Bridge the Gap from Snaffle to Curb with Confidence

Moving a young horse into a shanked bit requires finesse, and the Professional's Choice AV Training Straight Roller delivers exactly that. Designed by Bob Avila, this bit combines sweet iron with a copper roller to encourage salivation, focus, and a soft mouth — without the harsh nutcracker action of a jointed snaffle. It's built for trainers who need lateral control and light leverage during those critical foundation rides.

The sweet iron mouthpiece oxidizes naturally to create a taste horses love, keeping them moist and responsive. The copper center roller gives your horse something to work with their tongue, preventing them from leaning or getting heavy in your hands. With 6.5-inch shanks offering mild-to-moderate leverage and a hinged straight bar for independent rein cues, this bit is a staple for finishing colts or tuning up seasoned horses — from our barn to yours.

Why Riders Choose the AV Training Straight Roller

• Promotes salivation and acceptance — Sweet iron oxidizes to create a pleasant taste that keeps your horse moist and engaged with the bit.
• Encourages a soft, busy mouth — The copper center roller gives your horse a focus point, preventing them from grabbing or leaning on the bit.
• Clear lateral cues without pinching — Hinged straight bar design allows independent rein action for lateral flexion without the harsh pinch of a jointed mouthpiece.
• Mild-to-moderate leverage for refinement — 6.5-inch shanks provide just enough signal for vertical flexion and collection without overpowering a green horse.
• Pinch-free comfort for daily training — Expertly engineered joints eliminate pressure on the bars and lips, making this a go-to bit for consistent work.
• Bob Avila's proven training lineage — Designed by one of the most respected names in western performance, trusted by trainers coast to coast.

Best For

Western trainers and performance riders looking for a smooth transition from snaffle to curb while maintaining a light, responsive mouth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What size is the mouthpiece on this bit?

The AV Training Straight Roller features a standard 5-inch mouthpiece, which fits most western performance horses between 14.2 and 15.2 hands. If your horse typically wears a 4.75-inch or 5.25-inch snaffle, this 5-inch will be a comfortable middle ground for training work.

Q: Why is my bit turning brown or rusty?

That's exactly what it's designed to do. The sweet iron oxidizes naturally to create a sweet taste that encourages your horse to salivate and accept the bit more readily. Wipe it down after rides, but don't worry about the patina — it's a feature, not a flaw.

Q: Is this bit legal for showing?

Rules vary by association, so check your specific discipline's rulebook. The Professional's Choice AV Training Straight Roller is widely used in training and many AQHA, NRHA, and ranch versatility classes. Verify shank length and mouthpiece type requirements before entering the show pen.