Farm Fencing
Finally, he slowly lifts it out and drives on to the next one. Unless it runs into an underground rock field, it will plow out uniform 8-inch wide and 3-foot-deep post holes with relative ease.
Tools for High-Tensile Fencing
High tensile fences are arguably the best type of fencing for the greatest number of applications. They are also quite attractive. But they present some unique challenges that require specialized tools. While installing a regular wire fence requires little more than an old broom handle to unspool it, high-tensile wire is quite different. It is springy and tangles easily. This is where the spin jenny shines. It is essentially a low-friction revolving spool that accepts standard wire coils, allowing you to unroll the wire as needed when building your fence. The jenny sits on the ground in place while you walk away with the end of the wire in your hand. This ensures a kink- and twist-free wire that is easy to handle and attach.
High-tensile wires also require specialized tensioners. These gadgets resemble a fly-fishing reel and are so simple and inexpensive that they stay attached to the wire permanently. Whenever a fence wire sags, whether due to expansion and contraction from weather or from being leaned on by heavy animals, the slack is easily taken up using a ratchet handle that connects to the tensioner. These handy devices also work well on barbed wire.
Fencing as a Tradition
There seems to be a romantic, almost mystical, quality about farms nestled on acreage with miles of fencing surrounding green pastures and stock grazing in them. Whether you are new to acreage life or a seasoned farmer, you will want to make sure that the wire web that surrounds your property properly represents your presence in the time-honored landowner tradition. With fences— building or mending— be sure to use the right tool for the job.
Tool Essentials
Below are some essential tools that will help you get the job done right. Ŋ Hammer: A basic claw hammer is essential for any job. A straight claw is more versatile than a curved one, and a steel or fiberglass handle ensures durability.
Ŋ Shovel: A round- or pointed-nose shovel is a must-have, but a square-nose shovel is also useful. Steel or fiberglass / steel shovels last longer but are heavier than wood.
Ŋ Posthole digger: A clamshell digger is great for finetuning and tight spots. Consider models with curved handles for straighter, deeper holes.
Ŋ Gloves: A sturdy pair of leather or synthetic gloves protects against blisters and punctures while ensuring flexibility and comfort.
Ŋ Wire cutters: Durable, comfortable wire cutters are essential for easily cutting wire, especially high-tensile fencing.
Ŋ Post driver: A commercial driver is safer and more efficient than a sledgehammer for driving T-posts.
Ŋ Come-along: A one-ton come-along keeps wire fencing taut, adjusting for weather changes and preventing sagging.
Ŋ Fence tensioner: A ratcheted tensioner works similarly to a come-along but is ideal for individual wire fences. Ŋ Breaker / tamper bar: A six-foot bar breaks up hard soil for post digging and tamps soil for secure corner posts.
Ŋ Chain saw: Useful for clearing branches and trimming posts. Electric models work near home; gas saws are better for remote jobs.
Ŋ Fence pliers: A multipurpose tool for cutting, pulling, crimping and repairing both wood and wire fences.
26 | 515-574-2203 | 515-574-2189 | April 2025