Crossbows are typically used for hunting and competitive shooting sports. Aside from the physical characteristics of a crossbow and a compound bow, the broadheads that you use are different. The broadheads hit the target when a hunter damages or kills the prey. In a shooting competition, the broadhead is also the part that hits the target.
Can You Use Crossbow Broadheads on a Compound Bow?
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Yes. You can use a crossbow broadhead or any other broadhead on a compound bow. Similarly, you can use any broadhead on a crossbow. That doesn’t mean that the broadhead of a compound bow and a crossbow is the same. Because of the differences in the broadheads, many hunters use them for different purposes. However, if you happen to be in a situation where you have a compound bow and a broadhead, you should not hesitate to target your prey.
If, on the other hand, you are going to buy a broadhead, you should buy it based on the function it will serve. However, what is the distinct functions of the two types of broadheads? Continue reading the article to learn the distinction between the two and use them. We will learn how a crossbow differs from a compound bow and how the type of broadhead doesn’t matter throughout the process. Before we get to the frequently asked questions, we’ll see the difference between a broadhead and a fixed blade.
What Is the Difference Between Crossbow Broadheads and Compound Broadheads?
When you purchase a broadhead, you will notice that some of them come labeled “a crossbow.” Companies label crossbow broadheads because they are heavier than compound ones. Typically, a crossbow gives more kinetic energy, which provides the broadhead with speed and energy. For example, when you hunt using a crossbow, you will notice more penetration power because of the energy and momentum. On the other hand, the compound broadheads are lighter, and they are perfect for compound bows because they have less kinetic energy.
Since the crossbow broadheads are heavy, the shaft must also be heavy to create a balance. Therefore, the crossbow broadheads end up having higher grain than the rest. In contrast, the shaft and the broadheads made for compound bows are lighter. Consequently, they end up having a lower grain. Many people use broadheads with 150 grains for crossbows, while those with 100 grains are for compound bows. To easily distinguish the broadheads, especially from the same company, you can check the grains.
The other difference is that the compound arrows are more aerodynamic because they are long. In contrast, the crossbow arrows are less aerodynamic because they are shorter. That is why they need a crossbar with high kinetic power to make it float on air for a longer time. The high kinetic energy throws the arrow’s balance point forward, which gives it a consistent flight.
In the past, many people found that the mechanical blades of their crossbow arrows would open faster before they came into contact with the target. The higher speeds of the crossbow would cause the mechanical springs to open midway. Today, companies create crossbow broadheads with stiffer springs to increase the tension. The stiffer springs open when the broadhead comes into contact with the target. On the other hand, the compound bow broadheads don’t need to have stiffer springs. Using the compound bow has less kinetic energy, which makes the arrows move at a slower speed. As a result, when purchasing a crossbow broadhead, choose one with a higher tension spring.
In the end, some people prefer using fixed blade broadheads because they don’t open in mid-air. Now that we are on track with the differences between a crossbow and compound bow broadheads, you will not find it difficult to purchase the right broadhead for your bow. Let us find out more about fixed blade broadheads.
What Is the Difference Between Fixed Blade and Mechanical Broadheads?
There is an ongoing debate among hunters about which type of broadhead is better. As we now know, there are two types: fixed blade and mechanical broadheads. Many claim the fixed blade broadhead is more reliable. Others say the mechanical blade enables hunters to recover their prey quickly. To discuss the difference in detail, we should look at:
1. Accuracy of The Arrow
Companies have put a lot of thought into creating mechanical broadheads. The weight is perfect for maintaining a longer flight by moving swiftly across the air at high speeds. Therefore, it is challenging to miss prey once you aim in the correct place. In contrast, the fixed blade doesn’t have the same accurate aim as the mechanical arrow.
2. Tracking Ability
Once the mechanical arrow hits the target, the blades tend to open up, which creates a broader wound. The wider wound causes the prey to bleed more, making it easier for hunters to track their targets. In contrast, the fixed blade stays in place when the arrow penetrates, which creates a minor wound.
