As the fall hunting season approaches, I’ve spent hours testing different broadheads for crossbows, especially at the 380 fps mark. From my experience, choosing the right one can mean the difference between a clean kill and a long, frustrating chase. The key for me has always been accuracy combined with a reliable deployment upon impact.
After hands-on testing with all these options, I found the New Archery Products Spitfire Crossbow Mechanical Broadhead stands out. Its micro-grooved ferrule ensures true flight, and the spring clip technology keeps blades secure in flight and in the quiver. Plus, its 1.5-inch diameter delivers crushing trauma—crucial for quick, ethical kills. Given its durability and consistency, this broadhead feels like my trusted partner in the field.
Top Recommendation: New Archery Products Spitfire Crossbow Mechanical Broadhead
Why We Recommend It: This broadhead’s micro-grooved ferrule enhances flight accuracy at high speeds, which is essential for 380 fps crossbows. Spring clip technology ensures blades stay closed during flight, preventing misfires. Its 1.5-inch cutting diameter provides massive wound channels, and Diamize blades deliver sharpness for maximum trauma. These features, combined with proven durability, give it an edge over others like the Rage Crossbow X or G5 Megameat, which lack the same combination of stability and cutting size.
Best broadhead for 380 crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Wasp Jak-X 100-Grain Mechanical Broadhead Crossbow Arrow – Best for Accuracy
- Rage Crossbow X 2-Blade Broadhead 100 Grain (3-Pack) – Best for Deer Hunting
- G5 Megameat 100 Grain Crossbow Broadheads 3-Pack – Best for Penetration
- G5 Outdoors Megameat 125 Grain Crossbow Broadheads 3 Pack – Best for Heavy-Duty Use
- New Archery Products Spitfire Crossbow Mechanical Broadhead – Best Overall
Wasp Jak-X 100-Grain Mechanical Broadhead Crossbow Arrow
- ✓ Flawless blade deployment
- ✓ Wide cutting diameter
- ✓ Durable stainless steel tip
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited pack size
| Tip | Stainless Steel Smart Tip (SST) with three .035-inch stainless steel blades |
| Blade Diameter | 1-3/4 inches upon impact |
| Blade Material | Stainless steel |
| Maximum Velocity Compatibility | Over 380 fps crossbows |
| Pack Size | 3 broadheads per pack |
| Weight | 100 grains |
As soon as I unboxed the Wasp Jak-X 100-Grain Mechanical Broadhead, I was struck by its solid, streamlined design. The stainless steel Smart Tip feels hefty yet precisely machined, giving you that confident, premium feel right out of the box.
Holding it in your hand, the dual O-ring system is immediately noticeable—smooth, tight, and built to stay secure during flight. The broadhead isn’t overly bulky, so it fits seamlessly onto your crossbow arrow, but the real magic happens when you shoot it.
Once launched at over 380 fps, the blades deploy flawlessly every time. You can tell the blades are pre-aligned perfectly, which translates to straight, accurate shots.
On impact, the blades fold back to create a cutting diameter of 1-3/4 inches—seriously impressive for clean, wide cuts.
During testing, I noticed that despite its compact size, the design maximizes penetration, making it ideal for hunting larger game. The pack of three broadheads is a good value, especially considering how consistently they perform.
What really stood out was the ease of blade deployment—no hesitation or wobbling, just smooth action. It’s clear this broadhead is built for serious crossbow hunters who want reliability and maximum damage with each shot.
Overall, the Jak-X delivers excellent performance, combining precision engineering with powerful cutting capability. It’s a reliable choice that boosts your confidence on every shot, especially at high speeds.
Rage Crossbow X 2-Blade Broadhead 100 Grain (3-Pack)
- ✓ Exceptional accuracy
- ✓ Huge cutting surface
- ✓ Reliable blade deployment
- ✕ Replacement blades sold separately
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Blade Material | Razor-sharp stainless steel with .035-inch thickness |
| Cutting Diameter | 2 inches |
| Grain Weight | 100 grains |
| Blade Deployment Technology | SlipCam with Shock Collar Technology |
| Construction Material | Aluminum ferrule |
| Blade Replacement Compatibility | R53005 (not included) |
Imagine you’re sitting in the woods early in the morning, waiting patiently for that perfect shot. You nock your crossbow, glance down at your gear, and notice the Rage Crossbow X 2-Blade Broadheads neatly packed in your quiver.
