Best Broadheads – 2021 Round-up

| Last Updated September 27, 2021

Times have changed, and hunting gear and products are doing all they can to catch up. Broadheads completely revolutionized the market when they entered it. They are extremely fast and provide maximum efficiency whilst also limiting deviation.

There is a lot of competition in the market, which is why manufacturers are rushing to build faster and better arrows every single year. With so many changes and advancements, finding the perfect model can be a pretty daunting task. But don’t worry, because we are here to help.

This article will highlight the top models in the market. It will also include the pros and cons of each unit so you can make the best decision. We also scoured the internet to find you all the relevant information regarding broadheads. Since there is so much to discuss, let’s get started.

Comparison of the Best Broadheads

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Stainless steel razor sharp 2-blade design
  • 100 gr
  • Material: Aluminum ferrule; Stainless steel blade
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  • Equipped with a carbon steel Trocar tip for max efficiency
  • 100 gr
  • Material: Aluminum ferrule; Stainless steel blade
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  • Best for the Money
  • 100 gr
  • Material: Stainless Steel
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  • Best Fixed Blade Broadhead
  • 125 gr
  • Material: Stainless Steel
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  • Best Broadhead For Crossbow
  • 100 gr
  • Material: Stainless Steel
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  • Best Mechanical Broadhead
  • 100 gr
  • Material: Aluminum ferrule; Stainless steel blade
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  • Best Single Bevel Broadhead
  • 100 gr
  • Material: Steel
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What is a Broadhead and What is it Used For? 

Arrowheads that are used for hunting and military purposes are commonly referred to as broadheads. This is a large cutting point assembly that is normally attached to a shaft. It comes in many different designs and blade configurations. One thing common in all units is that they provide maximum efficiency and minimize deviation. 

An array of broadheads (Source)

They are also divided into two or sometimes three broad categories. Each is specifically used for a different purpose. Normally, they can also be used to seriously injure your prey during hunting. The sharp edge-cutting technology can penetrate veins and arteries and can cause severe hemorrhaging. This results in the loss of oxygen to the brain, ultimately resulting in the death of the animal.

If you shoot accurately, the whole process will take less than a few seconds.

Types of Broadheads

With so many different types of broadheads dominating the market, it is safe to assume that users are confused. But they really shouldn’t be. Each specific type fulfills a different purpose. Here is a brief overview of each of these types to help you choose better.

Mechanical

This is the most modern option that will catch the attention of any serious buyer. A common term that is used to describe these is ‘expandable broadheads.’ The tip of this type triggers the expansion of the blades as soon as it hits the target. The advantage is that you get a relatively larger entrance point. This also ensures that you can cause maximum damage to the prey. These moving parts can also become loose sometimes.

Fixed

This is a more straightforward and simple design that is easy to use and handle. This tried-and-tested design has been in the market for quite some time now and is more suitable for larger prey. It comes with extraordinary cutting power that can penetrate deep in the skin. The blades are also easy to re-sharpen and hone. So if you are looking for a humane kill, you should use this type.

Hybrid Types

The name is pretty self-explanatory as far as broadheads are concerned. A hybrid type is the combination of both mechanical and fixed type and amalgamates the features and drawbacks of both. The tip is similar to a fixed blade’s tip, which ensures you get a good cutting edge. However, the part after the tip resembles that of a mechanical bow. This will ensure a large diameter cut. 

Swhacker 2" Inch Cut Broadheads

Aspects to Consider Before Buying 

With so many variations of the model existing in the market, you certainly don’t want to end up with a poor-quality model. Here are all the aspects you need to consider before making a purchase.

Quality and Integrity

The quality of any product can be perceived by looking at its design, fit, tolerance, and durability. More often than not, products compromise on one of these features, and that's exactly what you need to avoid. You should ensure that you buy a tried and tested piece and can last for a relatively long time. The heads should also retain their integrity even after being shot through thick drywall. 

Sharpness and Penetration

These two are mentioned together because the former influences the latter. Make sure the tip of your arrow is sharp enough to penetrate through the skin of both large and small animals. Any good unit will penetrate the body. This is to ensure that you are ethical whilst killing your prey. A deep wound is less likely to cause pain.

