Welcome to the New Era of Merrill Bits

We're excited to announce that Merrill Bits is now part of the Burns 1876 family. Rest assured, everything you’ve come to trust about Merrill Bits—the craftsmanship, quality, and commitment to excellence established by Neil and Barbara Merrill—remains unchanged. We’re continuing to uphold the values and traditions that have been the foundation of Merrill Bits for over 35 years.

You might notice the elegant peacock in our new logo—it's a nod to the Merrill family crest, symbolizing our respect for the heritage and legacy that Neil and Barbara built. As we move forward together, our focus remains on delivering the same trusted products you love, now with a fresh look.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. We’re here to ensure your connection with your horse continues to be as strong and reliable as ever.

Rider Favorites

1 3
View all

"They are so responsive to it, and they stay so much calmer"

I ordered the short shank dog chain bit for a really picky horse with bits, and it has extremely calmed his anxiousness down! I tried the bit on everyone else in my barn, and they all love it! Everyone seems so relaxed in it, and it never makes them freak out like some bits do! I will use another bit sometimes to change ups bits, and I always go back to my Merrill bit bc they are so responsive to it, and they stay so much calmer with the Merrill bit! It seems to send a much clearer signal to the horse on what I'm asking them to do!

-Kelsey

Swing Top Gags

Merrill Swing Top Gag Bits: Revolutionizing Equine
Communication

Experience the pinnacle of bit design with Merrill Swing Top Gag Bits, crafted to deliver unparalleled communication and comfort for both horse and rider. Our innovative patented Swing Top Design hinges at the purchase, ensuring even contact and eliminating excessive cheek pressure, while the gag action provides clear, precise signals for various riding disciplines. Available in short, medium, and long shank options with a choice of chain, smooth, or twisted wire mouthpieces, these expertly handcrafted bits offer the perfect balance of effectiveness and horse-friendly design to enhance your riding partnership.

Shop Now

Gag Bits

Merrill Gag Bits: Precision Communication

Discover the perfect balance of communication and comfort with Merrill Gag Bits, expertly crafted to enhance your riding experience. Available in short, medium, and long shank designs, these bits offer varying degrees of leverage and control to suit riders of all levels and disciplines. Choose from chain, smooth, or twisted wire mouthpieces to find the ideal combination for your horse, and experience the Merrill difference in responsiveness, clarity of cues, and overall performance.

Shop Now

Combination Bits

Merrill Combination Bits:
Innovative Design for Superior Communication

Experience the next level of equine communication
with Merrill Combination Bits, designed to eliminate the discomfort associated with traditional combination bits. These versatile bits combine the benefits of snaffle and curb actions, providing clear communication without compromising your horse's comfort or performance. Available with chain, smooth, or twisted wire 3-piece mouthpieces, Merrill Combination Bits offer unparalleled precision for riders seeking enhanced control across various disciplines

Shop Now

Allaround Bits

Merrill All Around Bit: Versatility Meets Precision

Discover the ultimate in versatility with the Merrill All
Around Bit, designed to excel in virtually any discipline. This patented innovative bit combines the firmness needed for holding a horse in the box with exceptional lateral softness, ensuring clear communication and responsiveness
in every situation. Featuring our signature craftsmanship and attention to equine comfort, the Merrill All Around Bit offers the perfect balance of control and flexibility, making it an indispensable tool for riders seeking one bit to master multiple disciplines.

Shop Now

Hackamore

Merrill Hackamores: Precision Control Without Compromise

Discover the Merrill Hackamores, engineered to provide superior control and comfort for high-performance equestrian disciplines. Featuring our patented Swing Top Design, these hackamores eliminate uncomfortable cheek pressure while delivering clear, instant communication between horse and rider. Whether you're navigating tight barrel turns or perfecting your reining stops, Merrill Hackamores offer the perfect blend of innovation and tradition to elevate your riding experience.

Shop Now

"I have other chain bits but yours is definitely Superior."

Just wanted to say I received my bit yesterday so I immediately put it on a headstall and saddled up. My mare had been gaping her mouth no matter what bit or mouthpiece she had on. Vet checked good. I put the short shanked dog chain bit on her and she immediately dropped her head and started licking her lips. She rode amazing, head low and seemed happy.  I made one cruise thru the barrel pattern and oh my goodness it felt great and no more gaping.  Thank you!

My bit change really had nothing to do with needing control simply put, I needed something my horse would relax in.  I have other chain bits but yours is definitely Superior.