Best Broadhead for Black Bear (2024 Update)

When it comes to hunting black bears, choosing the right broadhead is crucial for a successful and ethical hunt. 

A broadhead is the tip of an arrow that is responsible for delivering a lethal blow to the animal. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. 

Quick Summary: Here are the top broadheads for black bears that are reliable, accurate, and effective.

• New Archery Products Spitfire Maxx
• Muzzy 225-MX3-3
• Swhacker 100 Grain 1.75″ 2 Blade
• Grim Reaper Broadhead Razorctip
• Muzzy Bowhunting Broadheads
• Magnus 4 Blade Hornet Ser-Razor
• Muzzy Trocar Broadhead

Bear Anatomy And Shot Placement

Understanding bear anatomy is essential for successful hunting, particularly when selecting the appropriate broadhead for the task. Here’s an overview of key points related to bear anatomy for hunting purposes:

Scapula Structure:

• Bear scapulas are notably thicker and denser compared to those of whitetail deer.
• They feature two ridges, making them more formidable barriers for arrow penetration.

Vital Organs:

• While bears may appear large and robust, their vital organs are not significantly larger than those of other game animals like whitetail deer.
• Bears’ lungs are relatively close to the front shoulder, making shot placement critical to avoid hitting bone and ensuring a clean kill.

Fat and Hide:

• Bears possess a thick layer of fat and dense hides, especially in the fall.
• This fat layer can impact arrow penetration and create challenges in tracking due to clogging of entry and exit wounds.

Contortion:

• Bears can contort their bodies into various positions, shifting internal organs and complicating shot placement.
• Hunters must anticipate and adjust for these movements to ensure accurate and lethal shots.

Visibility:

• Bears’ dark fur and often low-light shooting conditions can make it challenging for hunters to discern anatomical features and pick precise shot locations.
• Longer hair and loose hides obscure skeletal structures, making it difficult to identify optimal aiming points.

Shot Placement:

• The ideal shot for bear hunting is a double lung pass-through, similar to other game animals.
• Hunters should aim for broadside shots with the bear’s front leg forward, providing a clear path to vital organs and minimizing the risk of hitting bone.
• Entry points should be centered on the mass and positioned approximately 5 inches back from the shoulder to avoid hitting bone and ensure penetration to vital organs.

Understanding these aspects of bear anatomy equips hunters with the knowledge needed to make effective shots and select appropriate broadheads for ethical and successful hunts.

Fixed Blade vs mechanical

When it comes to selecting the right broadhead for black bear hunting, hunters often debate between fixed blade and mechanical options.

Here’s an overview of the considerations for each type:

Fixed Blade Broadheads:

Penetration and Durability:

Fixed blade broadheads are known for their robustness and ability to penetrate tough hide and bone of black bear

With a solid construction and no moving parts, they offer reliability and durability, making them suitable for encounters with dense bone structures like a bear’s scapula.

Wound Channels:

Fixed blade broadheads typically create larger wound channels due to their design.

This can lead to better blood trails, aiding in tracking wounded bears and ensuring more successful recoveries.

Performance in Bear Fat:

Bears possess a thick layer of fat, especially in the fall.

Fixed blade broadheads are less likely to clog in this fat, ensuring adequate penetration and minimizing the risk of arrows becoming lodged in the animal.

Mechanical Broadheads:

Accuracy and Flight:

Mechanical broadheads often offer better flight characteristics and accuracy due to their streamlined design.

They have smaller profiles in flight, reducing wind drift and maintaining arrow stability, which can be advantageous for longer shots.

Cutting Diameter:

Mechanical broadheads typically have larger cutting diameters than fixed blade models.

This can result in massive wound channels upon impact, potentially causing more extensive tissue damage in black bear

Potential for Mechanical Failure:

Mechanical broadheads rely on moving parts to deploy their blades upon impact.

While modern designs have significantly reduced the risk of mechanical failure, there is still a chance of malfunction, especially with poor arrow placement or encounters with bone.

In conclusion, both fixed blade and mechanical broadheads can be effective for black bear hunting when used appropriately.