A 75 yard broadheads penetration test (Source)

Kinetic Energy and Speed

When you shoot the arrow, you need to achieve good speed. You also need to cover more distance in relatively less time. This will only happen when your unit can properly consume kinetic energy. This will not only influence the output force of the broadhead but will also affect the feet per second of the unit. 

Price and Warranty

These may be obvious features, but many people seem to forget that the most expensive products aren't always the best ones. Many affordable broadheads provide better speed and accuracy. Moreover, a good warranty is important to ensure that your model lasts for a long time.

Key Terms to Know 

To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean:

  • Point Weight (Grains): Weight of the broadhead measured in grains- A grain (gr) is 1/7000 of a pound.

  • Material: The main material used in manufacturing the broadhead

  • Type (Fixed/Mechanical): Fixed types have replaceable blades which slide into slots or blades attached directly to the ferrules. Mechanical types open or “deploy” when fired and can open from the front or rear, expanding to increase the damage and cutting diameter.

  • Cutting Diameter: The size of the wound created as the broadhead moves through the target.

  • Number of Blades: The number of cutting blades a broadhead features.
     
  • Blade Thickness: The thickness of the metal on each blade. Typically thicknesses of .03” or higher are necessary for large game animals. 

Review of the Best Broadheads

To make sure you have a good number of options, we did extensive research to include the best products on the market. These top models have been compared against their pros and cons to give you an unbiased opinion of what’s better. 

Best Overall:
Swhacker 2-Inch Cut Broadheads

Swhacker SWH00207 #207 2 Inch Cut Broadheads Set of 3-100 Grain, Green, 2'

PROS

  • Each set comes with three units
  • Two-blade feature provides fast speed
  • 100-grain, so it is easy to carry around
  • Provides you with two separate cutting edges
  • Made with anodized aircraft aluminum that provides greater durability

CONS

  • Takes longer for the prey to die

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers didn’t mind spending a couple of extra bucks in exchange for greater durability. This two-blade model was just what they needed to up their hunting game. According to many reviews, Swhacker delivers on all its promises and offers an excellent warranty on all products. It also provides a better cutting edge than most other models in the market.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

The edge of blades matters a great deal when you are looking at hunting gears. The best thing about this Swhacker unit is that it comes with three separate broadheads. These are all expandable and come with two blades each. The small cutting edge and diameter ensure that your prey dies instantly and without experiencing much pain.

But the biggest advantage of investing in this unit is that you get the maximum durability and reliability. The blades are known as wing blades and are used for cutting through the first set of ribs. They also require less energy and are relatively faster. The strong construction also means that you can use the same product for many years to come.

Bottom Line

It takes a lot for a model to stand at the number-one spot, and Swhacker has done justice to this position by including some of the best features in this unit. It comes in a set of three very good units that provide greater consistency. Each of these further provides two blades that are needed for a smaller and more accurate cut.

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

100

Material: 

Aluminum ferrule; Stainless steel blade

Type: 

Mechanical

Cutting Diameter: 

2"

Number of Blades: 

2

Blade Thickness: 

0.032"

Runner-up:
Muzzy 3-Blade Broadhead

Muzzy Bowhunting 3 Blade Archery Arrow Broadhead 100 or 125 Grain - 6 Pack

PROS

  • Razor-sharp blades are made of stainless steel
  • 100-grain unit provides enhanced flight stability
  • Column of steel adds support to the aluminum bodies
  • Made with an anodized aluminum ferrule for added strength
  • Comes with a hardened trocar steel tip that ensures very deep penetration

CONS

  • Tuning requires more time than some other models

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers couldn't control their happiness when they first used the model. They rushed to the internet to write positive reviews. The most common praise was regarding the razor-sharp blade. According to them, the blade was enough to provide greater strength and stability. They also loved the hardened tip that ensured better hitting power.

Why it Stands Out to Us

As expected, this model comes with many spectacular features that make it stand out in the crowd. For starters, it allows for bone-crushing penetration. This is important, especially for hunters who want to have a humane and ethical kill. When the blade penetrates deep into the prey's organs, it ensures that there is fast blood release, and the animal experiences a quick death. 

