Short slotted Snaffle shank

13 cm (5 1/8") sweet iron curved snaffle mouthpiece with copper inlays. 6 1/4" cheeks with slots. 

Sweet iron will rust when it comes into contact with (air) humidity; the surface rust tastes sweet and naturally stimulates the saliva production. This will cause the horse to salivate more which in turn encourages better acceptance of the bit. The rusting process (oxidation) changes the colour of the bit to a brownish-grey.