Choosing The Right Grain Broadhead For Your Compound Bow: A Hunter's Guide

When choosing a broadhead for a compound bow, there are several factors to consider, including the type of broadhead, grain weight, cutting diameter, number of blades, and material. The most common weight for hunting broadheads ranges from 100 to 150 grains, with 100-grain broadheads being the most popular due to the wide range of options available. Heavier broadheads, such as those with 125 grains, provide better penetration but may affect speed and flight.

Fixed blade and mechanical are the two main types of broadheads. Fixed blade broadheads are more reliable as they don't rely on blades opening upon impact, but mechanical broadheads have a larger cutting diameter, making them more suitable for long-range shots. Mechanical broadheads are also more accurate and fly like field points, but they lose energy when opening up. For this reason, they are not recommended for bows with a draw weight under 55 pounds.

The cutting diameter of a broadhead determines the size of the wound, with larger diameters causing more blood loss and a quicker kill. The number of blades can range from two to four, with more blades creating more cuts and increasing blood flow.

When it comes to materials, carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminium are common choices. Carbon steel is the sharpest but prone to corrosion, while stainless steel and aluminium are more durable and resistant to rust.

Fixed blade vs mechanical broadheads

When it comes to choosing between fixed-blade and mechanical broadheads, there are several factors to consider, including your equipment, local laws, and the type of game you're hunting. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide:

Fixed-Blade Broadheads:

• Reliability and Strength: Fixed-blade broadheads are known for their strength and reliability. They have a simpler design with no moving parts, making them less prone to failure. The blades are supported along their entire length, making them stronger and more durable.
• Penetration: Fixed-blade broadheads typically offer better penetration, especially for larger animals like elk and moose. They are more effective at punching through heavy muscle and bone. This advantage is crucial for quartering-to shots, where a slight deviation from the ideal path can result in hitting the leg bone.
• Accuracy: While mechanical broadheads have a reputation for better accuracy, modern fixed-blade designs can also be highly accurate, even at longer ranges. They are less affected by arrow speed and perform well even with slower arrow speeds from vertical bows.
• Blade Surface Area: Fixed-blade broadheads have a larger blade surface area exposed during flight, which can affect their accuracy, especially when used with a poorly tuned bow or at higher arrow speeds.
• Cutting Diameter: Fixed-blade broadheads usually have a smaller cutting diameter compared to mechanicals. This smaller diameter allows for better accuracy, especially at higher speeds.
• Tuning: Some fixed-blade broadheads may require extra tuning to fly straight and reduce noise during flight. This tuning process can be necessary to achieve optimal performance.
• Weight: Fixed-blade broadheads often have thicker blades, making them heavier. This weight can be advantageous for penetration but may impact arrow speed.

Mechanical Broadheads:

• Cutting Diameter: Mechanical broadheads offer a larger cutting diameter, which can increase the likelihood of hitting vital organs and creating a larger wound channel. This larger diameter is achieved by retracting or folding the blades, allowing for bigger blades without sacrificing accuracy.
• Accuracy: Mechanical broadheads are known for their accuracy, especially at longer ranges. They have a smaller surface area during flight due to the retracted blades, reducing aerodynamic drag and allowing the fletching at the rear of the arrow to steer its path.
• Tuning: Mechanical broadheads typically require little to no extra tuning and tend to shoot similarly to field points. This consistency in performance makes them a popular choice among hunters.
• Safety: With the blades retracted, mechanical broadheads are safer to handle and pack. The sharp blades are not exposed, reducing the risk of accidental cuts.
• Weight: Mechanical broadheads often have a smaller profile and can be lighter than fixed-blade options. This weight can be advantageous for arrow speed but may impact penetration.
• Fragility: Mechanical broadheads have moving parts, which can make them more fragile. The blades may not always deploy properly, and the retaining mechanisms can fail, affecting their effectiveness.
• Penetration: While mechanical broadheads offer a larger cutting diameter, they may not always provide the same level of penetration as fixed-blade options, especially when dealing with heavy bone.

Both fixed-blade and mechanical broadheads have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as the type of game you're hunting, the draw weight of your bow, and local regulations to make an informed decision.

Broadhead weight

Most hunters today use 100-grain broadheads due to the extensive options available from various manufacturers. A 100-grain weight offers a wide array of choices, whether you prefer a fixed-blade or mechanical broadhead. The 100-grain range includes well-known options like the mechanical broadhead Rage and fixed-blade broadheads like Slick Trick and Grim Reaper. This weight is also suitable for both short-range and long-range bowhunting.

If you have a draw weight under 55 pounds, opting for a lower-grain broadhead, such as a 100-grain option, is recommended. This choice will provide better arrow speed and, consequently, better penetration. On the other hand, 125-grain broadheads are more suitable for those with a higher draw weight as they offer improved penetration capabilities. However, it's important to ensure that the arrow reaches the intended target, as a heavier broadhead could potentially cause more harm if it falls short.

It's worth noting that broadhead weight plays a crucial role in achieving the ideal front of center (FOC). FOC refers to the percentage of the arrow's weight located in the front half of the arrow. A higher FOC contributes to a flatter shooting arrow and improved arrow penetration. While heavier broadheads may seem advantageous, it's essential to find the weight that suits your specific setup and requirements.

