Annihilator Katana broadheads review

Annihilator Katana Broadheads Review [Destroying The Competition!]

I don’t know if you’re familiar with Annihilator broadheads, but they’ve come out with some really crazy new technology that has worked very well on the 3-blade broadheads that they’ve made.

And, you can check out the tests on other Annihilator heads that I’ve done. They have a few different models and now, I’ve got another one… the Katana!

I was talking to the Annihilator crew at the 2025 Archery Trade Association show in Indianapolis. During that conversation, I saw this brand new head that they were working with and hoping they have ready by Spring 2025.

And they did!

For all the testing, I used my Elite Bows. And then for the flight testing, I used a Killer Instinct Crossbow because I can just put it on a tripod and really get it steady and there is so much less human error involved in the accuracy. The only difference flight to flight is the broadhead that’s screwed on to the tip of the bolt. Then, for all the arrows and bolts, I’m using Bishop Archery products.

First things first… I love the name “Katana.” It refers to a Japanese sword.

I’ve got a couple Katanas from Japan actually, as I worked in the Ministry over in Asia for a number of years, and had some friends in Tokyo.

But this Katana is a broadhead. And man, this is one wicked cool broadhead!

So, I was really eager to introduce it to you, go through some of the design features and specifications, and then put it to the test. Let’s see how it fared (buckle up!)

The Annihilator Katana Broadheads Up Close

Katana broadheaad up close

So, here’s a good look at the Katana. And man, this broadhead is loaded with innovation! You may think, “Okay, just another 2-blade broadhead.” It has a 2-blade base, but there is just so much more going on!

First of all, let’s start with the materials. Beginning in 2025, Annihilator began using a brand new, proprietary steel in all their heads.

Annihilator has compared their steel that’s used here in the Katana to D2 to S30V to A2 and to S7 tool steels. They showed that in every category that they quantified, (toughness, edge retention, durability, sharpness, and ease of sharpening), that it either equaled or exceeded all those other steels. So, in their mind, it’s way better than any other steel that has ever been used in a broadhead application. Pretty bold claim there. Below, we’ll see how it performed in the tests.

Katana black coating

The Katana has a tough, black coating.

The Katana broadhead is coated with a black nitride coating. It’s different than black oxide. It’s much better, apparently, at corrosion resistance compared to other broadheads.

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Katana Dimensions and Cut Size

In terms of the dimensions, the 100-grain model has a 1-inch cut. (It also comes in 125 grain model and a 200 grain model). In the 100 grain model, the overall length is 0.76″. In the 125 grain model, it has the same base but it’s a little bit longer. And then the 200 grain model, it has got a 1.25″ base and it’s a little bit longer. It’s a beast!

Katana broadhead width

The Katana has a 1″ width cut…

Katana 100 grain length

and an overall length of .76 inches.

Katana side view

All sizes are solid (no venting). But , it has 6 blades to it, which is really interesting. It has these single bevel blades on the outside there (I believe they are a 40-degree angle, but I’m not exactly sure.)

And then, instead of just having a thick ferrule to open up a hole for the arrow shaft to go through, they put in two more single bevel blades on each side. And, in doing that, they created more cutting surfaces and reduced the friction that comes with a material pressing against the flat surface of a broadhead. So, it just creates more cutting areas to cut more tissue.

And then, these are single bevel sharpened as well, but not in the same direction. They kind of just angle towards each other.

Katana broadhead scoops

Another unique feature of the Katana is the three “scoops” per side that are created by the extra blades.

These blades create three “scoops.” And, then the same thing on the other side. These are the scoops that the Annihilator became known for, and they call it their cavitation technology that not only aids in flight, like the dimples of a golf ball as it rotates, but, it also creates a pressure inside the cavity of an animal, a forward pressure and a pressure behind it that creates huge tissue displacement. That’s their claim, and they’ve got some incredible photos to show it.

