Forging Tools

Forging Tools

The right forging tools are an essential component for those making and shaping horseshoes. Without the appropriate tool to forge your desired creation, it’s nearly impossible to get a horseshoe into the right shape, which means the quality of your work – and ultimately the horse’s wellbeing – will suffer. Luckily, Mustad Australia has a comprehensive range of forging tools to help you get the job done right.

What Forging Tools Are Necessary?

The tools you need to forge your shoes will depend on whether you’re creating them from scratch, or only ever altering bought horseshoes – with the latter requiring less tools. As a general rule, all farriers will require at least some tongs and a quality hammer, but those making horseshoes from scratch, or performing significant alterations, will need a few more options up their sleeves.

For example, the GDM Impact Stamp – which is available in both plain and fullered options – is essential for setting the shoe up to have nail holes added. You’ll then need  a top quality forepunch, like the Mustad E-Head Forepunch, or a pritchel (we have both GDM and Mustad brand options) to complete this part of the process.

 

Why Size Matters

Getting the perfect shape isn’t just about choosing the right tool to forge your horseshoes with, it’s also about selecting the right size. Properly sized forging tools help to improve both safety and accuracy, which in turn enhances the quality of your outputs. This is why the Mustad forging tongs, for example, are available in 8mm and 10mm options, so you can match your tool to your shoe stock.

 

Selecting The Right Tools To Forge With

While the selection of forging tools is mostly a matter of suitability for the job, ergonomics must be considered too. For example, asymmetrical handles provide enhanced grip, while a wooden handle will boost comfort. The importance of these aspects should not be underestimated, so be sure to consider how any given tool will feel while working with it.