Farrier Tools
Well-Shod stocks professional farrier tools for trimming, forging, nailing, and finishing horseshoes. Use this quick glossary to see what each tool is for and pick the right gear for the job.
Hoof Tools
- Hoof Nippers: Trim extra hoof length.
- Hoof Gauge: Help match hoof angle and length.
- Hoof Pick: Clean debris from the hoof.
- Hoof Brush: Clean the bottom of the hoof after trimming and shoeing.
- Hoof Chisel: Trim hooves of draft horses.
- Hoof Tester: Locate bruised or tender areas of the hoof.
- Toeing Knives: Trim the toe area of the hoof.
- Pull Off: Remove the shoe from the hoof.
- Pad Cutter: Cut pads to fit the shoe.
- Trimming Block: Support the hoof for leveling and fullering work.
- Shoe Spreader: Widen a horseshoe.
- Shoe Layout Plate: Help develop an eye for balanced trimming and shoe shape.
- Tee Square: Check level after trimming or map nail placement.
Clinching & Nailing
- Clinch Block: Set clinches against the hoof wall.
- Clinch Gouge / Groover: Create a seat so clinches lay in neatly.
- Clinch Cutter: Cut and remove clinches.
- Clincher: Tighten and turn nails after nailing on the shoe.
- Crease Nail Puller: Pull nails from the crease without harming the shoe.
- Nail Cutter: Cut horseshoe nails cleanly.
- Forepunch / Headstamp: Stamp the nail hole before pritcheling.
- Pritchel: Finish and size the nail hole.
- Fuller / Creaser: Make the crease that seats nails and adds traction.
- Bob Punch: Start clips on horseshoes.
- Clip Starter (Hardy): Sit in the anvil hardy hole to start clips.
- Clip Cutter: Cut the clip recess into the toe wall.
Forging & Shaping
- Hardy Tools: Fit the anvil hardy hole to cut, mark, hold, or shape metal.
- Hot Cut: Make a clean cut in hot metal.
- Set Hammer: Flatten areas of a shoe and correct shape.
- Flatter: Level and smooth work during shoemaking.
- Drift Punch: Open and size holes after the forepunch step.
- Center Punch: Mark the starting point before drilling or forging.
- Tongs: Hold the shoe or bar stock while forging.
- Hot Fit Tongs: Hold a hot shoe while fitting it to the hoof.
- Stud Punch: Make a hole for a traction stud.
- Handle Wrap: Improve grip and comfort on tool handles.
- Tool Compound: Cool or lubricate forge tools during cutting and grinding.
Measuring & Layout
- Dividers: Map the hoof and transfer measurements when making shoes.
- Rulers: Measure hooves or bar stock.
- Shoe Layout Plate: Assist with balanced shoe shape and nail pattern.
- Magnets: Attach to toolboxes or carts to hold nails and tools.
Workholding & Safety
- Farrier Gloves: Protect hands while forging, grinding, and nailing.
- Magnets: Keep small tools and nails handy on the cart.
- Handle Wrap: Add grip and reduce shock on hammer handles.
- Vise: Hold work securely for shaping and finishing.