When it comes to bowhunting, choosing the right broadhead can make all the difference between a successful and unsuccessful hunt. Two popular options that hunters often consider are mechanical and expandable broadheads. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore these two types of broadheads.
What are Mechanical Broadheads?
Mechanical broadheads, also known as "expandable broadheads," are designed to open upon impact. They consist of blades that remain closed during flight and open upon contact with the target, creating a larger wound channel. These broadheads are popular among hunters for several reasons.
Advantages of Mechanical Broadheads
- Accuracy: Mechanical broadheads are often more accurate because they have a more streamlined design, similar to field points, reducing wind drag and maintaining the arrow's flight path.
- Larger Cutting Diameter: The blades of mechanical broadheads open up, creating a larger cutting diameter upon impact, which can lead to faster blood trails and quicker kills.
- Penetration: Mechanical broadheads can offer excellent penetration due to their larger cutting diameter and better aerodynamics.
- Reduced Arrow Planing: These broadheads are less prone to arrow planing or veering off course when shot from a compound bow.
- Better Blood Trails: The larger wound channel often results in better blood trails, making it easier to track wounded game.
What are Expandable Broadheads?
Expandable broadheads are a type of mechanical broadhead. They are designed to expand upon impact, revealing sharp blades that cut through the target. These broadheads offer a unique set of advantages.
Advantages of Expandable Broadheads
- Accuracy: Like mechanical broadheads, expandable broadheads are known for their accuracy and aerodynamic design.
- Large Cutting Diameter: Expandable broadheads offer a wide cutting diameter, delivering more devastating wounds and quicker kills.
- Excellent Blood Trails: The wider wound channel creates superb blood trails, making tracking wounded game easier.
- Field Point Accuracy: Expandable broadheads typically have a similar flight trajectory to field points, simplifying adjustments for hunters.
- Ease of Tuning: They are relatively easy to tune to your bow setup.
Choosing the Right Broadhead
Ultimately, the choice of what broadhead you use is up to you. If you are new to bowhunting, we suggest purchasing different broadheads to see which feels better to you when shooting. Taking into account the following points, you should be able to make a more informed decision.
Game Size: Consider the size of the game you intend to hunt. Smaller game may not require the large cutting diameter provided by expandable broadheads.
Bow Speed: Your bow's speed and kinetic energy play a role in broadhead selection. Ensure your chosen broadhead can maintain accuracy at your bow's speed.
Hunting Conditions: Think about your hunting environment, including wind conditions and the distance from which you typically shoot. Some broadheads handle wind better than others.
Accuracy: Prioritize accuracy, as it's critical for ethical hunting.
Budget: Keep your budget in mind while selecting broadheads, as some models can be more costly than others.
In the world of bowhunting, choosing between mechanical and expandable broadheads is a matter of personal preference, but it also depends on the specific hunting conditions and game you pursue. Both types offer advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
By considering the factors mentioned in this guide, you can select the perfect broadheads for your bowhunting adventures. Whether you opt for the precision of mechanical broadheads or the wide cutting diameter of expandable broadheads, your choice can significantly impact the success of your hunts. Make sure to practice with your chosen broadheads to fine-tune your accuracy and enjoy a successful and ethical hunting season.