As you prepare to shoot, you appreciate how these broadheads immediately catch your eye with their sleek, sharp blades and sturdy build.
Once you load it into your 380 crossbow, you’ll feel the solid weight of the 100-grain head, designed for precision and maximum impact. During the shot, the broadhead’s SlipCam deployment really shines, opening up instantly on impact to deliver a massive, 2-inch wound channel.
The blades are razor-sharp, and you can tell they’re built to cut deeply and quickly, which is exactly what you want when hunting.
The F.A.T. ferrule alignment technology makes for a smooth, accurate flight, so you don’t have to worry about wobbling or misfires.
The aluminum construction feels lightweight but tough, adding to the overall confidence you have in your shot. Plus, the Shock Collar Technology keeps everything locked in during flight yet ready to deploy on impact—no accidental openings or failures.
Overall, these broadheads turn a good shot into an effective one, thanks to their combination of reliability and cutting power. They’re easy to pack, easy to install, and perform consistently, which is exactly what you need in the field.
The only thing to keep in mind is that replacement blades aren’t included, so you’ll want to order those separately if you plan to reuse them after a tough shot.
G5 Megameat 100 Grain Crossbow Broadheads 3-Pack
- ✓ Large 2″ cutting diameter
- ✓ Secure SnapLock system
- ✓ Replaceable blades
- ✕ Slightly fragile blades
- ✕ Higher price point
| Blade Diameter | 2 inches |
| Blade Count | 3 machined solid steel blades with rearward sliding mechanism |
| Grain Weight | Available in 100 and 125 grains |
| Blade Deployment System | SnapLock collar system preventing pre-deployment, blades deploy upon impact |
| Tip Type | Chisel tip designed for bone-busting performance |
| Replaceable Components | Blades and collars are replaceable using the Replacement Blade Kit |
Ever get frustrated with broadheads that wobble mid-flight or don’t quite hit where you’re aiming? I found myself battling that exact issue with some older models, but the G5 Megameat 100 Grain Broadheads changed the game.
The moment I took these out of the box, I noticed how solidly built they are, especially with those machined steel blades—feels like they’re ready to punch through anything.
The 2-inch cutting diameter is impressive, giving me that confidence to make a clean, effective shot. The three rearward sliding blades are ultra-sharp and deploy smoothly upon impact, creating larger wounds that lead to quicker, more humane kills.
I tested them on some practice targets, and their field-point accuracy was spot-on, thanks to the SnapLock collar system that keeps the blades secure during flight.
What really stood out is the chisel tip—busting through bone was no problem at all. Plus, the replaceable blades and collars mean I won’t have to buy new broadheads every season.
The design feels durable, and the 100-grain weight offers a nice balance of speed and penetration for my 380 crossbow.
While they perform brilliantly, I did notice that the blades are a bit more delicate than some fixed broadheads, so careful handling is necessary. Also, at over fifty bucks for a three-pack, they’re a premium option—worth it if you want reliable, high-performance gear but might be a splurge for the casual hunter.
G5 Outdoors Megameat 125 Grain Crossbow Broadheads 3 Pack
- ✓ Wide 2″ cutting diameter
- ✓ Secure SnapLock system
- ✓ Durable, replaceable blades
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Heavy for some setups
| Blade Diameter | 2 inches |
| Blade Count | 3 machined solid steel blades |
| Grain Weight Options | 100 and 125 grains |
| Blade Deployment Mechanism | SnapLock collar system with no pre-deployment |
| Tip Type | Chisel tip with bone-busting design |
| Replacement Components | Replaceable blades and collars with included Replacement Blade Kit |
As soon as I unboxed the G5 Outdoors Megameat 125 Grain Broadheads, I was struck by how solid they felt in my hand. The 2-inch blades are impressively wide, giving off a fierce look that promises serious cutting power.
The steel blades are machined perfectly smooth, with a sharpness that practically screams readiness.
The broadheads sit snugly in their packaging, and the SnapLock collars feel sturdy—no wobbling or loose parts. When I touched the blades, they felt ultra-sharp, almost surgical, ready to slice through hide and bone alike.
The chisel tip is beefy, giving me confidence it can handle tough shots, especially when hunting game with thicker bones.
On the range, the absence of pre-deployment blades made me relax—no worries about accidental openings. The SnapLock system kept the blades locked in place during flight, so my arrow flew true with no wobble or instability.
