All-flock feed vs layer feed, and brands!

[Folly's place]

Welcome!
The major issue with whole grain feeds is that at least some birds will eat the yummiest stuff in the mix, and avoid eating everything, especially the vitamin/ mineral mix that's necessary, and sifts out too easily. If you want to use this stuff, add water so it sticks together, or ferment it. All extra work, IMO.
Also check the mill date on each bag of food before buying it, so you can feed it within two months of milling.
Mary
I get excited over cake and cookies too...

 

[RoyalChick]

Also, I know Kalmbach food is recommended but it seems most recommend a 18 percent or higher protein value. However, this Kalmbach says 16. Obviously, I'm still a little confused here.

Kalmbach has many different feeds.

I feed the 20% protein Flock Maker (which I get from Chewy) with oyster shell, their own egg shells and sometimes cuttle fish bone available at all times in hanging containers

This should link to the feed I use:
https://www.chewy.com/kalmbach-feeds-all-natural-20-protein/dp/244694

But they also have 16% protein options including a layer feed.

I prefer pellets because I seem to get less waste. When I have tiny chicks I either grind it up or wet it down into mash.

 

[Cindy in PA]

My girls are 16 weeks old and currently on Manna Pro chick starter grower. I'm reading that an "all flock" food should begin at 18 weeks. Other places, I'm reading that layer feed is the way to go. Would love opinions on this.

My confusion may stem from two places. First, from what the bags refer to as "grown" vs growing chickens. Is a grown chicken one who has laid an egg? Or something different? Perhaps a stupid question there?

Next, I have barred rocks, Easter eggers, and brahmas. My Barreds should be laying anyday now but my brahmas will still be a while. I take it this means I should seek out an all-flock type food? Please correct me if wrong.

Couple of notes...my chickens are primarily pets. It's still possible I have a roo eating this food too.

Last bit, I see great reviews for the Kalmbach brand of food but it's 47 bucks a bag online. Is there another reputable, healthy brand with a less painful pricetag that you recommend? Nearest farm store is 30 to 40 minutes.

Are you sure no feed stores carry Kalmbach? I pay $21 for 50 lb of Flock Maker. I see Kalmbach bought Ware Milling in Houston, MS so they are continuing to expand.