The Pelham is a bit that provides additional action on the poll. Pressure is applied to the lower jaw bones by the use of a curb chain. In a way the Pelham is a combination of a Weymouth and a bradoon.

Pelhams can be used with one or two reins. Using two reins the main snaffle rein gives direct pressure to the tongue and the bars. The second rein attached to the lower ring puts pressure onto the horse’s poll preventing him from tossing the head and getting him to lower his head. If a horse lowers his head too much to evade the contact the curb chain should come into play at a maximum angle of 45°.