Tag: Arrowquip

Manual Cattle Chutes

Posted on by Twin Rivers Media

 

From RFID tags to automatic milking systems and hormone implants, there have been countless advancements within the cattle industry over the years. However, one piece of equipment has remained all too similar, with very few advancements: manual cattle chutes.

Designed to help operators restrain cattle for safe handling purposes, most squeeze chutes often fail to meet the real-world demands of today’s cattle ranchers due to a lack of innovation. From handling larger breeds of cattle and bulls to withstanding everyday use, today’s manual cattle chutes frequently leave ranchers frustrated and, in some cases, injured, leading to a lesser profit and no choice but to look for better options.

The Problem with Most Manual Chutes

For many ranchers, a manual cattle chute is the star of their operation – some may even call it their right-hand man when handling cattle. From holding cattle for vaccinations and routine check-ups to keeping them still when helping a calf nurse, a squeeze chute is helpful for many things involving cattle. However, many chutes have failed to move forward with the advancements of the cattle industry, and this has become painfully clear as the days go on. This poses the question, where exactly do manual cattle chutes fail? 

  • Struggling to Hold Large Livestock

There’s no such thing as a “cookie cutter operation,” which means that not all operations or livestock are the same. This is why ensuring that the equipment can handle livestock of all sizes is key. Something that every rancher must face from time to time is working a bull through the chute. They present a unique challenge as their neck is often much wider than their head. This is why most ranchers will opt for a hydraulic chute to work bulls, as most manual chutes struggle to securely hold the animal, which can risk the operator’s safety. Weak head gates and squeezing mechanisms can lead to dangerous situations for all involved.

  • Too Many Levers

Imagine you have a mama cow coming through the chute, and right behind her is a small calf. With most manual cattle chutes, you’ll have to pause your operation in between animals to adjust the many different levers for the head gate and squeeze.

As all ranchers know, time is valuable in any operation, and good help is getting harder to find, so using a chute that requires multiple operators, constant adjustments and harder-to-use levers, simple tasks such as ear tagging, brisket tagging, or vaccinations can take up more time and energy than necessary. In the long run, this can reduce profits and take time away from other important tasks.

  • Not Built for Longevity

A cattle chute is an investment for your operation that is meant to last for generations. However, most manual cattle chute these days can hardly withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. Weak materials and poor construction can lead to the equipment breaking more often, causing ranchers to make more frequent repairs, which takes time and money away from the success of their operation.

Additionally, most cattle chute manufacturers choose to galvanize their equipment, which can be more costly in the long run as galvanized equipment is more prone to rust and damage from the harsh effects of UV Rays.

These issues and many others can leave many ranchers questioning which manual cattle chute is the best for their operation. They need a solution that can withstand elements and hold any size of cattle, from the smallest calves to the largest bulls. Luckily, Arrowquip has the perfect solution: the Arrowlock manual cattle chute lineup.

The Arrowlock Cattle Chute Advantage

Recognizing the need for something new within the cattle handling industry, Arrowquip launched their new Arrowlock lineup – a series of manual cattle chutes designed using the feedback of ranchers across North America to make their work safer, easier, and more efficient. The lineup consists of the Arrowlock 55 Series, Arrowlock 75 Series, and the Arrowlock 88 Series. Each chute offers its own innovative solutions that prioritize the needs of the modern-day cow-calf rancher for a seamless operation every time.

  • More Power than Most Hydraulic Chutes

Yes, you read that right… The Arrowlock 88 Series squeeze chute sets the new standard for manual cattle chutes. Unlike the other models in this series, this chute features an adjustable head gate with three settings (calf, cow, & bull) so that operators can securely hold even the biggest cows and bulls without the risk of them slipping out.

When in the bull setting, the Arrowlock 88 provides up to 7.7x the pressure as its previous Q-Catch model, making it the only manual cattle chute in the industry that provides more pressure than most hydraulic chutes.

Operators can safely work cattle without worry by guaranteeing a strong hold on cattle. Additionally, with the Arrowlock Head Gate, the chances of hip lock are almost impossible. If the operator gets into an issue where the animal gets stuck, the solution is simple.  All they have to do is apply slightly more pressure to the head gate handle when opening than usual. And the head gate should pop open, making the situation less stressful and your cattle handling experience simpler.   

  • True One-Person Operation

Getting too many people involved to operate a cattle chute can often be more hassle than necessary. That’s why the Arrowlock cattle chutes are designed with a true one-person operation in mind. With these chutes, you can control the head gate and squeeze from one spot. 

Thanks to an adjustable head gate handle that can slide from the front to the back of the chute. The ability to operate the chute from one spot reduces the amount of movement required, saving you energy. It also helps to maintain a lower-stress environment for the cattle. Streamlining your operation to create a more enjoyable experience for all involved.

