Using screw‑in broadheads requires more than just threading them onto an arrow. To ensure safety, accuracy, and effectiveness, you need the right tools, techniques, and knowledge. This guide explains exactly what you should use and why it matters for your hunting success.
1. Use the Right Inserts
Screw‑in broadheads require metal inserts (also called adapters) that are pressed or glued into the arrow shaft. These inserts must:
- Be strong enough to handle high-force impacts (e.g., A2-tool‑steel inserts for premium penetration systems) :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
- Create a tight fit—avoid inserts made of weak aluminum; they may bend or blow out under heavy impact :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
- Be compatible with your arrow material and spine, and ensure correct installation per manufacturer guidelines.
2. Use a Broadhead Wrench or Ratchet Torque Tool
Proper torque is critical. Turning by hand is inconsistent and unsafe. Use a wrench designed for broadheads:
- Brands like Steel Force offer specialized broadhead wrenches for secure tightening :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
- These wrenches ensure consistent torque and help prevent uneven threading or loosening.
3. Apply Thread Locker (Optional but Recommended)
For maximum reliability, use a low-strength thread locker:
- It prevents heads from loosening in flight but still allows later removal.
- Apply just a drop to the threads before screwing in the broadhead.
4. Check Alignment and Penetration Capacity
- Ensure your broadhead is **perfectly aligned** with the arrow’s axis to maintain accuracy.
- Choose appropriate broadhead type:
- Fixed‑blade: e.g. Iron Will S100 for durability and edge retention :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
- Mechanical: e.g. SEVR Titanium 2.0 with locking blades and practice‑mode screw :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
- Budget: Magnus Black Hornet for cost‑effective fixed‑blade performance :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
5. Tune Your Bow With Broadheads In-Place
Never practice with field points and hunt with broadheads without retuning. Broadheads alter arrow weight and flight characteristics. Test them at 20–40 yards and check bare‑shaft vs. broadhead grouping to ensure tight patterns :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
6. Use a Broadhead Wrench Every Time
Before each hunt, double-check torque with a wrench. Even minor loosening can result in skews mid-flight or lost arrows.
Summary Checklist
| Step | Tool / Item | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Metal inserts (steel or reinforced) | Secure and survive impact |
| 2 | Broadhead wrench | Consistent tightness and alignment |
| 3 | Low-strength thread locker | Prevent loosening without damage |
| 4 | Proper broadhead type | Combine durability, flight, and penetration |
| 5 | Bow tuning | Avoid flyers, ensure accuracy |
| 6 | Pre-hunt wrench check | Catch any loosening before shooting |
Recommended Broadheads
- Iron Will S100 (fixed‑blade): Premium steel, ultra‑sharp, superb penetration and edge retention :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
- SEVR Titanium 2.0 (mechanical): Locking blades, practice screw, large wound channel—great for whitetails :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
- Magnus Black Hornet (budget): Four‑blade design, lifetime warranty, wide cut—excellent value :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
Conclusion
To properly screw on broadheads, you need strong metal inserts, a broadhead wrench, optional thread locker, proper tuning, and final torque checks. Choosing quality broadheads like Iron Will S100, SEVR Titanium 2.0, or Magnus Black Hornet ensures performance, reliability, and clean ethical kills. Follow these steps and you’ll maximize safety, accuracy, and hunting success.