Type of bit that combines the action of a curb bit and a snaffle bit. It consists of a mouthpiece (which may be a bar, single or double jointed) and short lever arms or shanks with several sets of rings. The cheek pieces attach to the upper rings. There are two sets of rings to which reins can be attached, the upper pair at the level of the mouth piece and the lower at the bottom of the lever arms. A smaller pair of rings between the two allows attachment of a chinstrap. The pelham bit may be used with two pairs of reins or with one set of reins attached to a bridge-strap joining the upper and lower rings. It is commonly used with a curb chain running underneath the horse's chin. The upper reins act in a similar fashion as a snaffle (or a bradoon on a double bridle), and the lower reins activate the lever which applies pressure to the poll and the chin. It therefore has a stronger action than a snaffle bit.