The Broadheads Blade & Mechanical is an easy tool in its simplest form, think back to the early Native Americans with the stones sharpened to a blade. Now there are far more options out there when it comes to the best broadheads.
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Broadheads can be broken into two major classes; fixed blade and mechanical. Within those categories are a great deal of options. By way of instance, two kinds of mechanical heads will be the back deploy or front deploy. The difference between both is the direction where the blades deploy. Here’s a graph of our best rated broadheads in both classes.
Given all those differences and styles, there’s even more to think about when it comes to picking a Broadheads Blade & Mechanical style. Questions to ask when considering fixed blade vs mechanical broadheads contain:
- Which sort of bow do you plan to shoot with? There’s a difference to what you ought to shoot due to the draw poundage.
- How much grain or weight do you require? Various bows need different grain evaluations, as do crossbows.
- How long will your shots be? Your range and precision affect the arrow setup and varies with different grain and broadhead types.
- Are mechanical broadheads permitted in your state? Each state’s regulations are different, so please consult with your regional DNR guidelines.
Best Fixed Broadheads Blade & Mechanical
Fixed blade broadheads typically include two, three, and four blade choices, with a broad assortment of grain, shapes, and cutting diameters. Let’s explore the pros and cons of fixed blade broadheads.
Durability — There is very little that could go wrong with a fixed blade broadhead as soon as you shoot it. When there’s an issue, it’ll be present before you take and that’s something to fix through arrow testing, testing, and upkeep.
Powerful Penetration — Big game requires deep penetration to reach vital organs and arteries. This comes down to a mix of shot placement, bow strength, space, and broadhead functionality. The cut-on-contact fixed blade broadheads provide exceptional penetration. Bigger broadheads are more easily affected by wind, so the selection of cutting diameter depends upon the size of the creature, along with the energy of your bow.
Effortless to Maintain — With fixed Broadheads Blade & Mechanical, you have the choice of picking a replaceable-blade technology which permits you to maintain your arrows at the best shape, tuned for precision, and capable of delivering lethal damage at many different distances. Many fix blades can sharpen, extending the life span of the blades, and saving you a big of cash.
In a nutshell, fixed-blade broadheads provide durability and dependability, ease of maintenance, arrow tuning, while still having the ability to deliver powerful penetration for rapid, accurate kills.
Fixed Blade – Disadvantages
Flight
Broad broadheads have more surface area, which introduces flight problems from wind when taken from modern compound bows. Experienced hunters will see that the size and width of broadheads are normally smaller nowadays than they were previously. As technology improves the speed and power of bows, fixed blade broadheads can diminish in size.
Tuning
With greater arrow rate comes the need for greater tuning. Your arrow setup has to be tuned to the bow with the fixed blade heads. 1 point to consider is that thicker fixed blades need wider and longer fletching. This helps balance the arrow at greater speeds and longer distances. Tuning bows for broadheads is an art in itself, which we cover in more detail here.
Design Limitations
The width of cutting diameter affects the accuracy or tuning capacity of fixed blade broadheads. Wider diameter blades tend to be less secure when flying. The more surface area on the mind the more friction there is. This causes arrows to impede quicker and shed accuracy at greater distances. All of that means more comprehensive pruning, regular maintenance, and special arrows for certain bows.
In a nutshell, fixed-Broadheads Blade & Mechanical require more work to fly accurate, and might need a particular set of arrows for each bow you use.
*Our evaluation is a composite score generat by inputting review data from several sources, with input from our own experience.
| BROADHEAD: | OUR SCORE* | TYPE: | BLADES: |
|---|---|---|---|
| NAP Thunderhead | (4.8 / 5) | Fixed | 3 |
| Muzzy 4 Blade Broadhead | (4.8 / 5) | Fixed | 4 |
| Flying Arrow Hazardous Broadhead | (4.7 / 5) | Fixed | 3 |
| G5 Striker Broadhead | (4.7 / 5) | Fixed | 3 |
| Magnus Stinger two Blade | (4.7 / 5) | Fixed | 2 |
| Slick Trick Magnum | (4.6 / 5) | Fixed | 4 |
| Magnus Stinger 4 Blade | (4.6 / 5) | Fixed | 4 |
| Muzzy 3 Blade Broadhead | (4.6 / 5) | Fixed | 3 |
| G5 Montec Broadhead | (4.5 / 5) | Fixed | 3 |
| Trophy Taker Shuttle T-Lock | (4.5 / 5) | Fixed | 3 |
NAP Thunderhead — Best 3 Blade Broadhead
The NAP Thunderhead is a tried and true, proven Broadheads Blade & Mechanical. They’ve been around for several decades, which is a powerful testament to their effectiveness. Thunderheads are proven to be scary sharp straight from the box, fly accurate, and be simple to tune.
