Hundreds of farriers attended the February 2009 American Farrier’s Association (AFA) Convention in Chattanooga, Tenn., for all kinds of reasons. Many came to check out the new products fresh on the market.

I belong to this group. For me, vendor trade shows take me back to the Christmases of my childhood because it was all about getting new toys. I think this old saying holds true: “The only difference between men and boys is the price of their toys.” I can sense a keen excitement and energy whenever I get near new hoof-care products

While strolling around this year’s Marketplace looking for the better mousetrap, here are some of the standouts that I found.

Baggett Custom Hoof Knives, Bishop, Ga.

I don’t think Neal Baggett is a household name yet, but it soon may be to those into fine custom hoof knives.

They were doing a brisk business with his custom-designed knives that he had in stock. I liked his popular short blade knife with a longer depth hook. If you prefer something of your own design, Baggett is only limited by your imagination.

Blackwater Forge, Inc., Dolomite, Ala.

I met and chatted with Russell Colvin and his lovely wife, Leigh Ann, at their booth. A couple of products grabbed my attention.

Besides offering his knife conceptions, Neal Baggett will make knives from your designs.

The first was their steel tripod anvil stand. This is a stout rascal built to withstand Paul Bunyan hammering on it. It has a clever…