Arrowhead broadheads

Types of arrowhead broadheads

There are three main types of broadheads for hunting, which include:

• Fixed blade broadheads

  Fixed blade broadheads are popular and classic broadheads for hunting. They are preferred for their simplicity, reliability, and easy sharpen edges. These broadheads have one or more blades that are fixed and can't move. They are considered strong and durable. Also, they are crafted from high-quality steel materials, which helps them withstand intense impacts. Fixed blade broadheads have a simple design with a cutting diameter that ranges from 1.5 to 2 inches. They are easy to maintain since they can be sharpened several times. Hunters like fixed blade broadheads because they offer accurate and precise shots, especially for short-distance targets.

• Mechanical blade broadheads

  Mechanical blade broadheads are also known as expandables. These broadheads have blades that are folded during flight and expand once they hit the target. They are compact and lightweight, which makes them suitable for long-distance shots. When compared to fixed blades broadheads, mechanical blades are more aerodynamic. They offer a smaller surface area, which reduces air resistance during flight. This feature improves accuracy and ensures quieter shots. Mechanical blades have a cutting diameter that ranges from 2 to 4 inches. They are durable and crafted from steel or aluminum materials. They can also be reused multiple times.

• Hybrid broadheads

  Hybrid broadheads combine fixed and mechanical blade broadheads' features and advantages. They have two or more fixed blades that fold on the ferrule. These blades expand after impact, causing severe damage to vital organs. This increases the chances of killing the animal quickly. Hybrid broadheads are known for their versatility and effectiveness, which makes them suitable for various hunting scenarios. They can accurately hunt small and large game animals. They have a cutting diameter that ranges from 1.5 to 4 inches. However, hybrid broadheads are heavier when compared to other broadheads.

Scenarios of arrowhead broadheads

Broadheads for arrows are used in different scenarios. They are majorly used for hunting and target practice. Here are some scenarios where broadheads are used:

• Hunting

  This is the most common scenario where broadheads are used. They are used for big game animals, including deer, moose, and bears. Some broadheads are used for medium game animals, including antelope and wild boar. Others are used for small game animals, including rabbits, birds, and squirrels.

• Bowfishing

  Broadheads are also used in bowfishing. However, a special kind of broadhead called fish point or fishing broadhead is used. This kind of broadhead has barbs that help hold the fish after it has been shot. Broadheads that are used in bowfishing are not sharpened because the goal is to penetrate the water and hit the fish. Hitting the fish is the most challenging part of bowfishing.

• Target archery

  Another scenario where broadheads are used is target archery. Here, broadheads are used to shoot at targets to test accuracy and skill. It is also used in field archery, which involves shooting at targets of varying distances in a course set up in a wooded area. Broadheads are used in these scenarios to simulate hunting conditions.

• Survival situations

  Broadheads can also be used in survival situations. They can be attached to arrows to hunt for food, which can be small and big game. They can also be used to protect oneself from threats.

• Training

  This involves training for new hunters who are learning how to use a bow and arrow for hunting. In this scenario, the focus is on the technique and making the right shots to ensure that the animal is not harmed.

How to choose arrowhead broadheads

When it comes to selecting the proper arrowhead broadhead for hunting, there are several factors to consider. Below are some of them.

• Purpose of hunting

  Broadheads are designed for different hunting purposes. Some are used for big game animals, while others are used for small game animals. For instance, fixed blade broadheads are mostly used for big game animals since they are more durable. On the other hand, mechanical broadheads are better for small game animals since they offer greater cutting surface.

• Bow and arrow setup

  Another factor to consider is the bow and arrow setup. Some broadheads are better suited for compound bows, while others are better suited for recurve or longbows. For example, fixed blade broadheads are mostly used with compound bows because they require wider arrow shafts. On the other hand, screw-in broadheads are used with re-curves and longbows because they have a standard broadhead screw size.

• Aerodynamics

  Aerodynamics is also an important factor to consider. Aerodynamic broadheads, such as the mechanical ones, fly more smoothly through the air and have better accuracy over long distances. This is especially true when hunting animals from a distance. However, fixed blades do not have the same aerodynamics and accuracy as mechanical blades.

• Hunting techniques

  The hunting technique used should also guide the selection of broadheads. For instance, if one plans to hunt from a distance, a mechanical broadhead would be a better option due to its accuracy and reduced wind resistance. Alternatively, if one has plans to hunt from close range, a fixed blade broadhead would be proper due to its durability and reliability.

• Budget

  Finally, the budget should be considered. Broadheads come at different costs. Fixed blade broadheads are generally more affordable than mechanical broadheads. However, mechanical broadheads are more economical than field tips in the long run because of their increased cutting surface and ability to be retracted.

Function, Feature, and Design of Arrowhead Broadheads

Broadheads are essential for hunters who want to make sure their arrows are effective when it comes to hunting game. They come in many different designs and features depending on what kind of hunting one is interested in. Here are some of the functions, features, and designs that broadheads come in:

• Mechanical Broadheads

  These broadheads are designed to be compact and smaller when they are in flight. Once they hit the target, they will open up, and this will increase the cutting area. Mechanical broadheads use blades that are hinged and fold. They are popular among hunters because they can create large wound channels while also being aerodynamic when in flight.

• Fixed Blade Broadheads

  These broadheads have blades that are permanently fixed in position. They are very durable and, therefore, ideal for tough conditions. They are not as aerodynamically efficient as mechanical broadheads, but they offer dependability.

• Fixed Broadheads

  These broadheads have blades that are fixed in position and cannot move. They are very durable and can handle tough conditions. They are not as aerodynamically efficient as mechanical broadheads but offer reliability and consistency.

• Tip Design

  The tip of the broadhead is designed for penetration and can be either chisel or needle-like. Chisel tips are flat and wide, making it easier to penetrate tough hide or bone. Needle tips are thin and long, which allows for deeper penetration.

• Blade Shape

  The blades can be either triangular or square. Triangular blades are more common as they are more aerodynamic and easier to control. Square blades provide a larger cutting diameter but are heavier and less aerodynamic.

• Cutting Edge

  Another essential aspect of the design of broadheads is the cutting edge. Blades can be either straight or curved. Straight-edged blades are easier to sharpen, while curved blades create more massive wounds. Curved blades are more effective at slicing through flesh.

• Blade Thickness

  The thickness of the blades will have an impact on their penetration and durability. Thicker blades are more robust and can withstand impact, while thinner blades are sharper and can slice more effortlessly.

Q&A

Q1. How do users know which arrowhead broadheads to use?

A1. Broadhead types vary based on the hunting scenario. For instance, those looking for big game animals should get either fixed blade or mechanical broadheads. Those looking to hunt smaller game animals should get field points. Those looking to hunt bigger animals should get broadheads with a larger cutting diameter.

Q2. What is the difference between the broadhead for hunting and the broadhead for target practice?

A2. Hunting broadheads are designed for hunting purposes, whereas target broadheads are designed for target practice. Hunting broadheads have sharp blades and tips to inflict maximum damage. In contrast, target broadheads have fewer blades and are often easier to remove from targets.

Q3. Can someone sharpen their broadheads?

A3. Yes, it is possible to sharpen broadhead blades with the appropriate tools and techniques. Broadhead sharpeners can make the process easier. Hunters usually sharpen their broadheads before hunting and after using them to ensure they can be used multiple times.

Q4. Are broadheads regulated?

A4. Some hunting regulations require hunters to use specific types of broadhead blades for hunting. For instance, some regions require an minimum cutting diameter for blades hunting big game. Other regulations ensure that broadheads are not dangerous to other people.