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Osborne RF2FS FAST Start Wean-to-Finish Pig Feeder - 235 lb Capacity
Gravity flow for newly weaned pigs, then automatic mechanical-flow feeding as they grow. The Osborne RF2FS FAST Start Big Wheel Pig Feeder holds approximately 235 lb (4.5 bushels) of feed and is designed for pigs from weaning through market weight. Newly weaned pigs can eat directly from the trough while the hopper slides are open. Once they can turn the feeder's five-spoke wheel, their movement automatically closes the slides and converts the feeder to controlled, on-demand mechanical feeding.
Built for demanding livestock environments, the RF2FS feeder features a reinforced fiberglass hopper and trough combined with durable steel structural components. The round trough design provides 360-degree feeding access, allowing pigs to eat comfortably with less crowding while maximizing pen space. This durable feeding system is engineered for long-term performance in commercial swine operations, small farm hog barns, and livestock feeding facilities.
FAST Start: Automatically Converts from Gravity Flow to Mechanical Flow
- Easy feeding after weaning: With the hopper-bottom slides set open for a new group of pigs, feed flows by gravity into the trough, so small pigs can eat without turning the feed wheel.
- Pigs activate the conversion: As they grow and begin moving the five-spoke wheel, the hopper slides automatically close. This typically happens within about 10 to 14 days, depending on the pigs.
- On-demand feeding through finishing: A sweep connected to the wheel moves feed out of the hopper and into the trough only while pigs turn the wheel. Feed delivery stops when the wheel stops, helping minimize waste.
No manual changeover is required as pigs grow. The same feeder can serve pigs from weaning through market weight. The slides should be reset for a new group of weaned pigs according to Osborne's operating instructions.
RF2FS FAST Start Pig Feeder Specifications
| Model Number | RF2FS |
|---|---|
| Feed Capacity | 235 lbs (105 kg) |
| Feeder Height | 36 in (91 cm) |
| Trough Diameter | 31 in (79 cm) |
| Recommended Hog Weight | 10 lbs to market weight |
| Maximum Hog Capacity | Up to 60 head |
Feed capacity based on feed density of approximately 42 lbs per cubic foot.
Key Features
- FAST Start gravity-flow feeding helps newly weaned pigs begin eating immediately
- Automatically changes to mechanical-flow feeding when growing pigs turn the wheel
- Five-spoke feed wheel dispenses fresh feed on demand, helping reduce finishing-stage waste
- Helps improve feed-to-gain ratios while reducing feed waste
- Reinforced fiberglass hopper and trough designed for long service life
- Round, self-cleaning trough eliminates corners where feed can accumulate
- 360-degree feeding access reduces crowding and feeding stress
- Durable painted steel components with optional galvanized or stainless configurations available
- Compact round design takes up less pen space than rectangular feeders
- Optional hopper lid for outdoor use - order separately
- Easy to clean and maintain in demanding livestock environments
- Ships knocked down on a pallet with assembly and operating instructions
Product Details
The RF2FS FAST Start feeder combines two feeding methods in one unit. At first, feed flows freely from the hopper to support newly weaned pigs. When pigs become strong enough to rotate the feed wheel, the slides in the hopper bottom close automatically. The wheel then drives an internal feed sweep, delivering feed through the center opening into the trough only while pigs move the wheel. This change limits continuous gravity flow and helps reduce feed loss during finishing.
The feeder features an abrasion-resistant reinforced fiberglass hopper and trough that withstand the rigors of daily livestock feeding. Structural steel components are finished with a durable painted coating, with additional combination metal options available, including galvanized and stainless steel components. The round trough design eliminates corners where feed can collect, helping maintain a cleaner feeding area while reducing spoilage.
Because pigs feed radially around the trough, the design allows more standing room and less direct competition between animals compared to rectangular feeders. This helps reduce stress during feeding while allowing more pigs to eat comfortably at the same time.
A durable pig feeder
The RF2FS Wean-to-Finish Pig Feeder is ideal for swine producers feeding pigs from approximately 10 pounds through market weight. It is commonly used in finishing barns, hog pens, and small farm swine operations where efficient feed management and reduced feed waste are priorities.
The feeder can be installed in the center of a pen to provide full 360-degree feeding access or positioned along a fence line to serve multiple groups of pigs. Its durable fiberglass construction and self-cleaning trough design also make it suitable for outdoor feeding areas.
Operations raising heritage pig breeds should note that some larger body types may have difficulty accessing feed as animals approach market weight due to trough divider openings.
Pig Feeder Video Review
Pig Feeder Frequently Asked Questions
Does the RF2FS automatically change from gravity feeding to mechanical feeding?
Yes. Pigs initially access feed by gravity through open hopper slides. As they begin turning the wheel, the slides close and the feeder switches to wheel-operated mechanical feed delivery without a manual changeover. Pigs typically activate the conversion in about 10 to 14 days.
Do I need to reset the slides for the next group of newly weaned pigs?
Yes. Follow Osborne's cleaning and setup instructions to reopen the gravity-feed slides for a new group before starting another wean-to-finish cycle.
How does the mechanical feed system reduce feed waste?
The RF2FS feeder uses a mechanical feed wheel that pigs rotate to release feed from the hopper. Because feed is dispensed only when pigs activate the wheel, the system prevents the constant flow and overfilling that can occur with gravity-fed feeders, helping reduce wasted feed in the trough.
Can the RF2FS pig feeder be used outdoors?
Yes. The feeder can be used outdoors when equipped with the optional hopper lid. The mechanical-flow design and hopper position help prevent moisture from entering the feed system and reduce the risk of feed plugging when the feeder is stocked with an adequate number of animals.