Single-Bevel vs Double-Bevel Broadheads

What the bevel actually does

A double-bevel blade is sharpened on both sides to a symmetrical edge, like most knives — it cuts straight and tunes easily. A single-bevel blade is ground on only one side of each blade, which makes the head rotate as it drives through tissue and bone.

Why single bevels split bone

That rotation is the point. As a single bevel spins through bone it acts like a wood splitter, cracking and levering bone apart rather than just slicing it. The resulting wound is an S-shape that resists closing, which can mean better blood trails on the right hit. It's why single bevels have a devoted following among elk and traditional hunters.

The trade-offs

Single bevels demand more from you. The rotational force amplifies any flight problem, so arrow tuning matters more, and sharpening only one side at a fixed angle has a real learning curve. Double bevels are more forgiving to tune, easier to sharpen, and plenty deadly — for most whitetail hunting at moderate range, the bone-splitting advantage simply isn't necessary.

Which should you choose?

Choose single bevel if you hunt elk or big-boned game, shoot a high-FOC or traditional setup, and you're willing to tune and sharpen carefully. Choose double bevel for easier tuning, simpler maintenance and excellent performance on deer-sized game. Neither is 'better' — they're tuned for different jobs.

FAQ

Is a single-bevel broadhead better for penetration?

In bone, generally yes — the rotation splits bone and the S-cut resists closing, which is why single bevels lead penetration testing. In soft tissue the advantage is smaller.

Are single-bevel broadheads harder to tune?

Yes, somewhat. The rotational force makes a clean arrow flight more important, so plan to spend extra time broadhead-tuning your bow.