Four-time NFBR qualifier Taylor Munsell breaks down the four breakaway roping bits she trusts most to keep her ProRodeo standout Colonel sharp in every setup.
Munsell knows variety matters. Colonel’s light-yet-strong style calls for a rotating arsenal of bits to keep him responsive in any setup. On Roping.com, Munsell walked through her top four choices—and the strategies behind them.
David Farkas Bit with Kerry Kelly Curb Strap – Practice Bit
For practice pen work, Munsell often reaches for a David Farkas bit paired with a Kerry Kelly curb strap—a pairing she debuted at the NFR in Vegas. The stiffer chin strap adds stability, helping Colonel hold himself together through multiple runs. Munsell prefers not to practice in her primary competition bridles, noting that Colonel can get “tight and wiggly” if she doesn’t mix things up.
“Originally this bit he would kind of push through it after a couple runs, but by adding this stiff chin strap, this holds him together pretty good [for practice],” Munsell said.
Tom Palmer Square Port – Most-Used Rodeo Bit
Munsell’s most-used rodeo bit is her Tom Palmer with a square port. She pairs it with a rawhide chin strap, and it offers the control she needs to score in the box. Its versatility makes it a reliable option for a wide range of setups, especially when she expects to handle strong cattle.
Bull Parker Solid Low Port – Fast Setups Bit
For quick starts with minimal scoring, Munsell rides Colonel in a Bull Parker bit with hinged shanks. She says the gelding holds this bit comfortably, allowing her to “float” into position before delivery. It’s her pick for fast setups where she’s essentially “go and then pick him up into the chute.”
Randy Reid Floating Port – Score ‘Em and Keep ‘Em Running
Both Colonel and Munsell’s other horses, Monster and Ray, go well in the Randy Reid floating port. She leans on it for scoring situations that require her to sit still and keep her horses relaxed, or when she feels they’re getting “scotchy” running into the bridle. The lighter feel encourages them to run freer into her throw while still offering the response she needs.
“It’s not a whole lot of bit, but there’s still enough there to get ahold of them,” Munsell said.
To see these bits in action—and hear Munsell break down exactly how she adjusts for each setup—watch the full video now on Roping.com.
