Which breed??

[Foxhound lady]

I have both a Barred Rock and Red Star. Both are lovely birds and excellent layers, but they are different

the Barred Rock is talkative, friendly but doesnt want to be touched, just admired
the Red Star is easy to handle/catch and very sweet to people

 

[moduckman]

I'm have a question. What type of 4-H project is it? Is it for egg production or exhibition purposes. If for exhibition the Black and Red Stars will not show as well, but may be best bet for egg production. For dual purpose the Barred Rock and for show the RIR.

 

[greyfields]

The Red/Black Stars (Sex Links) will be superior layers. What are the criteria you are going for?

To be honest, all chicken breeds are essentially alike with overlaps in performance. The differences amongst them are very slight and typically negated by the number of eggs you break by dropping, or the ammount of feed you may spill on the floor on a daily basis. You can just follow your gut on this one and you'll do fine.

.... although, my Rocks are simply solid and good tempered birds. It's hard not to recommend them.