3. Arrow Flight
The fixed blade has a problem with arrow flight. If the fixed-blade arrow doesn’t come out of the bow straight, it will get resistance from the wind. As a result, you will have to sight in the bow every time you shoot at the target. That is not the case for the mechanical blades.
4. Penetration of The Arrow
Because of their shape, the field blade arrow penetrates deeper, and they have no resistance. This will cause more damage to the animal. In contrast, the mechanical blades need some force to open up, which reduces the arrow’s momentum. The momentum is also reduced further when the blades open up, and they receive resistance as they cut through the prey’s flesh.
5. Durability
The mechanical broadheads are less durable. During penetration of the blade through the animal’s flesh, it can come into contact with the bone. Compared to fixed blades, the bones often cause the mechanical blades to break.
6. Price
The mechanical blades are more expensive than the fixed blade broadheads because of the special functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you understand more about the different types of broadheads, we will answer some of the frequently asked questions.
Will The 125-Pound Grain Hypodermics Fit My Compound Bow?
Yes. The 125-pound grain rage hypodermics, including every other arrow with various grains, will fit into the compound grain. The difference comes when you consider factors like flight and speed. The 100-grain broadhead will perform better than the 125 grain because it is lighter. You can solve the problem by moving closer to your target when hunting if you have an arrow that is 125 grains or more.
Will The Extreme Turkey Broadhead Work On My Crossbow?
Yes. You can use any broadhead on a crossbow to hunt a turkey, including the Xtreme Turkey broadhead. The tip of the Xtreme Turkey broadhead expands and releases the blade when penetrating the flesh, causing more damage. The meat hooks slow the turkey and reduce the risk of it escaping.
Can I Shoot a Crossbow-Specific Head Out of My Compound and Vice Versa?
Yes. You can shoot a crossbow-specific head out of a compound bow or a compound head out of a crossbow. However, the ferrules will be different because they will either be narrower or wider than the arrow. The ferrule is narrow when you shoot a compound head from a cross bolt. In contrast, the ferrule is wider when you shoot a crossbow head from a compound bow. The bows will both work regardless of the size of the arrow or ferrule.
Which Broadhead Would You Recommend for Bows Shooting Upwards of 300 Fps?
Any broadhead will work when shooting at speeds that are higher than 300FPS. The broadheads today have high retention springs. The high retention reduces the chances of the broadhead opening midway. The broadhead opens when they penetrate the prey’s flesh, which means it’s safe to use any bow, including the high kinetic crossbow.
What Crossbow or Compound Bow Maintenance Do I Need to Do?
Like any other weapon or machine, the crossbow and compound need regular maintenance to ensure that they function as intended. You can use this list to ensure that you properly service your bow:
· Wax the string to reduce fraying. You should avoid waxing the part above the arrow rail because it will be sticky.
· Lubricate the middle of the rail using two fingers and spread. You can use two drops of lubricant.
· It would be best to lubricate the mounting bolts and the trigger box to avoid rust.
· Clean the scope lens whenever you notice that the vision is blurry.
· Check the brow string for any signs of wear and tear and buy a new one if yours is wearing out. Lubricating the bowstring increases the lifespan. Generally, a bowstring lasts for around 100 arrows fired.
· Before the ant hunting session, inspect your crossbow and arrow. Look out for loose bolts, bending or splintering the arrow shafts, twisting or cracks in the bow limbs.
· Clean dirt off your bow and arrow after every hunting trip, and then apply lubricant to avoid rusting.
· It would help if you tightened your bolts after a given period.
Should I Use Lighted Nocks with My Crossbow?
Using lighted nocks is a great way to find your arrows, especially under dark conditions. You can easily spot the arrow regardless of whether it ends up stuck on a tree, between leaves, or in the grass. As a result, you reduce the task or chore of looking for an arrow.