It is not advisable to use a crossbow broadhead with a regular bow. Crossbow broadheads are designed to be used with crossbows, which have a different draw weight and speed than regular bows. Nevertheless, using the correct shock collar can make it work.
Rage Hypodermic 2-Blade Crossbow NC Broadhead
- Reliable blade retention with Hypodermic Nc +P
- 1.75" cutting diameter for lethal wounds
- Hybrid Hypodermic Tip for pinpoint accuracy
- Purchase includes three 100 Grain broadheads
- Proudly made in the USA by Rage
While it’s true that some Rage crossbow broadheads may work with a regular bow in specific situations, it’s not always safe or advisable to do so. Here’s why:
Safety Concerns:
- Crossbow broadheads are typically much heavier and larger than regular bow broadheads. This can affect arrow flight dynamics, potentially causing erratic behavior or impacting accuracy. This can be dangerous, especially for close-range target practice.
- Mechanical broadheads like Rage have blades deployed by internal mechanisms. These mechanisms are designed for the higher kinetic energy of a crossbow and might not deploy reliably or safely with the lower power of a regular bow.
Performance Consideration:
- Crossbow broadheads are often optimized for deep penetration, which may not be necessary for regular bow hunting. This can result in excessive tissue damage and reduced blood trails, even for smaller game.
Legal Considerations:
- Some hunting regulations may restrict the use of mechanical broadheads or broadheads exceeding a specific weight or blade deployment size. Check your local regulations before using a crossbow broadhead with a regular bow.
Therefore, while it’s technically possible to use some Rage crossbow broadheads with a regular bow, it’s generally not recommended due to safety concerns, performance limitations, and potential legal issues. It’s best to use broadheads specifically designed for your bow type and hunting application to ensure safety, ethical hunting practices, and optimal performance.
So, can you use rage crossbow broadheads in a regular bow?
Here’s a workaround that FeraDyne Outdoors uses if you must insist. The manufacturers themselves address the issue in their FAQ:
“If you are using the proper shock collars for your bow, you can shoot a crossbow head out of a compound bow or a compound head out of a crossbow. …”
Mechanical Broadhead
- Fixed blade cutting diameter
- Expandable cutting diameter
- Offset fixed blades for induced spin
- Steel ferrule with Special tip design
Now, to shoot Rage crossbow broadheads with a bow, check out the five shock collars that Rage offers for different broadheads and bow types:
- Standard Collar (Black): For compound bows and crossbows shooting under 340 FPS.
- High Energy Collar (Red): For crossbows shooting 340 FPS or higher.
- 3-Blade Collar (Black): Specifically for all 3-blade Rage broadheads.
- Standard Hypodermic Trypan Collar (Gray): Only for Hypodermic Trypan broadheads.
- Crossbow Hypodermic Trypan Collar (Red): Only for Hypodermic Trypan broadheads used with crossbows.
At the end of the day, we do not recommend forcing the issue of using something not designed for regular bows.
Contents
- Why are special broadheads required for crossbows?
- What is the difference between a fixed blade and mechanical broadheads?
- Can I use Rage Broadheads with a crossbow initially designed for speed?
- How do you choose the best Rage broadhead for crossbows?
- How does Rage keep the blades from opening?
- Can you use Rage hypodermic in a crossbow?
- The Beginner's Guide for The Right Archery Release Types
- Do crossbow limb dampeners work?
- Can you make a crossbow quieter?
- Is the Ravin Crossbow Scope the Game-Changer you Need?
- Author
Why are special broadheads required for crossbows?
The purpose of special broadheads for crossbows is to assist in keeping the blades closed until impact. If it opens easily, the effect may not be as ideal as when you use special broadheads.
The mechanical broadheads have one ultimate purpose. It is to keep the blades closed until they impact the target.
As you can see, the blades can open at higher speeds early.
When this happens, the arrow will become less aerodynamic. And with a less aerodynamic arrow, it throws the arrow off its flight trajectory.
When this happens, the arrow will veer off the path it is supposed to take. The trajectory and the trail become unpredictable.
Broadheads and Points
- Diverse range of arrow tips and broadheads for hunting and target practice
- Fixed and expandable broadheads are available for different game sizes and preferences
- Field points and small game points are suitable for practice and small game hunting
But let us say the arrow continues to fly straight. Let us say the arrow continues to hit its target despite the early opening of the blades.
It will still not have the same penetration power. It will not be able to cause as much vital wound damage to the target.
Blades that open early are concerns that have bothered archers for many years.
However, this is not a huge concern when you are using compound bows.
When you use the same broadheads in your crossbows, you will have the blades open before it hits the target.
These days, manufacturers like Rage have addressed the issue.
Crossbows are becoming faster as the years go by. And as they became faster, manufacturers like Rage started to address this problem.
Crossbows have brought more kinetic energy than compound bows and recurve in recent years. Some crossbows can even attain a speed of 400 fps or more. Yes, some models can reach that speed.
Rage, together with other manufacturers, now includes stiffer springs. Models these days also come with advanced blade retention systems.
This design will keep the blades closed until they impact the target.
