EcoPure Jointed 2 Ring Gag Bit

A Two Ring Gag (also called a "2-ring elevator bit") is the simpler counterpart to the Three Ring Gag — a fixed-shank gag bit offering just two rein attachment points rather than three, giving a more limited but still adjustable range of leverage.

Design

• Like the three-ring version, it has a main ring at the mouthpiece (the "snaffle" position) and a single additional lower ring offering the gag/leverage action — rather than the two lower rings found on a three-ring gag.
• The single ring above the mouthpiece is for attaching the bridle's cheekpieces, while the bottom ring offers the leverage rein setting.
• The mouthpiece can vary — single-jointed, French link, or with a lozenge/roller — independent of the ring design.

Function

• Two rein options only: Reins can be attached to the main ring (functioning essentially as a plain snaffle) or to the bottom ring, which engages the gag/leverage action.
• Combined poll and mouth pressure: When the lower (gag) rein is engaged, tension is placed on the cheekpieces, applying poll pressure, while the mouthpiece is drawn/raised slightly in the mouth — both actions working together to help place the horse's head in a more controllable position.
• Milder than the three-ring version: Because there's only one leverage setting rather than a graduated middle-and-bottom option, the Two Ring Gag is not as severe and does not provide as much leverage as the three-ring model, which is typically reserved for very strong horses.
• Lateral/steering support: As with other multi-ring gags, the rings can also function somewhat like the shanks of a Full Cheek, adding pressure to the side of the face during a turn.
• Rebalancing: The overall action helps a horse rebalance and come back off the forehand, useful for increasing lightness and control when used correctly.

What it's good for

• Horses that need some extra "brake" but not the strongest leverage option: A good middle-ground choice for a horse that's a bit strong or leans on the bit, without needing the full range of severity a three-ring gag offers.
• Three-day eventers and jumpers: Elevator bits like this are popular in eventing and showjumping, where extra control and quick rebalancing before fences matter, particularly in cross-country and stadium phases.
• Riders wanting simplicity: With only two rein positions to choose from, it's a more straightforward option than the three-ring version, while still offering adjustable severity between "plain snaffle" and "leverage engaged."
• Horses that pull, lean, or are difficult to turn: As with other gags, useful for horses that lean on the bit, are strong pullers, or are heavy on the forehand.

A note on use and severity

• All gags, including the two-ring version, should ideally be used with two sets of reins — one on the main/snaffle ring, and one on the lower/gag ring — allowing the horse to be ridden predominantly off the snaffle rein, with the gag rein used only when needed.
• Gag bits can be very severe if used improperly, so guidance from a knowledgeable trainer is recommended, and they are not suitable for novice riders.
• Not all horses respond well to gag action — some may resist, lean against the pressure, or toss their head, so it's worth assessing the individual horse's response carefully.

Competition legality

Like other gag bits, the Two Ring Gag is not permitted in dressage, but is commonly used in showjumping, eventing (particularly cross-country), and hacking where additional control is needed.

Summary

The Two Ring Gag offers a simpler, milder version of the adjustable-leverage gag concept — combining poll and mouth pressure with some lateral support — making it a popular choice for horses that need a bit more control than a snaffle provides (especially in eventing and jumping) without requiring the stronger, more graduated leverage of a three-ring gag.

This combines the classic single-joint mouthpiece shape with a rubber covering or construction, softening the nutcracker action's typical sharpness through material cushioning rather than through mouthpiece design changes like a double joint would.

Design

• The mouthpiece consists of two bars joined by a single center hinge — the same basic structure as any single-jointed snaffle, producing the classic "nutcracker" fold when rein pressure is applied.
• Made of, or coated in, rubber — either vulcanized natural rubber (firmer, more traditional) or a softer synthetic rubber/TPU — rather than plain metal.
• Some versions have a metal core running through the rubber for strength and shape retention, with the rubber forming the actual contact surface.

Function

• Softened nutcracker effect: The core single-joint action is unchanged — the two halves still fold upward at the center hinge under rein pressure, and the joint can still rise toward the palate. However, because the mouthpiece itself is soft and yielding rather than rigid metal, the overall sensation is considerably gentler than a stainless steel single joint, even though the underlying mechanical action is the same.
• Cushioned contact throughout: Rubber's give means the tongue, bars, and lips all experience a softer, more forgiving pressure, even at the point of the fold, compared to an unyielding metal single joint.
• Warmer, more approachable feel: Rubber stays warmer than metal, avoiding the "cold bit" sensation some horses object to.
• Direct, simple signal, softened: Riders still get the clear, straightforward communication of a single-joint mouthpiece — there's no additional link or plate diffusing the signal — but the rubber takes the edge off that directness, making the pressure feel less sharp even as the mechanical fold remains the same.
• No leverage or added severity: As with any single-jointed snaffle, this works purely on direct pressure, with no shank or curb chain.

What it's good for

• Horses that find a metal single joint too sharp, but still respond well to the clear, direct signal of a single joint: This is often a good middle-ground option — keeping the simple, unambiguous communication of a single hinge while softening the harshness some horses feel from unyielding metal.
• Young or green horses just starting bit work: The cushioned feel can make early bitting experiences more comfortable and encouraging, while still introducing the classic single-joint action many horses will eventually encounter in metal form.
• Horses with sensitive lips, bars, or mouth corners: The rubber's give reduces the risk of pinching or bruising compared to a hard metal mouthpiece.
• Horses transitioning from an all-metal single joint due to discomfort: A reasonable step toward more comfort without changing the fundamental mouthpiece shape or moving to a double-jointed design.
• Cold-weather riding: Like other rubber and polymer mouthpieces, it avoids the unpleasant sensation of an icy metal bit in winter.

A note on leaning and durability

• As with other rubber mouthpieces discussed, the softness can be a double-edged quality — some horses, particularly those already inclined to lean or brace against contact, may find it easier to push into a yielding rubber mouthpiece than a firmer one, since there's less hard resistance to respect.
• Rubber is generally less durable than polymer or metal, especially with horses that chew or mouth their bit heavily, so it's worth checking regularly for wear, cracking, or damage.

A note on classification

• The overall lateral action still depends on the cheek style (loose-ring, D-ring, eggbutt, Full Cheek, etc.) this mouthpiece is built into.
• This is generally considered a mild-to-moderate mouthpiece — softer than a metal single joint due to the material, but still carrying more of a "fold" sensation at the center than a French Link, lozenge, or mullen mouth, since the underlying single-joint mechanics remain unchanged.

Summary

A Single-Jointed Rubber bit keeps the classic, direct communication of a single-hinge mouthpiece while softening its typical sharpness through rubber's natural give — making it a useful option for horses that want the clarity of a single joint but need a gentler material, though as with any rubber mouthpiece, its softness may invite leaning in horses already prone to that tendency, and it should be checked periodically for wear.