Best Broadheads for Compound Bow for Hunting in 2024

Broadheads come in a wide range of styles, sizes, and shapes. Even if you’ve spent a considerable amount of time bowhunting in the wild, you may still not know what model might suit your compound bow as well as your shooting ability the most.

The best broadheads for compound bow are always necessary for a successful hunt since you may end up losing that trophy animal you’ve been waiting for due to a poorly made broadhead. Even Ted Nugent always stresses this factor whenever he talks about archery other than rock music!

The RangerExpert team is here to show you how to find the most accurate fixed and mechanical broadheads for a much cleaner and more efficient kill without having to go through several trial-and-error sessions.

Best Broadheads for Compound Bows

1 Rage Bowhunting CrossbowX Mechanical Broadhead (Crossbow Broadhead)

Having considered all the features of the broadheads that we tested, this is a great choice. It has the most positive reviews which make it our top pick. Besides, it comes with great features that make it the favorite broadhead to many hunters.

The Rage Bowhunting CrossbowX is an excellent choice if you’re considering a mechanical broadhead that will make a remarkable kill. Its greatest feature is the Ferrule Alignment Technology (FAT) used to improve the aerodynamics of the broadheads. This is very important when you’re shooting a target some meters apart.

Another important addition to this product is the Shock Collar Technology. This is to ensure that the blades don’t fall off upon hitting the target. The blades are made from stainless steel to enhance its efficiency while cutting. With its ability to create a wound of 2-inch diameter, you’re sure to get an easy kill.

They come in grain weight versions of 100 & 125. So, you can choose any version that matches with your own crossbow. Luckily, they come in 3 packs for easy replacement. You’ll also get some free broadheads to help with your practice sessions.

Specifications

Pros

• 2-inch cutting diameter for a quick kill
• Stainless steel blades
• Free practice head
• Very efficient
• Flies straight to the target

Cons

• Not so durable

Our Verdict

The Rage Bowhunting CrossbowX is a killer itself. The stainless steel blades are good at delivering deep cuts. Also, these blades are resistant to rust, making them the most reliable choice.

This model is great for elk hunting because of its strength and cutting surface. Besides, they’re the best broadheads for beginners who’ll want to hone their skill with practice.

2 G5 Outdoors Montec Fixed Broadheads (Broadhead for Elk Hunting)

One of our greatest discoveries in the market is the G5 Montec. It has a complete stainless steel construction making it a fixed blade broadhead perfect for elk hunting. The positioning of the blades allows for the tearing and penetration of the toughest animal skins.

Its one piece construction is perfect for hunting big game animals with heavy bones and thick hides since it doesn’t slow down after hitting the target. With this, you’ll not spend money on replacement of parts. The G5 Montec are among the best by the ease of use. All you need to do is screw it to your bolt and draw the bow to shoot.

The ease of sharpening and reusing the blades is one of the things that you’ll appreciate in this model. This is possible by the angling of the blades. Also, this model can produce cuts that are about 1 to 1-1/8 inches wide. This wide opening allows more blood to flow at a time. The effect of this is a clean wound channel and quick death.

The G5 Montec is available in grain weights of 85, 100, and 125. Get the version that suits your strength and crossbow size. Although a few users express a dislike for the sounds that it produces when in the air, we don’t see this as a challenge. Yet, looking at its toughness and durability, the G5 Montec is a choice you cannot avoid.

Specifications

Pros

• Easy to use
• Good value for money
• Simple yet effective design
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Deep penetration

Cons

• Generates noise while on flight

Our Verdict

Like the G5 Striker, the Montec is great for short-distance shooting. The solid, all-steel construction makes it easy to maintain and handle.

3 Swhacker Set of 3 Broadheads (Broadhead for Deer Hunting)

This is the choicest broadhead for any deer hunter who intends to give the animal a humane death. The Swhacker Set of 3 Broadheads is made from high-grade materials that makes it a superior warhead among its competetors. Its unique blade set up makes it suitable for deer hunting.

