The third family of bits is the pelhams, named after the Pelham family, which attempt to amalgamate the effects of the snaffle and the curb using a single mouthpiece. The cheeks have two rings for the attachment of the reins. These effects are achieved only if the two reins are used independently. If the two reins are used simultaneously the effect is indeterminate. A study from Canada's Western College of Veterinary Medicine has shown the jointed eggbutt snaffle normally lies between the tongue and palate.
Horses can pick up the bit and pull it back to the cheek teeth.
In addition, the mobility of the bit within the oral cavity was reduced by using keepers. If a horse is elevating the bit and grasping it between the cheek teeth, you may be able to observe scratches on the mouth piece. Using a cheek snaffle with keepers may help keep the bit from contacting the teeth.