What Is Fixed-Blade Broadhead?
A broadhead whose blades are permanently open and attached, with no moving parts and a simple, durable construction.
Fixed-Blade Broadhead: definition
Also called: fixed broadhead, fixed blade, cut-on-contact broadhead, replaceable-blade broadhead
A fixed-blade broadhead has blades that stay in one position from the moment you thread it on. There are no hinges, collars or bands, so nothing has to open or lock, which is the main reason people choose them. They are usually made from steel or similar material, and some models have replaceable blades while others are a one-piece unit.
Construction differs by design. Common features include two, three or four blades, a separate tip (often a chisel or cut-on-contact style) and a ferrule that holds the blades. The head threads into the insert in the same way as any other broadhead.
Because the blades are always exposed, a fixed head needs careful handling, a proper cover for storage and attention to how it flies. Large blade surface can catch air and act like a fin, so a fixed head can fly differently from a field point, particularly at higher speeds. Testing it against the field point is how you find out.
Fixed-blade versus mechanical, equipment comparison
| Factor | Fixed blade | Mechanical |
|---|---|---|
| Moving parts | None | Yes (hinges, collars, bands or clips) |
| Flight vs field point | Can differ because blades act as fins | Closer when blades fold flat |
| Handling | Blades always exposed | Blades folded until deployment |
| Maintenance | Sharpen or replace blades | Inspect locks and replace parts |
| Specification to compare | Blade count, cut, material | Cutting diameter, lock system, speed rating |
Why Fixed-Blade Broadhead matters
The simplest part of a fixed head is its biggest advantage: if nothing moves, there is less to fail. That matters to people who value mechanical simplicity. The trade-off is flight, because the blades can steer the bolt, and handling, because they are always exposed.
For practice, a fixed head also means you should expect some difference from a field point. Confirm with groups at your distances, adjust your sighting as needed and check your local rules before using it.
How to read it on a spec sheet
- Check the weight in grains and compare it with your field point.
- Count the blades and read the stated cutting diameter.
- Look for whether blades are replaceable or the head is a single unit.
- Check the thread and the ferrule material.
- Read any note on the maximum speed or minimum bolt weight.
Common mistakes
- Skipping a flight test against the field point.
- Storing heads loose where blades can be damaged or cause injury.
- Not checking blade condition after impact.
- Assuming a larger blade area means better. Bigger blades may steer more.
- Ignoring local broadhead rules.
Check a fixed-blade head
- Handle the head carefully using the maker guidance and cover it when not in use.
- Thread it onto a bolt and spin it to check for wobble.
- Shoot a five-bolt group at your shortest distance and compare it with your field-point group.
- Repeat at your longest practical distance and compare again.
- Inspect and replace damaged blades or the whole head.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fixed-blade broadhead?
It is a broadhead whose blades are permanently in position, with no moving parts. It threads into the bolt insert and is valued for mechanical simplicity, though its exposed blades require careful handling and a flight check.
Are fixed-blade broadheads more reliable?
They have fewer moving parts, so there is less to fail mechanically. That does not guarantee any outcome, so inspect the head, test its flight and follow the maker guidance and local rules.
Do fixed-blade broadheads fly differently from field points?
Often yes, because the blades can act like fins. The difference depends on head design and bolt, so compare a field-point group and a head group at the same distance before relying on it.
How do I store fixed-blade broadheads?
Keep them in their packaging or a cover so blades stay protected and nobody can be cut. Follow the maker instructions and keep them well away from children and pets.
Can I sharpen a fixed-blade broadhead?
Some are designed with replaceable blades and some can be sharpened, but methods vary. Follow the maker instructions and use appropriate hand protection when handling any bladed head.
What weight fixed-blade should I choose?
Choose a weight that suits your bolt and your crossbow limits and matches your practice tip. Common weights are 100 and 125 grains. Re-check your zero after changing tip weight.
Keep learning
Guides that use this term
- GuideFixed-Blade Hunting Broadheads GuideFixed-blade hunting broadhead guide: how they work, single vs. multi-blade design, cutting diameter, penetration, and when to choose fixed over mechanical.Read the guide
- GuideBest Crossbow Broadheads for Deer 2026Best crossbow broadheads for deer hunting: two reviewed mechanical heads compared, plus how to choose by speed rating, cutting diameter and kinetic energy.Read the guide
- GuideCrossbow Hunting Laws by StateCrossbow hunting laws by state: which states allow full archery-season use, which restrict it, and how to verify current rules before you hunt.Read the guide
Related terms
- BroadheadA bladed hunting tip that screws into a bolt insert, built as a fixed-blade or mechanical head and checked against a field point.
- Mechanical BroadheadA broadhead with folding blades held closed in flight by a band, clip or collar, and rated for speed and bolt weight.
- Field PointA non-bladed practice tip that threads into a bolt insert and matches broadhead weight for target shooting.
- InsertThe threaded fitting at the front of a bolt shaft that accepts field points and broadheads.
- GrainThe unit used to weigh crossbow bolts and tips, where 7,000 grains equal one pound, so a 400-grain bolt weighs about 0.9 ounce.
- FOC (Front of Center)The percentage of a bolt’s length by which its balance point sits ahead of the geometric midpoint, a measure of front-weighting.
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Definitions are general information. Manufacturer figures vary, so follow your crossbow's manual and verify local laws with the relevant authority.