I raise pure Rhode Island Reds both Rose Comb and Single Comb. I know hatchery stock can sometimes be aggravating, but I've never had any issues with my males so I can't say many of the RIR's are evil and bad. I love my Reds. I started chicken keep too around 50 years ago. My originals were Leghorns.
My RIR champions at a show.
My RIR champions at a show.