Farriers are crucial to the well-being of horses, ensuring that their hooves are in top condition. According to the American Farrier’s Association (AFA), the equine industry in the United States alone has over 9 million horses, with a growing need for skilled farriers to care for them.
Good hoof care prevents a range of issues, including lameness, infections, and other hoof-related problems, all of which can impact a horse’s overall health and performance.
With the increasing demand for high-quality farrier supplies, equine professionals are turning to trusted brands and reliable suppliers to equip them with the best tools.
Investing in quality equipment not only improves the efficiency of the farrier’s work but also ensures that horses receive the care they need to stay healthy.
Below is a list of the best farrier supplies available, with each product designed to meet the specific needs of professional hoof care.
Top Farrier Supplies for Every Farrier’s Toolkit
- Stockmans Supplies
- Purpose: Stockmans Supplies provides a broad selection of farrier supplies catering to both professionals and hobbyists. They are recognized for their extensive range and dependable service.
- Why it’s great: Popular among farriers, Stockmans Supplies is known for offering high-quality tools at competitive prices. Their products, which include everything from hoof knives to anvil sets, are durable and well-priced, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned farriers.
- Products Available: Hoof care tools, horseshoes, hoof boots, farrier hammers, hoof stands, and more.
- Price Range: Prices vary by product, but Stockmans Supplies is generally more affordable compared to many other brands.
Heller Hoof Knives
- Purpose: Hoof knives are a must-have tool for farriers, used for trimming the hooves and cleaning out debris.
- Why it’s great: Heller Hoof Knives are a top choice among professionals for their sharpness, durability, and ergonomic handle design. Their knives are made from high-quality carbon steel that maintains an edge over time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Price Range: $40–$75
- Key Features: Sharp carbon steel blade, ergonomic design, and durability.
Centaur Professional Hoof Trimmers
- Purpose: Hoof trimmers are essential for removing excess hoof growth and keeping hooves in proper shape.
- Why it’s great: Centaur Professional Hoof Trimmers are favored for their lightweight, sharp blades that make trimming easier and more efficient. Their ergonomic handles help prevent hand strain, making them perfect for prolonged use during busy farrier sessions.
- Price Range: $55–$85
- Key Features: Hardened steel blades, ergonomic handle, and precision cutting.
Hickory Hoof Nail Puller
- Purpose: Nail pullers are used for extracting old nails when it’s time to re-shoe a horse.
- Why it’s great: The Hickory Hoof Nail Puller is a reliable tool known for its strength and ease of use. With its hardened steel construction and sturdy wooden handle, this tool efficiently removes nails without damaging the surrounding hoof area.
- Price Range: $45–$85
- Key Features: Durable hardwood handle, hardened steel construction, and efficient nail removal.
Heller Premium Rasp
- Purpose: Farriers use rasps to smooth out rough edges and shape the hooves after trimming.
- Why it’s great: Heller Premium Rasps are well-regarded for their smooth filing action and long-lasting durability. They feature double-cut surfaces for quicker hoof shaping and are designed to reduce effort while maintaining superior performance.
- Price Range: $30–$70
- Key Features: Double-cut surface, anti-slip handle, and durable construction for hard or soft hooves.
EquiFit Hoof Pick
- Purpose: Hoof picks are used to clean the hooves, removing dirt, rocks, and debris that could lead to infections.
- Why it’s great: The EquiFit Hoof Pick is known for its strength and comfort. Made with a stainless steel tip and an ergonomic handle, it offers easy cleaning and reduces strain on the user’s hand.
- Price Range: $10–$20
- Key Features: Stainless steel tip, ergonomic handle, and high durability.
Picard Farrier Hammer
- Purpose: A farrier’s hammer is used for driving nails into the horse’s shoe and shaping metal.
- Why it’s great: Picard Farrier Hammers are famous for their balance, strength, and precision. These hammers are designed to help farriers achieve optimal results when fitting shoes, and their balanced head helps reduce fatigue during prolonged use.
- Price Range: $80–$120
- Key Features: High-quality steel construction, balanced weight, and excellent grip.
Kerckhaert Hoof Shoes
- Purpose: Hoof shoes are designed to protect and support the horse’s hooves, and there are various designs for different needs, from regular shoes to specialized orthopedic shoes.
- Why it’s great: Kerckhaert Hoof Shoes are a top choice for their durability and wide range of options, ensuring that farriers can provide the perfect fit for each horse. These shoes are made from high-quality steel, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.
- Price Range: $3–$8 per shoe
- Key Features: Durable steel construction, wide variety of designs, and long-lasting performance.
Klein Tools Farrier Anvil
- Purpose: Anvils are crucial for shaping the horse’s shoes, and they provide a stable surface for farriers to work on.
- Why it’s great: Klein Tools Farrier Anvils are known for their solid construction and versatility. They are designed to provide ample space for shoe shaping and come with multiple working surfaces to cater to different tasks.
- Price Range: $250–$400
- Key Features: Heavy-duty cast iron, multiple working surfaces, and long-lasting durability.
Conclusion
A farrier’s toolkit is integral to the health of the horse, and using the best farrier supplies can make a huge difference in the quality of care a horse receives.
From Stockmans Supplies, which offers a wide range of essential tools, to high-quality hoof knives, rasps, and hammers, the right tools help ensure that farriers can work effectively and efficiently.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or a hobbyist, investing in the best farrier tools is crucial for both the well-being of the horse and the success of your work.
When selecting farrier supplies, make sure to choose products from trusted brands known for their quality and durability. Always consider your specific needs, the type of horses you are working with, and your budget when making your purchases.
High-quality farrier tools will not only improve the precision and efficiency of your work but will also help prevent hoof-related issues in horses, ensuring that they stay healthy and sound.