If you hear about a tool management tip that works well for another farrier, the chances are good that it’s something you’ll want to consider using. After all, the best shoeing ideas usually come from other farriers.

To help you do a more effective job of tool management, the American Farriers Journal editors gleaned the “best of the best” shoeing tool ideas from 24 shoers from coast to coast. These ideas gathered this winter from attendees at the International Hoof-Care Summit, the Blue­grass Laminitis Symposium and the American Farrier’s Association convention should help you boost tool performance and your overall shoeing efficiencies.

TRIMMING...

1 When trimming a hoof, it pays to use more than one style of knife. A wide web blade knife, a narrow web blade knife and two types of loop knives work best.

—Michael DeLeonardo, Salinas, Calif.

2 Use a small propane torch to soften up hard feet.

—Red Renchin, Mequon, Wis.

3 Even though hardly anyone uses one, a sole knife can help you do more effective trimming.

—Harlan Pennington, Georgetown, Ky.

4 If you use your nippers the wrong way, you can always correct the problem with rasping.

—Chris Gregory, Lamar, Mo.

5 Use a torch to narrow the width of your nipper handles so that you are able to can use them effectively with only one hand.

—Dennis Simpson, Fordland, Mo.

POWER TOOLS...

6 Install several drill presses in your shoeing rig so that you don’t have to bother changing the bits while working.

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