Best Crossbow Broadheads: Ultimate Guide

Last Updated on October 14, 2024

Choosing the perfect crossbow broadhead can feel like a challenge, especially with so many options out there. You want something reliable, accurate, and lethal—the broadhead that helps you make every shot count. Whether after a big game like elk or just aiming for precision on smaller targets, the right broadhead can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ve rated and tested the 7 best crossbow broadheads on the market. From fixed blades to mechanical options, we’ve covered the top performers to help you find the one that suits your style and needs.

Best Crossbow Broadheads of 2024

Each product shines in its own way, whether you’re looking for precision, power, or versatility. Ready to take your hunting game to the next level? Let’s dig deeper into the top choices!

ProductImageBlade CountCutting DiameterMaterialWeightBlade TypeLink
Rage Crossbow X 2-Blade22 inchesStainless Steel100 grainsMechanicalView Product
Muzzy Trocar HB Hybrid4 (2 fixed, 2 mechanical)1-5/8 inchesSteel ferrule, stainless steel blades100 grainsHybridView Product
G5 Outdoors Montec31-1/16 inchesSolid stainless steel100 grainsFixedView Product
NAP Spitfire Mechanical31-1/2 inchesDiamize stainless steel blades100 grainsMechanicalView Product
Excalibur Boltcutter31-1/16 inchesHigh-grade stainless steel150 grainsFixedView Product
Swhacker 2-Inch Cut2 (Primary + Secondary)2 inchesStainless Steel100 grainsMechanical (Two-stage)View Product
Grim Reaper Broadhead31-1/2 inchesStainless steel100 grainsMechanicalView Product

1. Rage Crossbow X 2-Blade Broadhead

Rage X 2-Blade Crossbow Broadhead

Tech Specs:

  • Blade Count: 2
  • Cutting Diameter: 2 inches
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Weight: 100 grains
  • Blade Type: Mechanical

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The Rage Crossbow X 2-Blade Broadhead is one of the most popular choices among hunters who prioritize precision and lethal impact. It features a shock collar technology that ensures the blades stay intact until impact. This will prevent premature deployment. Once it strikes the target, the blades expand to an impressive 2-inch cutting diameter and deliver devastating wound channels.

This broadhead is also a top seller for its extreme accuracy and aerodynamics, especially when shot from high-speed crossbows. Its sleek design reduces drag during flight to hit your mark more consistently.

PROS
  • Large cutting diameter
  • Maximum ethical tissue damage
  • Shock collar prevents blade deployment in flight
  • Consistent accuracy at high speeds
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • Can fail to deploy in rare cases

2. Muzzy Trocar HB Hybrid Crossbow Broadhead

Muzzy Hybrid Crossbow Broadhead

Tech Specs:

  • Blade Count: 4 (2 fixed, 2 mechanical)
  • Cutting Diameter: 1-5/8 inches
  • Material: Steel ferrule, stainless steel blades
  • Weight: 100 grains
  • Blade Type: Hybrid (Fixed + Mechanical)

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The Muzzy Trocar HB Hybrid combines the best of both fixed and mechanical broadhead designs. With two fixed blades and two mechanical ones, this broadhead ensures deep perforation along with an enhanced cutting diameter. Its solid steel ferrule gives it remarkable longevity, and the trocar tip ensures bone-splitting penetration. Designed for crossbow hunters, it maintains consistent performance even at higher speeds. It is a versatile option and provides a balance between accuracy and power.

PROS
  • Versatile Choice
  • Excellent sharpness with trocar tip
  • Durable steel construction
  • Good value for the money
CONS
  • Mechanical blades add complexity
  • Slightly difficult to tune for accuracy

3. G5 Outdoors Montec Crossbow Broadhead

G5 Outdoors Crossbow Broadhead

Tech Specs:

  • Blade Count: 3
  • Cutting Diameter: 1-1/16 inches
  • Material: Solid stainless steel
  • Weight: 100 grains
  • Blade Type: Fixed

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The G5 Montec Crossbow Broadhead is a no-nonsense, fixed-blade broadhead that’s built for serious durability and dependability. It is made from one solid piece of stainless steel. This broadhead is designed to penetrate deep and offer hunters excellent performance for bigger games. Its 3-blade design ensures maximum surface area for better blood trails.

