In inexperienced hands, this can damage a horse's mouth. The spade comes in contact with the horse's palate when the reins are pulled, and the pressure can be quite great. The spade bit is rooted in vaquero tradition, and horses only carry this highly technical mouthpiece after extensive schooling.Discover (and save!) your own Pins on Pinterest This Pin was discovered by Denise McCann.According to Kris, it is difficult to tell Lancer's body from his clothes. He has a large mouth and a prominent blue tongue that he usually sticks out. The upper half of his face is hidden by a large, spade-shaped shadow.