What is the difference between a fixed blade and mechanical broadheads?
Several differences appear between a fixed blade and mechanical broadheads. The most notable differences include accuracy, tracking ability, arrow penetration, durability, and prices.
Fixed Broadhead for Crossbows
- Streamlined blades for aerodynamic performance
- Design enhances arrow stability
- Exceptional accuracy at extended ranges
- Penetrating tip for superior performance
- Robust steel ferrule ensures durability
- Generous cutting diameter for effective impact
And so, the debate continues.
There is a continuing argument between archers about which is better. Is it the fixed blade? Or is the mechanical broadhead the better option?
Some would claim that the fixed blade broadhead is the better option. Others also see that the mechanical broadhead is more reliable than the other. As per the latter, mechanical blades allow hunters to recover their prey faster.
Here, we will tackle the differences between the two.
After the discussion, you decide which works for you.
Accuracy
When it comes to accuracy, the mechanical broadheads win hands down.
Manufacturers put a lot of emphasis on creating mechanical broadheads.
The weight of the mechanical broadheads is perfect. Its perfect weight allows the broadhead to maintain a more extended flight. It moves fast across the air. And even at high speeds, it can maintain its trajectory without concern.
Mechanical broadheads rarely miss their prey as long as the aim is perfect.
On the other hand, fixed-blade broadheads do not have the same level of accuracy.
Tracking Ability
As you already know, the blades tend to open once the mechanical arrow hits its target.
It would, of course, create a broader wound.
4-Edge Broadheads (Crossbow)
- Four Razor-Sharp Blades: Maximize cutting surface area for increased lethality and better wound channels.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials ensure longevity and performance in demanding crossbow hunting conditions.
- Easy Installation: User-friendly design allows quick and hassle-free installation for efficient use in the field.
- Versatile Design: Suitable for various game, providing field-point accuracy and a balance between penetration and wound size.
Naturally, a more comprehensive wound can result in the prey bleeding more. It is easier, therefore, for the hunter to keep track of their game and targets.
On the other hand, fixed blade broadheads may stay in place upon penetration of the prey. The wound is minor.
There is less bleeding. The tracking becomes a bit more complicated.
Arrow Flight
In this aspect, there will always be a concern with a fixed blade.
The problem with fixed-blade broadheads is in their arrow flight.
Sometimes, the fixed blade arrow does not come out of the bow straight. When this happens, the fixed blade gets resistance from the wind.
Because of the resistance, you must always sight-in the bow. You have to take this extra precaution every time you shoot a target.
Such extra precaution and such a problem does not exist with mechanical blades.
Arrow Penetration
The fixed blade broadheads have a distinct shape.
Because of the shape, it penetrates deeper. It also offers no resistance.
As such, the blades can cause more damage to the animal or prey.
On the other hand, mechanical blades require a little force to open up. This requirement minimizes the arrow’s momentum.
The momentum also lowers down as the blades open up. The resistance happens as they cut through the flesh of the prey.
Killer Instinct Boss 405 Pro Package
- Quick And Deadly: Tough and agile mechanism helps you hit small, quick game as well as larger, tougher animals
- Adjustable Design: 6-position adjustable butt-stock comfortably fits a variety of users while the aluminum barrel stock is designed to withstand wear-and-tear
- Power And Speed In 1: Fires at a rate up to 405 feet-per-second and generates up to 134 foot-pounds on a hit, blending accuracy and striking power
- Stealthy: Built-in Dead Silent limb and string suppressors reduce noise and prevent prey from noticing you as you track them
Durability
A concern with mechanical broadheads is their durability.
It is less durable.
It can come into contact with the bone when it penetrates its prey. As it comes into contact with the bones, it may break.
This concern is something you do not find in quality fixed blades.
Price
Regarding prices, mechanical blades are on the higher spectrum of things.
They are more expensive than fixed-blade broadheads.
Mechanical blades have special functions. And this is the main reason for the price difference.
What is the difference between Rage crossbow and compound bow broadheads?
Standard and crossbow broadheads differ in ferrule diameter: .320″ for standard and .350″ for crossbow. Remember, choose crossbow broadheads if your bow shoots above 400 FPS for optimal performance.
Can I use Rage Broadheads with a crossbow initially designed for speed?
You can use Rage broadheads with a crossbow for speed. However, there are risks like that of an early blade deployment. If you can, use Rage broadheads with crossbows designed for them.
Some crossbows in the market are faster than others—such differences in speed result in the risk of early blade deployment.
Now, if you are using a crossbow designed to work with speeds of 400 fps or more, you must stick with Rage broadheads explicitly made for crossbows.
How do you choose the best Rage broadhead for crossbows?
When choosing the best broadhead from Rage, consider the grain, technology, and cutting diameter. These considerations can guide you in selecting the best in the market.
Rage is a manufacturer with a long line of broadheads in the market. Its long line of broadheads includes several options made specifically for crossbows.
Rage NC X-Treme Chisel Tip Broadhead
- Redesigned Excellence: X-Treme features Nc blade retention, exclusive Slip Cam, and no need for Shock Collar or O-ring.