When it comes to mechanical broadheads, it's worth mentioning that they typically fly similarly to field points and require minimal tuning for accurate shooting. However, the trailing edge of the blades has no support, and thicker metal blades will generally withstand greater stress and exhibit less flex upon impact.

In summary, selecting the appropriate broadhead weight depends on your specific setup, draw weight, and intended use. While 100-grain broadheads are the most common due to their versatility, you may need to opt for heavier or lighter options depending on your individual circumstances.

Broadhead maintenance

Inspect and Test Mechanical Parts

Check that your mechanical broadheads are functioning correctly. Ensure that they stay closed when not in use and deploy as intended. Pay close attention to the small screws that hold the blades in place, as these can sometimes come loose. If you notice any issues, use a product like lock-tite to secure them.

Check for Damage

Examine the blades for any damage. Replace any blades that are not straight or show signs of wear and tear. Bent or damaged blades can significantly affect the impact of your shot, compromising both accuracy and lethality.

Sharpen the Blades

Keeping your broadheads sharp is crucial for achieving clean and effective shots. Use a high-quality whetstone or flat diamond stone to sharpen the blades. When sharpening, maintain a shallow angle, and follow the bevels to avoid creating weak edges. There are also specialised broadhead sharpening tools available, such as the Carbide Broadhead and Knife Sharpener and the Double-Sided Sharpening Stone.

Prevent Rust and Corrosion

Broadheads require special care to prevent rust and corrosion, especially if they are made from non-stainless steel like Iron Will's A2 Tool Steel. After each use, dry your broadheads thoroughly before storing them. Applying a thin coating of mineral oil can also help improve corrosion resistance.

Off-Season Maintenance

During the off-season, it's a good idea to perform a more thorough inspection and maintenance routine. Disassemble your broadheads and use a damp cloth to wipe down the individual components, removing any built-up dirt and grime. Check for any signs of damage and make necessary repairs or replacements.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your broadheads remain accurate, lethal, and reliable when the hunting season arrives.

Broadhead accuracy

Grain Weight:

The grain weight of a broadhead affects arrow speed and penetration. Lighter broadheads, such as those in the 75-100 grain range, are typically used for lower draw weights (under 55 pounds) as they offer better arrow speed and penetration. Heavier broadheads, like the 125-grain ones, are suitable for higher draw weights and provide better penetration but may require adjustments to ensure they reach the target effectively.

Fixed Blade vs. Mechanical:

The choice between fixed blade and mechanical broadheads depends on your draw weight and personal preference. Fixed blade broadheads provide excellent penetration with a smaller cutting diameter, while mechanical broadheads offer a larger cutting diameter. If your draw weight is under 55 pounds, a fixed blade is recommended to ensure sufficient penetration. Above 55 pounds, you can choose either type, considering your specific needs and preferences.

Broadhead Tuning:

Broadhead tuning involves ensuring that your bow, arrows, and broadheads are properly set up and aligned for optimal accuracy. This includes steps such as choosing the right broadheads, tuning your bow, tuning your arrows, and micro-tuning your arrow rest. Proper tuning ensures that your broadheads fly straight and impact the target accurately, reducing the difference in impact points between field points and broadheads.

Sharpness and Durability:

A sharp broadhead is crucial for achieving clean kills. Out-of-the-box sharpness varies among different broadheads, and some may require additional sharpening before use. Durability is also essential, as broadheads that break or bend on impact can affect penetration and wound channel creation.

Practice and Tuning:

Practicing with your broadheads is vital to ensure consistent accuracy. Shooting multiple broadheads from the same package can help identify any that may not group with the others. Additionally, fine-tuning your equipment, such as adjusting your bow sight or arrow rest, can further enhance the accuracy of your broadheads.

Broadhead penetration

When it comes to broadhead penetration, there are several factors that come into play. Firstly, the type of broadhead you choose – a fixed blade or a mechanical blade – will impact the level of penetration. Fixed blade broadheads tend to provide greater penetration with a smaller cutting diameter, while mechanical blades offer a larger cutting diameter. If your draw weight is under 55 pounds, a fixed blade broadhead is recommended as mechanical blades lose energy when opening up, resulting in reduced penetration.

The weight of the broadhead, measured in grains, also plays a crucial role in penetration. Heavier broadheads will take longer to reach their target, so a lower grain broadhead is often preferred for better arrow speed and penetration. Most hunters opt for 100-grain broadheads due to the wide range of options available, but you can find broadheads ranging from 75 grains to 300 grains. For those with a higher draw weight, 125-grain broadheads may offer improved penetration.

To achieve optimal arrow penetration, you should consider the front of center (FOC) – the percentage of the arrow's weight located in the front half. A heavier broadhead does not always result in better penetration; it's about finding the right balance for your setup. Additionally, the sharpness of the broadhead is critical. Dull broadheads may struggle to penetrate and create clean wound channels, so ensuring your broadhead is sharp enough will improve its performance.

When selecting the right broadhead, it's important to consider your equipment and your goals. If you're using a compound bow, you'll need to ensure your bow is properly tuned to achieve accurate shots with a fixed blade. If your bow isn't tuned correctly, a mechanical blade may be a better option. Additionally, the type of game you're hunting will influence your choice of broadhead – hunting larger game will require a head that can easily pass through tougher animals.

Frequently asked questions