ABSTRACT
A compromise is probably needed between the extremes in any direction to utilize some blending of the inherent advantages bred into lines and breeds of cattle. The cow size in our commercial herds will have to be near the ideal slaughter weight of our steers. Although there are some shortcomings, the sire summary, the cow records, and individual records are valuable tools in herd improvement and merchandising. This chapter examines the British breeds, with their bred-in efficiencies and predictability, to increase frame size so that they will consistently reach their end point at 1200 lb with a desirable quality and cutability. It explores the "exotic" breeds to reduce their size and extreme muscling to improve fertility, calving ease, and their overall predictability. Compared to the sophistication of the performance information available to the breeder or buyer, the input of information is quite limited and simple.
