Fence Posts

• Posts support most every type of fence. Wood or steel posts are often used with barbed wire. Use wood posts that are 4 to 8 inches in diameter. The larges ones should be the corner and end posts. Set the posts at least 30 inches in the ground. This means an 80-inch post will be about 50 inches from the ground up. Use a post driver to secure steel posts in the ground. The brace at the bottom should be below ground. Place posts about 20 feet apart.
  
  

Fasteners

• Use fence staples to fasten the barbed wire to wood posts. Fencing staples are U-shaped nails with points on both ends. They should be galvanized so they won't rust. Use fence clips to fasten the barbed wire to steel posts. The knobs on the steel posts will prevent the wire from sliding up or down. Use pole-barn spikes to fasten together braces and supports used in the corner-post assembly.
  
  

Tools

• Most do-it-yourselfers have at least some of the tools needed to install a barbed-wire fence. Pliers, hammers and a tape measures all come handy. Also needed are a post-hole digger or auger for wood posts or a post driver for steel posts. Another necessary tool is a fence or wire stretcher. This device employs a ratcheting action to pull the barbed wire tight.
  
  

Safety Gear

• Heavy leather gloves with extended cuffs are a necessity when you're working with barbed wire. The barbs can slice skin quickly to the extent that stitches may be required. Other safety gear includes leather work boots and safety glasses. Also wear heavy clothing.