Best Broadhead for Black Bear

New Archery Products Spitfire Maxx

Feature	Specification
Grain Weight	100 grains or 125 grains
Blade Material	Stainless steel
Number of Blades	3
Cutting Diameter	1.75 inches
Ferrule Material	Aluminum
Tip Style	Cut-on-contact or Trophy Tip
Overall Length	2 inches
Screw-In Diameter	8/32 inches
Additional features	No o-rings or rubber bands, internal spring clips

The New Archery Products Spitfire Maxx 1.75″ Cutting Diameter 3-Blade has several unique features.

These features set it apart from other broadheads, making it a compelling choice for black bear hunting

Here’s a breakdown of its key highlights:

Front-Deploying Blades: 

Unlike traditional broadheads with exposed blades, the Spitfire Maxx features blades tucked within the ferrule during initial flight. 

This unique design minimizes wind drift and promotes aerodynamic stability. Also, ensures precision even at longer distances. 

Upon impact, the spring clip mechanism releases the blades, allowing them to deploy and create a devastating wound channel.

Spring Clip Technology: 

This innovative mechanism employs a secure spring clip to hold the blades firmly in place until impact.

This eliminates the risk of accidental opening in the quiver or brush. And protects both the hunter and ensuring optimal broadhead performance.

Cut-on-Contact Point and Trophy Tip Options: 

The Spitfire Maxx caters to different hunting styles by offering two distinct tip options. 

The standard cut-on-contact point prioritizes rapid penetration through hide and muscle. It is ideal for quick kills. 

Alternatively, the Trophy Tip features a chisel-like design for superior bone-crushing power. It is perfect for tackling larger games like a black bear or situations where maximum stopping power is crucial.

Razor-Sharp Blades: 

Each of the three blades is crafted from high-quality stainless steel and honed to razor sharpness. 

With this, you get clean entry wounds, deep penetration, and efficient tissue damage for quicker blood loss and easier tracking of black bear

Angled Blades: 

The blades of the Spitfire Maxx are not aligned straight but rather set at an angle. 

This design element significantly increases the effective cutting diameter upon deployment. And crreates a larger wound channel. As a result you get maximum blood loss for efficient tracking and faster recovery of your quarry.

Replaceable Blades: 

Unlike fixed-blade options, the Spitfire Maxx allows for effortless and cost-effective blade replacement. 

This extends the lifespan of your broadhead and avoids the need for complete replacement after blade damage. It is a budget-conscious choice for black bear hunters.

Aerodynamic Design: 

The overall profile of the Spitfire Maxx is crafted for optimal aerodynamic performance. 

The streamlined ferrule and tucked blades minimize wind resistance and promote stable flight. It ensures consistent accuracy even in windy conditions.

Muzzy 225-MX3-3

Spec	Feature
Weight	100 grains
Number of blades	3
Blade material	Stainless steel
Blade thickness	0.025 inches
Cutting diameter	1-1/4 inches
Ferrule material	Aluminum
Tip	Trocar tip

Let’s discuss the features of the Muzzy 225-MX3-3 broadhead!

It’s a popular choice for bowhunters seeking a tough, reliable broadhead with a wide cutting diameter for black bear hunting.

Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

1. Design for Maximum Performance:

• Shorter profile: Compared to standard Muzzy broadheads, the MX3 boasts a shorter profile. This translates to improved maneuverability in flight, reducing drag and enhancing accuracy during black bear hunting
• Wider cut: The MX3 features a wider cutting diameter (1-1/4 inches) compared to standard models. This creates a larger wound channel for quicker and more efficient blood loss, leading to faster and cleaner harvests.
• Thicker blades: The MX3 isn’t just wider, it’s also sturdier. Its blades are thicker than standard Muzzy broadheads, ensuring they can handle tough bone impacts and maintain sharpness for multiple hunts.

2. Trocar Tip for Superior Penetration:

The MX3’s trocar tip is a pointed design that resembles a surgical instrument.