Moreover, the 100-grain unit is better than heavier blades in several aspects. The most obvious advantage is that it is relatively lightweight, which means that it is easier to carry. The compact design also aids transportation and storage. Furthermore, lightweight arrows also tend to be faster and prevent flight deviations.

Bottom Line

The repairing costs for this broadhead might be high, but that is not something you have to worry about. The unit provides amazing durability and deeper penetration. The use of sharp blades and a great cutting edge ensures that the arrow hits the target accurately and causes maximum damage to the prey.

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

100

Material: 

Aluminum ferrule; Stainless steel blade

Type: 

Fixed

Cutting Diameter: 

1 3⁄16"

Number of Blades: 

3

Blade Thickness: 

0.020"

Best for the Money:
OTW Hunting Broadheads

OTW Hunting Broadheads, 3 Fixed Blades 100 Grain Archery Broad Heads Archery Broadheads for Small Game Crossbows and Compound Bow Arrows (6 Pack-3)

PROS

  • Promises both accuracy and precision
  • Cutting diameter is small but very accurate
  • Comes with six units to save on additional costs
  • Tip is hardened with steel to ensure deep skin penetration
  • Package includes a separate portable box for transportation of products

CONS

  • Comes with a poor warranty
  • Takes longer for the animal to die

What Recent Buyers Report 

Any buyer that manages to get an excellent product at a relatively low cost is bound to feel happy. And that is exactly what happened. Buyers were thrilled to find a separate portable box with the package that could be used to carry the arrows. This not only increased their safety but also made them more convinced of the brand’s excellent reputation.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

Equipped with a hardened steel and amazing blade, this model seems like an expensive one at first. But it is one of the most affordable units in the market. It comes with a very sharp blade that provides enhanced flight stability. This means that once you shoot the arrow in the air, you can rest assured that it will not deviate from its trajectory and will land right on target.

Moreover, the 100-grain design comes with a cutting diameter of 1.25 inches. This, along with a blade of 0.02-inch, ensures very sharp penetration. The use of stainless steel also means that you will get greater accuracy every time you draw. The model also comes with screw-in tips made with high-quality aluminum. This ensures a hardened and reliable core.

Bottom Line 

OTW has been a revolutionary brand in the weapon industry because with its introduction of hunting broadheads; it has changed user’s perception. Unlike before, users now believe that they can get an excellent model without paying a lot of money. This model incorporates things like a small diameter and a hardened tip that adds to its appeal.

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

100

Material: 

Stainless Steel

Type: 

Fixed

Cutting Diameter: 

1 1⁄4"

Number of Blades: 

3

Blade Thickness: 

0.02"

Best Fixed Blade Broadhead:
Huntingdoor 3 Fixed Blade Broadheads

Huntingdoor 12Pack 3 Fixed Blade Archery Broadheads 125 Grain Arrow Head Hunting Arrow Tips Golden for Compound Bow and Crossbow

PROS

  • 0.7-inch sharpness is great for large animals
  • Small cut diameter allows for deeper penetration
  • Fixed blade ensures that nothing fails during the flight
  • Allows for a humane kill by reducing the pain of the prey
  • Can be easily installed on both carbon and fiberglass arrows

CONS

  • Requires a special tool for accurate sharpening

What Recent Buyers Report 

Mechanical blade users who tried fixed blade for the first time were thrilled to get their hands on such an amazing design. The fixed blade doesn't deviate from its flight, which makes it an excellent choice for targeted shooting. Buyers who used it with different bows also found it to be very compatible. They said that it works equally well with both carbon and fiberglass arrows.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

To avoid any problems during hunting or outdoor archery practice, you need to invest in this fixed blade model. It comes with three very sharp blades that allow for deep penetration. The cutting edge is also small and delicate, which means that you will kill your prey without causing much pain. Moreover, the thickness of the blade is only 0.4mm, which further adds to the appeal.

Amazing precision is another great feature of the model. The unique casting and cutting process is achieved by solid metallic construction. The great piercing power of the model also allows for greater accuracy and speed.  

