Outdoors
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This was originally published Sept. 21, 2024
Do you have a free weekend, or a few vacation days to burn, and have been desperately searching for your next hunting-related research project? Do you enjoy opinions, testimonials, product reviews and promotions? Are you interested in learning about space-age materials, engineering breakthroughs and cutting-edge technology? Have you ever wondered just how important the application of geometry and physics are in the hunting realm?
If any of this sounds right up your alley, fire up your favorite search engine, and type in “what is the best broadhead for hunting?” If you thought they were just sharp points at the end of a stick, then hang on.
You’ll first see a number of links to articles from reputable sources with headlines such as “The 10 best broadheads ever made,” “Which broadhead is right for you?” and “This year’s best broadhead test.”
But before you get into that, it’s probably best to get a grasp on some broadhead basics.
So, what exactly is a broadhead? Simply put, a broadhead is a sharpened projectile point affixed to the end of an arrow or crossbow bolt that’s typically used for hunting purposes. They differ from conical or bullet-shaped field points in that they are larger and possess cutting edges that are capable of inflicting fatal wounds.
The earliest examples of projectile points date back tens of thousands of years, and were sharpened or “knapped” by our prehistoric ancestors who flaked or chipped away at pieces of stone such as flint, obsidian or chert until they had useable edges and a triangular or pointed profile.
Used mostly with longbows, spears and atlatls or spear throwers, these types of projectile points were the go-to technology in some circles through the early 1900s. Even today, certain Indigenous groups still rely on them, and some modern-day folks prefer the challenge and tradition of hunting with them.
I’m lucky enough to own a beautiful side-notched obsidian projectile point, which was skillfully crafted by extremely talented knapper Dustin Black of Surry.
We are no longer limited to primitive longbows that fire wooden arrows with stone points though. Ever-evolving modern-day technologies have allowed for the invention of super-efficient compound bows and crossbows.
Arrows and bolts have evolved as well to keep up with the demands of these new bows, and are constructed of materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber. These days, broadheads are constructed from high-quality tool steels, stainless steels and alloys. Using engineers, and other experts, manufacturers constantly race against one another to come up with the next broadhead tailored to just about any specific bow, crossbow or hunting situation you can imagine.
As you continue to dig deeper, you’ll get lost in a sea of broadhead companies, styles, designs and sales pitches. Two styles of broadheads dominate the market: fixed blade and mechanical or “expanding” blades.
Fixed blades come in two-, three- or four-blade models and are available in different designs, sizes and weights. Some have “bone crushing” or “chisel” points, while others are referred to as “cut on contact,” whose sharpened edges extend to the tip of the broadhead and begin to cut immediately upon contact.
Some models have serrations, and smaller “bleeder” blades. They can be solid in construction or vented depending on design.
Mechanical broadheads are designed to deploy their blades upon impact. The blades are hidden or secured inside the ferrule, which is the main body, and center of the broadhead, then deployed outward by way of different designs and configurations.
The greatest advantage of mechanical over fixed-blade broadheads is they are generally believed to have a truer, more accurate arrow flight, which resembles that achieved by practice or field points.
Manufacturers will help you find the right broadhead by attracting you with dozens of catchy, enticing company or product names. Maybe you’d like to try a Grim Reaper, Ramcat, Slick Trick or Rage.
Surely you can’t say no to a Megameat, Exodus, Hypodermic or Stinger. And since they are all the next best thing, you really can’t go wrong.
I’ve often found myself lost in the weeds regarding broadhead decisions. I’m embarrassed at the amount of money I’ve spent, and the pile of them now spilling out of my archery tackle box.
But I think my search is over.
I’ve finally found my forever broadhead in a simple, three-blade, 150-grain masterpiece machined from a solid block of carbon tool steel by a no-nonsense, U.S. company.
No glitz, no glamor, no flash and no gimmick: just a sharp point at the end of a stick.
