I'm thinking of switching to a STOS BH for an upcoming trip to Africa to get closer to the 3:1 ratio for more optimal penetration. Was wondering if the factory ground bevel on a STOS head is the proper angle (like a Magnus), or do you have to significantly file them to get the right angle first, before putting the final touch on them (like a Zwickey)? Any other opinions on these heads also welcomed (e.g., durability, ease of sharpening, etc.).

Thanks!

Jeff, I like and use STOS heads a lot, but I would chisle point the tips for Africa. Good luck, and take lots of pictures!

I agree with John on the point, only go with Ashby's Tanto tip instead (see the 2005 updates on this site). Too bad STOS won't have out its new ultra-heavy, single-bevel, Tanto-tipped heads in time for you.

The STOS heads I've had came with a pretty good factory grind on them, much better than the regular Magnus.  The tips do need some work but that is true of most all 2 blade heads, but a nice diamond or tanto only takes a few strokes from the file.

The Grizzly ElGrande, 150 or 190, or the Ribtec would also be a good choice.

I shoot the 160gr ones and I really like them,taken alota game with them and have excelent penetration. I also agree with dave and john the tanto tip would be the way to go.

Great heads, agree with all that's been said. There is almost always a 160 version weighted to 200 in all my quivers. It is what I reach for when I want to make sure I shoot all the way through something.

You can also get them unground and put a single bevel on yourself.  It does take some work, but worth it in the end for me.

The 160's are very good heads, once the tips are modified. Todd Martin is hard at work on some single-bevel STOS versions, but I don't have a time frame for availablity. You might try giving him a call. Ed Schlief (Alaska Bowhunting Supply) is developing some screw-mount BH's that may be of interest too; and I think some of those will be available soon. It's worth a phone call to both Todd and Ed, to see what the status is.

Ed
TGMM Family of the Bow

Hey Jeff,
I have used the Stos 125 gr. mounted on 125 gr. steel inserts and they fly great.  They are also pretty easy to get sharp.  Best of luck.
Bill

Thanks all! I'd like to put some 160s on some footed shafts that I got from Bob Burton - should finish out at 800 gr. Always liked the ease with which the Magnus 2-blades can be sharpened to shaving sharp with just an AccuSharpener, but don't want the width of the bigger Magnus blades. Hopefully these will be just the ticket!

Jeff,

I'd ask my PH.  I switched from a 3 blade to a two for more penetration.  Everyone I was with were shooting WW or MA-3's.  My PH asked me why I was shooting a 2 and I said penetration.  He said, I'll never forget, "Here we don't care about penetration.  We care about blood trails."  I said, "but Ashby said"  and he said, "Ashby has his own agenda."  Didn't get specific on any of this because a kudu came in.

Bowmania

The STOS and newer Magnus have a great grind, they will sharpen easily for you.

  STOS Broadheads

Here's a pic of how I slightly modify the tip, very easy to do:

 

Tim,

Could you share your tip modifying technique? Or anyone else for that matter, please enlighten those of us who have never filed down a tip as to how it is done.

Thanks,
Scott

Scott, I simply lightly stroke the tip with a file, about 3 strokes per side at a 45 degree angle or so, then flip the head and repeat over and over.  Using very light pressure you can take a little off the tip and if you're consistent the head will still spin properly.  Once done it's done forever, takes about 5 minutes to do.

That's how I do it, I think most people do it that way.

how does one get ahold of unground heads?

just call them up.  their # is on their web site, tell them what you want and your in buisness.

Kustom King archery has em...

After it's mounted and spun for trueness, I simply grip the tip with pliers about 1/16th back, and break them off. Then file and stone. They work great.

make the switch...they are excellent.  All the other stuff has pretty much been covered above.
Have a great trip

the new stos heads I bought a little while back have tips just like you show in the picture.