Are Crossbow Broadheads Different?
Except for the weight there is no significant difference between the crossbow broadheads and the regular broadheads. Apart from that, manufacturers play a role in making an apparent difference here.
Although, the operation of both crossbow broadheads and regular broadheads are same they claim that the heavier broadheads are made for crossbows as their bolts are shorter than the regular arrows so heavier broadheads ensure the accurate launch of the bolt.
Anyway, there is no major difference between the crossbow broadheads and the regular broadheads. Still you can find 100 to 150 grain broadheads in the market from which 125 to 150 grain broadheads are most recommended for use with crossbows.
Nevertheless, your query on “Are crossbow broadheads different?” demands some further investigations indeed. Because, there is a lot more to know about that makes the sense stronger.
What Are Crossbow Broadheads
The blade that is used in the front of the crossbow bolt is literally the crossbow broadhead. That was a literal answer, but actually the crossbow broadheads are the broadheads that are a bit heavier than the regular broadheads and fits best with the crossbows bolts. Because of producing more kinetic energy the crossbows bolts need to be heavier in the front so it can launch at the target with accuracy.
However, for the two types of broadheads, mechanical and fixed blade, the fixed blade crossbows are more suited for crossbows because the high Fps Velocity of the crossbow doesn’t affect its path of fly. But the mechanical ones give a bit trouble as sometimes their blade before reaching the target because of extra force.
What Are Regular Broadheads?
Broadheads are available in the range of 80 to 300grains. After the weight the thing that differs them is their type. If we answer, what are regular broadheads? It will be the broadheads that weigh from 90 to 125 grains, and fixed blades in type are regular crossbows.
Regular broadheads are mostly used in the traditional and compound bows. As the arrows of the regular bows are way longer than the crossbows and come with flexible arrow spine, so they high weight in the front of the arrow can cause imbalance in the mid of the air. So, the low grain broadheads are considered to be the regular broadheads.
Are Crossbow Broadheads Different Than The Regular Broadheads?
You already have got the answer in the earlier discussion that there’s no major difference except for the weight. But the draw weight, higher produce of kinetic energy makes certain differences when choosing a broadhead for crossbows or for regular bows. Also, the type of the broadheads sometimes makes it more compatible with the crossbows.
As study shows, the mechanical broadheads don’t work perfectly with the crossbows. To solve this problem, some manufacturers came with the broadheads that have stiffer springs. This is a special kind of spring which reduces the pressure on the broadhead and prevents it from opening before reaching its target.
Also, some of the broadheads you may find written “crossbow” on their body which is in real just for showing. The manufacturers puts the label “Crossbow” on the 125 to 150 grains crossbow. Not because they are specially made for crossbows but they can fly retaining the speed because of their heavy weight.
So, don’t get confused over the advertisement of the maker but decide the exact one that fits for your crossbow. Determine the difference by the weight of the broadhead and make sure it is compatible with the draw weight of your crossbow as IBO suggests.
What Kind of Broadheads Should I use For a Crossbow?
There are two kinds of broadheads available, the mechanical broadheads and the fixed blade broadheads. Two of them have frequent uses and both of them are best in their places and features. For crossbows the fixed blade broadheads are more recommended rather than the mechanical ones.
The mechanical crossbows are the upgraded version of broadheads which remain folded when firing and the blade expands when it reaches the target. These blades in this broadheads unfolds by the pressure of hitting the target and makes big wound so the hunt dies quickly. But because of the extended kinetic energy of the crossbows the blades unfold sometimes before reaching the target. According to experts, the use of mechanical broadheads seems to be less effective for crossbows.
Then comes the fixed blade broadhead which is somewhat like the upgraded version of ancient arrowheads. These broadheads are the most durable ones as their blades are fixed. Also, this kind of broadheads are reusable for several times and do not have risks of breaking like the mechanical ones. Besides, the blades can be sharpened whenever needed. Likely, this type of broadheads suits best for crossbows.
However, many hunting crossbow under $400 are available with different types of broadheads so you can choose your type. No matter which kind of broadhead you choose for your crossbow remember to choose the one that comes with 100-grain or 150-grain broadhead. This chart below will help you out the exact grain amount of broadheads according to crossbows draw weight.
Related Questions
Will Compound Bow Broadheads Work In Crossbows?
Yes, the compound bow broadheads will work within the crossbow. By the operation of the compound bow broadheads will not be so effective if the broadhead is too heavy or too light. Not having the right grain size will harm the position of the bolts spine. So, the target will not be achieved as expected.
Is A 100 Grain Broadhead Or A 150 Grain Broadhead More Accurate For A Crossbow?
For crossbows the 125 grain to 150 grain broadheads are more preferable. However, it totally depends on the purpose for which you are using the crossbow. If it is for hunting then you will need speed and accuracy so the weight of the broadhead needs to be 125 to 150 grains. If you are practicing aiming indoors then you can go for a higher grain broadhead as there is no wind pressure indoors and the weight will help you to reach the target.