Just like the Levi Morgan, there are two edges of the blades. The first set of edges creates a cut through the skin and the rib bones. Since these blades open the broadheads, they are thinner in comparison with the main blades. This design of the blade ensures that less energy is spent during penetration.

The other edge of the broadhead is free at the first point of impact. They only engage in the cutting of the internal organs after the opening of the skin by the smaller blades. With this, the main blades remain sharp enough to tear the internal parts.

The ferrule of this expandable broadhead is made from aluminum. Aluminum is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, durable, and strong, so are these blades.

Its carbon steel tip ensures that it has enough power and sharpness to pierce through the deer’s skin. It comes with the perfect grain weight. This double blade broadhead is available in 3 packs and 100-grain weight versions.

If you’re buying a broadhead that can bring a lot of damage to the game, this option is for you. However, it is worth noting that you’ll need more strength to draw the bow.

Specifications

Pros

• Creates more cuts inside
• The unique design of the blades helps in deeper penetration
• The stainless steel blades are free at the point of entrance
• Very durable

Cons

• You’ll need some strength to use it

Our Verdict

The Swhacker Set of 3 Broadheads is the most accurate crossbow broadhead for deer hunting. They have a unique blade design for clean cuts and quick death. Also, the blades are made from high-quality materials to enhance their efficiency.

If you’re looking for a broadhead that will guarantee you of smooth kill at the point of the hit, search no more.

4 Grim Reaper Razor Tip Broadhead

From our tests, the Grim Reaper Razor Tip has some good features making it one of our top picks. Its pointy end is like a chisel tip which helps in creating deep cuts upon impact.

The set of stainless steel blades are sharp enough to penetrate the tissues to increase blood flow through the wound. Also, the design of this broadhead helps in creating a 3D hole that causes severe bleeding. As a mechanical broadhead, it deploys the stainless steel blades once it hits the target.

Grim Reaper’s low profile helps limit the action of wind during its flight. In reality, this model is more suitable for small game.

We don’t recommend that you use this broadhead to target a deer or elk. The fact is, an elk or deer will survive the hit and you’ll lose the game. But like Carni-FOUR or Fatal Steel or Micro Hybrid, it leaves a remarkable blood trail.

Specifications

Pros

• Sleek design
• Deeper cuts
• The wound seems like a 3D hole for more blood flow
• The tips are very sharp

Cons

• Not so great for large animals

Our Verdict

The Grim Reaper Razor Tip is highly efficient for targeting smaller game animals. The tips of the blade are made from stainless steel. The blades are sharp and produces deep cuts at first hit.

The unique design of the blades helps widen the diameter of the cut, increasing blood flow and eases the pain of death. If you prefer game animals like whitetails, mule deer, and hogs, this is the right choice for you.

5 Muzzy Trocar HB Hybrid Broadhead

This is another broadhead which can create more damages to the animal. The most outstanding feature of the Muzzy Trocar HB Hybrid is its hybrid design. This means it functions as a fixed blade and a mechanical broadhead. It’s efficient design and durability makes it a great and effective arrow tip.

The expandable blades are powerful and dependable causing large holes at the point of entry. The blades are positioned at an angle that helps to create the same experience as using a field point. This unique design helps to improve the aerodynamics and accuracy of long-range shots.

This hybrid product comes with a solid steel ferrule that remains intact despite hitting a bone. The tip of the Muzzy Trocar HB Hybrid is made of hard steel that allows for easy cuts and smooth penetration of the target.

This 100-grain weight broadhead comes in three packs that allow you to replace the worn blades. The blades are 4 in number plus the fixed blade to guarantee a quick death.

Despite its durability and accuracy, we are not very comfortable with its cutting diameter of 1-5/8 inches.

Specifications

Pros

• Very accurate
• More suitable for long-range targets
• Durable
• Combines the functions of both fixed and expandable blades
• The angles of the positioning of the blades enhance its aerodynamics

Cons

• The cutting diameter is relatively small

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for a good crossbow broadhead with both fixed and mechanical blades, this model is for you. It is made of high-quality stainless steel that is powerful, durable, and dependable. The tip of this broadhead is hardened to give it enough strength to tear the hardest animal skin. It is designed to offer you the exciting results from the perfect hunting companion.