This tip excels at piercing through hide, muscle, and bone of black bear with minimal resistance. You get deeper penetration and better overall stopping power.

3. Replaceable Blades for Cost-Effectiveness and Convenience:

Unlike some broadheads, the MX3 features replaceable blades. This means you don’t have to discard the entire head when the blades get dull.

Simply replace the blades and keep hunting! This saves you money and reduces waste.

4. Aluminum Ferrule for Strength and Stability:

The MX3’s ferrule, which holds the blades together, is constructed from high-grade aluminum.

This ensures strength and stability, preventing blade wobble or separation during impact.

5. 100 Grain Weight for Versatility:

The 100-grain weight of the MX3 makes it a versatile choice for various bow setups and hunting scenarios.

It’s suitable for bows with a minimum draw weight of 60 pounds and can effectively bring down medium to large game such as black bear

Swhacker 100 Grain 1.75″ 2 Blade

Feature	Specification
Grain Weight	100 grains
Blade Material	Stainless steel
Number of Blades	2
Cutting Diameter	1.75 inches (closed), 1.75 inches (open)
Ferrule Material	Anodized aircraft aluminum
Tip Style	Hardened high-carbon steel, hollow ground, threaded on
Overall Length	1.85 inches
Screw-In Diameter	8/32 inches
Recommended Draw Weight	50+ pounds

The Swhacker 100 Grain 1.75″ 2-Blade Crossbow Broadhead boasts several unique features. These features distinguish it from other broadheads for black bear hunting.

Overall, it is a compelling choice for hunters seeking a combination of high penetration, fast blood loss, and reliable performance.

Here are some key highlights:

• Dual Deployment Blades: This innovative design features two sets of blades. Wing blades deploy first upon impact, cutting through hair, hide, and ribs, clearing the path for the main blades. Now the main blades have better chances to go deeper. They unfold to a massive 1.75-inch diameter, creating a large wound channel for rapid blood loss.
• Angled Blade Entry: The tip of the broadhead enters the animal slightly ahead of the wing blades. This eliminates deflection during flight. Also, it prevents the wing blades from opening in the brush or the quiver.
• Shock Collar Retention: The blades are securely held in place by a shock collar. This causes a reliable deployment only upon impact. It eliminates the risk of accidental opening and maintains flight accuracy.
• Replaceable Blades: Both the wing and main blades are replaceable. With this, you can extend the life of your broadhead. Also, saves money compared to fixed-blade options.
• Anodized Aluminum Ferrule: The ferrule is constructed from lightweight and durable anodized aluminum. This provides strength and rigidity while ensuring optimal flight characteristics.

Grim Reaper Broadhead Razorctip 1-3/8 in. 1903 100gr

Specification	Description
Blade Material	440 stainless steel blades
Ferrule Material	Aircraft-grade aluminum
Blade Thickness	0.035 inches
Weight	100 grains
Cutting Diameter	1 3/8 inches
Blade Type	3-blade
Pack Size	3-pack

The Grim Reaper Broadhead Razortip 1-3/8 in. 1903 100gr 3Pk boasts several unique features that set it apart from other broadheads:

1. 40-degree Swept-Back Blades for Lightning-Fast Opening:

Unlike traditional broadheads with straight blades, the Razortip features blades angled at 40 degrees.

This patented design reduces drag during flight and enables the blades to deploy instantly upon impact, minimizing energy loss and maximizing penetration.

It gives you cleaner entry wounds and quicker, more ethical kills.

2. Bone-Splitting Bulletrazor Tip for Unmatched Lethality:

The tip of the Razortip isn’t your average spear point. It’s a bullet-shaped razortip specifically designed to pierce through the tough bone of black bears with ease.

This not only increases initial penetration but also creates devastating wound channels for faster blood loss and improved tracking potential.

3. Single Cut-on-Contact Tip Blade for Double the Cutting Power:

Adding to the lethality, the Razortip features a single, razor-sharp blade mounted directly on the bullet tip.

This blade deploys simultaneously with the main blades, creating a two-stage cutting process that shreds through flesh and muscle. It leaves a wider wound channel for enhanced blood loss and quicker takedowns.

