We have all heard the old adage 'there is NO free lunch'. Somewhere, somehow, sometime, payment is due!  The only variable is HOW MUCH and WHEN?

Most of us have experienced the misfortune of purchasing the 'economy' model, to  save a few dollars, only to repurchase the item.  A lesson learned will often result in final selection of the 'best' model.

Raising livestock and selection of breeding stock is no different!

This is especially true when shopping for a herd sire.  The 'best' model is selling for $2000.  You had planned to make your new acquisition for $1500, or less.  Finding a $1500 buck that is not quite the 'best' model will save $500 which will go along way when winter feed is needed. You opt to 'save a few bucks' (no pun intended).

Have you saved anything at all? Possibly.  The less costly animal may give you nice offspring and you will come out okay; however,  will you be happy with  'second choice' who will, very likely, not be as profitable?

The statement that "your sire is half your herd" should read,  he is MORE than half your  herd.
Not only will his genetics be represented by 50% in all of his immediate offspring, but, he will continue to influence the quality and (because fertility is inherited) the quantity of his granddaughters and their progeny.

If he produces kids that are inferior to the 'best' model buck then you will find yourself selling every kid he produces for less money. You will only have to sell a FEW of his offspring at  a $50 discount to quickly loose the money you thought you saved, and succeeding generations will be discounted also.

So remember, we all pay. We can pay up front and save in the end or we can save up front and keep on paying - forever.