Fager Martin Sweet Iron Kimblehook

Fager Martin Sweet Iron Kimblehook | Stability, Confidence & Adjustable Control

The Fager Martin Kimblehook is designed for horses that feel worried, inconsistent, or strong in the contact, yet still need to learn to trust and seek the bit.

It combines Fager’s Front Lock 3 piece mouthpiece with the stability and mild leverage of a Kimblehook, making it an excellent option for horses that need confidence, consistency, and clearer communication without increasing harshness.

Why this bit works

The Martin features Fager’s unique Front Lock system, where the bit transitions towards a more stable position when a consistent contact is taken.

This helps the horse to:
• Trust the contact and take the rein forward
• Reduce movement and instability in the mouth
• Maintain a more consistent connection
• Feel supported without restriction

Unlike traditional lock up designs, the Martin continues to function regardless of head position, whether the horse is working long and low or lifting through the frame. It also makes the bit more forgiving to the rider’s hand.

Sweet Iron for improved acceptance

The sweet iron coating encourages salivation and acceptance, helping horses that:
• Do not naturally seek the contact
• Feel unsure or reactive in the mouth
• Need encouragement to take a softer connection

Over time, the sweet iron will oxidise to a brownish grey finish, which is completely normal and part of how the material works.

Kimblehook cheekpiece

The Kimblehook offers a stable, fixed feel with optional leverage, sitting between a snaffle and a Pelham in effect.

• Top slot = mild, more direct feel
• Lower slots = increased leverage

As the rein is placed lower, pressure is distributed across the mouth, poll, and chin (via the curb chain), helping to:
• Lower the head and neck position
• Improve balance and control
• Reduce heaviness in the hand
• Support horses that become strong or hard to turn

The fixed cheek design also keeps the mouthpiece quiet, which is particularly beneficial for fussy or anxious horses.

Best suited to horses that:

• Don’t instinctively seek the contact
• Feel worried or unsettled in the mouth
• Need to take a more consistent feel into the hand
• Are strong but still sensitive
• Chew excessively or play with the bit
• Become unbalanced or difficult to steer

Fit and usage notes

Kimblehooks are always used with a curb chain or strap, which allows the leverage to function correctly.

True to size. If between sizes, size up.

Horses that are wider through the premolars may benefit from sizing up, as the upper shank sits slightly higher and requires adequate space.

Key features

• Fager Front Lock system for stability and consistency
• Sweet iron to encourage contact and acceptance
• Kimblehook cheekpiece with adjustable leverage
• Fixed, stable feel for anxious or fussy horses
• Supports balance without increasing mouthpiece severity
• Supplied with curb chain