Katana hole size

I saw this one photo that was sent to me of a deer, and you can see the size of the hole that it put there in the deer. That’s an 8-inch knife next to it, compared to this 1 inch cut broadhead. But apparently, they just open up a really big hole. I suppose it depends on what angle you hit it at, but it has the potential to open up a really big hole.

And then in terms of thickness, the blades are really interesting. I took some pictures to try to highlight it. In the front, the blade is 0.060″ thick.. And then towards the rear, it gets more narrow. And, that just adds more weight forward and more durability forward for that hard impact and then they saved some weight as they go back and it gets a little bit thinner there in the back.

Katana broadhead blade thickness profile

This gives you an idea of the blade thickness of the Katana 100 grain.

So man, just so much going on! A total cut of 1.74″ given these 6 cutting edges, one inch one way, and two that are 0.37″ the other way.

Katana broadhead dimples

The blades not only open up a bigger hole to allow the arrow to glide through it to reduce the surface friction, but they also provide lateral support to this 2-blade broadhead, not unlike a ferrule that goes all the way to the tip. And, you notice they go all the way to the broadhead tip and almost create a little dimple.

Now, in terms of resharpening, these little back blades, you just resharpen with a small file and just do your best. They’re single bevel, so they shouldn’t be that hard. It’s not that crucial for them to be razor sharp. But there’s a new Stay Sharp Guide sharpener called The Answer that would work really well on this. It works really well on a lot of different broadheads, but it would do a great job sharpening these edges.

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Katana Broadhead Testing

This head looked so innovative and interesting, that I was curious to see if it was just a bunch of gimmicks, or if Annihilator was really on to something special…

Flight Test  

I shot one 1 field point and then one broadhead @30 yds with a Killer Instinct SWAT X1 Crossbow 675 gr Bishop Bolt, at 300 fps

Katana broadhead flight test

The Katana crushed the bullseye!

Edge Test 1 Initial Sharpness Test

It took 146 grams of force to cut through the polymer wire, which is a 10 on a 10-point scale plus a bonus for being under the threshold of 200.

Penetration Test 1

I shot the Katana broadhead into Clear Ballistics FBI Gel, fronted by a 2/3″ Rubber Foam Mat and 1/2″ MDF. 

Katana mdf and ballistic gel penetration

It penetrated 9″ which is a 10 on a 10-point scale.

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Edge Test 2, Edge Retention Test (Sharpness after Penetration Test 1)

It only took an additional 10 grams of force to cut through the wire, which is a 9.8 on a 10-point scale. And it also got an extra bonus for both the sharpness and the edge retention being under the threshold of 200.

Penetration Test 2 (Layered Cardboard)

katana cardboard penetration test

The Katana penetrated through 73 layers, which is a 10 on a 10-point scale plus a bonus for being over the threshold of 70. And, it’s the first broadhead ever to penetrate through more than 70 layers! And, on top of that, it’s the first broadhead ever to reach the maximum of 9″ of penetration and 70 layers of penetration in both of the two penetration tests. So it gets an extra bonus for that!

Rotation (Clear Ballistics FBI Gel)

Katana broadhead rotation in gel

The Katana rotated a whoping 88 degrees at 12″. Man, that is an impressive wound channel right there!

Durability Test (3 shots into 1/2″ MDF)

Katana broadhead after 3 shots through MDF

The head is in pristine condition after the 3 shots through the MDF.  

Durability Test 2 (2 shots 22 ga Steel Plate)

Katana broadhead steel plate test

Here is the Katana after the two shots into the steel plate, and the broadhead is just in perfect condition. There are only minor cosmetic scratches on the blades, not to the edge themselves. And then, you can see the holes… man, really nice oval holes. You can even see some of the slits created by those two bleeders on each side to make them extra wide in that way. That’s really cool.