Bottom Line 

If there was ever a blade made especially for hunters, it was this one. It comes with an excellent tip that can cut through bones and cause maximum damage to the animal. It is only 0.7-inch in diameter, which allows for greater sharpness. All this ensures that you can kill the animal most humanely and ethically.

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

125

Material: 

Stainless Steel

Type: 

Fixed

Cutting Diameter: 

1"

Number of Blades: 

3

Blade Thickness: 

0.157"

Best Broadhead for Crossbow:
G5 Outdoors Montec Crossbow Broadheads

PROS

  • Available in both 100 and 125 grains
  • Strong and tapered design allows for easy sharpening
  • Compatible with all the different crossbows in the market
  • Provides faster speeds and almost no deviation during the flight
  • One-piece metal and injection molding construction provides simplicity

CONS

  • Replacements are difficult to find
  • Not suitable to be used with compound bows

What Recent Buyers Report

Crossbow users were looking for a design that they could use with their large and fast bows, and they found one in this G5 broadhead. It is equally fast and accurate, and hence it is perfect for a crossbow. Buyers have also given a high star rating to this unit because of its excellent durability and strength.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

Crossbows are a special kind of bows that have existed since medieval times. They have undergone major transformations over the years, and now more and more people use the latest broadheads with them. These arrows are fully compatible with the bow hence allowing for greater efficiency. A crossbow also doesn't require any components that need replacing to be used with this model.

Another reason why this unit stands up is because of its excellent design. The one-piece metal injection construction is molded to perfection and ensures simplicity. This simple, but elegant makeup means that users will have to problem assembling or sharpening the product. Moreover, the strong and tapered design allows for a sharp and penetrating angle.

Bottom Line

Greater compatibility and affordability come together for the construction of this brilliantly designed model. The strong and tapered design makes it easy to re-sharpen the model. The time and energy that you will have to allocate will also be relatively less. So if you want to use the same model for a long period, then you should invest in this one.

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

100

Material: 

Stainless Steel

Type: 

Fixed

Cutting Diameter: 

1"

Number of Blades: 

3

Blade Thickness: 

0.030"

Best Mechanical Broadhead:
Rage Crossbow X

Rage Crossbow X, 2-Blade Archery Arrow Broadhead, 100 or 125 Grain with Shock Collar Technology (3-Pack)

PROS

  • Available in both 100 and 125-grain units
  • Expandable blades are made of stainless steel
  • Offers a slip cam design that has a leading-edge blade
  • Legendary wound channels provide the greatest precision
  • Shock collar technology ensures better blade retention on impact

CONS

  • May deviate flight in some weathers
  • Blades may fail without proper tuning

What Recent Buyers Report

Of all the features recent buyers love, the lack of tuning issues with this unit sits on the top. These blades don't require much effort during alignment, and their point of impact remains steady for a long time. Moreover, since the blades are expandable, buyers get greater accuracy while hunting large animals.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Mechanical broadheads took the market by storm, and there are solid reasons for their popularity. They are commonly used with compound bows and offer less compatibility with crossbows, and the same is the case with this unit. 

The biggest advantage of this unit is that it’s predictable and offers a very stable flight throughout. This means that when you shoot your arrow, you can rest assured that it won’t deviate from its trajectory.

Moreover, you certainly don’t want your unit to lose any of its parts or its efficiency on impact. This is why the shock collar technology is incorporated into the design. This provides greater blade retention. You will also be able to use this Rage gear for as long as your heart desires.

Bottom Line

To sum up, out of all the mechanical broadheads in the market, this is certainly the best one. But that doesn’t come as a surprise because Rage has always exceeded expectations when it comes to hunting gear. Solid and reliable stainless steel is used for this unit’s construction, which adds great strength. So if you are looking to make a good investment, don’t think twice before buying this product.

