Everyone has been pretty tough on the Chianina breed in answering this gentleman's question. As with all breeds some are more docile than others. The same applies within breeds of cattle as well. That being said, I would agree that the Chianina breed does probably have a higher percentage of cattle, than some others, of cattle that are challenged with having a disposition problem. However, the same can be said about the Limousin breed as well as some others.
On the other hand, the Chianina breed certainly has a place in the beef industry. First, they are considered a heavily muscled, high performing breed. From the performance aspect, we still sell cattle by the pound, so this is an admirable trait. Secondly, they are considered a lean breed of cattle that may not marble and excel as well as an Angus within a quality grade grid system. But they should have additional performance and pounds to compensate for lack of quality grade. On the other hand they will yield and have a much lower numerical yield grade than british breeds of cattle.
The one place where I feel the Chianina breed excels all others is in adding phenotype to a cowherd. If you have an average or below average cowherd in terms of phenotype and eye appeal. You can really fancy up a set of calves in one generation. Yes, they are a large breed of cattle, particularly the fullbloods or purebreds, but at the same time if you need to increase size in your herd, it can be done relatively quickly with this breed. Naturally, you want to pay close attention to BW EPD's as well as actual BW and ratios.
There is an excellent producer of fullblood Chianina cattle located in Texas. I would suggest calling the ACA (American Chianina Association), located in Platte City, MO, I believe and ask for their assistance. Hope this information helps you out.