Chapter 4: Know Your Bow and Arrow
Broadheads

Broadheads are used primarily for hunting big game. There are three basic types of broadheads: fixed blades, removable blades, and mechanical (expandable) blades. All broadheads, regardless of type, must be sharp, durable, and matched to your equipment and the size of game being hunted. Blades must be sharpened after each practice and prior to going into the field to hunt.

• Fixed Blades: Used by many traditional-style bowhunters, the blades of this broadhead are frequently broad and are typically designed to glue directly onto the arrow shaft. Some have screw-in type ferrules that can be used with adaptors placed on the outside or inside of the arrow shafts.
• Removable Blades: This broadhead is designed so that the blades can be replaced on the ferrule. There is no need to discard the entire broadhead if only the blades are damaged.
• Mechanical or Expandable Blades: Blades are retracted close to the ferrule before the shot. Upon impact, the blades expand to expose the cutting edges. These blades are recommended for use only with bows rated 50 pounds or more because most mechanical heads require additional energy to open upon penetration.

ferrule: The center portion of a broadhead where the blades attach
Use a special wrench to screw on broadheads. This device covers the blades while a broadhead is being tightened on an arrow. If a wrench isn’t used, the slightest slip can cause a serious cut.	A Simple Method for Testing Broadhead Sharpness

For the greatest accuracy, make sure arrow points are aligned properly with the arrow shaft. This is critical with all styles of broadheads. Check all broadheads for alignment before shooting at an animal.

Arrows shaft inserts also must be properly aligned. Arrow shafts with a broadhead attached can be “spun” and observed from the point end for “wobble.” Simply place an arrow on a desk or counter with the broadhead extended over the edge and roll it across the surface. If the shaft appears to wobble rather than spin freely, check the alignment of the shaft’s aluminum or carbon-fiber insert. It must be aligned exactly in the center of the shaft, or the arrow will not spin smoothly.