The essential farrier tool kit
A farrier's shop travels in the truck. Here are the core tools behind a trim and a shoeing, and what each one is for.
Meet Shoein' — the farrier's app →The trimming and shoeing kit
- Hoof nippers. Trim excess hoof wall to length.
- Hoof knife. Clean and pare the sole, frog, and bars.
- Rasp. Level and finish the trim, and smooth the wall.
- Pull-offs. Remove old shoes.
- Driving hammer & clinchers. Drive and set the nails, then clinch them to hold the shoe.
- Hoof stand. Support the foot while you finish and clinch.
For shaping and hot work
An anvil and shaping hammer let a farrier adjust shoes to the foot. A forge is added for hot shoeing — heating shoes to shape and fit them precisely.
Round it out with protective gear like an apron or chaps, plus a supply of shoes and nails in the sizes you use most.
Frequently asked
What tools does a farrier need to start?
At minimum: nippers, a hoof knife, a rasp, pull-offs, a driving hammer, clinchers, and a hoof stand, plus shoes and nails. An anvil and forge come in for shaping and hot shoeing.
Do farriers need a forge?
Only for hot shoeing. Many farriers cold shoe with an anvil and hammer, and add a forge when they want to shape or fit shoes hot.
How do farriers keep track of their gear and clients?
The tools live in the truck; the book lives on the phone. Shoein' keeps your clients, horses, and schedule organized so the business side is as tidy as your kit.
Keep your whole book in your pocket
Shoein' keeps every client and horse in one place — addresses on a map, one-tap call and directions, and a due badge so you never miss a cycle.
See Shoein' →Built for farriers · Coming soon to iOS & Android
More farrier guides
This page is general information for farriers and horse owners, not veterinary advice. Every horse is different — for a specific animal, rely on your own farrier and veterinarian.