable bit for most horses. Fulmer mouthpieces are also made of soft flexible materials. This can help reduce pressure points and encourage salivation.
Milder than a full cheek bit
The Fulmer can offer similar benefits to the loose ring snaffle without the risk of pinching.
Provides plenty of lateral control
Fulmer bits are excellent for horses that are to steer and like to run through smaller cheek bits. The long cheeks help ‘lever’ the horse’s head around. Obviously, correct training is preferred!
The Action Of An FM / Fulmer Snaffle Bit
Fulmers exert pressure on the horse’s tongue and bars when you apply rein aids. Jointed mouthpieces will apply more pressure than solid or straight-bar mouthpieces.
Using an FM Snaffle Bit
The mouthpiece of an FM or Fulmer bit should sit comfortably in the horse’s mouth. There should be enough room on either side between the corners of the mouth to avoid rubbing. Pinching is generally not an issue with these mouthpieces due to their moulded one-piece design. Used them with bit keepers. These not only align the mouthpiece correctly in the mouth, but also prevent the top cheek piece catching on things. In fact, if your horse likes to investigate your boots when you’re mounted, or scratch its head whilst wearing a bridle (many do), you may be better off with a D-ring bit. It provides similar leverage and action without the dangers posed by the long cheek pieces.
As always with any new bit, start with light rein aids to allow your horse to adapt to the bit’s action. Use clear and consistent cues, maintaining a soft contact, and rewarding positive responses. Be patient and adjust your approach as needed to suit your horse’s temperament and needs.
Key Takeaways About FM / Fulmer Snaffle Bits
The FM or Fulmer snaffle bit can be a valuable training bit with its high degree of lateral control. However, it is a large and potentially heavy bit courtesy of all the metal in it. It may not be suited for all horses.