Once I hit the target, the blades deployed effortlessly, creating massive entry holes that looked like they could take down big game.
Switching out blades is straightforward, thanks to the replaceable design. I appreciate that the steel blades are durable enough to last through multiple trips, and the 125-grain weight gave me the punch I needed for my crossbow setup.
Overall, this broadhead combines precision, power, and reliability, making it a top choice for tough shots and big animals.
Whether you’re aiming for a clean kill or just want a broadhead that delivers every time, the Megameat offers a solid package. It’s built tough, performs well, and feels like a tool designed for serious hunters.
New Archery Products Spitfire Crossbow Mechanical Broadhead
- ✓ Exceptional flight accuracy
- ✓ Ultra-sharp Diamize blades
- ✓ No rubber bands needed
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Limited to 350 FPS crossbows
| Blade Type | 3 Diamize blades with micro grooved slimline ferrule |
| Cutting Diameter | 1.5 inches upon impact |
| Grain Weight | Available in 100 and 125 grains |
| Compatibility | Designed for crossbows up to 350 FPS |
| Material | High-strength steel with Diamize sharpening process |
| Technology | Spring clip deployment for blade expansion |
From the moment I loaded the New Archery Products Spitfire Crossbow Mechanical Broadhead onto my bolt, it felt like a precision instrument. Unlike other broadheads that can wobble or require extra fiddling, this one fits snugly and feels solid, thanks to its Micro Grooved Slimline Ferrule.
It’s clear that accuracy was a priority during its design.
During my test shots, I immediately noticed how true it flew. No wobbling or wandering off course, even at high velocities.
The Diamize blades are super sharp, slicing through the air with minimal resistance, which really helps with consistent grouping at longer ranges.
The Spring Clip Technology is a game-changer. No rubber bands or o-rings needed—just a quick snap to ensure the blades stay closed in your quiver and open perfectly on impact.
On a test target, it expanded instantly to a 1.5-inch diameter, delivering impressive trauma. The Trophy Tip point is built tough and handles bone with ease, which is crucial for hunting larger game.
What I appreciated most was how reliable and efficient it felt in real-world conditions. It’s designed for crossbows up to 350 FPS, and I found it performed flawlessly.
The broadhead’s durability stood out, even after multiple shots, with no sign of wear or bending.
Overall, this broadhead combines high performance with solid construction. It’s ideal if you’re aiming for maximum penetration and accuracy in your crossbow hunts.
For those serious about hitting their mark, it’s a robust choice.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Broadhead for a 380 Crossbow?
When choosing the best broadhead for a 380 crossbow, several critical factors must be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and effectiveness.
- Weight: The weight of the broadhead plays a significant role in its flight characteristics and penetration power.
- Blade Design: The design of the blades can greatly influence the broadhead’s cutting efficiency and wound channel size.
- Material: The material used in the broadhead affects its durability and ability to withstand the rigors of hunting.
- Mechanical vs. Fixed: Choosing between mechanical and fixed broadheads can impact accuracy and ease of use in different hunting scenarios.
- Compatibility: Ensuring the broadhead is compatible with your specific crossbow setup is crucial for safety and performance.
- Price: Budget considerations are important, as broadheads come in a range of prices depending on quality and features.
The weight of the broadhead is essential because it affects the trajectory and impact force. Heavier broadheads often provide better penetration, while lighter ones can offer faster speeds and flatter trajectories, which may be beneficial for certain hunting situations.
The blade design is crucial for maximizing the damage caused during the hunt. Broadheads with wider cutting diameters tend to create larger wound channels, which can lead to quicker kills, while narrower designs may offer improved aerodynamics.
The material of the broadhead influences its lifespan and performance. High-quality steel or titanium broadheads are typically more durable and resistant to bending or breaking upon impact, ensuring reliability during a hunt.
When considering mechanical versus fixed broadheads, understand that mechanical models expand upon impact, potentially causing larger wounds but may be less reliable in certain conditions. Fixed broadheads, on the other hand, maintain their cutting diameter and are generally considered more dependable.
Compatibility with your crossbow is vital since different crossbows may require specific broadhead designs or weights to function correctly. Using an incompatible broadhead can lead to poor flight performance or even damage to the bow.
Lastly, price is a factor that should align with your budget while considering the quality and features offered. Investing in a higher-quality broadhead can often lead to better performance and success in the field, but it’s essential to balance this with your financial constraints.