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

100

Material: 

Aluminum ferrule; Stainless steel blade

Type: 

Mechanical

Cutting Diameter: 

2"

Number of Blades: 

2

Blade Thickness: 

0.035"

Best Single Bevel Broadhead:
ZCISSY Crossbow Broadheads

ZCISSY Crossbow Broadheads 100 Grain - Deep Penetration, Razor Sharp, Solid,Tough Steel 100 Gain Broadheads fit Compound and Crossbow(6 Pack) (X3)

PROS

  • No need for replacements for a long time
  • 100-grain blade can fly similar to a field point
  • Allows for easy sharpening without an expensive sharpener
  • Solid one-piece construction provides greater sophistication to the design
  • Does not come with any retainer rings or rubber O-rings for greater simplicity

CONS

  • Not suitable for very large animals
  • Does not offer a very good warranty

What Recent Buyers Report

It is very difficult to please recent buyers, but ZCissy has done it with ease. This elegant model is much-loved because of its attention to detail. Since it offers a simple and less complicated design, buyers don't have to struggle with re-sharpening. They also praised the lack of retainer rings that add unnecessary complications to the design.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

A bigger unit requires much more force to penetrate the bone of the animal than a smaller unit. And this is exactly why this simple yet elegant single bevel design stands out. It is lightweight and comes in a compact body, which means that it requires less torque to provide accuracy. Moreover, you want to ensure that the maximum part of the bevel is in contact with the animal's skin upon impact.

A simple design such as this one ensures that the surface area of impact is great. Not just that, but the unit is also able to create a balance between speed and accuracy, hence providing better results. Plus, the sharp and pointed blade can kill your prey instantly, hence ensuring an ethical kill.

Bottom Line

ZCissy is known for producing some of the best units in the market, and this broadhead is no different. It involves a single-piece construction that adds sophistication to the design. Since it is a 100-grain unit, it is very similar to field points that are easy to carry and handle. You will also get better speed with it.

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

100

Material: 

Steel

Type: 

Fixed

Cutting Diameter: 

1 1⁄8"

Number of Blades: 

3

Best Rage Broadhead:
RAGE Hypodermic

RAGE Hypodermic 2-Blade 100 Grain Broadhead with Exclusive Hybrid Tip, One Piece Stainless Steel Ferrule, Shock Collar Technology, .035” Stainless Steel Blades and a 2”+ Expandable Cut - 3 Pack

PROS

  • Available in a pack of three to save on cost
  • Comes with a one-piece aerodynamic steel ferrule
  • Shock collar technology provides greater blade retention
  • Backed by an excellent warranty on main body and accessories
  • Features the exclusive hybrid tip that provides much better accuracy

CONS

  • Replacements are difficult to find

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers rated this product very highly. This is mainly because of its amazing warranty and accessories, but that’s not all. They have also praised the amazing blade retention that Rage promises. Among other things, this ensures that you can use the same broadhead for many years to come.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Rage has been in the market for quite some time now, and its products have completely revolutionized the weapon industry. This hypodermic product is one of the best ones because it allows for easy re-sharpening. The simplicity of the design means that anyone can handle the model with ease.

Moreover, when it comes to hunting, you want to be as sure of your target as possible. This particular model comes with a hybrid blade that incorporates excellent features from both fixed and mechanical types. This is to ensure that you get a great cutting edge without having to compromise on the speed of the arrow.

Bottom Line

Equipped with an excellent warranty and shock collar technology, the Rage Hypodermic has all the features required for brilliance. The hybrid tip can save on high costs, and the aerodynamic steel ferrule can provide better durability.

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

100

Material: 

Stainless Steel

Type: 

Mechanical

Cutting Diameter: 

2"

Number of Blades: 

2

Blade Thickness: 

0.035"

Best Broadhead for Turkey:
Rage Extreme Turkey Broadhead

RAGE Xtreme Turkey Broadhead 2.3' x .75' Cut, 100 Grain - 2 Pack Brown

PROS

  • Arrow slows enough to anchor any bird
  • Use of stainless steel provides greater durability
  • Cut on contact will inflict maximum lethal damage
  • Provides a big cutting diameter with a slip cam design
  • Shock collar technology provides better blade retention on impact

CONS

  • Difficult to re-sharpen the unit
  • Less compatible with some bows

What Recent Buyers Report 

Recent buyers are very honest with their opinion, which is why their comments need to be considered while reviewing any product. In the case of this Rage broadhead, buyers love the special razor cutting technology that slows down on impact. This is enough to anchor the bird and ensure an instant kill.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This two-blade broadhead with a special meat hook is everything you need to inflict maximum damage on your prey. It is a lethal weapon that becomes slow enough to effectively anchor the bird. It is also made especially for turkey hunting and hence provides greater accuracy. The two-blade design also comes with a slip cam technology that is compatible with the meat hook.

