What Size Blade Do You Use To Clip A Horse
Clipping a horse is as much a skill as it is an art form. I really enjoy doing it, but it’s really important to know which blade to use when clipping each part of the horse. Read on to find out which size to use where.
You should use the right blade for the right part of the horse
Body – 10 Wide
Bridal Path – 40
Ears – 40 or a Trimmer
Eyes – Trimmer
Face – Trimmer
Chin – 10
Legs & Fetlocks – 15
Use different blade sizes on different parts of the horse
Rememeber Lower = Longer!
The lower the number the longer the hair will be after it is clipped
Clipping a horse can be a challenging but rewarding task for horse owners and caregivers. It is an important aspect of horse grooming and care, and can help to keep the horse comfortable, healthy, and looking their best. There are several different clipping styles and techniques that can be used, depending on the needs of the horse and the preferences of the owner. In this article, we will explore the different types of clipping, when and why they would be used, and how to clip a horse that does not enjoy the process.
Types of Horse Clipping
There are several different types of clipping that can be used on horses, each with their own specific purpose and benefits. You can see a video of the different clips here:
The different types of clip for your horse
1. Full Clip: A full clip is when the entire body of the horse is shaved down to a very short length. This is typically done in the colder months to help the horse stay warm and to prevent them from getting too hot and sweaty when exercising. It is also helpful for horses that have very thick coats, as it can help to prevent matting and skin irritation.
2. Hunter Clip: A hunter clip is a moderate clip that leaves the horse with a short, neat coat all over their body. It is often used on show horses or horses that will be competing in the hunter or jumper disciplines. It is also a good choice for horses that live in a mild climate and do not need a full clip to stay comfortable.
3. Trace Clip: A trace clip is a minimal clip that leaves the horse with a short coat on their neck, shoulders, and legs, while leaving the rest of their body unclipped. This clip is often used on horses that are not in heavy work and do not need a full or hunter clip. It is also a good choice for horses with thin coats or those that are prone to getting too cold in the winter.
4. Partial Clip: A partial clip is a custom clip that can be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the horse and owner. It can involve clipping certain areas of the horse’s body, such as the face, belly, or legs, while leaving other areas unclipped. This type of clip is often used on horses that are in light work or that have specific areas of the body that tend to get dirty or sweaty.
5. Body Clip: A body clip is a clip that removes the coat from the horse’s belly, chest, and legs, while leaving the rest of the body unclipped. This clip is often used on horses that are in heavy work and tend to get hot and sweaty, as it helps to cool them down and prevent skin irritation.
When should I Clip My Horse
The best time to clip a horse will depend on several factors, including the type of clip being used, the climate and weather conditions, and the needs and preferences of the horse.
In general, horses should be clipped in the autumn or winter months when their coats are at their thickest and they are not being ridden as frequently. This will allow the horse’s coat to grow back in time for the spring and summer months when they will be in heavier work.
However, some horses may need to be clipped more frequently, especially if they are in heavy work or have a very thick coat. In these cases, it may be necessary to clip the horse every few weeks or monthly to keep them comfortable and prevent skin irritation.
It is also important to consider the weather and climate when deciding when to clip a horse. In colder climates, a full or hunter clip may be necessary to help the horse stay warm, while in milder climates, a trace or partial clip may be sufficient.
It is possible to clip horses during the summer months, and in some cases, it can be beneficial for the horse. Heavier with thicker coats breeds, in particular, may benefit from being clipped to keep them cool and comfortable, as well as to make it easier to remove sweat and dirt. Clipping can also be helpful for competition horses, as it can aid in performance and recovery.
When clipping during the summer, it is important to use a medium grade blade and to clip in a cool, covered area to prevent irritation. It is also advisable to wash the horse the day before clipping and to use a body wash after clipping to freshen the coat and remove any oil residue. Blades should be tensioned correctly to minimize heat and should be changed regularly, especially when clipping sensitive areas. Care should be taken when clipping around the girth area, as the skin there is sensitive and can easily be irritated.
What type of blade should I use on my horse clippers?
Clippers have two blades: the lower blade which does not move and is called the “comb,” and the upper blade, which moves and is called the “cutter.”
There are various types of blades available for horse clippers, and each has its own specific purpose and characteristics. Understanding the different blades and when to use them can help ensure a smooth and efficient clipping experience for both you and your horse.
Remember – you can always take more off but you can’t add it back on! If you haven’t clipped your horse before, start with your most coarse blade. Have a test run, then see if it is short enough. If not, move to the next size until you find the right one.
One of the most common types of blades is the #10 blade, which is a medium-grade blade that is suitable for general purpose clipping and thinning. This blade is a good choice for horses with medium to thick coats and can be used on most areas of the body.
The #10 blade, also known as the course cut blade, is the blade size that leaves the longest hair. It is commonly used for body clipping and is often included with the purchase of a new set of clippers. The #10 blade is a good choice for beginners as it allows for more leniency in correcting mistakes and leaves enough hair on the legs to provide some protection. It is important to note that there are both regular and wide sizes of the #10 blade, with the wider size being more suitable for body clipping due to its ability to remove more hair with each swipe.
The #15 blade is a fine-grade blade that is suitable for horses with thin or fine coats, or for creating a precise finish on the head, ears, and legs. This blade is not suitable for thick coats, as it may pull or snag the hair.
