Cattle headgates are essential tools for safely and efficiently managing animals of all sizes. Most models haven’t changed dramatically over the years, as they mainly perform basic tasks, though operators sometimes become frustrated by their limitations. In extreme cases, injuries or worse can occur.

Arrowquip recently introduced its Arrowlock 88 headgate, featuring a durable, straight-cut ratchet-and-pawl design rather than the common beveled style. A unique handle adjustment option has also been added to provide increased force.

“Many ratchet and pawl units are cut on a bevel, making them high-wear and susceptible to tooth breakage,” says Arrowquip product specialist Steve Langrell. “Ours are different in that they’re cut straight. The more force the animal exerts on the headgate, the more it pushes into the supported tooth. They won’t break for thousands of cycles.”

The Arrowlock 88 is the industry’s first manual cattle headgate that applies more pressure than most hydraulic chutes. It features three easily interchangeable handle settings (cow, calf and bull) to securely hold animals of all sizes. Simply adjust the pivot point by removing a single pin, moving the handle to a new setting, and replacing the pin.

“We refer to it as approaching over-center design,” Langrell says. “It’s quick and easy to use with extra power to exert an increase of force. The design gives the headgate quickness with very little handle movement. As the handle slows, the power curve goes up.”

The headgate also features a control bar running parallel to the chute body, allowing the handle to be operated safely from the front to the back and anywhere in between.

Langrell explains that most of a typical herd can be securely caught and held using the “cow” setting, so constant adjustments aren’t necessary. When handling small calves or restraining large bulls, the quick handle adjustment will do the job.

“People with limited strength can easily operate this chute and headgate, restraining large or small animals,” Langrell says. “Plus, it leaves the operator feeling less fatigued at the end of the day.”

Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Arrowquip, 141 Railway Ave., Woodlands, Manitoba, Canada R0C 3H0 (ph 866-383-7827; cs@arrowquip.com; www.arrowquip.com).