The blades are also surgically grounded and are made with .035 inch of stainless steel. This provides deep penetration and an instant kill. Not just that, but a pair of blunt notches also exist on each side, thereby providing greater accuracy on impact. Lastly, the blades are machined and anodized with an aluminum ferrule that provides greater durability.

Bottom Line

Turkey hunting isn't very easy because these birds tend to be fast and are hence able to escape the arrow easily. You certainly require a fast broadhead that can hit the turkey on the spot and kill it instantly. That is exactly what this Rage unit offers. The gigantic cutting diameter, along with the slip cam design, ensures that you get your prey every time.

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

100

Material: 

Aluminum ferrule; Stainless steel blade

Type: 

Mechanical

Cutting Diameter: 

2 1⁄8”

Number of Blades: 

2

Blade Thickness: 

0.035"

Best Broadhead for Deer:
G5 Striker Broadhead

G5 Striker Broadhead 3/PK.

PROS

  • Less likely to break when it hits the bone
  • Allows for much better penetration on the deer's skin
  • Relatively less force is lost when the arrow hits the target
  • Fixed blade does not come with any moving parts for deviation

CONS

  • Tuning the unit requires some practice
  • Not suitable for beginners or amateurs

What Recent Buyers Report 

Most recent buyers made an impulsive decision and simply bought this unit because it was relatively cheaper than most other broadheads. But once they used it, they couldn’t believe their eyes. The arrow hit the target perfectly and penetrated deep into the tissue. This ensured that buyers weren’t too brutal with the animal.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Hunting deer is quite a challenge, and if you don't want to fail, you need to invest in this spectacular model. It is both strong and big as compared to other models. This not only adds to its durability and strength but also makes it very hard to break. You will also get a good blade length that ensures deep and effective penetration. 

Moreover, since a fixed blade such as this doesn’t come with any loose or expandable blades, you will get greater consistency. The great tactical use of the blade also comes in handy when you are indulging in target shooting and want to get a competitive edge in the game.

Bottom Line 

Deer meat is extremely nutritious and delicious, so it is no wonder that people love to hunt for these large birds. G5 Striker is made especially for this purpose. It is less likely to break when it hits the bone of the deer. This feature is supported by the high-end aluminum construction that adds to the strength of the design. 

Product Specs

Point Weight (Grains):

100

Material: 

Stainless Steel

Type: 

Fixed

Cutting Diameter: 

1 1⁄8"

Number of Blades: 

3

Blade Thickness: 

0.030"

Comparison Overview

When it comes to broadheads, there is a never-ending debate surrounding the different kinds of models. The supporters of each have fun defending their favorite types. But to settle the score once and for all, here’s an in-depth comparison.

Fixed vs. Mechanical Broadheads

The biggest debate is between the fixed and mechanical blades. Both offer great compatibility with several bows. The difference appears in how each unit hits the target. A fixed blade does not have any moving parts, whereas mechanical blades tend to expand and open up when they hit the target.

With a mechanical blade, you get a small entry point that will be able to penetrate deep into the animal's skin. It will cause quite the damage which ensures a much humane kill. On the other hand, the moving part also causes trouble as it often comes loose when the target is hit. More flight deviations also occur as a result of the expandable parts.

Fixed blades are more simple and straightforward and do not come with any moving parts. Each part is tried and tested to ensure greater reliability. The biggest advantage is the cutting power that allows for easy and quick re-sharpening of the blade.

Swhacker Broadheads vs. Rage

These are two of the best brands in the market, and many people don't know which of these two is better for them. Rage has been in the market for a longer time and hence offers a more diverse range of options. Its models are also more compatible with different bows. All products are made in Wisconsin and then tried and tested before their shipment.

