Yoke size

[Anonymous]

My steers are ready for a new yoke. We’re at 6 1/2″ now and tight. How big of increments does a person make to the next yoke. Is 1.5″ to a 8″ too much?

[Droverone]

It seems that you are in a odd size there, 6.5, and not that it hasn’t been done before, but is that the size they really need and do they really need another 1.5 inches? Are they beef breed or dairy?

[Anonymous]

Their dairy, Guernsey. I measured my yoke and it is 6 1/2 between the bows. I thought it was a 6″. I don’t want to go too big, because they are pulling, not just standing around. My hand is a very snug fit between neck and bow. I would like to have a round number, rather than 1/2 off.

[Droverone]

Well then simply go to a seven, better to be snug then loose. Think of a loose shoe it makes sores so small increments would be wiser then large ones, I would rather make or buy a yoke than doctor a sore steer.

[Baystatetom]

I would just go to a 7 as well. Most guys I know use even numbers until 8″ then start with the half inch increments, but having the best fit is good no matter how big they are. Mine current team spent only a few months in a 7″ before out growing it, then a whole year in the 8″. I just moved them into a 9″ but would have gone with a 81/2 if I had one. Another trick I have used when they are between sizes is to use smaller bows in a bigger yoke. For instance 7″ bows in a 8″ yoke. Having the proper fit is definitely better but it’ll work if you have no other option.
~Tom

[Anonymous]

I’ll go for the correct fit. I was trying to lessen the number of yokes I’d have to make but the trouble and discomfort will make ir worth it. I’m rigging up a steamer for bows and I think while I’ve got it going, make 7″ and some 8″ while I’m at it.

[Author]

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