Let’s Dive into G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead
The G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead is designed for crossbow hunters seeking deep penetration and large wound channels. G5 Outdoors promises all-steel construction, a cut-on-contact tip, and a 2″ cutting diameter, making it sound like a formidable option for bringing down game. This two-blade expandable broadhead boasts a “Dual Trap” blade retention system, intended to keep the blades secure until impact.
I’ve spent countless hours in the field, both hunting and guiding, and I’m always on the lookout for broadheads that offer a reliable combination of accuracy, penetration, and cutting power. After years of using fixed-blade broadheads with success, I became curious about expandable options and their potential for larger entry and exit wounds. The G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead, with its advertised 2″ cutting diameter, immediately caught my eye.
Unboxing the G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead, the all-steel construction felt solid and reassuring. The broadhead had a decent weight and the blades felt sharp to the touch. My initial impression was that these were well-made broadheads with serious potential.
Compared to other expandable broadheads I’ve seen, like the Rage Hypodermic or the Swhacker broadheads, the G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead appeared simpler in design. The dual-blade system and the all-steel build seemed robust, potentially offering better penetration on tough game. The other broadheads had more blades, but they also seemed like they had more failure points.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see how these would perform on the range and, ultimately, in the field. The simplicity of the design and the apparent durability gave me hope that these could be a reliable option.
Real-World Testing: Putting G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was a 3D archery range, where I could simulate various hunting scenarios. I tested the G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead at distances ranging from 20 to 50 yards. The weather was dry and mild, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, providing ideal conditions for initial testing.
The broadheads flew relatively true to my field points, requiring only minor adjustments to my crossbow scope. I found the G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead to be consistently accurate out to 40 yards. Penetration into the 3D targets was impressive, easily surpassing my expectations.
After the first few shots, I noticed that one of the broadheads’ blades was slightly bent after hitting a particularly dense part of the target. While the blade still functioned, this raised concerns about its long-term durability. This was an unexpected surprise, as I thought the steel was going to be stronger.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next several weeks, I continued testing the G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead, putting it through its paces on various targets and at different distances. The durability of the blades remained a concern, as I noticed similar bending on several other broadheads after repeated use. I used them for about 2 months.
While the broadheads retained their accuracy, the blades required frequent inspection and occasional straightening. Cleaning was straightforward, as the simple design allowed for easy access to all parts of the broadhead. This design made field maintenance less of a hassle.
Compared to my previous experience with fixed-blade broadheads, the G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead required more attention and maintenance. The ease of use and consistent accuracy of the fixed blades outperformed the expandable version. While the expandable promised a larger cutting diameter, the trade-off in durability made me question its overall effectiveness.
Breaking Down the Features of G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead
Specifications
The G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead features an all-steel construction, designed for maximum durability and penetration. The cut-on-contact tip is intended to initiate immediate cutting upon impact, increasing the likelihood of a quick and humane kill. These are vital features for an ethical hunt.
The broadhead utilizes a two-blade expandable design. The blade thickness is .030″, and the cutting diameter is 2″. These specifications are crucial for understanding the potential wound channel and the broadhead’s ability to slice through tissue and bone.
The “Dual Trap” blade retention system is intended to keep the blades closed during flight and reliably deploy upon impact. It’s a crucial element for ensuring accuracy and preventing premature deployment.
Performance & Functionality
The G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead performs adequately in terms of accuracy and penetration. However, the blade durability is a significant weakness. While the 2″ cutting diameter promises a large wound channel, the potential for blade bending compromises its overall effectiveness.
The strengths lie in its initial accuracy and penetration. However, the weak blades really let this one down. The design could benefit from stronger materials or a more robust blade retention system.
The G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead only partially meets my expectations. The accuracy and penetration are commendable, but the durability issues outweigh these benefits. I expect a broadhead to withstand repeated use without significant bending or damage.
Design & Ergonomics
The all-steel construction provides a solid feel and a sense of durability, despite the blade issues. The weight is balanced, contributing to accurate flight and penetration. This is a good thing.
The design is relatively user-friendly, with easy blade replacement and simple maintenance. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this broadhead. This makes it appealing to both experienced and novice crossbow hunters.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the blades is the primary concern with the G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead. While the all-steel construction suggests longevity, the bending issues significantly reduce its lifespan. I don’t like that the blades bend so easily.
Maintenance is straightforward. The simple design makes it easy to clean and inspect the broadhead after each use. However, the need for frequent blade straightening adds to the maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead does not come with any additional accessories. There are no specific customization options available for this broadhead. This is a bit of a disadvantage.
While not specifically designed for customization, the G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead is compatible with standard crossbow bolts and can be used with various nock systems. Crossbow hunters can choose bolts and nocks that suit their individual preferences. It is important to note that arrows intended for fixed blade heads are NOT always suitable for mechanical broadheads.
Pros and Cons of G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead
Pros
- All-steel construction provides a solid feel and promotes penetration.
- Cut-on-contact tip allows for quick initial cutting upon impact.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of hunters.
- Accurate flight when properly tuned to your crossbow.
- Simple design allows for easy maintenance and blade replacement.
Cons
- Blades are prone to bending upon impact, compromising durability.
- The .030″ blade thickness may be insufficient for larger or tougher game.
- No additional accessories or customization options are included.
Who Should Buy G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead?
The G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead is perfect for budget-conscious crossbow hunters who are primarily targeting smaller game. Hunters who prioritize penetration over a large cutting diameter might also find it suitable. It may also be suitable for beginner hunters, since the price point is low.
Hunters targeting larger or tougher game, such as elk or bear, should skip this product. Anyone prioritizing broadhead durability and reliability above all else should also look elsewhere. The blade bending issues make it unsuitable for demanding hunting situations.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality arrow puller and a sharpening tool for maintaining the blade edges. It would be wise to get replacement blades as well. A broadhead target is also recommended.
Conclusion on G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead
The G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead offers a mixed bag of performance and value. While the all-steel construction and cut-on-contact tip provide adequate penetration and initial cutting power, the blade durability issues are a significant drawback. I wish the blades were more durable.
At a price of $14.99, the price is justified, but only for hunters on a tight budget or those targeting smaller game. It is important to keep in mind that this is a budget broadhead and its performance will reflect this. The tradeoff in durability may not be worth it in the long run.
Personally, I would not recommend the G5 Outdoors Havoc Crossbow Broadhead for serious hunters who demand consistent reliability and durability. While it may be suitable for beginners or those targeting smaller game, the blade bending issues are a significant concern. I would suggest investing in a higher-quality broadhead with more durable blades for a more reliable hunting experience.