With such an overwhelming choice of crossbow broadheads available today, it can be difficult to choose the right one for you. Aside from the choice between fixed and mechanical, broadhead grain has a huge influence on the speed, accuracy, and lethality of a shot.
In this article, we delve deep into the world of crossbow broadhead weight, exploring its significance, impact on performance, and how to make the best choice for your hunting needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned crossbow hunter or a novice, this is essential information to ensure a successful hunt.
What Does Grain Mean in Crossbow Arrows?
Grain is the measure of weight given to crossbow arrows. It is one of the earliest and smallest units of measure, equating to about 1/7,000 pounds.
When deciding what weight crossbow arrow to use, hunters need to think about the combined weight of the arrow shaft and the broadhead. The arrow weight normally depends on the material and length, however, there can be great differences between manufacturers in their arrow composition and wall thickness.
For example, carbon arrows like the Excalibur Diablo Illuminated Carbon Bolts can weigh as little as 255 gr in an 18” length while TenPoint EVO-X CenterPunch arrows come in heavier at 400 gr and 445 gr for a 16 and 20” length respectively.
Broadheads also vary in grain weight but the differences are smaller. Fixed and mechanical crossbow broadheads weigh between 100 and 150 grains.
On our custom arrows, our preference is a 100 gr broadhead. This is because we add FOC strategically when building the arrow. Therefore the broadhead doesn’t need to weigh more than 100 grains.
As you get further away from a target, a heavier grain broadhead will result in drop-off. At 30 yards it is hardly noticeable between different-weight broadheads but if you double the distance you can expect a drop of 4-5 inches for a 25 gr difference.
So, how do you know what grain is best for your style of hunting?
What Grain Do I Need For a Crossbow Arrow?
We have found that a heavier arrow with the correct FOC carries more kinetic energy with a 100 gr broadhead. The result is more consistent and tighter groupings.
So what grain broadhead do you need?
You must consider the ratio and overall system weight of your arrows – arrow shaft, broadhead, and any additional weights (commonly found with custom arrows) combined.
Standard (400-459 grains) and heavier-weight arrows (460+ grains) carry more kinetic energy from the crossbow and penetrate better, increasing your chances of a clean harvest.
The key is to find your balance of kinetic energy and accuracy.
For us, around 550 gr is the limit for a crossbow arrow and broadhead.
A custom crossbow arrow uses carefully placed weights to create a perfect front-of-center (FOC) for tighter groups and greater penetration. Custom arrows vary in grain depending on individual preferences. Ours can weigh between 425 gr and 550 gr—including a 100 gr broadhead—depending on your crossbow.
Anything above 550 gr total weight you can start to see issues with accuracy and grouping consistency due to the arrow spine.
Cons of Using Lighter (Sub-100 Grain) Broadhead
While most broadheads are 100 gr, some weigh less. These are generally harder to find and we wouldn’t recommend them for two reasons.
Sub-100 gr broadheads will usually shoot faster, but they will also be louder. When the crossbow string releases the arrow, the overall arrow weight is lower, meaning it vibrates more and creates sound. This lack of absorption by the arrow can lead to faster wear on a bowstring.
Additionally, the front of center (FOC) is not balanced which can affect accuracy, grouping, and penetration.
Advantages of Using Heavier 100 – 125 Grain Broadhead
Standard to heavy-weight broadheads normally shoot quieter than a lighter-grain broadhead. The combination of a heavier broadhead and an inevitably heavier arrow—needed for stability—absorbs more energy from the bow. This results in less vibration and a smoother, more steady shot.
An added advantage is that a heavier arrow also helps optimize crossbow string life.
What Should I Choose?
At the end of the day, the best arrow and broadhead grain for you will mostly depend on the speed of your crossbow and what you are hunting.
From our experience, a 100 gr broadhead is ideal for most hunters, with an arrow weight of 400 gr or more.
To increase the overall weight and kinetic potential of your arrows for hunting big game, we advise choosing custom arrows that are strategically weighted to optimize FOC.
Our testing shows that these shoot better than lighter arrows with a heavier broadhead.
There are subjective advantages and disadvantages to just about any combination. The best way to be sure is to go to a range and test groups using different broadheads. Test with a 100, 125, and potentially a 150 gr to understand the difference.
Our go-to crossbow broadheads for custom arrows are the Rage Hypodermic NC, QAD Exodus, or Muzzy Trocar.
Every manufacturer will specify arrows for their crossbows which have often been tested using a certain arrow to achieve the advertised speed and grouping results. Keep in mind that you may void part or the full warranty if you use alternative or custom arrows.
If you are interested in going custom and want to understand more about the perfect weight custom arrow for your crossbow, you can use our custom crossbow arrow builder and contact us to find out more.
