what breed should I use as my original foundation heifers?

[angus kid]

I am looking to finally start my own herd of show cattle. I have been showing Angus for quite a few years, because that's what was available to me, but I am looking to possibly make the switch. Just curious what breed, from a marketability and profitability standpoint, would be the best to use. I am from the northern Illinois area and looking for something that is easy to sell. I will have more of a cow/calf operation than raising show steers.  Thanks for any and all advice. 

 

[shortyjock89]

For your location, Angus, Hereford, Simmental and Shorthorn are going to be the most popular show calves.

I'd recommend keeping your Angus base and using some Simmental bulls, and maybe a Shorthorn.

 

[angus kid]

Thanks for the reply! I wasn't sure if it would a good idea or not to go more into the club calf area instead of registered purebreds.

 

[wypeterson22]

I'm getting my own herd started myself and if you ask me you can't go wrong with the Angus and simmental breeds for what you're looking for. That'll give you a great foundation if you breed right and if you decide to branch off and mix breeds or go for club they will provide the structural soundness you're looking for.

 

[b_kackley]

I would go Simmental. Use purebred bulls that are proven and you can't go wrong. I like Upgrade, A Step Up, and Uno Mas. These are very consistent bulls in my experience and should click well with most Angus. You may want to check if you can get sexed semen on Uno Mas he is a safe bet on anything.

 

[angus kid]

Thank you very much for the advice! I'ts very helpful!

 

[Franke]

I would follow with the Simmental and/or Angus route. If you start with purebreds of both you can always cross with the other one and sell foundation simmis. Multiple options means multiple types of sellers and I think the foundation shows have outnumbered the purebreds that I've noticed.