What Kind of File for Broadheads?

eminart · January 27, 2017, 09:37:00 AM

I came over from the wheel bow side a few years ago. Unfortunately, I've deer hunted very little the past 15 years, but my life has settled down, and I do love the traditional archery.

But, anyway, I currently have zwickey deltas on my arrows. I sharpened a few million Thunderheads and Muzzy's back in the day on various sharpening contraptions. I've put an edge on my zwickeys using stones, but I think I'd like to try a file, old style. I'm not totally satisfied with the edge I've achieved thus far. I like the idea of trying a file, at least in the initial stages of sharpening.

I say all that useless rambling to ask this, what kind of file should I use on broadheads? About all I know is that my dad used to talk about Fred Bear sharpening his razorheads with a file.

Unrelated, I'm a falconer and usually spend most of the hunting season chasing rabbits and squirrels with a hawk. But, I'm taking a short break this year, and I finally got out in the woods last weekend with my longbow. I was hunting on the ground and had a buck chasing a doe by me at about 10 yards. I'll spare you the details, but I didn't get off a shot on either. But, seeing those and several other deer that morning has me stoked to do some more bowhunting.

MnFn · January 27, 2017, 09:55:00 AM

A mill bastard file is what I use.
You can use a marker to color the bevel on the blade too see it you are using the right stroke. But I seldom do that anymore. You just get used to the stroke, I guess.

I file one side going from the back of the blade to the edge until I can feel a burr. Then turn blade over and file into the blade edge (it usually does not take much to move the burr over or eliminate it so go easy on the second part).

When the burr is removed you should be good.
At least that is what I do - others might do it differently.

Sam McMichael · January 27, 2017, 09:56:00 AM

I use stones only.

eminart · January 27, 2017, 10:05:00 AM

QuoteOriginally posted by MnFn:
A mill bastard file is what I use.

OK, so there's no "extra fine, super toothed" type of file for getting fine edges? Basically, just a regular old file from the hardware store?

Hackbow · January 27, 2017, 10:53:00 AM

Yep, mill bastard. I used to carry one with me on all hunts for touching heads if needed, especially when shooting Snuffers. Now I'm shooting 2 blade, double bevel and prefer the Rada sharpener, strop on my jeans leg and finish by honing on cardboard.

There is something really cool about taking the time with a file though, so enjoy! I also stop on my jeans (or a belt) and hone on cardboard.

kennym · January 27, 2017, 12:42:00 PM

I like the Nicholson Handyfile, double cut on one side to rough in angle, and single cut on other to finish off. Stropping on cardboard is good but you can make them shave with the file.

(Bocote handle not stock) :D

Tajue17 · January 27, 2017, 12:44:00 PM

did you glue that handle on? but has anyone tried Grobet (Sp?) files

kennym · January 27, 2017, 12:48:00 PM

Yep, but the bocote shrank and it came off, I put it back on, but didn't do a very good job 2nd time!!

The handle is shaped with no little square tang, so really needs nothing put on it.

eminart · January 27, 2017, 12:55:00 PM

Thanks guys. I have bunch of files, but it's not a tool that I've really ever used much. I guess I just assumed I'd need something a little "finer" to put a razor edge on something.

I appreciate the input. I'll look around and get a new, higher quality file than the ones I have and put it in my archery box.

Brock · January 27, 2017, 01:57:00 PM

I use mill bastard file...nichols if can find them. Used to be able to get them from 3Rivers...not got one in a few years. I keep one in backpack all the time. I also carry an AccuSharp as well....

Caleb the bow breaker · January 27, 2017, 02:28:00 PM

I bought a grobet (spelling?) file once that was pretty fine and will do great thinks to a broadhead. Maybe got it at Kustom King?

C

crazynate · January 27, 2017, 02:31:00 PM

Yup just a simple bastard file from the hardware store. It's all I use. I like the 8" for razorheads

Terry Lightle · January 27, 2017, 04:30:00 PM

I use a small mill file
Terry

January 27, 2017, 04:35:00 PM

With some heads like Hills, a vicious edge can be done with a small round file. You wouldn't want to shave your armpits with it, but it will do a good job on game.

Terry Green · January 27, 2017, 04:41:00 PM

grobet is the best I've found....but others will work.

Most important is to take care of the file....and keep it in its protective sleeve. Throwing it in a tool box is the worst thing you can do.

Remember, let the file do the work...no need for excessive pressure at all.

longbow fanatic 1 · January 27, 2017, 04:41:00 PM

This is the one I use. It works great.

RJonesRCRV · January 27, 2017, 04:44:00 PM

Mill bastard to create the edge, then stones and strops for the finish. I like sharpening blades, so I dont mind the time it takes. Clean the file often, and use only in the cutting direction to save the teeth.

Terry Green · January 27, 2017, 04:48:00 PM

Yes...I should have stated...do NOT drag the file backwards against the head or any metal.

Sockrsblur · January 27, 2017, 07:17:00 PM

Did anyone mention chalking the file?
Chalk first will prevent metal shavings from clogging up the groves. File card or brush to clean it out...

Terry Green · January 27, 2017, 07:48:00 PM

I never chalked my file...I know the Wensels do....I just bang it against the sole of my boot. Seems to work for me.