The basis of the layout is that the tapered and grooved, three-sided aluminum ferrule. The chisel tip then flows effortlessly into the .027″ stainless steel blades. If you’re searching for a proven fixed blade design for this year, the NAP Thunderhead is a fantastic starting point.
Muzzy 4 Blade — Best 4 Blade Broadhead
View on: Amazon | Cabela’s
View on: The Muzzy 4 Blade broadhead is just another one of those heads which have gained a good reputation through the years. They’re known to fly accurate and pair good with carbon arrow shafts. The Muzzy 4 Blade typically comes in packs of 6 in a price similar to that of other manufacturers 3 packs. The bottom line is that this is a broadhead many archers have come to trust and rely on for success.
The plan is very similar to other recognized broadheads on the market. You’ve got an aircraft grade aluminum alloy ferrule, with slots for stainless steel blades. The blades are .020″ with cutout “vents” for less in flight air friction. The ferrule is then capped off with a hardened steel tip, using a trocar cut. The trocar tip enables the head to reduce on contact and deliver a takedown blow into the creature. Check Price on
Flying Arrow Toxic — Greatest Non-Traditional Broadhead
View on: Don’t allow the exceptional design fool you; the Toxic is an remarkable fixed blade broadhead. The patent pending round blade design will help to decrease the end plane effect you encounter with flat sided blades. The end result is less drag and an accurate flying broadhead. The blades are mounted in slots on the chisel tip, and are replaceable.
The Toxics have a smaller cutting diameter of just 7/8″ compared to conventional fixed blades, but there’s more cutting surface due to the round shaped blades. Just take a look at the devastating effects on impact, leaving a simple blood trail to monitor. The Toxic leaves a gaping hole for a wound channel, rather than cuts.
G5 Striker Broadhead
The G5 Striker heads are an outstanding selection for a three blade broadhead with replaceable blades. When comparing the G5 Striker vs Montec broadheads, the have cut on contact hints aligned with the blades. The largest difference is the blade angle and structure.
The Montec is one solid piece of steel, blades and all, that need sharpening for continued usage. The Striker on the other hand, has replaceable blades. In case you have problems sharpening a 1 piece 3 blade, then I urge the Striker within the Montec. The G5 Striker is known to fly directly with minimal audio, and dependable to inflict a takedown wound. It’s not surprising that the Strikers are adored by bow hunters of all skill levels.
Magnus Stinger — Best 2 Blade Broadhead
View on: The Stinger is a classic fixed blade broadhead that just simply gets the job done. There are no fancy advertising gimmicks with this two blade head, just higher quality components. The blade is made from .042″ stainless steel, the same type used in the best knives made today.
The Stinger also carries a hardened diamond tip for penetrating strength. The steel blades are mounted in an aircraft grade aluminum ferrule, which may be eliminated for simple sharpening or replacement. This would be a fantastic broadhead for bows with low to moderate poundage, or even conventional bows.
Best Mechanical Broadheads
Mechanical broadheads arrive in back deployed or front deployed layouts. They give a conical head design which enables them to act more like a field point as opposed to a broad mind, but they’ve negative aspects also. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of mechanical broadheads.
*Our evaluation is a composite score generated by inputting review data from several sources, with input from our own experience.
| BROADHEAD: | OUR SCORE* | TYPE: | BLADES: |
|---|---|---|---|
| WASP Jak-Hammer SST | (4.7 / 5) | Mechanical | 3 |
| NAP Spitfire 3 Blade | (4.6 / 5) | Mechanical | 3 |
| Ramcat Broadheads | (4.6 / 5) | Mechanical | 3 |
| Grim Reaper Razorcut SS | (4.5 / 5) | Mechanical | 3 |
| Cabela’s Lazer Strike II | (4.5 / 5) | Mechanical | 3 |
| NAP Killzone Trophy Tip | (4.4 / 5) | Mechanical | 2 |
| Grim Reaper Razortip Whitetail Special | (4.4 / 5) | Mechanical | 3 |
| Rage Chisel Three Blade | (4.4 / 5) | Mechanical | 3 |
| Grim Reaper Razortip | (4.3 / 5) | Mechanical | 3 |
| Rage X-Treme | (4.3 / 5) | Mechanical | 2 |
WASP Jak-Hammer SST
View on: The Jak-Hammer is my number one rated mechanical broadhead for bows and crossbows. The Jak-Hammer includes a proven and reliable front deploying layout that’s fantastic for use on turkey, deer, hogs, and occasionally bigger game. WASP kept things easy on this broadhead, with a neoprene o-ring to keep the blades in flight, and rolls backward on impact.
