We personally have several of the influential bloodlines in our herd (EXT, 6807, GT Max, 1680, Kruggerand, Juice, 963, Lead Time, 878, Fortune 200, Neutron, etc) and it would be hard to put a finger on the most favorite. We have not used any Future Direction in our herd, mainly due to the lower growth EPDs (and isn't his semen $$$ now?). I think it would be hard to say, as it takes probably at least a good 5 yrs before you even know how the bull is performing (and how his daughter's produce) - and also what you are looking for. Strangely enough, our home raised AI-sired herd bulls' calves will often out perform direct AI sired calves (which will often come out of our better cows) - go figure? So far, New Frontier 095 seems to be mating well in our herd (on cows) and his calves seem to have a lot of growth, muscle and good carcass values; however, our first females out of him will calve next spring - so the jury is still out on this aspect. Our Bushwaker 41-93 progeny have also been very solid and productive too. I think not enough credit is given to the dam and her breeding as far as influence is concerned (both positive and negative) and it also depends on what you like and what does good in your area.
