Hunting arrows are designed to be sharp! Unlike a bullet, arrows have no shock or impact power. They need to quickly penetrate and promote instant bleeding. Many critters hit with a arrow never feel the passthrough.
I once created my own primitive bow, string, arrow, and knapped arrowheads. The points were knapped with an antler from chert. My turkey feathered fletching’s were attached using sinew and a homemade adhesive. I used this stick and string rig to harvest a white-tailed buck. At 15 yards the homemade arrow with a stone point passed through the buck. He just stood there and slowly walked off. I later found him near the creek.
The key to killing a critter with an arrow is bleeding. As the blood flows from the wound, the animal will become disoriented and often head to water. They become dehydrated and eventually go into shock.
Modern arrowheads come in many variations. No matter what tip you choose, always keep them sharp. There are well over 1,000 broadheads offered on the market. Let’s discuss a few points
MECHANICALS This arrowhead is designed to have folded blades that open upon impact. The slim profile allows the arrows to fly more aerodynamically. A retention system keeps the blades folded until penetration begins. You must shoot these heads in the closed position. Crossbows often shoot have this style of head. Mechanical heads lose energy quickly after impact.
FIXED BLADES These arrowheads have sharped edge blades that do not move. The winged blades can cause arrows to plane or drift. Some fixed blades are just a single flat blade while others can contain 6 blades. The blades can be bigger and wider. Replaceable blades offer sharp replacements. Use damaged or used blades for range practice. It is important to tune the arrow heads to the shaft and fletching.
HYBRIDS and SINGLE BEVELS Imagination creates many arrowhead variations. Some heads offer a fixed and mechanical feature. The goal is to increase the wound channel size. Single bevel, two bladed heads have some definite advantages. These blades are designed for larger big game animals like bears, moose, elk, and buffalo. The single bevel design causes the arrow to naturally spin and create a increased wound channel. This design tends to split bone rather than driving through it. This arrowhead works best on slower recurve and compound bows.
OTHER VARIABLES Modern arrowheads are designed to create a cutting diameter from ¾ of an inch to 2 ¾ inches. The larger the cutting area, the more damage you can inflict. More blades will reduce penetration, as the head quickly loses power upon impact.
Less powerful bows often shoot lighter arrows. These bows offer less than 50 pounds of power. Keep your heads simple and to just 3 or less blades. Cutting diameters should be less than 1 ¼ inches.
Mechanical and hybrid arrowhead are best for heavier draw bows and crossbows.
Arrowhead weights are also important. These points can range from 75 to 315 grains. Most hunters use 100-125 weight points. Since most archery kills are within 25 yards or less, speed is not a major concern. Heavier arrow and head combinations offer better accuracy and penetration.
Arrowhead tip shape is important. Chisel tips, cone shaped tips, and cut on contact tips provide different penetration needs. These styles offer instant penetration benefits. Heavy haired and hides can prevent penetration. These points offer a solution.
The most important concept about arrowheads is to accurately stick them where they can do the most damage. As range increases, accuracy, and energy decreases. Great archers rarely exceed 25 yards. I have never shot a bow killed critter at over 18 yards. Good hunters hunt and stalk. Getting close is a skill that is often overlooked.
AIM FOR THE EXIT!!! Whenever you shoot an arrow or bullet at a big game critter, think about where the projectile is leaving the body. Your goal is to create a wound channel through the lungs and vitals. Critters are rarely broadside when you shoot. Bones can deflect or stop a projectile. A well-placed shot is the most important skill you need to master. Practice often!
Aim Small, Miss Small!
Montana Grant
