What is a whole or half share of beef?
When you purchase a whole share, it means you have purchased a whole steer. A half share is one half of a whole steer.
If I order a half share, what cuts will I receive?
You will get the same steaks, roasts, hamburger and other cuts you would receive from a whole share. The only difference is quantity. As a rule of thumb, 30% will be roasts, 20% premium steaks and the rest in hamburger, stew meat etc.
Is buying a whole or half share of beef a good value?
Absolutely. You are purchasing locally raised quality beef that is all-natural and hormone free. You will pay the same price for premium steaks and filet that you pay for hamburger. Not only is it a great value, it is quality beef.
Are their additional costs other than the $4.50 per lb.?
Yes, you will pay the butcher directly for the processing. The cost currently is $1.00 per lb., which includes USDA inspection. There is also a $60 harvest fee. Our preferred butcher is Weaver in Hartselle, AL.
How much freezer space will I need?
A whole share will yield about 480 lbs. of trimmed, wrapped and frozen beef. You will need about 40 cubic feet of freezer space.
A half share of beef will yield about 250 lbs. of trimmed, wrapped and frozen beef. You will need about 20 cubic feet of freezer space
How do I order my beef?
To reserve your whole or half share of beef, you need to complete the reservation form online and pay the required deposit. The final payment will need to be made prior to processing.
Can I make payments during the months between the time I order the beef and when it will be processed?
Yes. When we send you the confirmation email, reply and let us know that you want to make multiple payments. We will work out a schedule and email you a PayPal link when the payment is due. You can also mail a check. Just remember that the beef has to be paid in full prior to processing.
Are deposits refundable?
All deposits are non-refundable.
If I order my share today, when will I be able to pick up my beef from the butcher?
We slaughter once a year. The next processing will be January 2025.
What is a Cut Sheet?
Prior to processing, we will email you a form called a “cut sheet” to complete. It will tell the butcher how you want your beef processed. You will be able to specify what cuts you want, how thick to cut your steaks, the average weight for your roasts and how you want your hamburger packaged.
Here is an example of a cut sheet you will complete prior to processing.
What is Live Weight and Hanging Weight?
Live weight is the what the steer weighs prior to processing. Hanging weight is once the steer is slaughtered, but before it is cut, trimmed and packaged. Hanging weight is about 62% of the live weight. Once the beef is cut, trimmed and packaged, it will be about 60% of the hanging weight.
How Much Do Steers Weigh?
The average weight of our steers is 1,200 to 1,300 lbs., though some have been as large as 1,400 lbs.