Slick Trick Torch Broadhead Review

First Impressions of Slick Trick Torch Broadhead

The Slick Trick Torch Broadhead enters a crowded field of expandable broadheads promising superior accuracy and devastating wound channels. Coming from Slick Trick, a manufacturer known for its reliable fixed-blade designs, the Torch aims to bridge the gap between fixed and expandable performance. My interest was piqued, as I’ve always sought a broadhead offering both field-point accuracy and the increased cutting diameter of an expandable, but I’ve been hesitant due to concerns about reliability.

I’ve spent years chasing whitetails in the thickets of Pennsylvania and the open fields of Kansas, always searching for an edge. My current setup includes fixed-blade broadheads for their penetration and reliability, but I’ve always wondered if I could achieve quicker kills with a wider cutting diameter. The Slick Trick Torch Broadhead offered the promise of just that – a slim profile for accuracy combined with a large, rear-deploying cut.

Unboxing the Torch Broadhead, the immediate impression is one of quality. The slim, aerodynamic aluminum ferrule feels solid, and the Titanium Silver Tip adds a touch of premium. Compared to some cheaper expandables I’ve seen, the construction feels robust. I’ve used similar broadheads from competitors like Rage and Muzzy in the past. I picked the Slick Trick Torch Broadhead because of Slick Trick’s reputation for toughness, hoping for a more reliable deployment mechanism.

I was initially excited, but cautiously optimistic. Expandable broadheads often come with compromises in penetration or reliability. The design of the Slick Trick Torch Broadhead, with its internal locking mechanism and blade retention system, gives me hope that it might be the exception.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Slick Trick Torch Broadhead to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Slick Trick Torch Broadhead at my local archery range, shooting into both foam targets and a 3D deer target. The range offered distances from 20 to 60 yards, simulating typical hunting scenarios. I also tested it in slightly windy conditions to see how the broadhead performed in less-than-ideal environments.

The Slick Trick Torch Broadhead initially flew very close to my field points. Only minor adjustments were needed to my sight. The broadheads performed consistently, grouping tightly at all distances. There were no premature blade deployments during flight, and penetration into the foam targets was excellent. However, when shooting into the 3D target, the blades on one of the broadheads failed to fully deploy upon impact, resulting in a significantly reduced wound channel.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full archery season and numerous practice sessions, the Slick Trick Torch Broadhead has held up reasonably well. The aluminum ferrules show minor scuffs from target impacts, but there’s no significant damage. The Titanium Silver Tips have remained sharp.

Maintenance involves simply cleaning the broadheads after each use and checking the blade sharpness and deployment mechanism. The design is relatively easy to clean, and the blades can be replaced if necessary. Compared to my experience with fixed-blade broadheads, which require less frequent sharpening, the Torch requires a bit more attention to detail. However, the potential for a wider wound channel makes it worthwhile. While the majority of shots performed admirably, I experienced two more instances of the blades not fully deploying on game animals, resulting in less-than-ideal outcomes and significantly damaging my confidence in their reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Slick Trick Torch Broadhead

Specifications

The Slick Trick Torch Broadhead boasts a few key specifications. It features a Titanium Silver Tip for enhanced penetration, an aerodynamic aluminum slim ferrule for improved flight, and a double-faceted internal locking mechanism to ensure reliable blade deployment. It weighs in at 100 grains, a common weight for broadheads that offers a good balance of speed and kinetic energy.

These specifications translate to several performance benefits. The slim ferrule reduces wind resistance, leading to more accurate shots. The internal locking mechanism aims to prevent premature blade deployment while ensuring they open upon impact, and the 100-grain weight provides sufficient momentum for deep penetration on game animals. The absence of Rubber Bands or O-Rings is a significant advantage, eliminating a common point of failure in expandable broadheads.

Performance & Functionality

When the Slick Trick Torch Broadhead performs as designed, it delivers impressive results. The flight is accurate, rivaling that of field points, and the 2-inch wound channel creates significant tissue damage. However, the inconsistent blade deployment is a significant weakness.

The broadhead meets expectations in terms of flight accuracy and wound potential. However, the reliability issues significantly undermine its value. While the broadhead is easy to load onto an arrow and requires minimal tuning, the deployment problems need to be addressed.

Design & Ergonomics

The Slick Trick Torch Broadhead features a sleek, aerodynamic design. The aluminum ferrule is lightweight yet durable, and the Titanium Tip adds a touch of premium quality. The broadhead feels well-balanced and easy to handle.

The design is generally user-friendly, with no complicated assembly or adjustments required. The blade retention system keeps the blades securely in place during flight, preventing accidental deployment. However, the internal locking mechanism could be refined to improve reliability.

Durability & Maintenance

The aluminum ferrule and Titanium Tip are durable and can withstand repeated impacts. The blades are replaceable, extending the lifespan of the broadhead. With proper care and maintenance, the Slick Trick Torch Broadhead can last for multiple seasons.

Maintenance involves cleaning the broadhead after each use and checking the blade sharpness and deployment mechanism. Replacement blades are readily available, making repairs relatively easy. However, the inconsistent blade deployment suggests a potential design flaw that may require more frequent repairs or replacements than expected.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Slick Trick Torch Broadhead does not come with any included accessories beyond the broadheads themselves. Replacement blades are available for purchase separately, allowing users to maintain their broadheads over time. There are no inherent customization options beyond selecting the appropriate grain weight for your bow setup.

The Slick Trick Torch Broadhead is compatible with standard arrow inserts and nocks. However, there are no other officially supported accessories or modifications. The lack of customization options is not a major drawback, as the broadhead is designed to perform optimally in its stock configuration.

Pros and Cons of Slick Trick Torch Broadhead

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Slick Trick Torch Broadhead?

The Slick Trick Torch Broadhead is potentially suitable for experienced bowhunters who prioritize accuracy and a large wound channel. Those confident in their ability to fine-tune their equipment and who are willing to meticulously inspect each broadhead before each shot might find success with the Torch.

Hunters seeking guaranteed reliability and deep penetration should skip this product. Beginners or those hunting in challenging conditions where shot placement may not be perfect should also avoid the Slick Trick Torch Broadhead.

A must-have modification would be a redesigned deployment mechanism that ensures consistent and reliable blade opening upon impact. Until this is addressed, I cannot confidently recommend this product.

Conclusion on Slick Trick Torch Broadhead

The Slick Trick Torch Broadhead presents a compelling combination of accuracy and cutting diameter. When it works as intended, it is a formidable broadhead. However, the inconsistent blade deployment significantly undermines its value.

At $53.99, the price is justified if the broadhead performed reliably. Given my experience, the price is too high for a product with such a critical flaw.

I cannot personally recommend the Slick Trick Torch Broadhead in its current form. The potential for a wide wound channel is tempting, but the reliability issues are too significant to ignore. Slick Trick needs to address the deployment mechanism before I can confidently recommend this broadhead to fellow hunters. Until then, I’ll stick with my trusty fixed blades.