New cattle handling solution combines heavy-duty construction, quiet operation and operator-friendly features for today's dairy facilities

CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. — VES-Artex is excited to announce the newest addition to its cattle handling product lineup: the DSLG (Drop Tab Self-Lock Galvanized) Headlock, a heavy-duty self-locking headlock engineered to deliver greater strength, reliable animal restraint and easier day-to-day operation.

Designed for the demands of modern dairy facilities, the DSLG allows producers and their teams to safely restrain multiple animals at once, making physical examinations, vaccinations, artificial insemination, pregnancy checks and routine treatments faster and more efficient.

The DSLG builds on the proven functionality of VES-Artex self-locks with a significantly heavier frame and additional steel in critical areas. The heavy-duty construction includes 2" x 2" x 1/8" (50 x 50 x 3 mm) horizontal frame members and 1-5/8" x 1/8" (42 mm OD x 3 mm) vertical frame members, providing increased strength and durability for demanding applications.

Beyond strength, the DSLG incorporates several features designed to improve the experience for both cattle and their handlers. Rubber bumpers eliminate metal-on-metal contact at the swing arm, helping create quieter, lower-stress animal handling. Reinforced drop tabs provide greater durability, while an ear protector plate helps prevent accidental unlocking for a more secure lockup.

A key improvement is the DSLG's operator-friendly release system. The drop-tab design allows headlocks to be unlocked more easily, even when cattle are applying side pressure to the swing arms. A spring-loaded control rod handle locks securely in both the open and closed positions, while the design maintains convenient access to animals during vaccinations, treatments and other herd-management tasks.

Installation and longevity were also priorities in the DSLG's development. All new flush and tilt mount clamps are designed for simplified installation, while bolt together control rod connectors eliminate the need for field welding. Fully hot-dip galvanized construction provides enhanced corrosion protection and long-term durability in harsh barn environments.

Key DSLG features include:

• Heavy-duty frame construction with increased steel in critical areas
• Quiet rubber bumpers with no metal-on-metal swing arm contact
• Drop-tab design for easier unlocking under swingarm side load
• Reinforced drop tabs for increased strength and durability
• Ear protector plate to help prevent accidental release
• Spring-loaded control handle that locks in open and closed positions
• Convenient animal access during treatment and herd-management procedures
• Bolt-together control rod for easier installation
• Fully hot-dip galvanized construction for long-lasting corrosion protection

"Our customers asked us for a heavier-duty headlock option, and we listened," said Sam DeStefano, Barn Equipment Product Manager. "The DSLG was developed with their feedback in mind, combining heavier construction with features that make it easier to operate and more secure for the animal. We're excited to bring our customers a solution that was built around what they told us they needed."

The DSLG Self-Locking Headlock is now available through VES-Artex and its dealer network. For more information, contact VES-Artex or visit the VES-Artex website.