Swhacker takes the lead when it comes to the durability and strength of the design. All its units are coated to ensure greater strength. Moreover, it produces better 125-grain units than Rage.

If you are looking to get a full-sized entry hole and great diversity, then the former is the better option. But if you want more simplistic designs that can last for a longer time, then the latter is a good choice.

Swhacker Broadheads (Source)

Crossbow Broadheads vs. Regular Broadheads

As the name suggests, crossbow broadheads are only used with crossbows, but regular ones can be used separately or with a crossbow. The biggest difference between the two is speed and accuracy. In the case of the former, you will get a much faster speed and much better accuracy. You may not get consistent results every time, though.

On the other hand, regular broadheads are relatively cheaper and are easily available. They are also very consistent because of their large blades. They also tend to be more compatible with several different bows.

100 vs. 125 Grain Broadhead

100-grain units are extremely common these days and are made with carbon or carbon alloys. They are also relatively compact, and their low weight provides them with faster speeds. They are also easy to carry on a hunt.

On the other end of the spectrum lies the 125-grain broadhead. This can provide better penetration, but the relatively high weight makes it difficult to carry it. 

Moreover, if you are planning on using a compound bow, you should go with a 100-grain model. 

But if you want an arrow for your crossbow, then it is better to use a 125-grain model. This is because each respective type provides more accuracy and precision when it is teamed up with a compatible bow.

2 Blade vs. 3 Blade Broadhead

The debate regarding the number of blades is one of the most common ones. Broadheads come with a different number of blades, two and three being the most common ones. The price of both doesn’t vary much, but the real difference emerges in the way they cut the animal.

With three blades, you can expect the animal to bleed faster and death to come faster too. This type also ensures that even the heaviest of your prey dies instantly. 

On the other hand, a two-blade broadhead tends to cause a slow death, but it is often preferred. Since it leads to less blood loss, the wounds are easy to close. This comes in handy when hunters want to retain certain structures of the animal they are hunting. Moreover, the speed of a three-blade unit is relatively less than that of a two-blade model.

Broadheads vs. Field Points

Field points are designed to be shot into bag or foam targets. They are also shot at grass-type targets. They are often matched with large broadheads to maximize efficiency. Using them ensures that you minimize bow adjustments during hunting. They are also relatively cheaper.

On the other hand, broadheads are faster than field points, and this difference is quite significant. The surface area of the former is also more, which allows for deep penetration of the animal. Since both types are used for different purposes, judging them on the same criteria is not always fair.

How to Sharpen Broadheads

Sharpening your broadheads is extremely important because unless you maintain your arrows, they will lose their efficiency. Contrary to what people think, doing this is not very hard. You just need to follow a few simple steps mentioned here.

  1. The first step is to find the angle that you are going to file. If you want a very sharp edge, any angle between 20 and 25 should be enough. 

  2. You should always maintain a consistent and well-aligned angle between your unit and its sharpener. This is important if you want to save time.

  3. You can also draw a marked line if you want to do the above process evenly. Rub your blade along the stone or file by applying low pressure.

  4. You don’t want to remove too much of the coating or the material, so always increase your pressure gradually. Your edges would be very rough when you end this.

  5. Then use a file or strip of leather to polish the rough edges of your model. Run the blade along the same length to smoothen out the surface.

  6. Now, apply the same pressure evenly and repeatedly across the softer side of the leather. Repeat this step to make your unit sharpener. 
     
  7. Test the sharpness by pressing the tip on something invaluable.

  8. There are also several specialized tools that you can use to do the above process. These need to be bought, especially for the purpose, and are not readily available within the package.

  9. You can also use a special wrench to achieve the desired tightness on your sharpener. 

If you want a more detailed overview of the steps, make sure to check this video below.

How to Tune Broadheads

Tuning your broadheads is just as important as sharpening them. This requires shooting the arrows before taking them on your hunts. The entire process takes less than three minutes. But you will get much better efficiency if you allocate this time to tuning. So here is how it's done.

