Top 5 Broadheads: Your Ultimate Hunting Selection Guide

What separates a successful hunt from a frustrating one? Often, it comes down to the very tip of your arrow: the broadhead. Choosing the right broadhead feels like a maze. You see fixed blades, mechanical blades, different cutting diameters, and a whirlwind of brand names. Every hunter wants maximum penetration and ethical harvesting, but the wrong choice can lead to lost game and wasted effort. It’s a crucial piece of gear that demands careful consideration.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the key differences between the main types of broadheads. You will learn exactly what features matter most for different types of game and hunting styles. Stop guessing at the archery shop. By the end of this post, you will confidently select the perfect broadhead to ensure your next outing is precise and successful. Let’s dive into making your arrow count.

Top Hunting Broadheads Recommendations

No. 1
KEAUP 6 Pack Hunting Broadhead 100 Grain 420 Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Broadhead Arrow Tips Archery Arrowhead for Crossbow and Compound Bow
  • FIXED BLADE BROADHEAD - Made of 420 stainless steel material, 3 fixed razor sharp blades, the strong tapered blade to be easily re-sharpened after using
  • FEATURES - One-Piece Metal Injection Molding Construction. Vented design to reduce the windage
  • SUPER PENETRATION - 100 Grain, 1-1/8 Inch Cut, standard screw-in 8-32 thread fits for all crossbows, compound and recurve bows
  • SPIN TESTED PERFECTION - Each KEAUP Broadhead is 100% spin-tested to ensure perfect balance and accuracy, enhancing shot precision
  • PACKAGE INCLUDE - 6 Pack broadhead
No. 3
e5e10 12pcs Hunting Broadheads 100 Grain Archery Broadheads New Stell Broadheads + 1 pcs Metal Broadhead Case for Arrowheads (red)
  • Hunting Broadheads: 2.4 inch as larger cutting diameter. Material: 420 high hardness Stainless Steel
  • Size of Broadhead Box: Length:13cm/5'' Width: 8.5cm/3.5'' Height: 3.8cm/1.5''
  • These are solid broadheads, nothing fancy, they just work. The brodheads are solid and sharp with larger cutting diameters for greater lethality to the prey
  • They work great nice and sharp so watch out when you put them on. For crossbow hunting tips, this is great quality
  • Package Including: 12pcs Hunting Broadheads & 1 x Sliver dainty metal broadhead box
No. 4
NAP Spitfire Maxx 100 X-Bow Tt 4-Pack
  • Product Type: SPORTING GOODS
  • Package quantity: 1
  • Country of Origin: China
  • No batteries required
No. 5
LeeMui Hunting Broadheads 12PK 100 Grains Screw-in Arrow Archery 3 Blades Hunting Heads Arrow Tips Compatible with Crossbow and Compound Bow + 1 PK Broadhead Storage Case (Black)
  • High quality materials:The shaft and nuts are manufactured using an anodized aluminium Steel blades and the tips using a super hard stainless steel, it's solid, durable and sharp
  • Easy to install and use: Standard thread Screw-in Arrows, Screw-in Arrows, Easy to Install and Replace。
  • O-rings design:for secured Tightening Prevents arrows from easily loosening improves point-to-point accuracy , Standard thread Screw-in Arrows, Screw-in Arrows, Easy to install and use Replace。
  • Precise production:Consistent weight and precision machined to make sure arrow flying straightly and target exactlly,Great for fitable for hunting and shooting game.
  • After-Sale Service:We will provide a 3-month warranty . If you have any questions about the product, please contact us at the first time. We will solve it for you within 24 hours.
No. 6
G5 Outdoors Deadmeat 100% Steel Expandable Standard Broadhead (3 Pack + Practice Tip) (Made in The USA)
  • TOUGH CONSTRUCTION - The DeadMeat V2 Standard Version mechanical broadhead is machined from super-tough & durable A+ grade stainless steel, ensuring reliable resistance while delivering deep penetration; Maximize your game with this bow-hunting expandable broadhead featuring 3 robust blades that produce unrelenting results by creating a gaping 1.5-inch cutting diameter for short & heavy blood trails
  • ULTRA SHARP BLADES - With 3 deadly solid steel blades, this 1.5" cutting diameter rear deployment arrow tip offers unmatched precision and penetrating power for bigger, deadlier holes; The rearward sliding design enhances cutting efficiency, ensuring better penetration and higher blood loss; For added convenience, all archery blades and collars are replaceable with our Replacement Blade Kit (not included)
  • SNAPLOCK BLADE RETENTION SYSTEM - The design of the DeadMeat V2 bow hunting broadheads is highlighted by the all-new SnapLock retaining collar that creates an audible "snap" when each of the 3 blades is locked securely in place for flawless flight; The SnapLock collar features an integrated clip that marries with a tiny knob on the back side of each blade for quick & secure retention
  • MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE - Loaded with features, devastating, durable & accurate, this bow-hunting arrow broadhead is poised to storm the archery industry; The DeadMeat V2 Broadhead is engineered with a super low-profile, ultra-aerodynamic design featuring hardened chisel tips and tightly tucked blades; With more flexible steel on the backend for less breakage, the stem supports the DeepSix option
  • BMP PRACTICE TIP INCLUDED - The DeadMeat V2 arrow point pack comes with a B.M.P practice tip, a ballistic match to these broadheads; The B.M.P archery practice head is s safe to use on any target and works great on foam targets; Thanks to the the included BMP tip you can practice in achieving consistencies with flight & accuracy before you head into the field
No. 7
Swhacker #207 Broadheads, 100 Grain, 2.0″ Cut, Green, 3-Pack | 2-Blade Hunting Broadheads with Practice-Ready Accuracy
  • Field-Proven #207 Design – The classic 2-blade, 2.0″ cutting system trusted for reliable penetration and flight.
  • 100-Grain Build – Offers the perfect mix of speed, power, and easy tuning for compound bows.
  • Precision-Ground Blades – Razor-sharp out of the box for quick, clean kills on impact.
  • Durable Alloy Ferrule – Built for repeat use and consistent flight even under heavy draw weights.
  • Green Anodized Finish – Adds corrosion protection and easy identification in your kit.
No. 8
G5 Montec CS Archery Hunting Durable Sharp Fixed Blades Carbon Steel 100 Grain 1 1/16" Cutting Diameter Screw-In Broadheads for Bow Arrows - Pack of 3
  • CONSTRUCTION - The Montec CS Broadheads are crafted using G5's unique Metal Injection Molding (MIM) one-piece carbon steel construction; These tough strong & durable broadheads withstand any hunting
  • ULTIMATE SHARPNESS - With diamond cut sharpness, the Montec CS Broadheads ensure a razor-sharp edge for cutting efficiency; This sharpness is easily maintained, allowing for repeated multiple uses
  • WEIGHT & BALANCE - Weighning 100 grains, these arrowheads provide an optimal balance between speed & penetration; The 100-grain balanced broadhead ensures consistent shots suitable for any bow setup
  • SPIN-TESTED - Each broadhead is 100% spin-tested to guarantee perfect accuracy; With no components to assemble or replace, their foolproof design allows you to simply screw it on an arrow & shoot
  • CUTTING DIAMETER - With a cutting diameter of 1 1/16", these Broadheads by G5 deliver great wound channels; These broadheads are built to withstand the toughest conditions and come in packs of 3

