OK, which bit would YOU recommend?

While I will be using a regular o-ring snaffle for awhile yet I do want a shank bit to move up to after I get to know my new little mare better. We will be working on neck reining but I want the option of direct reining if she needs a reinforcement or I want to use the one-rein-stop. (Took a fall a few years back, nervous re-rider.) So I think I'd want a loose-jaw one, right? (Sorry, I am unsure of that term?)

I have very light hands--I pride myself on this--and I will not be using my reins for balance. A shanked bit will not be used harshly or inappropriately.

Previous owner/trainer suggests a Reinsman Jr. Cow Horse bit (three piece mouth). I have only ridden the horse once and she did nicely in the regular snaffle but, this was at a walk/trot and I hope to move up to some cattle work at some point and would like a little more control in those instances. (I would probably switch between the snaffle and the 'new' bit for trail rides vs. working.) If she continues to behave as well as she did then she won't have to know which bit is in her mouth at all, ha ha. Also, I prefer the look of a fancier bit...call me vain. :)

I would suggest this bit: Google Image Result for http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ee/SweetIronCurb.jpg .
It has a shorter shank, and each side of the mouthpiece moves independantly of the other, as well as being loose-jawed (correct term).
I have one of these bits (minus the copper on the roller) and like the quality and style of it all.
Also, shameless plug here, my bit is for sale because I'm an english rider- nothing wrong with it, and I bought it new :)

I never recommend a jointed mouthpiece on any type of curb, it collapses onto the bars and wraps around the jaw. A more solid mouthpiec is the way to go IMHO.
Best of luck in your search!

Thank you for your opinion! I've seen pics of that type of bit but not knowing much (read: anything) about the gazillion bits out there, wouldn't have thought twice about it. (I PM'd you!)

What discipline are you traiing for? That would help us know what you're end result should be.

I second Aspin! That is a good bit! How much aspin?

Currently, just trail riding...but ultimately I'd like to get into cutting with her. Now, that may very well be waaaaay down the road, but I don't think it would hurt to have another bit to use as we advance together, even to just more speed and agility. We also have the opportunity to do some cattle sorting over the winter but at this point I think I'll just plod around. :)

WHOO HOO! I just ordered a bit exactly like the one "Aspin231" suggested!! I can't wait for it to arrive, I'll post when it does.

Thanks to all who replied!

Thisis the bit that I use, and if you wanted to change it to a snaffle all you would have to do is move your reins to the hole at the bit, or you can use it as a curb, my horse loves it and it's a gentle bit when in the right hands, plus the little brass rollers are nice for a horse that has a busy mouth and as an added extra they taste like honey! Me myself i've never liked a bit that didn't have at least one break in it, but bits are usually a personal preferance anyway!