  1. The first step is to test for the wobble. You can put a broadhead on any hunting shaft and slowly spin it. Make sure the tip of the head is against the hard surface. If it doesn’t spin, then it requires fixing.

  2. To correct it, all you need to do is ensure that your arrow is square at the cut end side. You can use sandpaper or a squaring device to do that.

  3. You may also need to remove a piece of extra adhesive or fletching glue that is preventing your unit from wobbling correctly.

  4. Then align the blades so that the head of the blade is compatible with the fletching of your arrow. With a four-blade model, make sure the vane is aligned.

  5. You can also heat the adhesive or twist it slightly until you achieve the perfect alignment. You can also insert an O-ring to achieve this.

  6. Next, punch some paper by cutting a hole in the center of a cardboard box and attach a piece of paper with duct tape in the middle.

  7. Shoot the broadhead arrow through this paper and see the shape of the tear.

  8. You should ideally see a tear outline at the center point. All the tears should be uniform in length and should not have any highs or lows.

  9. For directional tears, additional tuning is required. You can move to the left if the tear is to the right and vice versa.

  10. For a vertical tear, you can move your nocking point slightly up and down. 

You should be good to go by following these steps. If you are still confused, make sure to check this detailed video below.

Conclusion 

A good bow is important, but what’s more important is an excellent broadhead to go with it. Our review includes some of the most extraordinary units in the market. They offer excellent durability and strength. Most of them are also affordable, so you don’t have to loosen your purse strings a lot.

But before you take this very important decision, make sure you have all your facts straight. You shouldn’t fall prey to cheap marketing standards. Also, once you have bought your ideal model, make sure you sharpen and tune it before usage.

People Also Ask

People love these ultra-fast arrows that have revolutionized the market. The extra strength and reliability these products offer make people excited. This is why they have rushed to the internet to inquire more and more about these units. We have answered some of the most popular questions to help buyers know everything there is to broadheads.

Why Are Single Bevel Broadheads Good?

Many people think otherwise, but in reality, a single bevel broadhead is one of the best models for hunting. It allows for relatively more tissue penetration of your prey. This means a quicker death for the animal. It is also relatively cheaper than a double beveled unit.

What Should Be Used to Screw on Broadheads?

You can use many different devices to screw on these units, but the most common type is the wrench. It will cover the blades and will easily tighten the arrow. Without the arrow, you are more likely to get injured by a serious cut caused by a slight slip.

Why Must Bow Hunters Use Broadhead Points When Hunting Big Game?

Time is of the essence when it comes to hunting, which is why these sharp units are integral to achieving success. They penetrate deep into the tissue of the animal, thus achieving a quicker death. They also cut through the vital organs instantly so that the animal doesn't feel a lot of pain.

Where Should Broadheads Be Kept While Traveling to and From the Field?

It is important to keep your hunting gear safe when you are not using it. Since broadheads are very sharp, they need to be kept in safe boxes or carrying cases to avoid injuries.

Most models will come with special packages. You can always get durable boxes at a relatively low cost from the market.

What is the Best Grain Broadhead For Deer and Elk?

Many models in the market are suitable for deer and elk hunting, but you should ideally get a 100-grain model to do the job. 

What Broadheads to Use For Turkey?

This question is very difficult to answer because, at the end of the day, no one model is perfect for everyone. You can use Rage models or Magnus Bullhead for the job. Since turkey is a relatively large animal, any unit with a fixed blade would do.

What Grain Broadhead Should I Use?

If you are using a lightweight and compact shaft, you can use any grain of 100 units. But for heavier shafts that use aluminum, you may need the 125-grain head. Once you decide on the weight and the style, you must tune and sharpen the unit.

Broadhead Reviews

Below are all our buyer guides surrounding broadheads To make your experience a bit smoother, we have organized them in one place. Feel free to browse through a few and find exactly what you're looking for.
Thanks for reading. 

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My name is Caleb and I am obsessed with hunting, fishing, and foraging. To be successful, you have to think like your prey. You have to get into the mind of your target - and understand Big Game Logic. If you have any questions, or just want chat about your latest hunting score or big catch, you can reach me at admin@biggamelogic.com. Read more about Big Game Logic.