The Ultimate Hunting Broadhead Buying Guide

Choosing the right broadhead is crucial for a successful and ethical hunt. Broadheads are the tips that replace your field points for hunting. They must cut big holes to ensure a quick, clean harvest. This guide will help you understand what to look for before you buy.

Key Features to Look For

Several features make a broadhead effective. You must consider how it flies and how well it penetrates.

Blade Sharpness and Edge Design
  • Sharpness: A razor-sharp edge is non-negotiable. Dull blades tear instead of slicing, which leads to poor blood trails.
  • Blade Angle: The angle at which the blades meet the target affects cutting diameter. Steeper angles often cut deeper but might reduce penetration if the design is poor.
Blade Count and Configuration
  • Two Blades vs. Three Blades: Two-blade heads often offer better penetration because they focus all the cutting power on a smaller surface area. Three-blade heads usually create a wider wound channel, leading to a faster bleed-out.
  • Fixed vs. Mechanical: This is the biggest decision. Fixed blades stay open upon impact. Mechanical (or expandable) blades have blades that fold in flight and open only when they hit the animal.
Weight and FOC (Front of Center)

Broadhead weight must match your arrows. Most archers use heads weighing 100 or 125 grains. Consistency matters. A heavy tip keeps the arrow flying straight, especially at longer distances. This is called Front of Center (FOC).

