lliefveld, The reason you want to stretch the wire tight is that if cattle can get their head through to reach something they want then they just push a little more and a little more and eventually push the posts over and or the wires apart. This is much less likely to happen if: the wires are taught, not too widely spaced, posts are not too far apart, and youi spend a couple bucks to get 4 point wire.

The way barbed wire works is it hurts to push against it. Barbs are randomly oriented. two point wire often is oriented so that you don't get stuck by a point. Four point wire never sleeps. Four point wire ALWAYS has a point aimed in the right direction. It costs only a little bit more but works better.

If you don't install the fence till temps soar then be aware that you can install wire too tight in summer months. If stretched too tight in summer then when it contracts with winter temps it may break or pull something apart.

Stays are cheap and easy to install in just a few seconds but they are almost as good aas adding another post. They keep the stock from easily spreading strands of barbed wire apart and getting through. If makes trying to breach the fence MUCH harder.

Pat