Why Pinzgauer
Different breeds of cattle are crossed to produce progeny with gene combinations generally not seen in either parent breed. These new gene combinations cause crossbred progeny to exceed their parents performance which is called hybrid vigor or heterosis. Ultimately the strong points of one breed will mask the weak points of the other breed, thus producing a better animal.
Pinzgauer cattle are adaptable to a variety of climates. Pinzgauers thrive in the cold, snowy regions of the U.S. and Canada and also do well in the hot and humid regions of Texas and Florida. Eye problems are rare. Smooth hair and firm but flexible skin prevents tick and other insect infestations. The pigmentation of the skin and hooves protects the breed from the sun. The breed reaches sexual maturity at a very young age and retains above average fertility.
In Austria, Pinzgauers are considered a dual purpose breed for both dairy and beef. They are a moderate frame breed that will compliment most other breeds. Birth weights are comparable with other continental breeds. Pinzgauer milk has a higher content of butterfat which produces faster and slightly higher than average weaning weights, improved milk production and quality. The average female weighs around 1200 pounds and will typically wean a 600 pound calf.
The USDA Meat Animal Research Center trait averages for steers of Pinzgauer breeding have over 61% Choice, over 69% retail product, rib eye area of 11.28 square inches. A shear force (tenderness) test for Pinzgauer was the best at 4.47kg versus 4.5 for Angus with most breeds being over 5.0kg.