Best rasp for iron hooves?

[Nudibranch]

So the only reliable farrier in the area has quit because the youngster has stifle issues so needs a bit of patience. Not a major issue as he always left their toes too long anyway.
However I used to rasp his feet myself but returned to a farrier because his feet are so tough. Like iron! I can manage normal hooves but even a proper farriers rasp is just such hard going on his. I just dont have the strength.
However, now I've no choice, can anyone recommend a really sharp rasp? Im happy to buy a new one each time, just needs to be good enough for four feet! The last one I tried was a heller, which I thought was supposed to be a decent one...
Riders rasps, etc, etc dont touch them btw.

 

[Kallibear]

Mine are Save Edge and as sharp as hell!!

However technique is extremely important and pressing too hard, or to softly, or rasping to fast or slowly will make any rasp useless.

 

[Nudibranch]

Like I say, rasping hasnt been an issue on any other horse, its just him. He really does have unusually solid hoof. Ill try the SE....

 

[cptrayes]

Save edge here too. I buy a box at a time from farrierysupplies.co.uk

 

[samlf]

another save edge vote

 

[Cragrat]

I have a Heller Red Tang ( then blocked it the vice and sawed the tang off - far easier to use now than with a blooming handle ).
The rasp itself is fantastic - had it a few years, doing 4 or 5 horses - it's still sharp. It bites nicely - some rasps are so coarse they bite too much, then you can't move it in a controlled way.

 

[ester]

I have a save edge too. I also tend to do them every couple of weeks or so, don't let them get to the needing nippers stage

 

[Brightbay]

I have SaveEdges and have recently tried a Heller Black Diamond (supposed to be good for muddy hooves ). Both types seem to work well, but then the hooves live out so are always quite well moisturised and not like rocks! Would it help if you soaked the hooves or stood the horse in a puddle before trimming?

 

[Alyth]

Water Standing in a stream, water bath or the sea will soften the hooves and make then easier to rasp whatever the brand of rasp The kiss principle

 

[Exploding Chestnuts]

I think the use of a tripod would help, as it lets you use the rasp more effectively.

 

[Nudibranch]

Good ideas re soaking.... but he lives out, so theyve been coming in with soaked hooves anyway! I ordered a tripod last week though, will give it a go, should save my back at least. Being 17hh with massive feet, it doesnt take much if he leans.

 

[sunleychops]

You save edge fans should try one of our new belotta top sharp rasps!