The Jak-Hammer uses quality materials like .036″ stainless steel blades, which is a strong gauge to offer power to reduce deep wound stations. On the front end is a hardened steel trocar tip to cut on contact. Do not be surprised if you get complete pass through shots with these thoughts. A number of hunters have reported shooting multiple creatures with the same head. If you take good care of them by sharpening and replacing blades as necessary, the Jak-hammers will last you a few seasons.
NAP Spitfire 3 Blade
The Spitfire 3 may be among the very popular mechanical broadheads ever produced. The Spitfire is highly regarded as one the best broadheads for deer due to a simple blade mechanics. Each blade is sandwiched between a retention clip and the slot at the ferrule, and these components have a hole which pivots on a small screw. The force of effect pushes the front edge of the blade beyond the retention clip, exposing the cutting edges. Make certain to replace the retention screws and clips after 5 impacts.
The Spitfire stage and ferrule have fine aerodynamic shape that flies and bands very well. When properly constructed, the blades will not open in flight such as cheaper heads. Exactly like on the NAP Thunderheads, the decoration tip and ferrule has little grooves on all 3 sides, intended for flight precision. A good deal of bow hunters try all types of mechanical broadheads, only to wind up settling on Spitfires. You could save yourself some time by getting set up with the best to start with.
Ramcat Mechanical Broadhead
Ramcat expandable broadheads should be one of most aerodynamic designs produced. The ferrule is bigger than other mechanicals, but features 3 air foil lobes that permit air flow, preventing the wind from grabbing it. Ramcat asserts the razor sharp mind has market greatest penetration, and multiple independent evaluations have shown this to be true.
The Ramcat is truly a hybrid broadhead, where the blades can fold forward, but once installed are fixed in place. There aren’t any fancy slots or lightening holes in this mind, just good .032″ stainless steel cutting surfaces. If you don’t get a pass shot, the back edges are also sharp so that you can cut while pulling back the arrow out. 1 thing to understand with Ramcats would be to be certain to check the tiny screws each time you get ready to take for constant deployment.
Grim Reaper Razorcut SS
View on: If you’re looking for a great 100 grain mechanical, the Grim Reaper Razorcut SS is one to seriously consider. If you’re among those shooters that are unsure about an o-ring blade retention system, then take a look at the Razorcut SS. Each blade is fitted with a spring load mechanism which holds itself in place until the strain of effect.
The whole mind is made in one piece from stainless steel. It’s actually specifically created for today’s modern high KE bows and crossbows. One other feature I like on those heads is that the cut on contact tip using a 1/2″ plus drawback to the tips of the razor blades. This space means you get some insight to the creature before any blades are deployed. This contributes to better achievement on angled shots because of fewer deflections.
Cabela’s Lazer Strike II — Best Cheap Mechanical Broadhead
View on: Cabela’s
Cabela’s makes some really good in-house branded equipment, and they hit a homerun with the Lazer Strike II Broadheads Blade & Mechanical. I have not seen these in person yet, but I am eager to. It now has a 4.5/5 star rating with over 100 reviews. A bunch of 3 Lazer Strike II heads prices significantly less than leading brands. If budget is major element in your choice, these are a great bet.
So far as layout is concerned, the Lazer Strikes have the very same materials and features as the big brands. The 100 grain is based on an aluminum ferrule and a super tough carbon steel decoration tip. The blades are made from high grade 440 stainless steel and make a cutting diameter of 1-1/4″. All blades can be replaced or sharpened after usage. If you’re looking for a superb value with great functionality, the Lazer Strike II is the man.
Best Crossbow Broadheads
Wondering what the difference is between crossbow broadheads versus routine broadheads? There’s none. The best thing you can do to obtain the best crossbow broadhead is try out what you already have. Many archers find they have the ability to accurately shoot their beloved vertical bow broadheads in their crossbow.
Many crossbow shooters rely on mechanical broadheads over fixed blades. The reason is simply because of the fact crossbow bolts are taken at higher rates, and are consequently impacted more by end. The most important issue with mechanicals is premature installation at 400fps.
