Notches are permanent. They can be difficult to read without practice and are not used by many cattlemen. Neck chains and ropes are used by some breeders of polled cattle. These are used very little because of expense, loss of chains or ropes and the chances of animals getting caught on objects around the farm. Horn brands are used by some breeders of horned cattle.
Brands have to be reapplied on growing animals.
Also, this type brand is small and not readable at a distance. To establish an identification system for the herd, first select a numbering system. Either system one or two should prove more than adequate for most cattle operations in the state. The next step is to select two marking systems to use on the herd. Two methods of marking cattle should always be used.