#44 Sliester with Mullen Mouth

This Sliester curb bit reflects the exact reasons the brand became a staple in Jim’s tack room and training program. Jim owned and used a large number of Sliester bits not only because of their reliability, balance, and clean signal, but also because their mouthpieces paired exceptionally well with custom shanks. He frequently sourced Sliester mouthpieces for their consistency and feel, then added his preferred shank styles when building or modifying bits for specific horses. That combination—Sliester mouth feel with custom leverage—became a hallmark of his program.

This example features the original Sliester setup: surgical stainless steel shanks paired with a cold steel mullen mouthpiece. The mouthpiece offers significant tongue relief through its soft, sweeping curve. It distributes pressure evenly while providing enough lift and clarity for refinement without creating discomfort or overreaction. The cold steel has developed an honest working patina that many horsemen appreciate for encouraging salivation and acceptance.

The medium shanks are classic Sliester geometry: straightforward, durable, and well-balanced. They deliver measured leverage without excess severity, reinforcing the brand’s focus on practical, everyday function over ornamentation.

Condition shows authentic use, including oxidation on the mouthpiece and light wear to the stainless surfaces, while maintaining full structural soundness.

Key Features

• Maker: Sliester (stamped Surgical Stainless Steel)
• Shank Style: Medium surgical stainless steel, clean and balanced
• Mouthpiece: Cold steel mullen with notable tongue relief
• Design Notes: Smooth, steady feel; consistent release; respected for pairing with custom shanks
• Function: Ideal for horses that go well in a simple curb, or as a step between a snaffle and a ported bit

Condition

• Working oxidation on mouthpiece
• Light cosmetic wear on shanks
• Structurally sound and fully functional