Model Horse Fence References

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Model Horse Micro Mini Scale Golden Oak Fence - Maggie Bennett Annie

Welcome to my personal model fence reference cheat sheet!

As I research the various fence types, I’m going to expand this post with links to real life references (and summaries). I’ll have separate posts where I get into the details of how to convert real life into scale models.

Basic Horse Fence Rules

Pasture fence should be a minimum of 54 to 60 inches above the ground.
Pasture fences should be at least wither/shoulder height of the horse.
For paddocks, corrals and stallion pens, the top of the fence should be at eye level with the horse’s head in a natural upright position. This is usually 4 to 6 inches above the horse’s withers.

The bottom of the fence should be 6 to 8 inches off the ground.
A bottom rail with clearance no higher than 12 inches will prevent foals from rolling under the fence.
Open spaces between rails or strands should be 12 inches or fewer

Wooden Fences

Usually either 1 x 6 or 2 x 6 boards are used for the rails. Rails made of 1 x 6 boards are less expensive but tend to warp more and are not as strong as 2 x 6 rails.
Wood posts from 5.5 to 8.5 feet long and from 2.5 to 8 inches or larger diameter are readily available. The larger the top diameter, the stronger the post. Line posts can be as small as 2½ inches, but larger ones will make the fence stronger and more durable. Corner and gate posts should have a top diameter of at least 8 inches. Brace posts should be 5 inches or more in diameter.
Space line posts about 10 to 12 feet apart for most fences. Narrow spacings are better over irregular ground and in contour fences. Rail fences normally have post spacings of 8 to 10 feet.

Real Life Wooden Fence Vendors

One thing I’ve found helpful is to find people that sell real-life versions of the fences I’m trying to build. Normally they have great reference photos and lumber dimensions.

Great Oak Equine

4x4x8’ White Oak Posts with beveled tops
1x6x8’ full dimension White Oak Rails
4″ x 6″ x 8′ White Oak Post
Panels are 8′ long and available in a 4′ height, 5′ height, or 6′ height. Place a (provided) 4x4x8′ post every 24

The Mill