Page 7 of 8 - Broadheads

What are Broadheads?

A broadhead is the sharpened tip of a hunting arrow, designed specifically for maximum penetration and damage to the target. Unlike target points, which are built for durability and reuseability, archery broadheads are intended to create large wound channels to ensure a quick, ethical harvest.

Broadheads come in several styles, including fixed-blade, mechanical (expandable), and hybrid designs. Each type offers different advantages depending on your game choice, bow setup, and hunting conditions. Whether you're hunting deer, elk, or small game, the right broadhead is just as important as the arrow behind it.

How Broadheads Work

Archery broadheads work by cutting through the animal's hide and tissue, causing significant blood loss and rapid incapacitation. When an arrow is released, the broadhead's sharp blades slice as they travel through the target, creating a wide path that increases the odds of a quick, humane kill.

• Fixed-blade broadheads have stationary blades and are ready to hunt right out of the package. They offer maximum durability and are less likely to fail in tough conditions.
• Mechanical broadheads feature blades that deploy on impact. They fly more like a field point because of their compact shape, offering greater accuracy at longer distances. Once they hit the target, the blades expand outward for a larger cutting diameter.
• Hybrid broadheads combine both designs, offering a small fixed blade for initial penetration and mechanical blades for expanded cutting after impact.

Choosing the Right Broadheads

Choosing the right type of bow or crossbow broadheads depends on your shooting style, bow speed, and the size of the game you're pursuing.

• Game Size - Larger game, like elk or bear, requires heavy-duty broadheads with deep penetration and large cutting diameters. For smaller animals like deer or turkey, lighter and faster-expanding heads often perform best.
• Bow Speed - Faster compound bows and crossbows can favor mechanical broadheads because they offer better flight stability at high speeds. Traditional bows or lower-speed setups might work better with fixed blades.
• Durability - Fixed blades are often more rugged and better suited for hunters who expect their equipment to perform in challenging environments.
• Flight Characteristics - If you prioritize long-range accuracy, mechanical broadheads are typically more forgiving in flight. However, proper tuning can make fixed-blades just as accurate.
• Local Regulations - Some hunting areas restrict the use of mechanical broadheads. Always check local hunting laws before heading out.

No matter what style you choose, arrow broadheads need to be razor-sharp, properly installed, and matched to your arrow and bow setup to ensure consistent performance in the field.