The #15 blade, also known as the medium cut blade, is a bit finer than the #10 blade and is often used for clipping the hair on a horse’s head.
The #30 blade, or medium or fine cut blade, is finer still and is commonly used in showing disciplines to remove hair from the face, ears, eyes, and nose of the horse.
The #30 blade, also known as the medium or fine cut blade, is a slightly finer blade than the #15 blade and is often used in showing disciplines where a precise and refined finish is desired. It is commonly used to remove hair from the face, ears, eyes, and nose of the horse, creating a sleek and polished appearance.
The #30 blade is not suitable for use on thick or matted hair, as it may pull or snag the hair and cause discomfort to the horse. It is also not recommended for use on most areas of the body, as it leaves the hair quite short and may not provide sufficient protection from the elements.
When using the #30 blade, it is important to follow proper clipping techniques and to use caution around sensitive areas, such as the eyes and ears. It is also important to maintain and sharpen the blade regularly to ensure optimal performance and to minimize heat and discomfort for the horse
The #40 blade is a coarse-grade blade that is suitable for removing large amounts of hair quickly. This blade is often used for body clipping or for thinning thick manes and tails. It is not recommended for use on the head or sensitive areas as it may cause discomfort or irritation. The #40 blade, also known as the fine or surgical cut blade, is the finest blade available and cuts the hair extremely close to the skin. This blade leaves a cut that is so close that it can cause small nicks in the skin if examined under a magnifying glass. The #40 blade is not suitable for use on most areas of the body and should be used with caution, as it can cause discomfort or irritation to the horse.
Various Blade Sizes. Lower Number = Longer hair!
When selecting a blade for horse clipping, it is important to consider the thickness and type of the horse’s coat. Using the wrong blade can result in a poor clipping experience for both you and the horse, and may cause discomfort or irritation. It is always best to start with a medium-grade blade and adjust as needed based on the thickness and type of coat. It is also important to maintain and sharpen blades regularly to ensure optimal performance and to minimize heat and discomfort for the horse.
In summary, there are various types of blades available for horse clippers, each with its own specific purpose and characteristics. Understanding the different blades and when to use them can help ensure a smooth and efficient clipping experience for both you and your horse
Horse Clippers Vs Horse Trimmers
Horse clippers and trimmers both have specific purposes within equine grooming maintenance. Clipping is best used for the body, legs and other larger areas of the horse, while trimmers are better suited for more precise tasks like around the eyes. Horse clippers tend to be larger in size compared to horse trimmers, making them less manoeuvrable due to their bulk, meaning it can take longer for a groomer to cover large areas like the body or legs with a clipper. By contrast, trimmers have a smaller head and blade size which allows them to fit into crevices or tight spots where clippers may not be able to reach such as around the eyes.
Clippers Vs Trimmers. Clippers are larger and less easy to use, but better for big tasks like the body
In short, it is best practice for a groomer to use clippers on larger areas of the horse’s body and legs due to their size and strength, while trimmers should be used on more delicate or intricate parts of the equine anatomy such as around the eyes or muzzle. The blades of horse trimmers are also thinner than that of a clipper which helps prevent accidental nicks or cuts while trimming these areas; they are specifically designed with precision in mind. Groomers should also factor in noise levels when deciding which tool is right for each job as some horses may react differently when exposed to loud clipper motors compared to quieter electric trimmers.
How to Clip a Horse That Doesn’t Like Clippers
Clipping a horse that does not like clippers can be a challenging task, but with patience and proper preparation, it is possible to make the process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible for both the horse and the person doing the clipping.
Here are some tips for how to clip a horse that doesn’t like clippers:
1. Gradually acclimate the horse to the clippers: Start by introducing the clippers to the horse in a non-threatening way, such as letting them sniff the clippers or using them to gently groom the horse. As the horse becomes more comfortable with the clippers, you can gradually increase the amount of clipping you do.
2. Use a quiet pair of clippers: Some horses may be more sensitive to loud noises, so it may be helpful to use a quieter pair of clippers to minimize any potential stress.
3. Use a desensitization technique: If the horse is particularly fearful of the clippers, you can try using a desensitization technique to help them learn to associate the clippers with positive experiences. This can involve pairing the sound of the clippers with something the horse enjoys, such as treats or praise, until they become more comfortable with the noise.
4. Use a calming supplement: If the horse is particularly anxious or stressed during the clipping process, you may want to consider using a calming supplement to help them relax. There are several options available, including herbal remedies and prescription medications, so be sure to speak with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.
5. Take breaks: Clipping a horse can be a physically and mentally demanding task, so it is important to take breaks as needed to ensure both the horse and the person doing the clipping are comfortable and relaxed.
6. Work with a professional: If you are having difficulty clipping your horse, or if the horse is particularly difficult to work with, you may want to consider working with a professional groom or trainer who has experience with difficult horses. They can help you to develop a plan for safely and effectively clipping your horse, and provide guidance and support as needed.
In conclusion, clipping a horse that does not like clippers can be a challenging task, but with patience, preparation, and the right techniques, it is possible to make the process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible for both the horse and the person doing the clipping. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your horse stays comfortable and healthy, and looks their best.
