Farrier Shares Tips for Maintaining Clinchers

Proper cleaning and sharpening can extend the life of this essential tool.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Farrier and clinician Dan Bradley explains the importance of regularly maintaining clinchers, a vital tool for many horseshoers. He advises that neglected clinchers can become less effective, but a simple cleaning and sharpening routine using a wire brush, triangle file, and lubricating oil can restore them to peak performance.

Why it matters

Clinchers are an essential tool for many farriers, helping to secure horseshoes. Proper maintenance ensures the clinchers remain sharp and effective, improving the farrier's work and the comfort of the horse. Neglecting clinchers can lead to issues like nails slipping or the tool becoming less reliable.

The details

According to Bradley, signs that clinchers need attention include the tool "raking down the nails or slipping." He recommends a basic cleaning and sharpening regimen using a wire brush to remove rust and debris, followed by filing the edges with a triangle file. Applying a lubricating oil like 3-In-One Oil helps keep the clinchers in good working order. This simple maintenance can make a significant difference in the tool's performance and longevity.

  • The tips were delivered by Bradley at the 2013 International Hoof-Care Summit.

The players

Dan Bradley

A farrier and clinician from Lucedale, Mississippi who works with G.E. Forge & Tool.

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What they’re saying

“It will start raking down the nails or slipping. So, if you just clean it up, nine times out of 10 it'll be fine. But it is typical of what we do — just let all that material stay in there and that's just going to make it slip on you.”

— Dan Bradley, Farrier and Clinician (americanfarriers.com)

The takeaway

Regularly maintaining clinchers, a crucial tool for many farriers, can significantly extend their lifespan and effectiveness. A simple cleaning and sharpening routine using basic tools can help ensure clinchers remain in top working condition, improving the farrier's work and the comfort of the horse.