Picking out your show steer...

[the_cowgirl_in_me]

So im going to be picking out my calf this week that i will be showing at fair in April. This is my first year with show steers. Were buying at around 400lbs. What qualities should i be looking for in the calf that will give me a good lookin steer?

 

[SKF]

The first and most important thing is to pick out a calf with a good disposition because if you can't handle it, it does not matter how great it looks. The next thing is make sure it is sound on its feet because you don't want a calf that cripples up before your fair. Look for a calf that has a wide base and top, good depth and a straight topline. Good luck picking out your calf!!! <party>

 

[SSIMMENTALS]

As said, look at disposition and structure with no major faults that wll hinder you later. Watch him as he tracks off to see that he stands and tracks wide, as this indicates more muscling. This is your first year, so find a mellow fellow that you are confident in and learn from showing him which traits were valued in him and which you will want to change in next year's calf. It's all a learning progess, and you will be able to see the potential in them more easily as each year goes by.

and don't forget to post us PICTURES PICTURES PICTURES when you get him

 

[kane1598]

Soundness is always what I evaluate first.  Make sure the calf has enough angle to the shoulder and the hock, making sure that all 4 feet point the right direction and the calf can fill its tracks.  Watch for any rolling or movement in the top line when the calf is on the move; this is often a good indicator of some restriction in movement.  I then would evaluate the overall thickness and feed-ability of the calf.  Pick one that is wide based and pulled apart skeletally.  Then, you can look for a balanced stylish calf that is straight topped, clean fronted and maybe has some hair and bone. Since it is your first year, I would focus mostly on a good disposition, structure and the calves ability to gain so that you can have a good first experience. Good luck and get the one you want!

 

[dutch pride]

OH Yea, purchasing a new calf. Always a lot of fun and excitement. Are you going to a sale or to a breeder to pick out your calf? If going to a sale, be sure you know what you want to spend before you go so you do not get caught up in the excitement of bidding and spend more that you can afford. Another thing that I find some first time buyers doing is purchasing with their heart instead of with their head. They go for the "cute" one rather than looking more at what others have posted above. I agree that disposition should be most important in this first year. Also maybe look for a calf that is already broke and on feed rather than one straight off the cow. For the first year, it is more important to have fun and learn a lot and not focus on winning as much, that can come later. I you end up with a calf that is a chore to work with it can spoil you for the future.

if you can get some pics of calves you are considering, some of us may be able to give our opinions.

Good luck!

 

[KYsteer]

I agree with what has been said so far.  I try to look at what the calf does not do well rather than its positive traits and they seem to sort themselves out on their own.  It is very easy to fall for the hairy or the big butted one, and disregard a structure issue or some other problem.  The biggest suggestion that I may have is to try to get the help of someone who has experience picking out show calves so that they can guide you and in the process teach what to look for in a calf.

 

[the_cowgirl_in_me]

Im going to a breeder that has about 15 head right now. He has Herefords and Hereford Angus crosses. Im not one to fall the pretty animals. I have raised pigs and lambs in the years before as show animals. Thanks for the tips.

 

[the_cowgirl_in_me]

So i got my steer today. Hes 25% Augus 25% Main and 50% Piedmontese.

lemmie know what you think

 

[farmboy]

looks functional, like a good county fair steer, just concerned if you could get him finished, being half piedmontese and all

 

[SSIMMENTALS]

He looks to be a good honest steer with a lot of natural muscling and dimension. Is he a sweetie already?  (thumbsup)