6 Rage Bowhunting Hypodermic Crossbow Mechanical Broadhead

The Rage Hypodermic offers a remarkable accuracy when hunting at both close and distant ranges. We especially enjoyed its hybrid tip that cut through the target with precision.

Included in the design is the Ferrule Alignment Technology that allows it to fly in the wind with speed and accuracy. Also, this model comes with the shock collar technology which helps prevent the untimely deployment of the blades.

The Rage Hypodermic features massive edge blades of 0.035-inch thickness. These razor-sharp blades are made from stainless steel which is known for its durability and deep penetration. Another important thing about this model is its ability to create a hole of 2-inch diameter.

This product comes in 3 packs per order. With these best broadheads for compound bow, you will get a free practice broadhead so you’ll update your skills before firing the real shot. It is available in grain weight versions of 100 and 125. Make sure that you’re using it on the right crossbow to get your desired results.

Specifications

Pros

• Proper blade deployment
• You can use it on different crossbows
• Available in grain weights of 100 and 125
• Strong and durable
• Good cutting diameter

Cons

• The blade deployment mechanism can malfunction at any time

Our Verdict

The Rage Hypodermic ensures deep penetration on any target just like the Hypodermic Trypan. It is very efficient and durable. You can use them on high-speed crossbows for hitting long-range targets. So, if you’re investing in the best broadhead for elk hunting, give it a try.

7 G5 Outdoors Montec Premium Broadheads

From our extensive research, this is one of the most efficient fixed broadheads on the market. You can use this fixed broadhead on virtually any bow. The G5 Outdoors Montec is a good investment at any time because you can hone the blades repeatedly after each use to prolong its life. It is constructed from carbon steel which is very hard and sharp.

The blades of the G5 Outdoors Montec are diamond cut. This means they’ll produce devastating damage on the wounds that will cause quick and most humane death. Besides, the blades are angled to induce spins which would enhance the accuracy of flights.

The G5 Outdoors Montec weighs 1.12 ounces with dimensions of 2 x 1.6 x 1.6 inches. Thus, it possesses the perfect kinetic energy that you’ll need to penetrate any skin. The entrance diameter of the wound is 1-1/16 inches which is a little better than most fixed blades on our list.

This single bevel arrowhead comes with better features than its previous version which is the reason for its many positive reviews. It is sharper and flies better than the previous version. But some have expressed the need for this product availability in other grain weights to enhance its versatility.

Yet, if you’re interested in buying a high-quality broadhead with that will serve you for long, this is exactly what you need.

Specifications

Pros

• Sharp and robust
• Efficient and durable
• Deep penetration
• the shape allows you to re-sharpen with ease
• You can use it on different bow types

Cons

• Only available in 100-grain weight version

Our Verdict

This fixed broadhead is made from Carbon steel which is not only durable but capable of producing deep wounds. Besides, it has a cutting diameter of 1-1/16 inches which allows more blood to flow for an easy kill. The blades are tough and easy to sharpen. This is a great product that will stand the test of time.

8 Nap Spitfire Crossbow Mechanical Broadhead

This is one of the few models in our reviews with an amazing design. NAP (New Archery Products) has a reputation for producing high-quality and dependable broadheads. So, you can expect superb performance from this product.

The Nap Spitfire Mechanical Broadhead is designed to withstand the kinetic energy produced by high-speed crossbows. Just like the NAP Killzone and Hellrazor, it deploys the blades at the front, making it one of the deadliest mechanical broadheads for compound bows for sale.

It weighs 0.8 ounces with dimensions 10 x 6 x 2.8 inches. It is available in 100 and 125-grain weight models. Also, they come with replacement and practice blades to enhance its usability.