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Durability Test 3 (1 Shot Cinder Block)

Katana broadhead shot at cinder block

So here’s the Katana after all the durability testing. Of course, it did perfectly well on the MDF and also on the steel plate. You couldn’t even tell it was shot! And then into the cinder block, man, it put the smack down on that cinder block! I’ve seen cinder blocks break before, but usually there’s a big crack and it’s kind of obvious it’s going to happen. This one, I was surprised because I aimed more down low so the top wouldn’t break off, but really impressive and yet still, it’s just in perfect shape, spins perfectly well, edges are in really good shape, and can be used again. It had perfect durability through all these tests.

The Katana… A Record Score!

So what do you think about the Annihilator Katana broadhead?

I had a feeling it was going to do really well. I thought since it had a low profile, it was probably going to fly really well. I also thought that because it had a lot of of cutting surface compact, it would probably be durable and penetrate well. But, I had no idea it was going to do as well as it did!

Early in 2025, I came out with some new bonuses to help separate the really special broadheads from the pact. One of them is if the sharpness and the edge retention tests are both 200 grams of force or under then they get a 2-point bonus, because it’s very rare to have it happen.

Another bonus is if it reaches the maximum penetration of 70 layers of cardboard and 10″ in the gel, MDF, and rubber foam mat tests, it gets a 2-point bonus. That has never happened before now.

Additionally, if it gets a perfect score in durability through the MDF, the steel plate, then the concrete, there’s no deduction. It gets a perfect score and then it gets an extra 2-points. It happens every once in a while and it did with the Katana.

I did not expect one broadhead to get bonuses in all those areas. But, the Katana did. It got the bonus for the sharpness and edge retention. It got the bonus for the penetration, the best penetrating broadhead way through the layers of cardboard and through the gel and MDF and rubber foam mat combo. And it came out looking brand new! I cleaned it off and it looks brand new… incredible!

Lusk grade on Katana Broadhead 100 grain

The scorecard for the Katana was… a new record!

So the Katana literally broke the mold. It scored over 100 points. But, even if you remove the 6 points of extra bonus that it got, it still got the highest score of any fixed blade head that I’ve tested by far.

So, let me tell you, this is a really impressive head.

The only knock that I would give on it is I wish it has a little bit wider cutting diameter to make a little bit wider hole. However, I think it more than makes up for that with all the cutting edges with the vacuum. I’m interested in testing the vacuum that it creates. The internal damage, the rotation, and the incredible rotation; I wasn’t expecting all that.

If you’re looking for something to penetrate deeply, or maybe you have a light setup or are hunting a big animal or even you just want to cause massive internal destruction and use a really low profile broadhead, man, this is one really worth considering.

So, what more can I say? What a fantastic broadhead!

John Lusk archery goat
John Lusk of Lusk Archery Adventures

 

man holding a hunting drone

Thermal Drones for Hunting: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Thermal drones for hunting have been gaining traction lately—and it’s easy to see why.

With how far drone tech and thermal imaging have come, hunters in some states now have access to a tool that can seriously shift how they scout, recover, and, sometimes, even hunt game.

While some see this as a groundbreaking step forward, others argue it walks a fine ethical line.

In Arizona, where I hunt, using a thermal drone for hunting is not allowed. Yet, I think about how helpful it would be every season—especially when recovering a wounded animal.

I’ll share some thoughts on the topic based on my experience, explore current regulations, ethical considerations, and why hunters across the country would consider using a thermal drone for hunting.

Let’s break it down.

hunting drone in the woods

Drones have increased in popularity with some hunters… here’s why…

Why Hunters Are Using Thermal Drones

  • Game Recovery: A thermal drone for hunting is often used after the shot to locate a wounded animal. This tech can detect heat signatures even in thick cover or at night.
  • Scouting: Some hunters use drones to identify bedding areas, find possible trails, or view groups of animals from above.
  • Predator Control: In certain states, a thermal drone for hunting is allowed for invasive species or predators like coyotes and even hogs.

