Processing Broiler at earlier age

[steffanie3]

I am wondering about ordering Red Bro Broilers from JM. I am wondering if there is a growing curve or some reason that we shouldn't process some of the biggest like at 5 or 6 weeks.

We by fryers from Shelton's that are like 3 pounds and those do pretty well for our family. I also make chicken stock for the health benefits, so bones are not waste to me.

So what do you think?

Would it be totally not worth it as far as meat goes to not pay for feed for 2 to 3 less weeks?

Just wondering

 

[silkiechicken]

Well, getting them done early is just like going out and buying the more expensive cornish "game hens" that are just 4 week old cornish x's. Not a problem.

 

[greyfields]

You certainly can. But, I think it's a waste. The FCR doesn't get wonky until 10+ weeks so you are depriving yourself of more quality chicken that you would get if you were patient.

 

[steffanie3]

I am not trying to be impatient

I am just wondering if we could save the feed money and have chickens for roasting that are just right for a family dinner for us. I would do some later for bigger pieces like for frying and such.

 

[blue90292]

i've found that the FRs (or red bro) were not too plump at 6wks. i sold mine whole back to a mexican family when they were 6 wks. i've seen cornish X at 4 weeks and they were much fatter than the 6wk FRs.

personally, if you want to process early and have something to feed your family, i would go with the cornish X. the FRs, i recommend you let them grow till 9 and really enjoy them.

 

[paisleycj]

Quote:
Where is JM hatchery? Do you happen to have a website for them? I keep reading about the Red Bro chickens, and I think I'd like to try them!

 

[greyfields]

http://www.jmhatchery.com/

The owner, Joel Martin, posted here recently. He's very enthusiastic about his colored broilers and believes in the product.

 

[paisleycj]

thanks for the info.

Do the Red bro's have trouble with heat like the Cornish roasters? Would it be best to wait until fall to order them now?