good starter bit?

I was wondering what bit to get as a starter for my filly once she's old enough, she's only a yearling, and I read they should be at least 2 if not older before trying a bit, is that right? I basically am just going to teach it so she can wear one, but I've never cared for bridles, and will probably use a bitless bridle, or hackamore, usually. I'm intending her basically as just a pleasure horse and maybe eventually a jumper(just for fun, not show.)

It wouldn't hurt her just to get her used to having a bit earlier than 2, just not too much. As just a training bit and an occasional riding bit, I would suggest something very mild like a french link snaffle or Billy Allen mouth/Myler snaffle. Really just any kind of ringed snaffle with a thicker, smooth mouth is good for a young horse and very mild.

I like a french link snaffle to start mine. Mild, like smrobs said, but still gets the message across. :]

Thanks! I think I'll get one sometime this week. I also forgot to ask, what is the best way ro get her to take the bit for the first time? I know how to on an adult, but they already know to open the mouth automatically, so I just want to make sure wether I need to do it differently to avoid scaring or her

Since she is so young, I would put something sweet on there like molasses or one of those apple strips and let her bit herself for the first few times. Just hold it and let her lick it and if she opens her mouth, just gently slide it in to where it should be. Leave it there for a moment then gently slide it out (make sure you don't bump her teeth. I would then put some more sweet on it and let her lick it again before calling it a day. This way, she will associate the bit with good things.

Or, you can put a bit/bridle on her (like you would with any other horse) over a halter then hand graze her at a particularly grassy spot for a while (with the bit in).

Just always associate the bit with good things and bitting will never be a problem. ;)

Ok, that's sounds good, I think I'll probably try the apples first, I live on a fruit farm and have about two hundred apple trees, right out the door
Thanks.

All good advice, the only thing I would add is you might like a full cheek snaffle...I use a double (french) link full cheek. Just keeps them from sliding the bit through their mouths if they get really busy with the darn thing.

I prefer a smooth O ring for starting. Regardless if you are to go bitless or hackamore she should learn to accept and carry a bit. It will not hurt to leave her with just a bridle and bit in a controlled environment for around 20 minutes so she learns to pack it. Start with the bit lower than normal.

I recommend a KK Snaffle. They are similar to a french link. They have thick bars and double join making them a very gentle bit.

I agree, french link or oval/bean mouth snaffle, preferably loose ring or egg butt. You'll want to wait to buy a but until you're ready to use one as her mouth will grow as she gets taller and matures. Measure her mouth before buying.