A 1/2 takes up most of a large freezer with a little room left over. A 1/4 wouldnt take up as much. I have a family of 5, the 3 children are 6 and under and we go through a 1/2 each year. If you went with a 1/4 the locker just cuts a 1/2 and then splits it into 1/4s. If you went with a 1/4 I would recomend spliting a 1/2 with someone. That way you can get it cut how ever you want. With a 1/4 you have to get it cut similar to the other guy getting the other 1/4. you can email me at rlwheeler@hughes.net I can send you my number if you have anymore questions. Its a little easier to explain everything over the phone. Just put beef in the subject line.