Freeze Branding ?s

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LN

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 15, 2008
Messages
767
Location
South Texas
We are going to freeze brand our replacement females in a month and I was wondering what protocol you use? We haven't freeze branded in 10 years ago, used copper 5" irons and dry ice. The brands are readable, but blotchy so I would appreciate any advice on how to get a clean brand. Here's what I'm wondering about...

Dry ice vs. liquid nitrogen

Cattle with Brahman influence, because they have thicker skin does it require more time?

Clipping hair, does it need to be done right before branding or can it be done a day before?

Thanks!
 

kanshow

Well-known member
Joined
May 24, 2007
Messages
2,660
Location
Kansas
this is what we do..

Clip right before branding.  We do it all on one pass thru the chute.  You should clip as close as possible.    This year we sprayed alchohol on the clipped area because someone suggested but didn't notice any difference.  It works best if you have at least 2 sets of numbers - I prefer 3.  that way you dont' have to wait for a commonly used number to cool again - which could be a reason for blotch brands.    We use dry ice & isopropel alchohol.    For awhile we had trouble getting dry ice so tried the liquid N but it is harder to handle.    Let the irons have a chance to really cool before starting.  You'll want to have the mixture at least an inch over your irons.  Watch the level because it will evaporate after a time.  We use old coolers most of which have the lids broke off so we throw an old coat over the coolers to help with the cooling & keep it colder.    I think we hold them on for about a 50 count -  a little longer if they are bigger/older.    Make sure you wear gloves because you can sure get a burn doing this. 

 

LazyGLowlines

Well-known member
Joined
Apr 7, 2008
Messages
533
we use liquid nitrogen as it cools quicker and I think it is even colder than what you can get with dry ice. We clip just before branding, blow any dirt and hair off, spray 99% pure alcohol over the area. Then we apply the brand,timing the actual branding with a watch and try to get a good 25-28 seconds, while keeping a firm pressure on the branding iron. There are several sites with this information on the web.
 
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