An adage shared among farriers is that when you work in isolation, you become the best farrier that you know. It serves as a reminder that farriers learn from each other. Find skillful farriers who you can trust and spend time working with them.

Chester, N.H., farrier Tyler Marshall says when isolation becomes the norm, it prevents growth from happening.

“Some farriers trim and shoe horses every day, but just sit inside their bubble and don’t venture out of it to improve,” he says.

Epping, N.H., farrier Tim McPhee agrees with the danger of the working alone.

“You may think that your trim or shoe building is going along well, but now someone can look over your shoulder and help you see what you aren’t seeing,” he says. “Be around those who strive for more than mediocrity.”

The two farriers actively avoid isolation. They work together on horses and practice for forging contests often. Tim also works with his uncle Bill McPhee. Marshall also works with Bill McPhee and with George Barker of Gilmanton, N.H.

These four farriers came together on this “Shoeing For a Living” day. Their goal isn’t to see how many horses they…