We use a discarded mini-fridge to keep it hot. Then store everything in there that is needed (branding iron, heavy-duty cord, wire brush, etc) for the next time or when we move to a different location.
If our electric is spitting hot, then we hold it on a calf for a count of 7, and that will be a perfect brand on the shoulder.
I have found it is best to watch, very closely, the smoke coming off the iron. When it turns color, you've finished burning through hair and started to get the hide. Keep a hot iron on a slick calf for seven seconds and you risk blotching or worse, burning right through the hide.