  • Built to Withstand the Test of Time

When you purchase a cattle chute you want to ensure it withstands the rowdiest cattle and the harshest weather. At Arrowquip we manufacture our equipment with only the toughest materials because we understand that equipment can endure a lot. 

Heavy-duty North American steel manufactures each chute and experts’ powder-coat it with the famous Arrowquip green that all ranchers know and love.

 The Arrowquip engineers have also taken every step.  To ensure that the Arrowlock Head Gate will withstand the test of time.  During the beginning stages of the Arrowlock, Arrowquip’s team of engineers ran the head gate through thousands of cycles.  To ensure no wear on any of the parts. Additionally, they were so confident in the ability of the Arrowlock. That they put a lifetime warranty on all locking mechanisms.

The Arrowlock lineup, especially the Arrowlock 88, is a testament to Arrowquip’s commitment to making the ranching industry easier and safer for ranchers everywhere. By addressing the core issues ranchers face every day. Arrowquip has created a manual cattle chute lineup that stands above the rest no matter what kind of cattle operation you run. 

For ranchers tired of the limitations and safety risks that older manual cattle chutes offer. The Arrowlock lineup proves there is a better way. When it comes to cattle handling, the right equipment makes all the difference. To experience the Arrowlock advantage and learn more, visit arrowquip.com or call 1 (866) 383-7827.

Kaydence Michalsky | December 2024

American Cattlemen 2024

 

The Perfect Cattle Working Chute for Up-and-coming Ranchers is Finally Here

Posted on by Twin Rivers Media

The Perfect Cattle Working Chute for Up-and-coming Ranchers is Finally Here

Article and photos courtesy of Arrowquip

For new cattle ranchers, finding the perfect cattle chute for your operation can be intimidating with so many options on the table, but it’s also an exciting time. You get to make an investment on equipment that will improve your operation and create hundreds of memories to be passed down through the generations. That’s why it’s important to do your research and choose a cattle chute that will increase safety and efficiency, and last for generations to come. This is where Arrowquip’s all-new Easylock 33 Series Cattle Working Chute comes into play. This is an all-in-one, budget friendly chute for up-and-coming ranchers is your new go-to solution for safe cattle handling.

Safe Cattle Handling on a Budget
There are many budget-friendly cattle chutes available on the market, however, many are built using low-cost materials that are not meant to withstand use over time, meaning you’ll need to purchase replacement parts frequently and you’ll be buying a new chute before you know it. This can also serve as a safety risk to operators. If the chute isn’t manufactured using high-quality material, there’s a higher risk of things breaking, which can lead to injury.

Even though the Easylock is a budget-friendly chute, doesn’t mean quality needs to be sacrificed. This cattle working chute is manufactured using the same heavy-duty North American steel that all other Arrowquip

products are made with. This guarantees the chute will withstand rowdy cattle, daily wear and tear, and the test of time. Arrowquip cares about the safety of cattle and operators alike, which is why every chute is manufactured with only the highest quality material. This ensures that parts are unlikely to break, keeping you free from injury.

Secure Cattle Handling with the Easylock
Unlike other Arrowquip manual cattle chutes, the Easylock 33 is designed with a “V” style squeeze, similar to others within the market. What sets the Easylock apart from many other chutes is the fact that it’s a double-sided squeeze. With this, both sides of the squeeze move together simultaneously to apply even pressure to the animal while they’re in the chute. With a one-sided squeeze, cattle often feel off-balanced as the pressure is only being applied from one side. This can cause unnecessary stress to the animal and make them harder to calm while in the chute. By using a double-sided squeeze, you’re helping the animal feel more secure while they’re in the chute, and making the environment better to work in.

Like the new Arrowlock cattle chutes, the Easylock head gate is designed using a ratchet locking mechanism so you can get more security when catching cattle. However, something new to Arrowquip’s cattle chutes is the use of a ratchet locking squeeze. All of Arrowquip’s other manual cattle chutes have been designed with a friction locking squeeze, however, the Easylock uses a ratchet locking mechanism with the squeeze.

This is paired with a multi-position handle, meaning you can adjust the handle in five different positions to guarantee you get the most leverage for your use, ensuring optimal squeeze on the animal.

Additionally, this cattle working chute is equipped with access points from front to back. Featuring the same side access panels, you’ve come to know and love with all of Arrowquip’s other products, a drop-down and removable bottom access panel for access to the bottom half of your animal, and a complete side emergency exit, you can have complete access to your livestock at every point.

