Long before the invention and use of guns, archery was the method for hunting. Tribes over the world have relied on it to provide food for their families, and though the tools and tactics have evolved over the years, the principle remains the same. Let’s take the example of broadheads, i.e. the sharp cutting points at the end of the arrow.
With time, they’ve undergone design changes to get to the varieties of archery broadheads we have today, created with utmost success and precision in mind. The end goal is the same - they’re created to deliver a swift and clean kill of the game you’re hunting. The difference in the advanced is they inflict maximum damage by destroying a large amount of tissue that ends up causing blood loss.
Unlike with traditional arrows, relying on these elements gives you way more advantage and success rate considering these sharp points can pierce through hides, organs and even bones. With this in mind, you can count on a bigger variety of game, ranging from small to large. Knowing the different types, as well as how to use them, skill plus tool combined, can provide you with the hunting results you’re after.
What Are the Different Types of Broadheads?
There’s a variety of options you’d be able to find at the specialized stores for hunting equipment, but three main types are how you can classify them, which are:
Fixed-Blade Broadheads
If you’re looking for the traditional type, this is it. As the name indicates, these are arrows with fixed broadheads, and as such are made for your utmost reliability no matter how many times you use them. Despite this fixed property, and the fact there are no moving parts, these archery broadheads can be found in a range of options when it comes to the size and design.
In addition to their strength, the reason they’re highly reliable and often the preferred type of many is the lack of the moving parts so during the flight or impact you don’t have to worry about any malfunction. Their robustness also makes them suitable for bigger game, and hitting thick hides and bones.
Some areas where they aren’t that advantageous though is in the susceptibility to wind deflection which then leads to reduction in the accuracy particularly when you’re shooting at a longer range or higher speed. If you’re a beginner, these are areas you should work on to be able to count on higher accuracy if you plan on using this type of broadhead.
Mechanical Blade Broadheads
Think of an advanced option that increases your shooting success - it’s this mechanical type of broadheads which is also known as expendable because these are broadheads that expand upon impact to create a bigger cutting diameter. Prior to hitting the target, these parts are tucked in to make them more aerodynamic. Once they hit the target, that’s when the blades come outward, causing more damage to the animal.
This type of profile makes them of superior accuracy since there’s considerably less susceptibility to wind deflection and drag. If you plan on hunting at larger distances and higher speeds, this is a type you should invest in. In addition to these advantages, there’s also the point of the increasing cutting diameter which makes for a more ethical kill as the animal is dead quickly.
Still, all these pros aside, there’s a weakness this type of broadhead comes with and that is precisely in the moving parts. Unlike the fixed alternative, this one may not function properly upon impact, especially if hitting a hard surface like a bone. Sometimes, you may also not be aware of a fault in the mechanism itself, so it’s always best to buy from reputable brands and retailers to count on a quality purchase.
Another point you should focus on is your skill. It’s advisable to practice so you always get a clean shot, and avoid shooting a bone to be able to count on a successful hunting result and reduce the risk of a non-functioning mechanism. Another aspect to keep in mind is the need for higher kinetic bow energy, in which case a traditional archery setup may not be the most suitable choice.
Replaceable Blade Broadheads
You might as well guess by the name that this is a type of broadhead with interchangeable blades. This gives you plenty of opportunity to work with different blades, see which one suits you best, and which one you prefer using over time. Once you’re done for the hunting day, you can immediately switch the blades to improve your accuracy while minimizing the drag for the next time.
This doesn’t only provide you with the chance for customization as you see fit, but also gives you more control over your shots. Still, since you get to do the changing often, it’s best to get the perfect storage for this kind of element so you don’t damage, misplace, or lose it prior to your hunt.
No comments:
Post a Comment