The start of turkey hunting season varies a little from state to state, but it generally starts in late March to early April and runs through May. With turkey season now underway and many early mornings ahead, it’s time to consider what tools you’ll be using throughout the season. Broadhead arrows are a primary choice for many hunters, especially for those who are bowhunting.
Broadhead arrows consist of a large cutting point assembly that is attached to an arrow shaft. They are typically sorted into two main categories: fixed blade and mechanical blade broadheads. These categories can be further divided into a variety of arrow variations that offer different designs and elements, such as blade count and use of chisel tips, which can impact a hunter’s personal experience. There are many broadhead arrows available on the market, with plenty of new designs being released each year that offer something innovative.
Fixed Blade vs. Mechanical Broadheads
Fixed blade and mechanical broadheads both bring pros and cons to the table that will impact a hunter’s choice on which arrow type they prefer for turkey season. Each category refers to how exactly the broadhead arrow is created and how it works.
Fixed blade broadheads are more of a traditional arrow design. Typically featuring two to four blades, fixed blade broadheads are simple but effective. All blades remain in a fixed position before and after a shot is taken. The more blades on the broadhead, the more blood trail will be created. This type of arrow is a great option for hunters looking for a broadhead that is uncomplicated and always ready to go.
Mechanical broadheads are designed with blades tucked into or resting alongside the arrow’s ferrule. Since the blades create a low-key profile, these broadheads typically reduce drag once they’ve been shot—making them a perfect choice for hunters who want a fast, state-of-the-art arrow that comes in a range of different designs. Mechanical broadheads also offer both rear and forward-facing blade designs that extend on penetration of the target.
Broadhead arrow choice will be based on your preference and what exactly you want from your arrows during turkey hunting season. To help narrow down your choices this season, we’ve compiled a list of the best options for broadhead arrows to consider for use.
SEVR Titanium 1.5 4-Blade Hybrid
The SEVR Titanium (Ti) 1.5 4-Blade Hybrid delivers accuracy for any hunter looking for a hybrid choice that pairs mechanical and fixed blade broadhead elements together. Featuring a rear-deploy design, this broadhead arrow has two blades—a locking-pivoting main blade and a wide fixed bleeder blade to provide hunters a cut size of over 2.2 inches. With a fixed blade on this arrow, the bleeder blade will remain in its fixed position before, during, and after your shot. This blend of mechanical and fixed blade is a unique hybrid option that can alter your turkey hunting for deeper penetration.
Available in 100 and 125 grains, the SEVR Ti 1.5 4-Blade Hybrid offers hunters SEVR’s patented Lock-and-Pivot technology, a practice mode, and an accurate fixed blade option. For hunters looking to leave behind smaller wound sizes, be sure to keep in mind that with a cut size of 2.2 inches, bigger blood trails, and a large wound diameter will occur.
BEAST Broadheads
Choice in broadhead arrows varies from hunter to hunter, but one thing a hunter will always be on the lookout for is a high level of accuracy. The BEAST Broadhead affords hunters accurate shooting, high-speed deployment, and bone-evading blades all in one. Engineered with both patented and pending technologies over three years, this mechanical broadhead arrow is capable of deploying at speeds over 940 miles per hour for quick and effective impact.
Created with premium materials like German LUTZ blades, this broadhead arrow from Bowmar Archery was designed with versatility in mind. Compatible with crossbows and lower-poundage bows, the BEAST Broadhead may not be the go-to choice for hunters looking for a fixed blade arrow with a simpler approach, but its durability and fast-opening blades make it perfect for hunters who prefer a mechanical broadhead.
Rage Hypodermic NC
The Rage Hypodermic NC Mechanical Broadhead delivers the well-known penetration bowhunters expect from hypodermic technology. With no collar or O-ring to deal with, the Rage Hypodermic NC features a hybrid tip design and a solid steel, compact ferrule that makes for a great combination of quick penetration and aerodynamics that lends itself well to turkey bowhunting. Hunters will also find that this arrow has a 2-blade broadhead and is available as 100 grain.
These broadhead arrows afford hunters a high degree of accuracy and large, 2-inch-wide wound channels that create a blood trail for easy tracking. Some hunters have noted that the arrows can be difficult to resharpen and that the rear-deploying, stainless steel blades can be brittle at times.
Turkey Decapper System (BEAST DECAP Broadhead)
The Turkey Decapper System includes the ultimate combination of tools that any hunter needs during turkey season—including BEAST DECAP Broadheads. With the BEAST DECAP Broadheads, hunters can choose between a 3-inch cut with 145 grain or a 4-inch cut with 165 grain. Four broadheads come in this all-in-one system, including the Unrivaled Arrow, which has been configured for peak performance with these broadheads.
The tuning and guesswork are taken out of the equation with this cutting-edge system, putting precise, consistent headshots into any hunter’s hands with these broadheads. Other decap-style heads typically require low-poundage bows or careful adjustments. But the BEAST DECAP Broadhead system requires no changes to a hunter’s existing setup.
Choosing the right broadhead is a personal choice based on a hunter’s preferences. Be sure to consider the performance elements of each broadhead and what they can offer during turkey hunting season. Weighing your choices beforehand will ensure you can pack your arrows, broadheads, and grip tape with complete confidence.