
Originally Posted by
HBARleatherneck
Based on what I see for sale results in Colorado and Wyoming, here is what you could pay. Im not saying you will because someone has to make some money for the final finishing (if it gets any), delivery to slaughter and picking it up, storing it and then selling it to you.
1200# steer will sell from $1.30-1.50 per pound. Prices are by the hundred weight, but I simplified it for you. That would be roughly $1800 and probably grass/hay fed with minimal graining.
Most shops that I can find charge between $65 and $90 per pound hanging weight. Remember that is the weight of the carcass with meat and bones. AFTER the hide and guts, etc are removed. Most places charge some sort of kill charge. That is between $50 and $120. No you can not kill it and bring it in. Most shops require an ambulatory animal be delivered. Probably for USDA purposes and to ensure that you are not bringing in a diseased animal.
I will add it all up on the higher end.
$1800 for the 1200# steer
$720 approximately for the 800# of hanging weight (maybe more or less depending on final weight)
$120 kill charge
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$2640 for the complete packaged animal which will be anywhere between 500# and 600# of meat. Every animal is different and every butcher is different, but thats a good estimate.
Thats if YOU made the appointment with the slaughter/ butcher shop, You picked up the steer at the sale, You delivered it to the butcher, etc.
There are so many ways to save money IF you do a little planning and leg work. You probably dont even need a trailer. People rent them on craigslist.
Not including any other expenses such as time, fuel, your labor... $4.40 per pound to $5.28 per pound.
Remember that is the price per pound you pay across the spectrum of hamburger, steak, roasts, ribs, whatever you make of it. NOT just the hamburger price. (unless you only get hamburger)