A precision instrument

A rasp is a precision instrument that is manufactured using an intensive production process and great care. The differences among the various types of rasp are found primarily in the tooth density and the angle of the teeth to the rasp. The combination of a large tooth density and smaller angle is particularly well suited for a dry climate where hooves are hard and the horn material is fine and dry.

In contrast, a rasp with a lower tooth density and wider angle is suitable for a damper climate with softer hooves, where the material tends to stick to the teeth of the rasp. The fine side of the Heller rasps is sharp, enabling efficient removal of material with little effort. The file side can be used both to file the side of the hoof flat and to polish the hoof wall.