It has a three-blade design which produces deep cuts than most broadheads with double blades. Also, it has a cutting diameter of 1-1/2 inch making it ideal for taking down a deer. They’re very swift in the wind and easy to use. Besides, they’re reusable after exiting the target, even during hunting birds like turkey. Of course, there is an exception if it hits a bone.

The tip of the Nap Spitfire is made from carbon steel which is hard enough to produce good cutting power and accuracy. Besides, the blades have a good retention system and do not need O-rings or bands. The only concern for this model is how to enhance its accuracy when used with most high-speed crossbows.

Specifications

Pros

• Good blade deployment mechanism
• The three-blade design helps improve efficiency and reliability
• Good cutting diameter
• Durable blades
• You can re-sharpen and use again

Cons

• Not so efficient for high-speed crossbows

Our Verdict

The Nap Spitfire has a 3-blade design like its big brother – Spitfire Maxx – that leaves more blood trail after the hit. Its tip is made from carbon steel to enhance its accuracy and cutting power. They are always among the top choice when looking for mechanical broadheads for crossbow.

9 Rage Hypodermic Trypan Titanium Broadhead

If you’re looking for a product with impressive performance and reliability, the Rage Hypodermic Trypan is for you. This is another legendary product from Rage production line. These best mechanical broadheads feature a Titanuim Ferrule for cutting on contact and creating deep wounds. The whole expandable blade set up is made from stainless steel. This means it’ll kill the toughest game almost immediately.

The 0.039-inch thick stainless steel blade can create a tear of 2-inches diameter on a deer. Besides, this model comes with the super backswept blade design which reduces friction to enhance accuracy and penetration depth.

Another feature we like in this model is the shock collar retention technology that ensures that the blades deploy on impact. Weighing 3.04 ounces with 2” x 2” x 0.5” dimensions, you can hunt large game with high-speed crossbows.

This model’s grain weight is 100 and comes in a pack of 3. Also, it is made in the US which is also the reason for its reputation and quality. Some users complained about issues with the deployment of the blades upon impact though we didn’t notice any.

Specifications

Pros

• Shock Collar Retention technology
• Suitable for large game
• Large cutting diameter
• Sharp stainless steel blades

Cons

• Some users experienced issues with the deployment of the blades

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for best broadhead for low poundage bows, this model is for you. They have a better feel than the standard rage hypodermic broadhead. The stainless steel blades are thick and sharp making it perfect broadheads for elk, deer, and bear hunting.

10 Carbon Express Quad Pro Broadhead

Our reviews can’t be complete without the Carbon Express Quad Pro Broadhead. Currently, it’s among the top fixed crossbow broadheads on the market. Any hunter would wish to have this broadhead because of its superior design and efficiency.

It comes with six cutting edges which creates more opening on a wound than any regular fixed blade broadhead. This means more blood loss and a fast kill. Thanks to the 4 small bleeder blades besides the main blade. The blades remain sharp for long.

The Carbon Express Quad Pro has good aerodynamic profile and 100% spin testing. This helps to reduce friction and enhance accuracy and penetration. The aircraft-grade aluminum ferrule initiates the cut at the target point, paving the way for the stainless steel blades. The 0.045 thick stainless steel blade will then grind from the skin to the bone creating an opening of 1-inch diameter.

This model may be expensive to maintain if you’re to use it for regular hunting. This is because the tips may damage too quickly. Besides, they might be difficult to use when shooting for the first time. So, engage in regular practice sessions before facing a live deer. It is a true killer when targeting large game.

Specifications

Pros

• The blades have a great lifespan
• Good for hunting large animals
• Six cutting edges
• Creates more openings for a humane kill
• Made of high-quality materials
• Highly accurate and reliable

Cons

• A bit difficult to use

Our Verdict

The Carbon Express Quad Pro is a great choice. The blades come with sharpness for hunting. The stainless steel blades are large with six edges for a lethal shot and a humane kill. It is very suitable for taking animals with large flesh and thick bones.