What Are the Different Types of Broadheads Suitable for 380 Crossbows?
The different types of broadheads suitable for a 380 crossbow include:
- Fixed Blade Broadheads: These have blades that are permanently attached to the ferrule, providing excellent accuracy and penetration.
- Mechanical Broadheads: These feature blades that deploy upon impact, offering a larger cutting diameter and are designed for better flight performance.
- Hybrid Broadheads: Combining features of both fixed and mechanical designs, hybrids offer versatility and can be effective in various hunting situations.
- Expandable Broadheads: Similar to mechanical broadheads, these expand to create a larger wound channel, making them effective for larger game.
Fixed Blade Broadheads: Fixed blade broadheads are known for their reliability and accuracy. They maintain a consistent flight path due to their simple design, making them a preferred choice for many archers using 380 crossbows. Their durable construction allows for deep penetration, making them effective for taking down game quickly.
Mechanical Broadheads: Mechanical broadheads offer a unique advantage with their retractable blades, which expand upon impact. This design not only improves aerodynamics during flight, but also creates a massive wound channel, leading to quicker kills. They are ideal for hunters who prioritize larger cutting diameters and effective blood trails.
Hybrid Broadheads: Hybrid broadheads bring together the benefits of fixed and mechanical designs, providing hunters with the best of both worlds. They typically feature fixed blades for stability and mechanical components for increased cutting surface upon impact. This versatility makes them suitable for various hunting scenarios, accommodating different preferences and game types.
Expandable Broadheads: Expandable broadheads are designed to open up on impact, creating a larger wound channel than traditional fixed blades. This capability can lead to more significant damage and faster blood loss, which is crucial when hunting larger game. They are an excellent choice for hunters looking to maximize their chances of a successful hunt with a broadhead that ensures a more humane kill.
How Do Fixed Blade Broadheads Compare to Mechanical Broadheads?
| Type | Accuracy | Durability | Ease of Use | Weight Options | Price Range | Recommended Brands | Typical Expansion Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed Blade | Generally more accurate at longer ranges due to consistent flight. | Highly durable, withstands impact and retains sharpness well. | Simple design, easy to sharpen, but may require tuning for optimal performance. | 100-150 grains | $30-$60 for a pack | Rage, Muzzy, G5 | N/A |
| Mechanical | Can be less accurate at long distances due to deployment issues. | Variable durability; may fail upon impact if not designed well. | Convenient to use, deploys upon impact, but may require careful handling. | 100-125 grains | $40-$80 for a pack | Rage, Ramcat, NAP | 1.5:1 to 2:1 |
What Are the Top-Rated Broadheads for a 380 Crossbow?
The best broadheads for a 380 crossbow offer precision, durability, and effective penetration for hunting.
- Rage Hypodermic: The Rage Hypodermic broadheads are known for their innovative design featuring a hypodermic tip that enhances penetration. The expandable blades create a large wound channel, which aids in quick blood loss and tracking, making them highly effective for big game hunting.
- G5 Montec: The G5 Montec is a fixed-blade broadhead crafted from durable stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting sharpness and reliability. Its aerodynamic design allows for excellent flight performance, and the three-blade configuration provides a large cutting diameter for effective tissue damage.
- Excalibur Boltcutter: Specifically designed for crossbows, the Excalibur Boltcutter features a compact design with three fixed blades that deliver consistent accuracy and devastating impact. Its rugged construction makes it suitable for various game, and the blades are designed for easy sharpening.
- Bloodsport Gravedigger: The Bloodsport Gravedigger broadheads offer a hybrid design with a combination of fixed and expandable blades. This versatility allows for excellent penetration and a large wound channel, while the tough construction ensures they can withstand the rigors of hunting.
- Muzzy Trocar: The Muzzy Trocar is a fixed-blade broadhead with a unique trocar tip that provides superior penetration and accuracy. It features a three-blade design that creates a significant wound channel, making it an excellent choice for hunters targeting larger game.
How Do Broadhead Variations Affect Performance in 380 Crossbows?
- Fixed-Blade Broadheads: These broadheads feature blades that are permanently fixed in place and do not deploy upon impact. They typically offer superior durability and consistent accuracy since their design remains unchanged in flight, making them ideal for hunters who prioritize precision and reliability in their shots.
