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Best Crossbow Broadheads for Hunting 2017: Fixed Blade or Mechanical?

The best broadheads for crossbow shooting are the ones you are most confident with. There are various things that you have to take into consideration, given the plethora of choices available on today’s market.

We have prepared a list of the best crossbow broadheads that come highly recommended. You can use the reviews to compare the best products, share buying ideas with your fellow archers, or use the info for future reference.

You can only be able to buy the best crossbow broadheads if you know what to look for. Therefore, it is absolutely important for you to learn the basics, which include types and features of crossbow broadheads.

Types of Crossbow Broadheads

There are two major types of crossbow broadheads: fixed and mechanical. Each type has its strong and weak points, but the final purchasing decision depends entirely on your preference.

Fixed crossbow broadheadsMechanical crossbow broadheads

Fixed broadheads are objectively compact with a marginally smaller cutting diameter. There are some models that have canted blades for spinning the arrow. Basically, a more compact fixed broadhead has less surface area to develop drag and cause flight problems. In many cases, big blades tend to plane during flight.

Best Crossbow Broadheads-Fixed Blade

Mechanical broadheads are normally folded during flight in order to get rid of arrow plane problems. One of the most significant benefits of mechanical broadheads over fixed-blades is their sleek flight. They fly towards the mark like target points. These broadheads also offer higher game recovery rates compared to their counterparts.

Best Crossbow Broadheads-Mechanical

How to Choose the Best Crossbow Broadhead

You have to be absolutely practical when selecting the best crossbow broadheads for your archery adventures. Unlike crossbows and bolts, the performance of broadheads depends entirely on what you choose and how you plan to use them.

Accuracy is by far the most important feature

You must hit your target with precision or else you might end up frustrating yourself. If your initial and subsequent broadheads don’t fly spot-on every time you shoot, then nothing else matters. You can best gauge the accurateness of your crossbow broadheads by shooting several models.

Usually, broadhead forgiveness is dependent on the broadheads aerodynamic flights and crossbow tune. If at all possible, obtain used crossbow broadheads from a pro and practice with them to determine the model that is more accurate with your shooting skills.

Are your broadheads scalped sharp?

If you are a hunter, then you appreciate the importance of sharp broadheads. To check the sharpness, faintly drag the broadhead edge on a piece of paper. A sharp edge will not bend, but cut through the paper.

Conduct a thorough examination of the edges of the broadheads before making your final purchasing decision. There are some brands that do not do much as far as razor-sharpness is concerned; while others grind, hone, and strop their broadheads blades.

There is a tendency of most brands, advertising their crossbow broadheads as precision sharpness. Well, that is not always the case, and you will be fooling yourself if you think the blades are as sharp as the claims state.

The best thing to do is to confirm the sharpness of the blades. In fact, you should check each and every broadhead before you empty your wallet. You should know that sharp blades effectively reduce friction and double on penetration.

What about the design and quality?

The design usually has much to do with the type of broadhead; either fixed or mechanical. However, the end game is the same, which is hitting the mark with precision. You are advised to ascertain that each of the broadheads you select, weigh within one grain of each other.

A bigger variance in weight can considerably affect the consistency of your broadheads’ accuracy. Therefore, if one broadhead is weighing in at 125-grain, then the next piece should not weigh more than 127-grain.

The next design feature that can largely interfere with the performance of the broadheads is concentricity (the quality of having the same center). You can establish the concentricity of a broadhead by spinning the tip.

A broadhead that spins smoothly will exhibit less wobbling. The probability of this kind of broadhead flying truly every time you shoot it with your crossbow is high. You should consider a separate broadhead if the one you are using causes your crossbow bolt to wobble during spinning.

You should not forget to check on the toughness and durability of the broadheads. This has much to do with the materials used and construction. You do not want a broadhead that will fall apart on impact with the target. Such brands of broadheads will yield zero success during hunting.