A Guide to Finding the Best Arrow Broadheads for Your Purpose

1. Type

The major types of broadheads are:

• Fixed Blade 

They are the simplest and the most conventional type. They have pointy tips that can create a deeper cut on an elk. You’ll secure the fixed blade to the arrow shaft using an adhesive or screw. Then, shoot by drawing and releasing the bow.

The only reason for concern even is the constant need for sharpening. Also, they are a bit unsuitable for some high-speed crossbows.

• Mechanical 

Mechanical or expandable broadheads are more complex than their fixed blade counterparts. They are designed to deploy the blades upon hitting the target. This mechanism helps penetrate deeper.

This type is more suitable for expert hunters who target animals with thinner skin. Note that it’s difficult to reassemble a mechanical broadhead once you decouple it to clean and sharpen. Also, some have thinner blades which makes them unsuitable for certain animals.

• Replaceable Blade

The replaceable blades have designs that allow you to use it on different kinds of crossbows. As the name implies, you can fix another once it becomes faulty. They’re fast and creates deep cuts too. Their only drawback is their short lifespan and maintenance costs. Fixed and mechanical broadheads are more popular than this variant.

2. Grain

A crossbow broadhead’s grain weight determines its performance in the wind and how deep it will penetrate in your game’s flesh. So, if you go for a heavier weight, you’re sure to make a smooth kill.

Besides, your strength with the bow will determine your ability to use broadheads. The best broadheads for compound bow usually come with grain weights of 80 to 150. You should choose one with a grain weight perfect for your crossbow and strength.

3. Cutting Diameter

Another important factor to consider is the cutting diameter. The broadhead to buy should have a good cutting diameter and penetration depth. Since each type has its own cutting diameter you should know what you want beforehand. A broadhead will be useless if it has a good cutting diameter but poor penetration depth.

Also, a broadhead with good penetration but with a poor cutting diameter will not give a quick death. It is important to check the cutting diameter and the number of blades before buying.

4. Material & Weight

The best broadheads for compound bows are usually made from carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Broadheads that are made from carbon steel have the sharpest blades. The only problem with carbon steel broadheads is corrosion. This is due to the high iron content. If you’re looking for strength, then you should consider buying broadheads of aluminum or stainless steel.

Besides, ensure that you check if the weight of the broadhead matches with your crossbow. This is to avoid having issues with accuracy and speed after buying the broadhead.

5. Kinetic Energy

The kinetic energy conveys the broadhead from the crossbow to the target. For mechanical blades, they need this energy to travel and release the blades at the point of the hit.

Since this energy drops with distance, mechanical blades are unsuitable for long-distant shooting. But if you’re confident in your skills, you can still try this out.

6. Number & Sharpness of Blades

You should consider the number of blades before choosing your broadhead. We can’t recommend the ideal number of blades for a broadhead because the preference varies from hunter to hunter. Most people prefer broadheads with either 2 or 4 blades, though there are trilobate, three-bladed or Scythian arrowheads.

Remember, sharpening your blades before you hunt will guarantee your success. A sharp blade will produce good penetration, making way for a quick and easy death. You can prep your broadhead by honing the blades with an Arkansas stone.

7. Penetration Capability

A good crossbow broadhead should pierce the game with ease. The effectiveness of the broadhead is given by its ability to crush the bones upon penetration. Also, the most accurate broadhead for crossbow should produce clean cuts that will prevent the deflection of the bolts at the contact point.

8. Flight Trajectory

Flight trajectory is given by the response of the moving broadhead to wind’s action. The thickness of the blades will determine how it’s affected by wind. For example, large blades produce negative flight trajectory than thin blades.

Also, the wind will affect distant range shots of 50 yards and above. If your broadhead spins, you can tune the blades or check the broadhead’s alignment.

9. Inserts

The function of an insert is to secure your broadhead to the bolt. You can increase the weight of your crossbow bolt with heavier inserts. Yet, you’ll need special inserts if your arrow is thin. But, this may increase the cost of your crossbow.