- Premium 2020 Design: 2-blade, 100% aircraft-grade aluminum ferrule with 2.3" instant deployment.
- Lethal Performance: 100-grain, bone-crushing chisel tip for superior results.
- Economical Purchase: Two Rage Nc X-Treme Coc broadheads included, worry-free replacement blades available.
Hypodermic Crossbow NC is a great example. You can also try out the X Blade Crossbow of the X-TREME NC Crossbow. Finally, the Hypodermic Trypan Crossbow is another decent choice.
When you compare these broadheads, you must look at a few considerations. The manufacturers used cutting diameter, grain, and technology to keep the blades closed.
Of these four options I gave, I prefer the Hypodermic Crossbow NC the most. It does not need an O ring. It also does not require a shock collar or a rubber band.
It also uses the Slip Cam technology that is unique to Rage. This technology makes use of a pivot point on the blades. The system results in the blade anchored to the closed position.
This technology eliminates the requirement for an alternative method to secure the blades.
If you are the type who prefers a heavier broadhead, you may also want to consider the X Blade Crossbow. It comes in a 100-grain size. The Hypodermic Crossbow NC is also heavy at 125-grain size.
Almost all of the broadheads from Rage come with a cutting diameter of two inches.
The Rage X-TREME NC Crossbow is slightly more giant. It comes with a cutting diameter of 2.3 inches. Because of the slight difference, it results in a broader entry hole. It also results in a more significant blood trail.
How does Rage keep the blades from opening?
Some Rage models come with an O ring. But most Rage models come with a rear-deploying blade designed with a blade retention system. Such a design keeps the blades closed.
Rage designed its mechanical broadbands to perform without its blades opening up early.
The rear-deploying blades come with a blade retention system. Such a design secures the blades and keeps them closed until the perfect time.
Well, other models use an O ring.
Rage Shock Collars
- Universal fit for most Rage broadheads
- Patented shock collar technology for closed blades in flight
- Durable construction for weather, wear & tear
- Easy slide-on installation
- Firm blade retention on impact
- Replaceable for worn collars
- Enhanced safety with closed blades
The O ring is a small rubber band. It is something that slides over the ferrule.
The blade of the broadhead comes with minor grooves. The grooves secure the rubber ring and work by reducing the chances of the blade opening up prematurely.
Known as arrow point locks or gaskets, the O rings, however, wear fast.
After every use, you will perhaps try to rotate the ring slightly. This step is to secure the blade to an unused part.
The O ring, however, is not a perfect solution to the premature opening up of blades. Despite the O ring, some hunters still experience early start-up of blades. As such, Rage introduced shock collars to the market.
Shock collars serve as blade retention accessories.
They are small plastic collars. They come with grooves, slide into the ferrule, and pass through the O ring. It covers the O ring. Its primary purpose is to increase the holding power of the blade retention system.
There are newer Rage broadheads in the market. Most of them already come with shock collars.
Also, Rage introduced legacy collars that you can use with previous models. Rage Legacy Shock Collars pair well even with heavier models like the 100-grain Rage broadheads.
If you want to, you can still use the standard shock collars. The regular shock collars pair well with any Rage broadhead.
However, we recommend using high-energy shock collars if you use a crossbow. They come with more retention power.
Barnett Explorer XP400
- Compound crossbow with crank cocking device & hunting accessory package in Strike. Provides power & performance in one affordable package, shooting 400 feet per second
- Adaptable: Compound crossbow is completely customizable with an adjustable butt stock and cheek rest for an incredibly comfortable fit and overall shooting experience. The Explorer XP400 features dual laminated limbs, which makes it durable.
- Safety Features: Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (Adf) Trigger System, TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology
It does not matter what kind of shock collar you use.
All you have to do is to replace it after every use.
Shock collars come with breakaway petals. You could consider these to be single-use objects because of this.
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To close the discussion, let me emphasize that when choosing broadheads, they match your preferences. You will be fine if you have the features that matter to you.
Make sure to look for these features when choosing an arrowhead. It serves no purpose to purchase brand-new hardware just to discover that it is deficient. It will not help to learn later that the one you purchased does not meet your expectations.
Getting a broadhead takes a lot of thinking.
You have to put into mind several considerations.
But once you have a perfect broadhead, your performance will be top-notch. It’s as if you finally hit the target.
Can you use Rage hypodermic in a crossbow?
For standard bows, grab the regular Hypodermic with its .320″ ferrule. But if you’re handling 400+ FPS, opt for the .350″ crossbow Hypodermic— it comes with a special collar built for handling high speeds.
Rage Crossbow X Broadhead
- Precision - Rage broadheads are known for their accuracy and their legendary wound channels
- Massive Cutting Surfaces – Rear-deploying, SlipCam design with huge leading-edge blade and razor sharp .035" thick stainless steel expandable blades; 2" cutting diameter; 100 Grain
- Technology - Improved Shock Collar Technology ensures proper blade retention while bolt is stored & in-flight and allows for broadhead to open upon impact – Aluminum Construction Ferrule Alignment Technology
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