Farriery Equipment: Tools for Farriers, Trimmers and Skilled Owners

Farriery Equipment: the right tools for the hoof

Farriery equipment calls for solid tools that work precisely and last a long time. This includes hoof stands on which the hoof rests securely, hoof knives for paring the sole and frog, rasps for shortening and shaping the bearing edge, and pincers for removing shoes and cutting nails. Studs and the matching accessories give shod horses more grip on slippery ground.

Who the tools are for

Working on the hoof belongs in experienced hands. Farriers, barefoot trimmers and owners who have been shown by them use these tools every day. If you do some of the work yourself, you should know how the hoof is built and how much horn may come off. Leave larger corrections to the professional, because one wrong cut can make a horse lame. A sturdy hoof stand saves the farrier's back and takes strain off the horse.

Care and storage

Sharp blades work more precisely and safely than blunt ones. A sharpening stone keeps hoof and claw knives in shape. Clean rasps with a wire brush so that the teeth do not clog. A tool case or a set in a leather pouch keeps everything together and protects cutting edges from damage. Store the tools dry so that they do not rust, and out of the reach of children.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if a shoe is loose?
A loose shoe can twist and injure your horse. If you have been shown how, remove it with shoe pullers after opening the clenches. In any case, call your farrier and keep your horse on soft ground until then.

Barefoot or shod: which is better?
That depends on the horse, its hooves, the ground and the work it does. Many horses go well barefoot, while others need protection if they work a lot on hard ground. Decide this together with your farrier or barefoot trimmer.

Which tools should I keep at the yard as a horse owner?
For emergencies, a pair of shoe pullers and a rasp are usually enough, so that after instruction you can remove a loose shoe or smooth sharp edges. Everything else is a job for the farrier. Feel free to ask what they recommend for emergencies.