What Should Be Used To Screw On Broadheads?

 Broadheads are an essential part of any hunting setup, serving as the arrow's tip and responsible for inflicting damage on the target. However, a common issue is that many hunters are unsure of what to use when attaching broadheads. Screws are recommended for securing a tight and strong fit that prevents the head from spinning or rotating.

For a stronger connection, use a screwdriver with a larger diameter shaft and a thicker blade when attaching broadheads.

Some broadhead screws feature sickle barbs, which can increase blood loss. However, the most effective broadheads use spiral barbs, as these do not damage the animal's skin and allow for easy detachment from the blade upon impact.

To ensure accuracy, it is crucial to use sharp broadheads. Dull broadheads can become entangled in the feathers of the game during flight, leading to poorly aimed shots.

Sharpening all your broadheads before hunting will help you achieve clean shots and improve your overall results.

What Should Be Used To Screw On Broadheads? (How To Screw Broadheads)

Tools Needed to Attach Broadheads

• Special Wrench: A specialized wrench is essential for securely attaching broadheads to arrow shafts. Without this wrench, the broadhead cannot be properly tightened or loosened. These wrenches come in various shapes and sizes, typically made of metal, and are designed to adjust the broadhead’s position on the shaft efficiently, saving hunters significant time.

• Metal Screw or Rivet: Metal screws or rivets are commonly used to affix broadheads to arrow shafts. Rivets, while quicker and requiring less effort, may not be compatible with all broadheads. A metal screw, on the other hand, provides a reliable alternative, ensuring the broadhead is firmly attached to the arrow shaft.

How to Attach Broadheads

• Hot Glue: One of the oldest methods for attaching broadheads involves the use of hot glue, a technique that dates back decades. The process is straightforward: heat a small amount of glue, apply it to the stub of the arrow shaft, and press the broadhead onto it. As the glue cools, it hardens, creating a secure bond. Although modern adhesives and epoxies have largely replaced this method, hot glue remains a favored choice for its simplicity and the ease with which broadheads can be replaced.

• Advantages of Using Hot Glue:

  • Convenience: No special tools are needed—just a container of hot glue and some toothpicks.
  • Safety: Hot glue keeps broadheads securely attached, reducing the risk of them falling off if dropped.
  • Versatility: It can be used at home or in the field, offering a quick and strong hold.
  • Cost-Effective: Hot glue is inexpensive and widely available.
  • Ease of Installation: Its soft, moldable nature makes it easy to apply and adjust.
  • Multi-Purpose: Besides attaching broadheads, hot glue is useful for various other tasks, including repairing electronics and crafting.
  • Secure Hold: Hot glue bonds screws more tightly than some other adhesives, ensuring the broadhead stays in place during use.
  • Safe Handling: The glue minimizes direct contact with the broadhead, reducing the risk of injury while shooting.

• Disadvantages of Using Hot Glue:

• Compatibility: Some broadheads require the use of a screwdriver and cannot be installed with hot glue.
• Strength: Hot glue may not provide as strong a hold as screws.
• Removal Difficulty: Once applied, hot glue can make it challenging to remove the broadhead if replacement or repair is needed.
• Messiness: Hot glue can create a mess and be difficult to clean up.
• Heat Sensitivity: Excessive heat during installation can cause the glue to melt, potentially damaging the broadhead.

Cold Glue

Cold glue is an effective adhesive for securing broadheads to hunting arrows, offering numerous advantages over other glue types. It has been a trusted choice among bowhunters for years due to its strong, reliable attachment that prevents broadheads from loosening during a hunt.

Cold glue is particularly useful in applications where the joint between the broadhead and shaft experiences pressure or load. This makes it ideal for ensuring a secure connection, enhancing both accuracy and stability.

To apply cold glue, simply run a bead along the backside of the broadhead before attaching it to the screw. This method ensures that the weight of the blade is securely held, as well as the tips of the blades.

Compared to hot glue, cold glue offers several benefits: it provides superior adhesion, does not require heat or clamping, forms durable, watertight bonds, eliminates the need for a primer on surfaces before application, and allows for easy cleanup with acetone-based nail polish remover.

The Pros Of Cold Glue

It is cheap; unlike other materials, it only costs a few dollars to buy glue.

It also does not take up much space, allowing you to pack more broadheads in your bag for hunting trips.

Cold glue provides extra stability due to its higher coefficient of friction compared to metal screw heads on broadheads.

Cold glue is easily removable with just two drops of water, enabling you to reuse your old broadhead if desired.

It produces less mess than other solvent-based adhesives and will not drip down the shaft, onto hands, or clothes during equipment assembly.

Cold glue dries quickly and does not require heat, making it applicable in freezing conditions where other solvents might freeze.

It does not contain toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as solvents, ammonia, formaldehyde, or benzene.

The Cons Of Cold Glue

Cold glue lacks significant mechanical strength and may disintegrate if the screws are loosened.

It is not ideal for high-load situations, requiring screws to be very tight to maintain the broadheads in place, often achievable with just hand pressure.

For cold glue to work effectively, the surface needs to be even and solid, as it doesn’t adhere well to flat surfaces.

The bonded area may develop a whitish discoloration that can be aesthetically displeasing.

The glue can emit an unpleasant odor that persists for an extended period.

Cold glue is not compatible with all broadhead types, particularly those with thin blades.

It is unable to endure high temperatures, and variations in temperature around the bonded area can cause it to loosen over time.

What’s The Best Way To Screw On Broadheads?

Generally speaking, the most efficient way to attach a broadhead is to use a mechanical broadhead and secure it with a wrench. This method is preferred because it is both quick and accurate, making it easy to ensure a tight fit.

However, the best approach can vary based on your specific needs. For instance, if you need a fast and easy method for changing broadheads, you might opt for the glues we discussed earlier.

It is also important to consider the type of broadhead you are using when selecting your attachment method.

Do I Need A Broadhead Wrench?

When it comes to using tools, some hunters prefer needle-nose pliers for attaching broadheads due to their precision, which is useful for achieving a snug fit. Others choose locking pliers because they provide more grip strength, making it easier to apply pressure when necessary. While locking pliers offer additional features, needle-nose pliers are often more convenient for attaching broadheads to screw-on arrow shafts. Needle-nose pliers are best for tightening screws, nuts, or bolts, whereas locking pliers are more suited for cutting through hard materials.

As for using a broadhead wrench, it is not always necessary. Some screws are designed to be tightened with an Allen key, so a wrench is only needed if you prefer to use it and lack other alternatives.