Important Materials for Durability

The material dictates how long the broadhead lasts and how well it holds an edge against bone.

Blade Material
  • Stainless Steel: This is the most common material. Good stainless steel resists rust and dulling. Look for high-quality, hardened steel for the best results.
  • Aluminum (for mechanical housings): Some mechanical broadheads use strong aluminum for the body, keeping the weight down. The cutting blades, however, should always be steel.
Body Construction

The main body holds the blades. For fixed heads, a solid piece of machined metal is ideal for strength. Poorly constructed bodies can bend upon hitting heavy bone, ruining the shot.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality is often seen in the details of manufacturing.

Factors That Improve Quality
  • Precision Machining: Broadheads that are machined from a single block of metal (one-piece design) are usually tougher than those assembled from many small parts.
  • Blade Retention: Blades must stay locked in place. Strong screws or reliable locking mechanisms prevent blades from closing prematurely (mechanicals) or falling out (fixed).
Factors That Reduce Quality
  • Plastic Components: Avoid broadheads that use plastic parts for anything structural. Plastic breaks easily upon impact with hide or bone.
  • Poor Edge Grinding: If the factory edge looks uneven or rolled over, the quality is low. You will spend extra time sharpening them, or they won’t cut well at all.

User Experience and Use Cases

Your hunting style dictates the best broadhead type.

Fixed Broadheads: The Reliable Workhorse

Fixed broadheads are simple and highly reliable. They fly very similarly to your practice field points if they match the weight. Use fixed heads for hunting tough game like elk or hogs, or if you are hunting in thick brush where a mechanical head might catch on a branch before impact.

Mechanical Broadheads: The Flight Advantage

Mechanical broadheads fly extremely straight because their blades are tucked in during flight, making them look like field points. They are popular for archers shooting very far distances. However, they require a tough opening mechanism to work correctly when hitting the target.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hunting Broadheads

Q: Do mechanical broadheads fly the same as field points?

A: Generally, yes, mechanical broadheads fly very close to field points because the blades are closed. Fixed blades might require you to practice more to ensure perfect flight matching.

Q: Which broadhead type is better for large game like moose?

A: Most experts recommend heavy, high-quality two-blade fixed broadheads for large, thick-skinned animals. They offer the best guaranteed penetration through heavy bone and muscle.

Q: How sharp should my broadheads be?

A: They should be razor-sharp. You should be able to shave hair off your arm with the edge. If you cannot, they are not sharp enough for ethical hunting.

Q: Do I need to practice with my hunting broadheads?

A: Absolutely. You must practice to confirm that your arrows fly accurately with the broadhead attached. Even matching weights can fly differently.

Q: What is the difference between 100-grain and 125-grain broadheads?

A: The grain number refers to the weight. Heavier heads (125 grains) generally provide better momentum and penetration, especially for compound bows. Lighter heads (100 grains) are common for lighter setups or recurve bows.

Q: How do I clean my broadheads after a practice shot?

A: Always clean them immediately. Wipe off dirt, blood residue, or sap with a damp cloth. If they are fixed blades, carefully inspect the edges for nicks and sharpen them.

Q: Can I reuse mechanical broadheads after they open?

A: It depends on the damage. If the blades are bent or the hinge mechanism is damaged, you must replace them. If they opened cleanly and the blades look perfect, you might reuse them after careful inspection and sharpening.

Q: Is it legal to use mechanical broadheads everywhere?

A: No. Some states or hunting regulations specifically ban mechanical broadheads for certain types of game or during specific seasons. Always check your local hunting regulations first.

Q: What is blade drift?

A: Blade drift happens when the blades on a fixed head catch the air differently than the vanes on the arrow, causing the arrow to drift slightly off course right before impact. This is why practicing with the actual broadhead is important.

Q: Should I buy single bevel or double bevel broadheads?

A: Double bevel means the cutting edge is angled on both sides (like a standard knife). Single bevel means the edge is only angled on one side. Single bevel heads are known to cause more rotation upon impact, which many hunters believe helps them cut better.