MARKET CLASSES AND GRADES OF LIVESTOCK 47 
These subclasses are sometimes divided into various use selections, 
according to the relative suitability of the animals for certain special 
purposes, as bacon hogs, packing sows, etc. 
In other instances each subclass is divided into two or more age 
selections as yearlings, 2-year-olds, etc. 
Both age and use selections are usually subdivided into several 
weight selections as hghtweight, mediumweight, and heavyweight. 
And, finally, each weight selection includes and, as a rule, is 
divided into several grades. The basis of these grades is the degree 
of conformation, finish, and quality possessed by the animals. 
This sorting of meat animals before sale accomphshes four major 
purposes. (1) It enables the buyer to get the animals he needs 
without buying some for which he has no use. (2) It makes possible 
an accurate determination of values. (38) It enables the producer 
to sell his livestock strictly on its merits. (4) It makes possible ac- 
curate and intelligible market reporting by providing a name or 
label for each group and having the meaning of such group names 
clearly understood by all interested parties. 