In my case, I could’ve used one during an August archery hunt. I took a close-range shot on an archery buck—up in a tree at just 15 yards.

The shot hit high and right, and I knew right then that finding this deer would be tough. I spent hours tracking with no luck. Had a thermal drone for hunting been legal in Arizona, that recovery might have gone very differently.

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Real-World Advantages of Thermal Drones

  • Heat Signatures: Much like their use in law enforcement (think helicopter chases with FLIR cameras), drones with thermal imaging can pick up a heat signature through thick brush or even under snow.
  • Quick Recovery: For ethical hunters, fast recovery of an animal increases the chances of salvaging the meat.
  • Low-Light Visibility: Drones help overcome low-light challenges at dawn, dusk, or during overcast days.

I remember a police chase video where a suspect hid under a child’s plastic pool. Officers on the ground didn’t see him, but thermal mounted on a helicopter picked him up instantly. The same principle applies to game recovery.

Legal Considerations: Where Are Thermal Drones Legal?

hunting drone flying over countryside

You must do your due diligence and research state and local regulations before considering buying a drone for hunting. Understanding local laws is critical, as a thermal drone for hunting might be legal in one state and banned in another.

Common State-Level Restrictions:

  • Arizona: Arizona Game and Fish does not allow the use of drones (thermal or not) to hunt or recover an animal.
  • Colorado & Alaska: Similarly, drones are not permitted for hunting to preserve fair chase ethics.
  • Texas: Allows drone use for certain invasive species but requires a permit.

Always check with your local game and fish department regarding the use of drones. Regulations can shift, especially with rapid tech innovation.

To learn more about regulations, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service offers helpful resources on federal-level hunting laws. At the same time, the Arizona Game and Fish Department provides detailed guidelines for residents like me.

Ethical Concerns: Do Drones Undermine the Hunt?

Many hunters argue that using a thermal drone for hunting crosses an ethical line.

  • Fair Chase: Traditionalists believe hunting should remain a ground-level sport that involves tracking, scouting, and skill.
  • Overreliance on Tech: The concern is that as gear becomes more advanced, the skill element of hunting gets diluted.
  • Slippery Slope: Just as trail cameras became heavily used (and ultimately banned in Arizona), drones may follow a similar pattern.

I’ll be honest—when Arizona banned trail cameras, I wasn’t too upset. On one trip, we hiked deep into a canyon to find a water hole we thought was too remote for others. We found five trail cameras already set up. It felt like a technological arms race, not a hunt.

When Would I Use a Thermal Drone?

I wouldn’t use a thermal drone for hunting during the actual pursuit of an animal. I prefer to keep things challenging and traditional—spot and stalk, tracking signs, and glassing—because that’s what I love most about hunting. However, I might consider one strictly for recovery if it were legal.

I’d also consider using a thermal drone in a survival situation. It could help locate animals and water sources or enhance home security on large rural properties. But, for now, I’m content doing things the traditional way.

What I Would Look for in a Thermal Drone

Key features if you’re considering purchasing a thermal drone for hunting and only after checking your local regulations:

  • High Thermal Resolution: Better target identification.
  • Flight Time: 30 minutes or more is ideal – with a spare battery pack and mobile charger.
  • Range: Look for at least 1.5 to 2 miles.
  • Durability: Weatherproof and field-ready.
  • Ease of Use: Simple interface and reliability in the field.

Companies like DJI Enterprise and Autel Robotics are leading the way in drone and thermal imaging technologies.

Hunting With Drones: Is the Future Already Here?

The topic of using a thermal drone for hunting is controversial and evolving.

While I don’t currently use one due to legal restrictions in Arizona, I understand why others do.

These tools can be a massive advantage for ethical recovery and wildlife management. However, they must be used responsibly and within the boundaries of the law.

What are your thoughts on thermal drones for hunting?

tom guzman author

Tom Guzman is the founder of Trophy Pursuit ( https://trophypursuit.net/ ), a blog focused on hunting, backcountry preparedness, and outdoor gear. With a background as a Marketing Director and expertise in SEO, he combines field experience with digital strategy to deliver practical, well-researched content for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

 

Backpack Hunting And Hiking Gamechanger | [The What, Why and How of MOLLE Webbing]

Perhaps you’ve hear the term “MOLLE webbing” and wondered, “what in the world is that?”

What does MOLLE stand for?

Before we look at what MOLLE webbing actually is, let’s first cover what the acronym itself stands for.

MOLLE stands for (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment).

Kifaru Shape Charge inner MOLLE webbing

MOLLE webbing is a widely used system that is designed for modular gear attachment. It typically consists of heavy-duty nylon or polyester straps that are stitched in a grid-like pattern onto backpacks, vests, and other tactical or outdoor gear.

The MOLLE webbing system allows users to attach compatible pouches, holsters, and other accessories in a secure and customizable way.

For the backpack hunter, MOLLE webbing offers a significant advantage over regular packs by enabling the hunter to organize and carry essential gear such as ammo, rangefinders, knives, and first-aid kits without cluttering the pack’s main compartments. The webbing enhances both accessibility and weight distribution of the pack, making long treks through rough terrain more manageable for the user.

The Origins of MOLLE Webbing

The MOLLE system was developed by the United States military in the late 1990s as an upgrade to the older ALICE (All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) and ILBE (Improved Load Bearing Equipment) systems.

Kifru Shape Charge Backpack with lock on and steps

The key feature of MOLLE is the PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System), which consists of horizontal rows of webbing stitched at regular intervals. These rows of webbing allow gear to be woven and secured using straps, creating a stable and reliable attachment system.

Designed to improve modularity and adaptability in the field, MOLLE was officially introduced in 1997 and it rapidly became the standard for military load-carrying gear.

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How MOLLE Webbing Works

MOLLE webbing functions by way of a simple, yet effective, interwoven strap system. When attaching pouches or accessories, the user threads straps through both the MOLLE webbing on the backpack and the attachment points on the accessory itself. This weaving pattern ensures that gear remains secure, preventing excessive movement or detachment during strenuous activity.

Kifaru Shape Charge MOLLE webbing on waist straps

MOLLE-compatible pouches and gear often include reinforced straps, as well as snap closures to further secure the attachments. The result is a load-bearing system that offers hunters, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts the flexibility to configure their pack to suit different hunts, missions, or hikes/treks.

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Why MOLLE Webbing Is Useful for Backpack Hunters

For backpack hunters specifically, weight distribution and gear accessibility are critical.

MOLLE webbing provides the ability for the user to carry extra gear externally, keeping essential items within reach without overloading the interior of the backpack.

Some key benefits of MOLLE webbing include:

  • Customization: Hunters can attach only the gear they need for a specific hunt, reducing unnecessary weight.
  • Efficiency: Quick access to essential items like a knife, GPS, or survival/first-aid kit without digging through the main compartment.
  • Durability: Made from heavy-duty materials, MOLLE webbing is built to withstand harsh environments and tough conditions.
  • Versatility: Can be used to carry everything from extra ammunition to survival gear, making it adaptable for various hunting scenarios.

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The MOLLE Revolution

MOLLE webbing has changed the game for how hunters, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts carry their gear.

Originally developed for the military, MOLLE webbing has reach the masses, largely by way of the outdoor industry and has since become a staple in outdoor and tactical gear, offering superior customization, organization, and durability.

For backpack hunters, integrating MOLLE-compatible equipment into their setup can mean the difference between a well-prepared, efficient hunt and a frustrating, disorganized experience in the field. MOLLE webbing provides a way to secure all types of outdoor gear such as pouches, portable stoves, first aid kits, and more.

So, whether you’re heading into the backcountry for days on a hunt or a hike, or just needing quick access to essential gear and accessories, MOLLE webbing is a game-changer for sure.