The Montec’s blades are razor-sharp and retain their edge after multiple shots. Best of all, they are easy to resharpen, making this a long-lasting investment. So if you prefer the reliability of fixed blades, this broadhead is worth considering.

PROS
  • Solid one-piece construction
  • Reliable for deep penetration
  • Easy to resharpen
CONS
  • Smaller cutting diameter
  • Requires accurate tuning

4. NAP Spitfire Crossbow Mechanical Broadhead

NAP Spitfire Mechanical Crossbow Broadhead

Tech Specs:

  • Blade Count: 3
  • Cutting Diameter: 1-1/2 inches
  • Material: Diamize stainless steel blades
  • Weight: 100 grains
  • Blade Type: Mechanical

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The NAP Spitfire Crossbow Broadhead is a top-performing mechanical broadhead designed for superior penetration and massive cutting. With razor-sharp Diamize blades that deploy on impact to unleash a devastating 1-1/2-inch cutting diameter, it carves a wide wound channel for unmatched stopping power. The Spitfire uses a unique spring-clip blade retention system. This broadhead is also appreciable for consistency. And with field point accuracy, it’s a great choice for crossbows that shoot at higher velocities.

PROS
  • Great accuracy at high speeds
  • Spring-clip retention
  • Razor-sharp blades
  • Easy to set and replace
CONS
  • Small cutting diameter
  • Requires precise shot placement

5. Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Broadhead

Excalibur Boltcutter Crossbow Broadhead

Tech Specs:

  • Blade Count: 3
  • Cutting Diameter: 1-1/16 inches
  • Material: High-grade stainless steel
  • Weight: 150 grains
  • Blade Type: Fixed

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The Excalibur Boltcutter is one of the heaviest broadheads available, designed specifically for crossbow hunters looking for maximum penetration. Weighing in at 150 grains, this broadhead is all about kinetic energy and power. The 3-blade fixed design ensures deep penetration, even on thick-skinned games like elk and wild boar. The blades are designed for straight, long-distance flight with excellent accuracy. So if you’re using a high-powered crossbow, the additional weight helps to maintain stability, especially in windy conditions.

PROS
  • Heavyweight design
  • Ideal for big game hunting
  • Consistent accuracy over long distances
  • Value for the money
CONS
  • Heavyweight reduce speed
  • Small cutting diameter

6. Swhacker 2-Inch Cut Broadhead

Tech Specs:

  • Blade Count: 2 (Primary + Secondary)
  • Cutting Diameter: 2 inches
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Weight: 100 grains
  • Blade Type: Mechanical (Two-stage)

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If you’re looking for a broadhead that balances precision and lethality, the Swhacker is a fantastic option. The 2-inch Cut Broadhead offers a unique two-stage blade deployment system. Its smaller primary blades create an entry wound, while the larger secondary blades only deploy once they’ve passed through the animal’s hide. This system minimizes energy loss on impact and ensures a massive wound channel inside the animal. The design also helps prevent the blades from being damaged before they reach vital organs.

PROS
  • Unique two-stage blade system
  • Deeper penetration
  • Massive internal damage
  • Reduces energy loss on impact
CONS
  • Requires accurate tuning for best results
  • Mechanical deployment can fail in dense brush

7. Grim Reaper Crossbow Broadhead

Tech Specs:

  • Blade Count: 3
  • Cutting Diameter: 1-1/2 inches
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Weight: 100 grains
  • Blade Type: Mechanical

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The Grim Reaper Crossbow Broadhead is designed specifically for the fast speeds generated by modern crossbows. With razor-sharp blades and an impressive 1-1/2-inch cutting diameter, this mechanical broadhead delivers massive tissue damage. The Grim Reaper’s spring-loaded blades open on impact. It can stay accurate even when shot from crossbows with speeds exceeding 400 fps. Its aerodynamic design minimizes drag. You can pair it with Carbon Express Maxima crossbolts for exceptional accuracy.

PROS
  • Performs well at high speed
  • Massive cutting diameter
  • Aerodynamic design
  • Excellent accuracy
CONS
  • Requires careful shot placement
  • Slightly less durability compared to fixed blades

Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Crossbow Broadhead

Choosing the right crossbow broadhead can feel overwhelming from direct online shops, but don’t worry. I’ve got your back. Let’s break down a few key factors before making your choice.

