Everything Horses and Livestock® Magazine February 2018 Vol 3 Issue 1

Everything Horses and Livestock Magazine ®

7 Farrier Tools You Should Keep On Hand It is always a good idea to have some basic farrier equipment on hand just in case. There should type edges, a rasp and knife can help round up a foot. Ideally minimizing the risk for further damage. 3. A rasp and decent rasp handle. You can buy a new be an emergency kit in your barn and/or in your trailer. I’d like to give you some ideas on

a used set or a generic hardware store set can be very inexpensive.

what to keep on hand. What you should have: 1. Sturdy hoof pick. A good hoof pick is an absolute must. Should you happen to get a rock, or any other material wedged into a shoe you will be glad to have something more than those cheap, short 99 cent hoof picks. There are better picks on the market, but I use a straight screwdriver most of the time professionally. Most farriers have learned to make hoof picks from old horseshoes and if you sweet talk them a little, I’m sure you could get yours to make one for you. 2. Hoof knife. Hopefully you never need it but if your

one, but they don’t hold up well sitting around. They are very sensitive to moisture and rust quickly. You’re better off to ask for an old rasp from your farrier. A new rasp is also very sharp and unforgiving should you make a mistake with it. 4. Pull offs. Pull offs are one of those tools you hope not to need, but if you do, you’ll be

5. Clinch cutter. A clinch cutter is used to cut the clinches of the nails should you find it necessary to pull a shoe. This will make getting the shoe pulled much easier for you and the horse. It also has a point on one side should you need to pull a specific nail. 6. Hammer and nails. A driving hammer is another tool that you could spend a lot of money on. However, for the purposes of this kit a cheaper option would be best. A handful of nails are a good idea as well. Now, I don’t recommend trying to tack a shoe back on unless you have had a least some form of training and you’re absolutely confident. It is still a good idea to have some on hand in case someone more qualified or even a farrier without his own tools is on sight. You should always make sure the shoe is level before trying to put it back on as

glad you have them. As a professional I appreciate really good equipment. I use my tools everyday and a good pair of pull offs will last a long time. In fact, I bought mine used 15+ years ago and they are still in use. For the purposes of an emergency kit that we hope we don’t have to use, I wouldn’t break the bank. Ask around for

horse should lose a shoe and be left with jagged hang nail

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