Cowboy Cut Mustard BBQ vs Cowboy Cut Old Fashioned: Which Classic Beef Jerky Wins?

When it comes to classic beef jerky, few names carry the same rugged appeal as Archer Jerky’s Cowboy Cut line. Two standout varieties—Mustard BBQ and Old Fashioned—offer distinctly different takes on tradition. One brings a tangy, smoky kick, while the other delivers pure, unadulterated beef flavor. But which one deserves a spot in your snack stash?

In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll break down the flavor profiles, texture differences, ingredient highlights, and best use cases for both Cowboy Cut Mustard BBQ and Cowboy Cut Old Fashioned Beef Jerky. Whether you’re a jerky veteran or a curious newcomer, this guide will help you make an informed choice.

Flavor Face-Off: Tangy BBQ vs. Classic Beef

The most obvious distinction between these two jerky varieties is flavor. Cowboy Cut Mustard BBQ delivers a bold, tangy experience that starts with a punch of yellow mustard and finishes with a subtle smoky sweetness. It’s a flavor that reminds many of backyard grilling and summertime cookouts, making it a favorite for those who crave a sauce-inspired snack. The mustard note is prominent but not overpowering, balanced by a touch of brown sugar and natural smoke.

In contrast, Cowboy Cut Old Fashioned Beef Jerky is the definition of simplicity. It relies on the natural richness of grass-fed beef, lightly seasoned with salt, black pepper, and a whisper of garlic. There’s no sauce, no sweet glaze—just clean, savory beef flavor. This is the jerky for purists who want to taste the meat itself. If you’ve ever wondered what beef jerky tasted like before modern flavor experiments, this is your answer.

• Mustard BBQ: Tangy, smoky, slightly sweet—like a barbecue sauce in jerky form.
• Old Fashioned: Simple, savory, beef-forward—seasoned only with salt, pepper, and garlic.

Texture and Chew: Two Sides of the Same Cowboy Cut

Both varieties share the signature Cowboy Cut style: thick, hearty strips that require a satisfying chew. Archer Jerky uses whole muscle cuts from grass-fed beef, which means you get a more natural, fibrous texture compared to processed or pressed jerky. However, subtle differences emerge due to the marinade. The Mustard BBQ jerky has a slightly softer bite because the tangy sauce lightly tenderizes the meat during marination. It’s still firm but yields more readily.

The Old Fashioned jerky, with its minimal seasoning, retains a firmer, drier chew that true jerky aficionados love. Each bite releases concentrated beef flavor as you work through the strip. This texture makes it ideal for long-lasting snacking—perfect for road trips, hiking, or a desk drawer stash. If you prefer a jerky that demands a bit of effort, Old Fashioned is your go-to.

• Mustard BBQ: Slightly softer chew due to marinade tenderization.
• Old Fashioned: Firm, dry, classic chew—takes time to enjoy.

Nutrition and Ingredients: Clean Labels, Real Beef

Both jerky varieties share a commitment to clean, simple ingredients. Archer Jerky sources 100% grass-fed beef, raised without antibiotics or added hormones. The nutrition profiles are nearly identical: each serving packs about 9–10 grams of protein with minimal carbs and fat, making both options keto-friendly and low-carb. The main difference lies in the seasoning. Mustard BBQ contains a small amount of brown sugar and natural mustard flavor, adding about 1 gram of sugar per serving. Old Fashioned has zero added sugar, relying solely on spices.

For those tracking sodium or sugar intake, Old Fashioned is the leaner choice. But the Mustard BBQ’s sugar content is modest—comparable to many plain yogurts. Both are free from artificial preservatives, MSG, and nitrates. If you want to compare labels directly, check the product pages for detailed nutrition facts. For a pure protein hit with no extras, grab a bag of Cowboy Cut Old Fashioned Beef Jerky.

• Protein: ~9-10g per serving in both varieties.
• Sugar: Mustard BBQ ~1g; Old Fashioned 0g.
• Both: Grass-fed, no antibiotics, no artificial ingredients.

When to Choose Mustard BBQ vs. Old Fashioned

Your choice ultimately depends on your flavor mood and snacking occasion. Cowboy Cut Mustard BBQ shines when you want a bold, saucy flavor that stands up to spicy chips or a cold beer. It’s fantastic on a charcuterie board alongside sharp cheddar and pickles, or as a topping for baked potatoes and salads. The tangy kick also pairs well with creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese.

Cowboy Cut Old Fashioned Beef Jerky is the ultimate everyday snack. Its straightforward beefiness complements almost anything—nuts, fruit, cheese, or just eaten solo. It’s the jerky you reach for when you want protein without distraction. For campers, hikers, and road warriors, it’s a reliable, no-fuss fuel. And because it doesn’t rely on a strong sauce, it won’t overpower other foods in a lunchbox or trail mix.

• Mustard BBQ: Best for BBQ lovers, dipping, and bold pairings.
• Old Fashioned: Best for purists, all-day snacking, and low-sugar diets.

Both Cowboy Cut Mustard BBQ and Cowboy Cut Old Fashioned Beef Jerky represent the best of Archer Jerky’s commitment to quality, grass-fed beef. Whether you crave tangy, smoky excitement or pure, classic beef flavor, you can’t go wrong. For a true taste of tradition, start with Cowboy Cut Old Fashioned Beef Jerky—it’s the benchmark that all other jerky is measured against.