B&L Longhorn Ranch
Member
Can't help but notice to obvious distaste in Longhorn Cattle. "In my opinion," most (if not all) individuals raising Longhorn cattle realize two basic facts:
(1) Our average head will bring more $$$ compared to the average beef head. Sure there will always be extenuating circumstances; AI with latest/greatest semen, flushing the latest female champion, etc. But my average registered Longhorn will bring $$$ than my neighbors registered Angus.
(2) At the end of the year, he will have out-sold me; I can admit that honestly. Beef cattle are easier marketed and sold whereas Longhorn are mostly sold via private treaty.
The ironic part concerns the average Longhorn rancher can admit the above issue whereas the average Beef rancher feels superior.
Even more ironic centers around the issue that Longhorn cattle are more difficult to raise. (Sure we can argue feed lots, but I imagine the average small rancher.)
(1) I sure wish I could have purchased a head gate as compared to building a Medina Hinge.
(2) When one head needs to be examined, the issue of running it down the chute becomes cumbersome.
(3) Both breed for conformation, size, milking ability, calving ease, etc BUT I have to also concentrate upon horn shape & size.
(4) Feeding or simply working in a confined area requires more attention.
Personally, I raise cattle, not as a means for support, but because of the lifestyle. I raise Longhorn Cattle (aka "Pasture Ornaments") due to their heritage, uniqueness, color, and horn.
Looking forward to reading other opinions and of course the arguments... Gotta go feed my "pasture ornaments" and help my buddy separate his "hamburger hooves"
(1) Our average head will bring more $$$ compared to the average beef head. Sure there will always be extenuating circumstances; AI with latest/greatest semen, flushing the latest female champion, etc. But my average registered Longhorn will bring $$$ than my neighbors registered Angus.
(2) At the end of the year, he will have out-sold me; I can admit that honestly. Beef cattle are easier marketed and sold whereas Longhorn are mostly sold via private treaty.
The ironic part concerns the average Longhorn rancher can admit the above issue whereas the average Beef rancher feels superior.
Even more ironic centers around the issue that Longhorn cattle are more difficult to raise. (Sure we can argue feed lots, but I imagine the average small rancher.)
(1) I sure wish I could have purchased a head gate as compared to building a Medina Hinge.
(2) When one head needs to be examined, the issue of running it down the chute becomes cumbersome.
(3) Both breed for conformation, size, milking ability, calving ease, etc BUT I have to also concentrate upon horn shape & size.
(4) Feeding or simply working in a confined area requires more attention.
Personally, I raise cattle, not as a means for support, but because of the lifestyle. I raise Longhorn Cattle (aka "Pasture Ornaments") due to their heritage, uniqueness, color, and horn.
Looking forward to reading other opinions and of course the arguments... Gotta go feed my "pasture ornaments" and help my buddy separate his "hamburger hooves"