4. Patented Blade Deployment System for Consistent Performance:

Grim Reaper’s unique blade deployment system ensures reliable opening even on thick hide and bone.

The system utilizes spring tension and blade geometry to guarantee swift and consistent blade deployment regardless of the angle of impact, minimizing deflection and maximizing overall effectiveness.

5. 3-Pack Value and Replaceable Blades:

Unlike many premium broadheads sold individually, the Razortip comes in a convenient 3-pack, offering better value for your money.

Additionally, the blades are replaceable, so you don’t have to discard the entire head when they dull.

Simply swap out the blades and keep hunting for black bears, saving you money and reducing waste.

Muzzy Bowhunting Broadheads, 4 Blade

Feature	Specification
Grain Weight	100 or 90 grains
Cutting Diameter	1 inch or 1 1/8 inch
Blade Thickness	0.020 inches
Tip Material	Hardened steel
Ferrule Material	Aluminum
Blade Material	Stainless steel
Number of Blades	4
Attachment	Screw-in
Flight	Fixed-blade
Unique Features	Trocar tip for bone-breaking penetration, vented blades for reduced wind planing, interchangeable practice and hunting blades

Here are some of the features of the Muzzy Bowhunting Broadheads, 4 Blade, 1 Inch Cutting Diameter 90 or 100 Grain, 6 Pack:

• Trocar tip: This tip is designed to provide maximum penetration and enhanced flight stability. It is made from hardened steel and has a very sharp point
• 4-blade design: The 4-blade design creates a large cutting diameter, which helps to create a wider wound channel and increases blood loss.
• .020″ stainless steel blades: The blades are made from thick, stainless steel. It makes them durable and resistant to bending or breaking.
• Vented design: Also, the blades have vents. And it helps to reduce weight and improve flight stability.
• Slotted aluminum ferrule: The ferrule is made from aluminum, which is strong and lightweight. The blades lock into the ferrule with a patented locking system, which helps to ensure that they stay in place during flight and impact.
• Available in 90 and 100-grain weights: The broadheads are available in both 90 and 100 grain weights. The 90-grain broadheads are a good choice for lighter bows and arrows, while the 100-grain broadheads are a good choice for heavier bows and arrows.

Overall, the Muzzy Bowhunting Broadheads, 4 Blade, 1 Inch Cutting Diameter 90 or 100 Grain, 6 Pack are a well-made, durable broadhead that is designed to provide maximum penetration and blood loss.

They are a good choice for black bear hunters who are looking for a broadhead that can handle tough shots.

Magnus 4 Blade Hornet Ser-Razor Broadhead

Feature	Specification
Grain Weight	100 or 150 grains
Cutting Diameter	1.25″ (main blade) & 0.75″ (bleeder blades)
Blade Thickness	0.059″ (main blade) & 0.040″ (bleeder blades)
Tip Material	Stainless steel with patented diamond tip
Ferrule Material	Steel
Blade Material	Knife-grade stainless steel
Number of Blades	4
Attachment	Screw-in
Flight	Fixed-blade
Unique Features	• Cut-on-contact design for fast and deep penetration • Serrated blades for increased tissue damage • Replaceable main blades for extended use • Lifetime guarantee

The Magnus 4 Blade Hornet Ser-Razor Broadhead is a fixed-blade, cut-on-contact broadhead designed for bowhunting.

It is a popular choice among black bear hunters for its durability, sharpness, and ability to create large wounds.

Here are some of its key features:

• Four-blade design: The four blades provide a total cutting diameter of 1 1/4 inches, which helps to create a large wound cavity and increase blood loss.
• Chiseled serrated edges: The blades have chiseled serrations that help to saw through bone and tissue, creating even more damage.
• Stainless steel construction: The blades are made from high-quality, knife-grade stainless steel that is both strong and sharp.
• Patented diamond tip: The tip is diamond-shaped, which helps to penetrate deeply and break through bone.
• Spin-tested for accuracy: The broadheads are spin-tested to ensure that they fly true, even at high speeds.
• Available in multiple weights: The broadheads are available in 100, and 150 grain weights to match your bow setup and target animal.
• Lifetime guarantee: Magnus Broadheads offers a lifetime guarantee on their products, so you can be confident that they will be replaced if they break.

