Since the rise of the American Beef Industry, producing beef in an efficient and economically sound manner has been at the forefront for developments and advancements. This is the very framework for the cattleman and what we strive to achieve. Without the demand for beef, no cattleman would be in business. At it's core, producing efficient calves demands crossbreeding in some fashion.
Crossbreeding is much like it the term states, crossing different breeds of cattle with others. This does not mean different lines of Black Angus with other lines, rather a Bos Taurus with a Bos Indicus; these terms are indicative of origin. The most popular example generates a "Baldie" calf or a Hereford crossed with an Angus. Crossbreeding builds stronger genetics then breeding purebreds together. Instincts such as milking, maternal traits, heat tolerance, and overall growth pre-weaning are all emphasized through a crossbred calf.
As a result of crossbreeding, the term "hybrid vigor" enters the frame. Achieving hybrid vigor is a direct result of crossbreeding. "Baldies", Brangus, and South Poll cattle are instances of hybrid vigor which have established themselves as keys to the trade, examples such as South Poll and Brangus becoming recognized as their own breeds with their own associations and registrations. Achieving "peak" hybrid vigor depends on the goal(s) for your herd. Are you cow calf? Grass fed? Paying for pounds? Low birth weights? Heat tolerant? The list goes on...
Depending on the answers to the questions above, your peak hybrid vigor can look very different then your neighbors'. That being said, once you have established your operation's niche, continue to do research on breed combinations that suit your needs best. As an example, living in the American South, one might consider Brangus, a Brahman, Angus cross; combining the heat and insect tolerance of Brahman with the meat quality and maternal instincts of an Angus line. Out west on a feeder lot? Consider a Charolais, Simmental cross; high weaning weights with plenty growth left.
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