Broadhead Types

There are two main types of broadheads: fixed and mechanical. If you’re the type who likes reliability in any condition, then fixed blades might be your thing. They don’t have moving parts and are great for deep penetration, but require a bit of tuning. On the other hand, mechanical broadheads offer a larger cutting diameter, which leads to more devastating wound channels. They only expand during impact, but you’ve got to trust they’ll deploy properly. It’s all about finding what suits your hunting style.

Cutting Diameter

A bigger cutting diameter generally means more damage, and that’s what you want for a clean, humane kill. Mechanical broadheads have larger cutting diameters—some even up to 2 inches or more. Fixed blades, although slightly smaller in this regard, often make up for it with deeper penetration. Think about the game you’re hunting. Larger cutting diameters are great for soft-skinned animals, but smaller ones might work better on thicker-skinned targets.

Weight

Most broadheads come in 100-grain or 125-grain options, though some heavy-duty ones go up to 150 grains. So, why does weight matter? A heavier broadhead can give you more kinetic energy and deeper penetration. For larger trophies, consider a heavier head. But remember, it might slow your arrow down slightly. If speed is your priority, stick to 100 grains.

Durability

When you’re out in the field, you don’t want to worry about your broadhead bending or breaking. Look for materials like stainless steel or solid titanium. These materials offer excellent durability and help your broadhead stay sharp shot after shot. A durable broadhead is an investment that could save you a lot of frustration—and potentially a missed shot.

Accuracy

You know that feeling when everything lines up perfectly, and your arrow flies true? That’s what you want. The best broadhead won’t help you if it’s not accurate. Mechanical broadheads fly more like field points, which makes them a popular choice for precision shooters. Fixed blades can be trickier to tune, but once you’ve got it right, they’re just as reliable.

Price vs. Value

Sometimes, the most expensive option isn’t necessarily well suited for you. Think about how often you hunt, what kind of game you’re after, and what you really need from your broadhead. Although premium broadheads offer incredible performance and durability, more affordable options can still get the job done—especially if you’re hunting smaller game.

Game Type

Are you hunting deer, elk, or maybe wild boar? Each of these animals requires a different approach. Larger animals need a broadhead with deep penetration, while smaller games might benefit from a broader cutting diameter. Make sure your broadhead matches the type of game you’re hunting for maximum effectiveness.

FAQs:

Do mechanical broadheads fly differently from field points?

Yes, they do. Mechanical broadheads are designed to fly more like field points because they don’t have exposed blades during flight. This helps with accuracy, especially at longer distances.

Can I reuse my broadheads?

Absolutely! But it depends on the broadhead and the condition after impact. Some broadheads, especially fixed blades, can be resharpened and used again. However, if your broadhead has bent, chipped, or broken blades, it’s best to replace it. Mechanical broadheads are trickier to reuse since their moving parts can wear out. Always inspect your broadhead after each use to make sure it’s in good shape.

Can I use the same broadhead for all types of games?

In theory, yes. But to get the best results, it’s smart to choose a broadhead designed for the game you’re after. Larger animals with thicker hides require deeper penetration, so you’ll want something heavy and durable, like a fixed blade. For smaller game or animals with thinner skin, a mechanical broadhead with a wide cutting diameter can give you a better chance at a quick and clean kill.

Are heavier broadheads more accurate?

Not necessarily. Accuracy depends more on your crossbow and how well-tuned it is. A heavier broadhead can give you more stability in flight and penetrate deeper, but it might reduce your arrow’s speed. If your bow is powerful enough, the extra weight won’t be an issue. The key is to practice and see how your setup handles different broadheads.

Do broadheads need to be sharpened?

Yes, especially if you’re using a fixed-blade broadhead. After a few shots, even the sharpest blades can dull a bit. A sharp broadhead ensures cleaner cuts, better blood trails, and more humane kills. If you’re using mechanical broadheads, make sure the blades are still razor-sharp before reusing them. Some can be sharpened, but others might need to be replaced.

Final Thoughts

When it comes down to it, picking the right crossbow broadhead is all about matching it to your hunting style and the game you’re after. Whether you lean toward the simplicity and reliability of fixed blades or the devastating power of mechanical broadheads, the key is to find the one that makes you feel confident every time you take a shot. We’ve looked at some of the best broadheads available, each with its unique strengths.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Take your time, test different broadheads (if possible), and go with what works best for you and your crossbow.

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