Felco 51 – Hoof Clippers for Sheep & Goats, XYLAN® Blades 220 mm

Hoof trimming is an essential part of sheep and goat welfare. Regularly neglected, this routine care prevents lameness, infections and skeletal deformities. The Felco 51 is designed to make it a precise, efficient and hygienic action — every time.

Its design draws directly from the Felco 8 pruning shear, a world reference for decades. This lineage shows in the ergonomics of the forged aluminium handles, whose shape optimises the force transmitted to the cutting head, and in the quality of the hardened steel blade. The angled head reaches the hoof at the ideal angle without straining the handler's posture. The toothed nut allows precise fine-tuning of the cutting head play in seconds.

The defining feature of the Felco 51 is the XYLAN® coating on both the blade and counter-blade. This coating reduces the adhesion of organic matter and limits the risk of spreading infection from one animal to the next — a decisive advantage on farms where biosecurity is a priority. The counter-blade is screwed in for quick replacement and, as with all Felco tools, every part — from blade and spring to the smallest screw — is available individually.

BENEFITS

✅ XYLAN® coating on blade and counter-blade — reduces organic adhesion and cross-infection risk ;

✅ Felco 8-inspired design — proven ergonomics, optimised force, natural grip ;

✅ Forged aluminium handles — lightweight, robust, lifetime guarantee ;

✅ Optimally angled cutting head — precise cut without postural strain ;

✅ Toothed nut — fine adjustment of cutting head play in seconds ;

✅ Screwed counter-blade and all parts replaceable — easy maintenance, maximum service life.

USE

• Restrain the animal and position the leg securely before trimming ;
• Hold the blade parallel to the sole of the hoof and cut in small progressive sections ;
• Do not cut too short in a single pass — work gradually to the desired level ;
• Clean and disinfect the blade between each animal to limit the spread of pathogens ;
• Adjust cutting head play with the toothed nut if the cut becomes imprecise or the blade binds ;
• Sharpen the blade regularly with a suitable stone (Felco 902 or 903) to maintain a clean cutting edge.

MAINTENANCE

• Clean blades after each use with water and a brush, then disinfect ;
• Oil the pivot and spring regularly to prevent rust and maintain smooth action ;
• Sharpen the blade as soon as the cut becomes less clean, at the original angle ;
• Replace the counter-blade when it shows chipping or visible deformation ;
• Store away from moisture — a carry holster is recommended for farm visits.

FAQ

What is the difference between the Felco 51 and the Felco 50?

The Felco 51 is designed for large hands (size L, right-handed), while the Felco 50 suits standard-sized hands. Both models share the same operating principle and XYLAN®-coated blades, but the 51 offers more comfort and power for stockmen with large hands or those working through large numbers of animals.

Why do the blades have a XYLAN® coating?

The XYLAN® coating is a surface treatment that reduces the adhesion of organic matter (soil, keratin, blood) to the blade. It makes cleaning easier and, most importantly, limits the transmission of infectious agents (bacteria causing foot rot, fungi) between animals. In livestock farming, this is a significant biosecurity advantage.

Can the Felco 51 be used to cut plants or branches?

No. The Felco 51 is specifically designed for trimming sheep and goat hooves. Its blade geometry and cutting head angle are not suited to plant work. For pruning, Felco offers a full range of dedicated pruning shears.

Are spare parts available for the Felco 51?

Yes, as with all Felco tools, every part — blade, counter-blade, spring, screws, handles — is available separately. This allows the tool to be repaired rather than replaced, in line with Felco's sustainability philosophy.