Reviews of 10 Best Crossbow Broadheads on the Market 2017

1. Excalibur BOLTCUTTER 150GR SS 3 Blade

[img_products img_code=”61oVNlZiqrL” alt=”Excalibur Boltcutter 150gr SS 3Blade” code=”B0022SKD00″]

Excalibur bolt cutter broadhead is the ideal choice for a person looking for great accuracy and consistency. If anyone is judging the broad head on the parameters of weight, power, speed, size, and scope, this is without any doubt the best choice to make.

After the research of multiple years, this product is made for the convenience of the user. The main plus point of this device is the accuracy it offers, which is matchless. Even at the range of long distances, the high speed and precise measure make hunting really easy.

This product is made from stainless steel for increased strength and durability. It is 150-grain broad head with 1-1/16, for the delivery of excellent performance. With these amazing features, a user can hunt down the desired target without any difficulty and in less time.

This is actually a good choice for someone whose highest priority is strength, accuracy, and speed.

2. Barnett Cross GAMECRUSHER Broadheads

[img_products img_code=”81kXaityxnL” alt=”Barnett Cross Gamecrusher Broadheads” code=”B007FAQYQW”]

Barnett Cross broadhead is the most durable product in the respective category. It is the best choice for the one looking for accuracy and sharpness. Hunters are completely satisfied with the target they get with the sharp razors on the blades.

This mechanical broadhead is trusted most among hunters, because it is very resourceful during a deer hunt. The straight flight of this broadhead ensures precision shooting. The blades are made razor-sharp with the diamize material.

Even in tough conditions, the performance of these broadheads is amazing as compared to similar or competing products. This equipment comes in the pack of three and each broadhead weighs 100-grain.

The shape and style of these broadheads are really great and offer accurateness to even long distances. They never miss a shot if handled accurately. They are lightweight and easy to carry, because of the excellent material used in the production.

3. RAMCAT 100 Grain Broadheads

[img_products img_code=”61H3CspZT9L” alt=”RAMCAT 100 Grain Broadheads” code=”B003WHLA1Q”]

RAMCAT broadhead is engineered from the best material to guarantee precision and accuracy. The aircraft technology used in this fixed blades is amazing. No matter what type of crossbow is used to make a shot, the broad will hit the exact target with high speed.

The technologies used in the production serve as a great benefit. Concave scoop tool is used to improve the accuracy; while the use of back cut technology sharpens the blades in front and back side.

Another feature used is the firelock technology for the elimination of thread slop and to ensure the complete concentricity of the broadhead. The thickness of the blade is 0.032, which is great for cutting sharp objects.

The body is made of stainless steel to improve durability. The blades are sharp not only on the front side, but also on the rear end to improve the working and satisfaction of the customer. Regardless of the distance, the target is laid down in the desired place.

4. Trophy Taker Shuttle T-Lock Broadhead

[img_products img_code=”61TXLOrQg8L” alt=”Trophy Taker Shuttle T-Lock Broadhead” code=”B008U4RQ28″]

Trophy Taker Shuttle broadhead offers you superior performance in terms of accuracy, fastness, and size. The target is cut down with a big wound and left with no option of running away.

No sound is produced during the flight and target remains unaware of the fact that the broadhead is approaching. The penetration of these broadheads is like the field points, which leave a large scar and the dissemination of the hole is really deep.

All these features are required by every individual who wish to own the best and sharp broadhead. The material used in the production is stainless steel, which is treated with heat to increase strength and durability.

Even the dense bones can be cut down with the quiet and thick blades. The construction is one of a kind, it is durable and offers long-lasting reliability and durability. The tip does not break no matter what type of animal is being hunted down.

5. Rage – Hypodermic Broadheads

[img_products img_code=”719tBsjTyZL” alt=”Rage – Hypodermic” code=”B06XPKXHDQ”]

The level of penetration offered by this broadhead is even more than any other type of broadhead in the Rage category. The tough, new and challenging design of the tip is hybrid and contains all the qualities that should be present in the best broadhead.

The Hypodermic has the quality of aerodynamics as well as leading-edge blade structure. This helps in cutting down the bones of high strength game without any difficulty. The reason behind this durability is that the aerodynamic profile comprises of steel ferrule in one-piece.

