Butcher while small?

[digbychris]

Perhaps a dumb question. Considering raising some turkeys next year, never have had them before. On researching breeds I see the BB white is pretty standard and cost effective. Question I have is can I butcher them young/small, say 10-12 (dressed) lbs for those customers that may want a smaller bird? It seems like an easy question, but was wondering if there would be well enough developed muscle and breast meat, etc. Looking at the smaller heritage breeds such as the midget white, the price is a barrier right now especially as this is an experiment, a new venture so to speak. Thoughts?
Thanks!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

The broad breasted will definitely grow quicker than the midget white, and be more, well, meaty. You can butcher at whatever size you wish.

I haven't raised the BB. The heritage varieties can take 7-12 months or more to have enough meat on them.

Hopefully someone more familiar with raising BB can help out.