Author Topic: Which barbed wire? (Read 4030 times)

edstrong · « **on:** June 08, 2015, 12:00:06 pm »

I have a standard stock fence that I'd like to add a single line of barbed wire at the bottom: not sure whether to use high tensile or standard barbed wire. I've got a Draper 57547 tensioning tool to tension it and the total length is about 80 metres with one corner in the middle. I gather high tension won't sag as much but is harder to install. Advice please!

Dan · « **Reply #1 on:** June 08, 2015, 01:18:50 pm »

Personally I'd steer clear of HT fencing wire of all kinds unless you're an experienced fencer with the right kit or you need the extra strength it's going to offer. It's hard to work with and potentially dangerous if mishandled.

We use mild steel across all of our stock fencing and it does the job just fine. Each year I tighten any runs that have slackened (usually due to cattle or ponies reaching across the top) but most don't need it. A bottom barbed wire shouldn't have much pressure put on it so you'll probably be fine with the standard product.

Fleecewife · « **Reply #2 on:** June 08, 2015, 06:28:07 pm »

I can't think of any situation where I would install any grade of barbed wire - hateful stuff

doganjo · « **Reply #3 on:** June 08, 2015, 07:17:45 pm »

Which barbed wire - NONE OF IT! It is vicious stuff invented by a barbaric maniac

Backinwellies · « **Reply #4 on:** June 08, 2015, 07:26:46 pm »

Why put barb at bottom? Usually used at top to deter cattle leaning on fence

shygirl · « **Reply #5 on:** June 08, 2015, 08:07:04 pm »

Quote from: Backinwellies on June 08, 2015, 07:26:46 pm

Why put barb at bottom? Usually used at top to deter cattle leaning on fence

keep the pigs and goats from wriggling under.

bloomer · « **Reply #6 on:** June 08, 2015, 08:37:34 pm »

I personally hate barbed as I have many scars from removing it in various properties. But if it's needed what Dan says is right. HT requires a chain puller and practices get right, and if you get it wrong can snap and spring back at you ouch!!! Use mild steel...

edstrong · « **Reply #7 on:** June 09, 2015, 08:40:33 am »

I know barbed is nasty stuff, but I don't want a repeat of the dog that got into my garden and killed three of my chickens. Looks like normal barbed and a couple of barrel tensioners should do.

stufe35 · « **Reply #8 on:** June 09, 2015, 12:38:29 pm »

And have you sent the irresponsible dog owner a bill for the chickens ?

doganjo · « **Reply #9 on:** June 09, 2015, 12:48:25 pm »

Dig chicken wire in at the bottom? You are happy for the dog to be scarred by the wire and perhaps killed if it isn't fixed properly? A friend of mine lost a Champion munsterlander bitch that way - carried her screaming three miles for her to die in his arms at the vet's door. All she did was put her front paws on his neighbour's retaining steel wire to look over the fence. What price three hens?

You can see why I hate barbed wire!

Backinwellies · « **Reply #10 on:** June 09, 2015, 02:39:57 pm »

Sorry but I agree with the anti barb lot here .... I have a line of barb along all our fences at the top .. due to cattle ........... but the idea of using it to stop dogs digging .... definitely not! Use an electic wire!

bloomer · « **Reply #11 on:** June 09, 2015, 02:43:38 pm »

2ft chicken wire laid flat on the ground outside the fence, joined to existing fence with hog rings every 12 inches, no digging required by you, no dogs coming under the fence,

Grass grows through it win win situation...