Effects of broadhead design on arrow speed and accuracy?

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Broadhead Types and Their Effects on Arrow Speed Broadhead design significantly impacts the arrow’s speed, with the primary factor being the kinetic energy transferred to the broadhead. Fixed-blade broadheads typically have a larger cutting diameter, which increases the drag and reduces the arrow’s speed. A good example of this is the 2-blade Slick Trick, which has a cutting diameter of 2.5 inches and is known to reduce arrow speeds by approximately 10-15 feet per second (fps) compared to a mechanical broadhead like the Rage 2 Blade, which has a cutting diameter of 1.5 inches and maintains arrow speeds.
Cutting Diameter and Flight Characteristics A smaller cutting diameter, typically found in mechanical and hybrid broadheads, results in less drag and allows for faster arrow speeds. However, this increased speed may compromise on penetration, especially when hunting larger game. For example, the Rage 2 Blade has a cutting diameter of 1.5 inches and is capable of maintaining arrow speeds above 280 fps. In contrast, the Muzzy 3-Blade broadhead has a cutting diameter of 2 inches and may reduce arrow speeds by 20-25 fps due to increased drag.
Choosing the Right Broadhead for the Job When choosing a broadhead, consider the type of game you are hunting and the desired balance between speed, cutting diameter, and penetration. For smaller game like deer, a hybrid broadhead like the G5 Montec 100 may be an excellent choice, offering a cutting diameter of 1.5 inches and maintaining arrow speeds above 290 fps. When hunting larger game like elk or moose, a fixed-blade broadhead like the Slick Trick may be more suitable, despite the reduced arrow speed, due to its increased penetration capabilities.