Muzzy Trocar Broadhead

Feature	Specification
Grain Weight	100 or 125 grains
Cutting Diameter	1 3/16″
Blade Thickness	0.035″
Blade Material	Stainless steel
Number of Blades	3
Tip Material	Hardened steel Trocar tip
Ferrule Material	Solid stainless steel
Flight	Fixed-blade
Attachment	Screw-in
Unique Features	• Trocar tip for superior penetration and bone-breaking ability • Right helical blades for improved arrow stabilization • Larger base diameter ferrule for better crossbow bolt compatibility • Vented blades for reduced wind resistance • Made in the USA

The Muzzy Trocar Broadhead is known for its solid 1-piece stainless steel ferrule and right offset blade design, which enhances broadhead flight and accuracy, especially with right helical or straight fletching.

The Trocar tip is recognized for its bone-breaking penetration, and the super short compact design ensures accurate flight and excellent entry and exit holes.

The Muzzy Trocar HBX is a hybrid broadhead, featuring a combination of fixed and mechanical blades with a bone-crushing chisel tip, offering a cutting diameter of 2 5/8 inches.

It has been positively reviewed for its performance in terms of accuracy, flight, sharpness, penetration, and durability. Users have praised its ability to deliver excellent results in hunting scenarios, with some reporting significant damage and quick, clean kills.

The broadheads are available in 100 or 125 grains and are designed for increased accuracy, stability, and reliable deployment of the mechanical blades.

Overall, the Muzzy Trocar Broadhead and Trocar HBX are well-regarded for their performance and design features, making them a popular choice among hunters and archers.

Rage Hypodermic 2-Blade

Feature	Specification
Grain Weight	100 or 125 grains
Cutting Diameter	2 inches
Blade Thickness	0.035 inches
Blade Material	Stainless steel
Number of Blades	2
Tip Material	Hybrid tip with chisel and leading edge blade design
Ferrule Material	Machined stainless steel
Flight	Fixed-blade
Attachment	Screw-in
Unique Features	• No Collar Blade Lock: Utilizes finger-like tabs on the blades to secure them in place, eliminating the need for a collar or o-ring, which can affect flight.

The Rage Hypodermic 2-Blade Crossbow NC Broadhead offers a combination of features that appeal to many crossbow hunters.

Its strong blades, wide wound channel, and reliable deployment make it a good choice for those seeking quick and humane kills.

However, it’s important to consider the potential downsides like expandability restrictions and price before making a purchase.

Here are some of its key features:

Blade Design:

• 2-blade: Delivers a balance of penetration and cutting diameter.
• .035″ thick: Offers good strength and durability.
• Swept-back angle: Creates a wider wound channel (2″) for faster blood loss.
• No Collar Blade Lock: Utilizes finger-like tabs for secure blade retention without needing a collar or band.

Performance:

• Hybrid Tip: Combines the accuracy of a leading-edge tip with the bone-crushing power of a chisel tip.
• Excellent penetration: Designed to perform well even on larger animals.
• Reliable blade deployment: SlipCam technology ensures blades open instantly upon impact.
• Aerodynamic: Compact design flies well for improved accuracy.

Other Features:

• Machined stainless steel ferrule: Provides strength and durability.
• Made in the USA: Backed by the reputation of American craftsmanship.
• Available in 3-packs: Convenient for hunters who plan on multiple uses.

Conclusion

After reviewing the best broadheads for black bear hunting, it is clear that the ideal choice depends on individual preferences and hunting conditions.

Whether you prefer fixed or mechanical broadheads, it is important to prioritize accuracy, penetration, and durability.

Consider factors such as your bow setup, shooting distance, and hunting environment when making your selection.

Ultimately, the best broadhead for black bear is one that you are confident and comfortable using, and that delivers swift, ethical kills.