Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What color/core combinations are available for me to choose from?
A: Ritchey’s offers 12 different color/core combinations
Q: Why has the T-Lock become such a popular choice for securing ear tags?
A: The Ritchey T-Lock has shown less infection during healing, less snagging once in place and an increase in retention rate, all which save you – the producer – time and money! Please note that the T-Lock button must be installed using the Y-Tex blunt pin tool.
Q: Can I become a Ritchey Tags Dealer?
If you are interested in becoming a Ritchey Tags Dealer, please e-mail Lisa with your inquiries.
Q: How long does it usually take for my ear tags to arrive after I order them?
A: As with anything, it depends on the time of year. Our busy season is during calving season (October – April), as is yours. If you order tags that will be hot-stamped or engraved, please allow 1-2 weeks for the order to be processed and shipped. If you order tags that you number yourself and we have them in stock, the tags will go out the same day. Orders are shipped via ground unless other shipping options are requested. (Customer pays all shipping costs).
Q: Can Ritchey's put my ranch brand/logo on my ear tags?
A: Yes! Ritchey’s can produce a die with your ranch brand/logo that can be stamped on your ear tags. The initial cost of the die is $30.00, but the die will be kept on hand for future uses. The brand/logo can then be placed in the shoulder of the tag, above the numbers on jumbo, large and medium tags (depending upon the size of the logo).
Q: Can Ritchey tags have numbers on both sides of the tag?
A: Yes. If you want hot-stamped numbers, this can only be done on the jumbo tags. The numbers must be off set – the numbers must be at the bottom of the tag on one side and at the top of the tag on the other, so as not to compromise the composition of the tag. One set of numbers will be 1 ¼ inches and the other set will be ¾ inch. If you want the tags engraved, numbers can be placed on both sides of the jumbo, large, medium or small tags and the numbers do not have to be offset. (This is a great option for putting phone numbers on the backs of tags).
Q: When numbering tags myself using the dremmel tool, should I engrave the numbers more than once?
A: When numbering tags yourself, use the dremmel as an eraser. Slowly grind away the top layer until the center layer is exposed. You will then want to go back over the numbers with the dremmel in order to expose the maximum amount of the center layer. Remember when using the dremmel do not push too hard because the dremmel may grind through to the other side.
Q: Why are Ritchey tags considered "permanent?"
A: Ritchey's created a dual-colored tag with dual colors that allow producers to engrave through the top layer to expose the center layer. This center layer then permanently displays the numbers/letters ground into the tag. The tags have incredible retention and legibility, saving time and money for producers.
Q: How many numbers/letters can I have hot-stamped on my ear tags?
A: Please see our hot-stamp numbering policy.
Q: Can I use any tagger with Ritchey's universal tags?
A:Ritchey's universal tags are designed to work with any two-piece button system. As expected, we prefer our T-Lock button because of its numerous advantages, but we also stock and sell Y-Tex buttons. Both of these products are installed using a Y-Tex tagger (sold separately) and the blunt Y-Tex pin tool . Other buttons may be used (such as All-Flex) but you must use an All-Flex tool for installation. You can use the All-Flex tagger, as well, but you must use the Y-Tex blunt pin tool for installation.
Q: Is there a stencil available that I can place over my tags before I engrave them with the dremmel tool?
A: Stencils are not available to be used in preperation of engraving. However, it is recommended that the numbers be written on the surface of the tag to act as guidelines. This will assist in creating a more legible number during the engraving process.
If you can't find the answer you're looking for here, please feel to contact us with your questions .