Fixed-Blade vs Mechanical Broadheads: How to Choose

Your broadhead is the only part of your setup that actually does the work on an animal, so it deserves more thought than a grab off the peg. The big decision is between fixed-blade heads and mechanical (expandable) heads. Both kill cleanly when they're sharp, tuned and put in the right place.

Fixed-blade broadheads

Fixed blades are always open. They're simple, tough and have no parts that need to deploy, which is why many elk and bear hunters trust them. Cut-on-contact designs start slicing at the tip, which helps them penetrate even with lower-poundage bows.

The trade-off is flight. The blades act like small wings at the front of the arrow, so an arrow that isn't well tuned can plane away from your field points. Expect to spend some time tuning.

Mechanical (expandable) broadheads

Mechanicals fly with the blades closed, so their flight is close to a field point's. On impact, the blades open to a large cutting diameter, often 2 inches or more, which leaves big wound channels and good blood trails.

The trade-off is energy. Opening the blades uses some of the arrow's momentum, so very wide mechanicals pair best with bows and crossbows that deliver plenty of kinetic energy. Also check your state rules: a few states restrict or ban expandable heads for certain species.

Hybrid heads

Hybrids combine a small fixed blade with expanding rear blades. You get a guaranteed cut on entry plus a wider wound if the rear blades open. They're a good middle ground if you can't decide.

Weight and cutting diameter

• Weight: 100 and 125 grains are the most common. Match the weight your arrows were set up with, because a change shifts your point of impact and your arrow's front-of-center balance.
• Cutting diameter: Wider heads cut more tissue but need more energy to push through. For lighter draw weights, a compact fixed blade is often the better choice.

Make them fly

1. Spin-test each arrow with the broadhead installed. A wobble means a bent insert, crooked head or bad shaft.
2. Shoot field points and broadheads at 20, then 30 and 40 yards. If broadheads group away from field points, tune your rest or nock position (compound) or check your scope and bolt (crossbow).
3. Use a dedicated broadhead target, and set aside one or two "practice" heads so your hunting heads stay razor sharp.

Sharpness and safety

Dull heads wound animals. Replace or resharpen blades after practice, store heads in a covered case and never carry an uncovered broadhead in your quiver.

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