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 whizzed, please allow 1-2 weeks for the order to be processed and shipped. If you order blank 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 $35.00, 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 the Large Cow Tags and Medium Calf 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 Large Cow 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. Both sets of numbers will be 1 ¼ inches. If you want the tags whizzed, numbers can be placed on both sides of the Large Cow Tag, Medium Calf Tag or Small tags and the numbers do not have to be offset.
Q: When numbering tags myself using the Dremel tool, should I engrave the numbers more than once?
A: When numbering tags yourself, it’s best to make a light pass (not too deep) the first time. Slowly grind away the top layer until the center layer is exposed. You will then want to go back over the numbers again with the Dremel in order to expose the maximum amount of the center layer – going wider rather than deeper. There is no need to push excessively hard.
Q: Why are Ritchey tags considered "permanent?"
A: Ritchey's created a dual-colored tag that allows you to engrave through the top layer to expose the center layer. This center layer then permanently displays the numbers/letters ground into the tag – there’s no ink, foils or lasered numbers. 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 Dremel tool?
A: Stencils are not available to be used in preparation 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 .