10. Legality

Some regulations govern the use of broadheads for safety and nature conservation. Sometimes these laws may affect a given broadhead type or an aspect of the broadhead. The law might be against or for a given number of blades or cutting diameter. It’s always recommended that you check with your local authorities first.

Why Use Broadheads

If you’re familiar with archery arrows then you should know their tips. So, the tip of an arrow with a large shaft is the broadhead. The ‘large shaft’ is the modification in the arrow which creates the broadhead. This modification in the arrow allows for the free flow of blood when it pierces the animal.

Many people may not be comfortable with the subject of blood flow because it sounds brutal. This implies that the broadhead will create a larger opening on the animal. This will cause more blood loss which in turn allow for a quick death. This is a more humane and cleaner way to kill the game.

Such arrowheads make the wound larger so the animal will either drop dead right away or slump within a few feet away. Of course, you’ll lose a good kill if the animal survives the hit.

Broadhead Maintenance & Storing Tips

Since you’ll rarely find cheap broadheads, there’s always a need for maintenance. The major aspect of maintaining your broadhead is in sharpening and storage.

Sharpening Tips

• Use Arkansas stone to hone the broadhead to enhance its sharpness
• Try shaving your arm’s hair after sharpening the blades. If it works, then your blade is good for use
• Remove any trace of corrosion on the blades by honing the areas between the hunt

Storage Tips

• Make sure that you sharpen your broadhead before storing. This will reduce the amount of time you’ll spend to hone the edges before hunting
• Wipe off any dirt or moisture from the blades
• You can apply lubricants on the edges of the blades to protect it from rust
• Try to store your broadheads in different boxes, especially when traveling so as to prevent the blunting of the edges following their continuous contacts
• Your broadhead should never come in contact with your foam’s quiver. This is to keep the blades from going dull by the foam

FAQs

1. Should I use heavier broadheads?

Ans. A heavier arrow with a high FOC (Front of Center) will have a lower kinetic energy but more momentum that might result in deeper penetration. This means you can use heavier broadheads if you think you’re skilled enough to handle them.

2. Do broadheads fly like field points?

Ans. Some manufacturers claim that their mechanical broadheads do fly like field points, but that’s not true. Some top quality broadheads may have better aerodynamics but they’ll never achieve the optimal arrow flight like field points.

3. What size broadheads should I use?

Ans. Broadheads usually come in three sizes: 1-inch, 1 1/8-inch, and 1 ¼-inch. The larger the broadhead, the greater the potential for damage but the more difficult for you to make a clean shot. For hunting small game such as rabbits or squirrels, a smaller 1-inch or 1 1/8-inch broadhead will do. A 1 1/8-inch or 1 ¼-inch broadhead is a good choice for medium-sized game like deer or antelope, . But you will need a 1 ¼-inch broadhead for larger game like elk or moose for deeper penetration through their thick skin.

4. What grain broadheads should I use?

Ans. Although broadheads come in a range of grain weights, from 75 grains to 300 grains or more, the most common weights for hunting are 100, 125, and 150 grains.

For lower draw weight bows or crossbows, you will do fine with a lighter broadhead such as a 100-grain as it will help maintain speed and accuracy. But a heavier broadhead e.g. 125-grain or 150-grain will provide better penetration and kinetic energy for larger game.

5. Do broadheads shoot different?

Ans. Yes, broadheads shoot differently than field points or other types of arrowheads because of their larger surface area and more drag. Some common differences you may notice when shooting broadheads include:

a) Wind drift: Because of their larger surface area, broadheads are more affected by wind than other arrowheads. This means you need to practice shooting in windy conditions so they don’t drift off course.

b) Point of impact: Broadheads can also impact the target differently than field points, meaning that they may hit slightly higher, lower, or to the side of your intended target. This can be due to differences in weight, shape, and size between the broadhead and the field point.

c) Arrow flight: The increased drag of a broadhead can cause your arrow to fly differently than it would with a field point. This can result in a slower and less stable arrow flight, which can affect your accuracy and range.