X-Factor

Overview

X-Factor is the final-phase base feed in Kalmbach’s four-stage Formula of Champions system — a barley-forward texturized ration specifically positioned for finishing show lambs over 100 lbs. At 17% protein and 3.5% fat, it’s slightly lower protein than Show Star (18%) but built around steam-rolled barley, crimped oats, and steam-flaked corn for a smooth, finished texture that suits the final fitting window. Includes fish meal for amino acid quality and probiotics (Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Bifidobacterium). Carries an unusual warning: do not use with bentonite-containing feeds.

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Manufacturer Specifications

Guaranteed Analysis

Nutrient	Level
Crude Protein (min)	17%
Crude Fat (min)	3.5%
Crude Fiber (max)	14%
Calcium	0.75–1.25%
Phosphorus (min)	0.40%
Salt	0.30–0.80%
Selenium (min)	0.5 ppm
Vitamin A (min)	7,000 IU/lb
Vitamin D3 (min)	1,100 IU/lb
Vitamin E (min)	70 IU/lb
Copper	Not confirmed

Key Ingredients / Active Components

• Steam-rolled barley — primary grain base; smooth finish
• Crimped oats — palatability, fiber
• Dehulled soybean meal — protein
• Cracked and steam-flaked corn — energy
• Dehydrated alfalfa meal — palatability
• Fish meal — high-quality amino acid profile
• Probiotics (Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Bifidobacterium species)
• Decoquinate (Deccox®) — coccidiostat

Official Feeding Rate

• Rate: Feed with forage to provide 22.7 mg decoquinate per 100 lb body weight per day (one lb contains 19.3 mg)
• Medication duration: Minimum 28 days during coccidiosis exposure
• Species notes: Finishing lambs over 100 lbs

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Show Circuit Use

Sources: kalmbachfeeds.com

How Experienced Feeders Actually Use It

X-Factor is transitioned to from Show Star once lambs are heavy (100+ lbs) and in the final fitting window. The barley-forward grain base is known in show circles for producing a smooth, clean finish versus corn-heavy rations. Feeders running the full Kalmbach phase system move: Cherry Krave/Power Takeoff → Show Star → X-Factor.

Real-World Feeding Rate

• Typical rate: 1 lb/100 lb body weight; split AM/PM; provide hay
• Introduction timeline: When lambs exceed 100 lbs, approximately weeks 8–6 through show

Common Deviations from Label

No deviations found.

Breed-Specific Notes

No breed-specific notes found.

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Phase Protocols

Weeks 8–6 | Condition Building Phase

Transition to X-Factor once lambs pass 100 lbs.

Weeks 5–3 | Fill & Shaping Phase

Continue as base ration. Add Fill ‘Er Up for rib shape; Hard Drive for muscle definition.

Weeks 2–1 | Final Prep Phase

Hold base rate. Adjust supplement stack for final presentation.

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Stacking Protocols

Same Formula of Champions stack applies: Hard Drive (muscle) + Fill ‘Er Up (fill) + Moonshine Cherry (cover) + Hair Magic Plus (coat). The lower-protein X-Factor base pairs well with Hard Drive if more muscle work is still needed.

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Budget Alternatives

• Kalmbach Show Star — 18% protein step-down from X-Factor in the same line; use Show Star if lambs are under 100 lbs

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Community Tips

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