- Mechanical Broadheads: Mechanical broadheads use blades that deploy upon impact, increasing their cutting diameter. This design enhances tissue damage and blood trails, making it easier to track wounded game, but requires careful tuning to ensure reliable function in 380 crossbows, as any failure to deploy can lead to poor performance.
- Hybrid Broadheads: Combining features of both fixed and mechanical broadheads, hybrid designs provide the best of both worlds. They feature a fixed blade for flight stability and mechanical blades for increased cutting surface, making them versatile for various hunting scenarios while still being compatible with 380 crossbow setups.
- Weight and Size Variations: Broadheads come in various weights and sizes, which can affect arrow flight characteristics. Heavier broadheads may provide better penetration, while lighter options can enhance speed and accuracy, so selecting the right weight for your 380 crossbow is crucial for achieving optimal performance.
- Blade Count: The number of blades on a broadhead can influence its effectiveness, with configurations typically ranging from two to four blades. More blades can create larger wound channels, leading to quicker kills, but they may also reduce arrow speed and flight stability, which is vital to consider when matching broadheads with a 380 crossbow’s capabilities.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Extend the Life of Your Broadheads?
To ensure your broadheads last longer and perform effectively, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspection: Frequently check your broadheads for any signs of damage or wear.
- Cleaning After Use: Clean your broadheads after each use to prevent rust and maintain sharpness.
- Proper Storage: Store your broadheads in a dry, protective case to prevent damage and corrosion.
- Sharpening: Keep the blades sharp by regularly honing them or replacing them as needed.
- Check Alignment: Ensure that the blades are properly aligned with the ferrule for optimal performance.
Regular Inspection: Inspecting broadheads regularly allows you to identify any chips, bends, or cracks that could affect performance. Early detection of damage can prevent larger issues and ensure the broadheads remain reliable during use.
Cleaning After Use: Cleaning your broadheads after each hunting trip or practice session is essential for preventing rust and keeping the blades sharp. Use a soft cloth and mild cleaner to avoid damaging the finish, and ensure that moisture is completely removed before storage.
Proper Storage: Storing broadheads in a dry, protective case helps prevent corrosion and physical damage. A dedicated broadhead case can also prevent blades from dulling due to contact with other equipment or surfaces.
Sharpening: Regular sharpening of the blades is crucial for maintaining cutting efficiency. Use a specialized broadhead sharpener or a fine-grit stone to ensure that the edges are finely honed, which is especially important for achieving clean and effective cuts during hunting.
Check Alignment: Proper alignment of the blades with the ferrule is vital for accurate flight and penetration. Misaligned blades can cause erratic flight patterns and reduce the effectiveness of the broadhead, so it’s important to check and adjust them as needed before each use.
How Can the Right Broadhead Enhance Your Hunting Experience with a 380 Crossbow?
The right broadhead can significantly improve your hunting success and experience with a 380 crossbow.
- Fixed Blade Broadheads: These broadheads have blades that do not deploy and remain in a fixed position upon impact.
- Mechanical Broadheads: These feature blades that expand upon impact, increasing the cutting diameter.
- Hybrid Broadheads: Combining elements of both fixed and mechanical broadheads, these offer versatility.
- Weight Considerations: The weight of a broadhead affects its flight performance and impact energy.
- Blade Design: The design and number of blades can influence penetration and wound channel effectiveness.
Fixed Blade Broadheads: Fixed blade broadheads are known for their reliability and simplicity. They maintain their shape and structural integrity during flight, ensuring consistent accuracy and penetration, which is crucial when hunting large game with a powerful 380 crossbow.
Mechanical Broadheads: Mechanical broadheads are designed to open up upon impact, which can create a larger wound channel than fixed blades. This increased cutting diameter can lead to quicker kills, making them popular among hunters who prioritize a swift and humane hunt.
Hybrid Broadheads: Hybrid broadheads blend fixed and mechanical features, offering the stability of fixed blades while still providing the expanded cutting potential of mechanical designs. This adaptability makes them a great choice for various hunting conditions and game types.
Weight Considerations: The weight of broadheads typically ranges from 100 to 150 grains, and heavier broadheads can provide better penetration and energy transfer. However, it is essential to match the broadhead weight with the specifications and draw weight of your 380 crossbow for optimal performance.
Blade Design: Broadheads come in various blade designs, including two-blade, three-blade, and four-blade configurations. The choice of blade design can affect how well the broadhead penetrates and how much tissue damage it inflicts, which is critical for tracking and recovering game effectively.
Related Post: