What function do the blades serve in a mechanical blade broadhead?

The blades of a mechanical blade broadhead are designed to expand upon impact, which plays a critical role in their effectiveness. When the broadhead strikes a target, the blades open up, increasing the cutting area and resulting in a larger wound channel. This expansion creates more significant damage to the tissue, helping hunters to achieve a quick and humane kill. The mechanism that allows the blades to deploy upon impact is crucial for ensuring that the arrow performs optimally when it is most needed.

In contrast, fixed blades remain in a stationary position and do not expand, while self-sharpening blades are not typical characteristics of mechanical broadheads. Additionally, blades that fold back would not function effectively as they would not provide the necessary cutting surface when penetrating the target. Therefore, the design and functionality of the blades in a mechanical broadhead are essential for achieving the desired performance in hunting scenarios.