Every area has virtues and hardships for its horseshoers. In the Southwest, dry feet are the main hardship and dealing with them is a constant battle.

Construction-grade (DAP) silicone has been used in farrier practices for over 30 years as a filler under pads with good success. At first, the set-up time could take as long as 24 hours and required some type of damming system like tape or putty to keep the silicone from leaking out the back side of the hoof and leaving a sticky mess. Now, with the new silicone materials, set-up time is 4 to 10 minutes and the development of putty-type materials allows a faster, much cleaner and more precise job.

Share your single most important piece of advice on maintaining your shoeing tools (hand tools, power tools, etc.)