Reliable Cattle Handling no Matter What
We understand that cattle chutes take a lot of wear and tear during use. With the Easylock 33, you don’t have to worry about breaking something every time you work your cattle. Not only is it designed using high-quality materials, but on the off-chance that something does break, this cattle working chute comes with a 3-year warranty on the chute and a lifetime warranty on all locking mechanisms including the ratchet system.

Arrowquip also offers industry-leading Client Care, because they know that ranching isn’t a typical Monday to Friday, 5-9 job. Anything can happen at any time, especially when you’re working with cattle, so it’s important to be there when you need it most. Out in the field working cattle and come across an issue? No problem! Arrowquip’s dedicated Client Care Team is more than willing to phone or video call you so they can help solve the issue in real-time so you can get back to work – because when it comes to ranching, time is money.

Ready to get your journey toward safer, more reliable cattle handling started? Contact Arrowquip today at 1 (877) 383-7827 or visit arrowquip.com to speak with a Livestock Expert today.

You Need a Portable Cattle Corral. Here’s 4 Reasons Why.

Posted on by Twin Rivers Media

You Need a Portable Cattle Corral. Here’s 4 Reasons Why.

Article and photos courtesy of Arrowquip

Every rancher knows the struggle of having to work cattle while they’re away at pasture. Some may have permanent pens built, but there’s no guarantee the cattle will be near it when you need them. This might mean you need to chase the cattle to the pens – which can be quite the hassle, especially when you’re in open pasture.

This is where a portable cattle corral comes in. It has been one of the most impactful innovations for ranchers everywhere and has revolutionized how ranchers manage their herds through flexibility, efficiency, and enhanced safety. If you struggle with any of these, then maybe it’s time you consider investing in a portable corral.

1. Freedom To Go Wherever Your Cattle Are 

As the name suggests, one of the standout features of a portable cattle corral is the mobility. Unlike your traditional stationary handling system, a portable corral can be brought with you no matter where your cattle are located to easily adapt to your needs and allow for a simpler handling experience. If you’re a rancher who follows a rotational grazing structure, or you have cattle in multiple locations, then a portable handling system is essential to increase efficiency on your operation.

Along with it’s portability, some portable cattle corrals also offer the option to tow additional equipment such as cattle chutes or loading ramps. The ability to tow a cattle chute can be especially helpful if you need to treat your cattle while away at pasture, while the addition of a loading chute can be helpful if you’re catching cattle to load them up and move them home or to a different pasture.

2. Streamlined Cattle Management

Running a cattle operation can be time consuming, so it’s key to find ways to help streamline the process and give you your time back. Imagine being able to hold, sort, and treat your cattle no matter where they are. This dream can easily become a reality with a portable cattle corral.

A portable corral often comes with the ability to create two large fold-out corral pens that allow you to hold a significant amount of cattle. Some models also offer the option to carry additional cattle panels so you can create additional pens to create a set-up that works for your specific needs. Along with this, portable corrals come with a built-in cattle alley so you can sort your cattle more easily with some even offering a double cattle alley to help add extra safety and efficiency.

If you’re looking for an even more streamlined process, some cattle equipment companies have portable corrals with a built-in cattle chute, so you no longer need to worry about towing multiple pieces of equipment to your desired location. This will give you a true all-in-one, easy to use solution for working your cattle. 

3. Long-Term Savings

Investing in a portable cattle corral can also lead to significant cost savings – especially if you have large herds of cattle in multiple locations. Some ranchers will have multiple permanent set-ups throughout different locations, which can be costly, from initial set-up to continuous up-keep. With a portable corral, the need for multiple setups is eliminated, and costs are almost immediately reduced.

Additionally, if you choose to work with a company that provides extensive warranty and industry-leading Client Care, you can save yourself both time and money. It’s important to consider purchasing from a company that won’t forget about you as soon as you make the sale. Looking at companies that provide top of the line warranty (even on the smaller parts such as locking mechanisms) will ensure that your investment is protected for years to come and minimizes the risk of unexpected repair costs.

4. Quick, Hassle-Free Set-Up

As mentioned, the flexibility of being able to bring your equipment is a compelling reason to invest in a portable corral, but one of the most appealing aspects is the quick, hassle-free set up. Most corrals are designed to be set up by one or two people in as little time possible.

When considering the features of a portable cattle corral that is easy to set up, consider looking for features such as fold-out panels on airless tires paired with a winch system and a hydraulic jacking system. These features combined will make setting up and taking down your corral easier and safer than ever.

It’s no secret that investing in a portable cattle corral is a big investment up front, but it’s clear that it stands out as a beneficial tool to use on your operation. By streamlining your process and improving safety and efficiency for you and your cattle, you can’t go wrong with a portable cattle corral.

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