#11 Sliester Surgical Steel Bit with San Joaquin Mouthpiece

This is an original Sliester Surgical Steel bit featuring the traditional San Joaquin mouthpiece, a style that became extremely popular among reiners in the 1970s. Sliester bits were valued for their excellent balance, crisp signal, and durable surgical steel construction, making them a staple in training barns across the West Coast.

The cheeks are the classic straight Sliester pattern with the distinctive slotted cheek bolts and clear maker stamp:
“SLIESTER BIT – SANGER, CALIF. – U.S.A.”
The San Joaquin mouthpiece includes a smooth port with a roller that remains in good functional condition. This style of mouthpiece is known for offering mild tongue relief while encouraging lift, making it versatile for well-broke horses.

Jim Paul frequently purchased Sliester bits specifically to remove their mouthpieces and reinstall them in his own handmade shanks. He considered Sliester’s mouthpieces among the most consistent and well-engineered. This one remains intact and original, making it a desirable example for both riders and collectors.

The bit shows typical cosmetic wear from age, but the roller spins freely, the joints are correct, and the cheeks are straight. A solid, functional Sliester with strong historical ties to the reining community.

Key Features

• Maker: Sliester
• Stamp: Sanger, California, U.S.A.
• Material: Surgical steel cheeks
• Mouthpiece: San Joaquin with roller
• Era: 1970s reining
• Cheek Style: Straight Sliester surgical steel cheek

Condition:

• Light cosmetic wear
• Roller turns freely
• No structural issues