Give the NAP Spitfire or WASP Jak-Hammers a try first, you can see them just about everywhere. If you struggle to find great groupings, then you can move on to some “crossbow broadhead”.
Broadhead companies are coming out with a growing number of products aimed specifically at crossbow shooters. These are my favorite heads rights today.
Rage Crossbow X — Best Mechanical Crossbow Broadhead
The Crossbow X is essentially the exact same broadhead as the normal Rage two blade. They do not specifically say what the difference is, but I suppose there’s a little gap in the installation mechanism to stop the blades from expanding in flight.
The Crossbow X broadhead has all of the other great layouts features Rage is famous for. There’s the Shock Collar system which retains the rear camera installation consistent. The blades are a good .035″ stainless steel, and open to a gigantic 2″ cutting diameter. For those who have issues with mechanicals starting early, the Rage Crossbow X could be a fantastic head to try next.
Excalibur Boltcutter — Best Fixed Blade Crossbow Broadhead
View on: The Boltcutter is a beefy 3 blade, 150 grain fixed blade broadhead for crossbows. Excalibur explains the selection of a 150-grain head for a means to improve the precision of over 300 fps by raising the front of center balance.
The whole broadhead consists of high strength stainless steel to withstand the high kinetic energy effect of crossbows. The Boltcutter is a sweet balance of their strength and durability of fixed blades, together with the speed and precision of a mechanical.
Grim Reaper Crossbow Broadhead
View on: These are almost identical to the Grim Reaper Razorcut SS we spoke about over, just modified for use with crossbows that take up to and beyond 400 fps. The distinction is not clear as Grim Reaper has next to zero info on their site. Get with the program guys.
The X-Bow heads can be found in 100 and 125 grain sizes, with Razortip or Razorcut SS tips. The cutting diameter is a large 1.5″, and crossbow hunters are pleased with the size of wound channels for humane take-downs.
Cabela’s Lazer Strike II — Best Cheap Crossbow Broadhead
View on: Cabela’s
Here we’ve Cabela’s new mechanical broadhead, which are really remarkably popular. Normally I side with the expression “you get what you pay for”, however, the Lazers have the performance and track record to push off fears of this very low price.
Lazer Strike II crossbow heads are made with a harden steel decoration tip layout, with replaceable .030″ stainless steel blades. You can tell the difference between those with the regular Lazers from the golden-colored ferrule.
These use the o-ring way of blade retention, so in case you hate messing with o-rings, you might choose to stay with the Rage or Reapers.
Real Life Data –Fixed Blade vs Mechanical
Still not certain which sort of broadhead you require? An article from this Quality Deer Management Association offers excellent stats from a study conducted by Andy Pedersen on blade versus mechanical broadheads. Here’s a bit of what they discovered.
- Fixed blade broadhead arrows regained 82 percent of the targets. The target field was 1,066 deer and 874 were bagged.
- Mechanical broadhead arrows regained 91 percent of the targets. Out of 230 hits 209 deer were bagg.
- Bow Form Matters — Compound bows had an 89 percent healing rate with mechanical broadheads whereas crossbows with mechanical broadheads have a 96 percent tote speed.
What does this mean?
The target from the analysis was deer, which is a species that supplies a dimension and kill zone which makes both stationary blade and mechanical arrows somewhat equivalent.
The bow kind mattered greatly as crossbows provide more direct power and deeper penetration using mechanical broadheads. Remember that one of the downsides of this mechanical broadhead was penetration. That’s overcome with short distance shooting (19.7 yards for crossbows) and more power behind the arrow.
This brings up the question of space. Both kinds of shooters in this study were close selection. Crossbows took shots at a mean of 19.7 yards and compound bow at 17.6 yards. Add space to the equation and the results of the study would probably be different.
Final Thoughts
So while it appears that Broadheads Blade & Mechanical outperform fixed blades, you must actually consider skill level, space, and the conditions where hunting happens.
Just be certain that you pick a broadhead with a stout tip, whether cut on contact or chisel. A cut on contact fashion is most likely superior in many scenarios when searching for bigger animals like deer. Cut on contact broadheads would appear to inflict the most harm no matter if you strike the vitals.
The conclusion of that are the best broadheads aren’t a comprehensive statement but more of a single response. What’s your target? your range? What’s your precision and skill level?
Product photos courtesy Cabela’s.com.