The thickness of blades made from stainless steel is 0.035 inches, which make the razor-sharpness acceptable and the ideal choice for sharp targets. The blade retention is ensured with the shock collar.

A head for practice is also available so that the real head does not get damaged. These practice heads have same flights as the field points and deliver the best performance. The Rage is the broadhead you need for huge wounds, consistency and straight flight to distant places.

6. G5 MONTEC Broadhead

[img_products img_code=”31lNyy725kL” alt=”G5 MONTEC BROADHEAD 3/PK” code=”B06XPQJDGQ”]

The G5 MONTEC broadhead is available in multiple grains. It is constructed in a single piece with the options of 85 grain, 100 grain, and 125 grain. The sharpness is guaranteed with the razor-sharp blades and pointed tip.

There is no doubt that the G5 MONTEC will deliver great accuracy and consistency. The material used is stainless steel for lasting usage and durability; not to mention that the broadhead is highly user-friendly.

It is specially designed for the convenience of hunters and to provide them with the ultimate broadhead for hunting down the targets they always wish for. The blades are really strong because of the multi-tapered feature and easy to sharpen edges.

The flight is straight to the target with complete precision. A hunter can decide on the sharpness and accuracy just by using the practice heads for some time and then getting the original ones. In comparison to the other fixed blade broadheads, their accurateness is amazing.

7. Grim Reaper X – Bow MECH Broadhead

[img_products img_code=”31GTWa6oTHL” alt=”Grim Reaper X-Bow Mech Broadhead” code=”B0046YLUGO”]

The Grim Reaper Broadhead really acts as a grim reaper by giving an excellent performance and immobilizing the target right at the moment of impact. Whether it is used with crossbows or with compound bows of high energy, the Grim Reaper head on the top make it feasible for all kinds of bows.

This is the ultimate broadhead because it is incorporated with a razor tip and 3 consecutive blades on the top of it. It is a 100-grain broadhead with a cut diameter of 1.5 inches. The design is really astounding.

Generally, the broadhead looks great with the desired level of performance delivered, every time you make a shot. The consistency and accuracy are guaranteed by the use of excellent material in its manufacturing.

It is really a feasible device that fits for all kind of uses. It is an ideal choice for the hunters who desire a mechanical broadhead with multiple and comprehensive features, all in a single place.

8. Spitfire Maxx 100-Grain Cut on Contact 3-Blade Broadhead

[img_products img_code=”71uE2LJek3L” alt=”Spitfire Maxx 100-Grain Cut on Contact 3-Blade Broadhead” code=”B001VG9Z26″]

Spitfire broadhead features a state-of-the-art design, made specifically for the hunters, to provide field point accuracy. There is no need to use rubber bands in the presence of offset blades.

The quality of these broadheads is without any doubt one of a kind and reliable for all kind of hunters. The thickness of the blade is just 0.02 inches that increase the sharpness. Cut to contact point technology with the micro-grooved ferrule lay down the target as soon as it comes in contact with the broadhead.

For tracking the blood trails, massive holes are present on the entrance as well as on the exit. Large hemorrhages can only be made with the help of diamize sharpening technology of engineering pointed blades.

Even after being shot repeatedly, the blade and broadhead look really clean and accurate. The functioning is perfect with the ethical shots that do not leave the animal severely wounded with short blood trails.

9. Carbon Express XT Dual Blade Serrated Crossbow Broadhead

[img_products img_code=”618KA4IfmjL” alt=”Carbon Express XT Dual Blade Serrated Crossbow Broadhead” code=”B00AU6ANQK”]

The Carbon Express broadhead lives up to the reputation of high performing broadheads.  Hunters who desire something unique and fulfilling as compared to the traditional broadheads used in the past should seek out this broadhead.

There are 6 cutting edges for making a large wound on the target and leave it helpless. There is no chance of missing the best shots once you lock on your target. The precision and accuracy are made possible by the field point correctness.

All these qualities sum up to make a design of pro grade with smaller diameters and an aluminum ferrule. The stainless steel makes the blades sharp. The blades are also serrated to improve the durability.

