CalumetFarms
Well-known member
Hello all, I run an Angus cow/calve operation.
I rarely finish out cattle. Generally, I sell my calf crop in the spring just prior to calving season. And the cycle goes on...
But recently in the last few years, I've held back a steer, usually the smallest one of the spring group. To finish out in late summer/fall, and put beef in some friends freezers.
Last year I held him back until January, on TONS of feed but in a terribly cold winter.
Finally, after all that input, hanging weight was 560. I thought, what a waste? It seemed like the feed wasn't stacking up weight on him, but rather just maintaining what he had. Due to the cold weather. I swore I would take him before winter next year. So here I am, in the same position, but trying to improve my efficiency at this.
My question is what weight is ideal?
I competed (many years ago) in stockmanship, and I'm capable of judging body score. And finish condition.
But what age, weight should one aim for before shipment?
Current steer in question is 3/4 black Angus 1/4 Hereford. 18 months old.
Been grained for a couple months.
He's around 800lbs to my eye.
I've got him on schedule to ride late this week, but can push it back if needed.
Thoughts? Advise?
I rarely finish out cattle. Generally, I sell my calf crop in the spring just prior to calving season. And the cycle goes on...
But recently in the last few years, I've held back a steer, usually the smallest one of the spring group. To finish out in late summer/fall, and put beef in some friends freezers.
Last year I held him back until January, on TONS of feed but in a terribly cold winter.
Finally, after all that input, hanging weight was 560. I thought, what a waste? It seemed like the feed wasn't stacking up weight on him, but rather just maintaining what he had. Due to the cold weather. I swore I would take him before winter next year. So here I am, in the same position, but trying to improve my efficiency at this.
My question is what weight is ideal?
I competed (many years ago) in stockmanship, and I'm capable of judging body score. And finish condition.
But what age, weight should one aim for before shipment?
Current steer in question is 3/4 black Angus 1/4 Hereford. 18 months old.
Been grained for a couple months.
He's around 800lbs to my eye.
I've got him on schedule to ride late this week, but can push it back if needed.
Thoughts? Advise?