Choosing the best broadheads for deer hunting can seem like a daunting task. With dozens of products on the market, selecting the right one can be difficult. It’s a process, though, and there are things to consider, including budget, broadhead type, weapon type, arrow setup, and more. It’s all about determining your needs. Here are eight factors to keep in mind when choosing the best broadheads for deer hunting.
1. Broadhead Type
There are multiple categories, or types, of broadheads. The first is the fixed blade, which many people refer to as “cut-on-contact” heads. Structurally, these are sounder, and tend to be more durable. Some of these are also much easier to sharpen and have easily changable replacement blades. These do have downsides. Fixed-blade heads are smaller in diameter. These also tend to be slightly less accurate, especially if the bow isn’t tuned.
Also referred to as “expandables”, mechanical broadheads are next in line. These are kings of accuracy and tend to fly very well. Another benefit is much larger cutting diameters, with some broadheads nearing three inches across. Again, there are downsides, though. These heads tend to get decreased penetration. There is also higher risk of malfunction, including failed deployments, deflections upon impact, etc.
Lastly, there are hybrids, which are the newest broadhead inventions and offer the best of the fixed-blade and mechanical broadhead worlds. Generally, these have two expandable blades, but also have two small fixed blades. The latter are usually called “bleeders” and are cut-on-contact slivers of death.
2. Animal Size
Once you understand the differences in broadhead types, it’s important to assess the type of hunting you plan to do. Small to medium-sized game, such as whitetails, are clear for any of the three broadhead types. That said, larger animals, such as elk and moose, have thicker hides, denser muscles, and bigger bones. Those planning to hunt larger game oftentimes see better penetration with fixed blades. Those with an archery setup that has higher kinetic energy output might still do well with a mechanical head.
3. Weapon Setup
The next consideration is the weapon setup. Kinetic energy is everything, and higher levels of it improve overall penetration. Crossbows and compound bows with higher draw weights, longer draw lengths, and greater speeds, produce more energy which is transferred to the shaft and broadhead.
4. Broadhead Weight
Broadheads range in size from 75 to 200 grains. Light weights fly faster but a heavier broadhead improves the amount of kinetic energy transferred during the shot process. Selecting an option that’s 125 grains or greater tends to increase penetration depth. Fortunately, this year, there are numerous options that are 125-200 grains.
5. Arrow Setup
A heavier arrow also boosts kinetic energy. Paired with a faster bow and heavier broadhead, this can be a deadly setup. Syncing the broadhead selection to your arrow is an important consideration.
6. Cutting Diameter
Some broadheads have smaller cutting diameters. Others have much wider cutting surfaces. While shorter diameters are typically confined to fixed blades, the latter can make the difference with subpar shot opportunities.
7. Product Materials
All broadheads aren’t created equally. Some are crafted from one material, while others include a mix. Choosing a strong metal, such as titanium, can increase the longevity of the broadhead.
8. Your Budget
Lastly, analyze your budget and make a choice that best fits your needs. It’s always good practice to purchase the best you can afford. Because, choosing the best broadhead for deer hunting is somewhat subjective. Only you can determine which broadhead will be right for your hunting situation.
5 Best Fixed-Blade Broadheads for Deer