The cross bolts of aluminum, as well as carbon, works best with this broadhead. No matter how strong the target is, the hard-wearing tip and blades will lay it down to the ground in no time. It is also quite easy to recover your kill.

10. SWHACKER 100 Grain 2-Inch Cut Broadheads

[img_products img_code=”71qQ50-ndeL” alt=”Swhacker Set of 3-100 Grain 2 Inch Cut Broadheads” code=”B00K0LJV6I”]

SWHACKER broadhead has the distinctive feature of providing two cutting edges technology to a hunter. A single set of blades is used to cut the ribs and hide, which is referred to as wing blade set.

The major task of cutting the air and bones during the entry process is carried out exceptionally with the blades. The main blade is used to make large cuts and penetrate through the target. In the initial process, no task is done with the main blade.

However, the virgin edges are used to cut the inner part once the broadhead penetrates the hide. The internal parts of the target are usually hard and they require razor-sharpness to cut through them, a requirement well-provided by the SWHACKER.

Stainless steel material and razor sharp edges make the overall broadhead an ultimate product for hunting. The sharp tips along with all the other features are necessary for a successful hunting trip.

Frequently Asked Questions about Crossbow Broadheads

1. Which broadhead tip penetrates the target best?

Among the various tips, a cut-to-tip head does penetrate better when compared to a chisel head. And a chisel head will have a better penetration than an expanding head.

2. Why didn’t my broadhead open after exiting the target?

It does usually open, but the swift deceleration of the crossbow bolt upon exiting the target, causes the blades of the broadhead to lock into the closed position.

3. My broadheads were producing audible noise during flight. Could this have caused most of my bad shots?

Yes, they did contribute to your bad shots. An overly noisy broadhead may interfere with the broadhead flight just enough to cause a bad shot.

4. Fixed blade or mechanical broadhead – which one is the better choice for deer hunting?

The choice of a fixed or mechanical broadhead does affect deer recovery rate. Research suggests that the use of mechanical broadheads has successfully improved deer recovery rate compared to the use of fixed blade broadheads.

5. How do I know a broadhead is not convenient?

A broadhead is not convenient for your intended application if it is dull out of the package, challenging to assemble or difficult to make concentric. You do not want such kind of broadheads; they will definitely perform poorly during a hunt.

Conclusion

Accurate shot placement and penetration are the key features to a successful hunt. These two attributes can only be obtained from well-built and high performing crossbow broadheads. As you have learnt by now, there are many factors to consider. The buying information and the list of the best crossbow broadheads ought to help you make a profound purchasing decision.

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Best Crossbow Scope for the Money 2017 – Reviews and Advice

A crossbow scope is a crossbow visual aid that can also be referred to as crossbow sight. When choosing the best scope for crossbow there are two main types of crossbow scopes to choose from: the red-dot crossbow scope, and the optical crossbow scope. Crossbow scopes are beneficial when hunting; they provide you with enhanced accuracy, increased range, improved score, whisper free operations, and increase your confidence while hunting.

What Is The Difference Between The Two Main Types Of Crossbow Scopes?

The red-dot type is the cheapest and has two varieties: the triple red dot, and the single red dot scope. In order to improve the accuracy of your shot when using the single red dot, you are required to align the dot with the target. While the three dot scope comprises of three dots, the top dot is for sighting targets within a 20 yard range, the middle dot is for a 30 yard range and the bottom dot is for a 40 yard range.

The optical crossbow scope is expensive but efficient when using. They comprise of various accessories making them heavy in weight. They come in with quality optics that offer you a magnification between 1* and 5*. They come in two different options the single or the multi-reticle type. Other crossbow scope types include the reticle crossbow scope which comprises of crosshairs that split up the lens into four quarters. The laser crossbow scope is recommended when hunting targets that are in motion. The function of the laser is to predict the location that the crossbow bolt is likely to hit.

How to Choose the Best Crossbow Scope

When deciding to add a scope to your crossbow there are various factors that you need to consider, here are some to help you.

Size and Weight

Scopes in the market are in numerous sizes because each person has his or her own preference and reasons of buying. Scopes that comprise of additional components are heavy in weight making it hard to carry around. Disadvantages of heavy scopes are: they might throw the crossbow off the balance, decrease accuracy, and make it difficult to hold the crossbow. Lighter scopes are available for portability, but choose one with a good range.

Durability

We all want to save on cost and that is why you need a gear that will last for a long period of time, and requires minimal repairs.  Choose a crossbow scope that can be used in various weather conditions. Some comprise of waterproof, fog proof and shockproof features. For added durability, the best scope for crossbow is easy to mount. This will reduce the possibility of wear, tear, or any sheer pressure while mounting or un-mounting. Check the scopes center tube diameter. This determines the rings size and base required for proper mounting. This is an important aspect for durability.

Optics

Choose a crossbow scope that will allow you to use it during the day and night.  Optics of high quality is important because they transmit a clear image even in the evening or in poor lighting conditions. The best optics to choose is those that are multi-coated. They provide good light transmission even in the dark, produce bright and crisp images.  An optic that is fog proof is also recommended. They allow you to use them in fog areas and provide you with a clear view without having to wipe the fog.

Magnification

One of the basic functions of a crossbow scope is magnification. This is one factor that you will always consider first when purchasing a scope. Magnification allows you to aim accurately, take a good shot and specifically know the target’s location.  Magnification allows you to enlarge the object you are aiming from a far distance in comparison to using your own eyes. Scopes vary in magnification but they mostly have a maximum magnification of 32*.

Length

The length of the crossbow scope is important for determining the magnification. For a good magnification you require a long scope. This is also a disadvantage since a long scope is heavier and that is why you need to get a scope that is lightweight but still offers you a great magnification.

Eye Relief

In order to avoid accidents when shooting the crossbow you require an eye relief. The eye relief refers to the distance from the shooting eye to the eyepiece lens. The best crossbow scope is one that offers you a long eye relief. It allows you to view the target without you being close to the eyepiece lens. A short eye relief is not recommended because it poses a risk to the eyepiece by making it hit your eye when shooting.

Top 5 Best Crossbow Scope to Buy in 2017 – Reviews and Comparison

1. Nikon Bolt XR Crossbow Scope

[img_products img_code=”71TkSWBLanL” alt=”Nikon Bolt XR Crossbow Scope Black Matte” code=”B004MYBSZQ”]

Nikon Bolt XR Crossbow Scope Black Matte (BDC 60) weighs 1.2 pounds which gives it a compact design that is lightweight. It is the best scope for crossbow that features a large ocular comprising of an eyepiece that offers you a rapid focus. The ocular is waterproof, fog proof and shockproof making it durable and less prone to damages.  Its optics offer you maximum brightness and contrast when sizing since it transmits 92% of the light available. The lens is coated with numerous layers of anti-reflective compounds offering you clarity. With its reticle BDC 60 you get to enjoy aiming points that are precise up to 60 yards.  You can also be able to sight in at 20 yards using the crossbows zero-reset turrets. It provides you with a magnification of 3 to 32* and an objective lens of 32mm.  This is the best crossbow scope for all weather conditions.

Pros

  • Perfect eye relief of 3.4 inches that allows you to get a full viewing angle
  • Its zero-reset turrets allows you to sight in at 20 yards
  • Can be used in the dark because its optics offer maximum brightness
  • The ocular is waterproof, fog proof and shockproof making the crossbow durable and an all-weather condition gear

Cons

  • Comprises of only dots and no horizontal sighting lines that are hard to view

2. Barnett Cross Scope

[img_products img_code=”61t9ogARxvL” alt=”Barnett Cross Scope w/Rings 4X32mm Multi-Ret” code=”B000JMNX7Q”]

Barnett cross scope 1706 is a 12.5-ounce crossbow scope that features a five-point programmed, multi-reticle crosshair system. This system allows you to acquire a rapid target when hunting.  Being lightweight you will be able to carry it around during your hunting activities. It is considered to be versatile, it is compatible will all full-sized crossbows in the company line.  It is water resistant and shock proof making it durable for a long period of time. It features a 0.875-inch dovetail mountain rings that offers you easy mounting and also increases the scopes durability. It is a 32-millimeter crossbow scope that offers you a 4* magnification. It is manufactured by Barnett who is a well-known manufacturer.

Pros

  • It is a durable scope, being water and shock resistant it will last for a long period of time with minimal repairs saving you money
  • It offers you accuracy with its 4* magnification allowing you to hit your targets even in long yards
  • It is versatile, it is compatible to all full-sized crossbows in the company’s line making it suitable for all hunters

Cons

  • Its blurry ring does not offer you a plain sight making it hard to use while deer hunting

3. Excalibur Tact-Zone Illuminated Scope

[img_products img_code=”6172VHWi78L” alt=”Excalibur Tact-Zone Illuminated Scope” code=”B00AU6BX8W”]

Excalibur tact-zone scope is made up of numerous features. It comprises of the updated reticle design, a tube measuring 30mm and a red/green rheostat illumination. It offers you clarity when hunting with its multi-coated lens. It is an adjustable scope for speeds between 275 fps and 410 fps. With its half inch click adjustments that are of 20 yards you are provided with ease in sighting. It weighs 1.1 pounds making it lightweight and easy to carry around.  It is durable for a long period of time and saves on cost because it is shockproof. With that said, this is the best crossbow scope for hunting and target shooting.

Pros

  • Its click adjustment of 20 yards and yardage marker provides you with easy sighting in
  • Clarity, its optics are clear and its illuminated rheostat allows you to clearly see and you are able to adjust brightness
  • Accuracy and fast, its red and green dots provide you with fast accurate zeroing in on your target
  • Allows to shoot even a walking target like a deer with its adjustment that is built into the sight

Cons

  • The scope allows you to zoom in but the lines after zero do not match the crossbows speed

4. Truglo Crossbow Scope

[img_products img_code=”71ApEW8UdFL” alt=”Truglo Crossbow Scope 4X32 with Rings APG” code=”B001EYBNFW”]

Truglo crossbow scope features a four inch eye relief that allows you to hunt even at a distance. With this type of crossbow you will never miss a target. It comprises of lenses that are fully coated providing you with maximum brightness, contrast and a clear view. It offers you the capability of adjusting with its rubber eye-guard, fingertip windage and elevation adjustment.  It comprises of an aluminum structure making it durable. It’s one piece tube is made of an aircraft aluminum that is of high quality. For added durability, the scope is resistant to scratch and comes in a reflective matte finish.

Pros

  • Can be used in low light conditions, its coated lenses provide you with maximum brightness
  • Saves you on repair costs and is less prone to damage due to its aluminum construction style and it scratch resistant
  • Protects your eye when hitting a target with its four inch eye relief

Cons

  • Cannot be used in foggy areas, it is not fog resistant and the gas tends to leak out making the scope fogged up.

5. Hawke Crossbow 1.5-5X32 IR SR Scope

[img_products img_code=”41jkkpLtiCL” alt=”Hawke Crossbow 1.5-5X32 IR SR Scope with Illuminated Circles” code=”B007W39PR2″]

The Hawke crossbow scope is a well-known brand in the market. It is known to match any bow available making it a preference to all hunters. It comprises of a crossbow speed selector that allows it to match any crossbow. It has a fast performance level making you have accurate and fast shots towards the target. It features one inch optics that transmits high levels of light. The scope is able to do so because its optics is multi-coated fully. They provide you with dual colors to choose from that are red or green. With its precision reticle, it allows you to aim points exactly ten yards with intervals between twenty to one hundred yards.

Pros

  • Can be used at night and also in poor lighting conditions, its optics provide you with maximum light
  • Allows you to aim at long distances with its aiming point interval of up to 100 yards

Cons

  • It is difficult to view the scope’s crosshairs in dark conditions

In Conclusion

Crossbow scopes are better than ever. Technology continues to improve; broadband lens coating, side wheel illumination, flip-open lens caps, and so on. Hopefully, the information presented above will help you understand the nomenclature of your scope of choice, and assist you with the purchase of a quality model. A crossbow can be the best in the world, but the attachment of a high-quality scope will make it the most resourceful hunting gear.