Hilbre broadheads

[Bob Hunter]

When were hilbre heads first manufactured and by whom? I just started collecting broadheads and have run across several variations of Hilbre.

[Falk]

Hilbres were first produced in 1954, when the "barbed" Hilbre came out. Then in 1957 the ferrule was changed to give the "semibarbed" Hilbre, which also got a bleeder in 1959.
The "barbless" or "Super Hilbre" with sloped shoulder ferrule was made since 1966. There is also a BIG version of the Super Hilbre.

They were made in Chatham, New Jersey. Stockfleth was holding the Patent for making the Hilbres: 2816766

I always liked the Hilbres for eye appeal, especially the barbed Hilbre, who is one of my favorites.
 
from left to right: 1954 barbed, 1957 semibarbed-2, 1959 semibarbed-4, 1966 barbless, 1966 barbless, big

[Bob Hunter]

Thanks Falk. Have you ever heard of a 3 blade Hilbre ?

Where is the best place to learn about Hilbre ?

[Falk]

Bob,
there is no three blade Hilbre.

Do you have a 3-bld with plastic ferrule? Has it three backwards "protrusions" on it's trailing edge? That would be an Arrowmate 3-bld, which is quite common. Made since 1963 in Milwaukee. ... and if the blades are of stainless steel, then you are a rich man!

If you are serious with your collecting my best advise would be to get yourself the "Identification Guide" books from Wade Phillips. Search for "archerycollectibles" on the **** auction site. But be warned: You can easily build a house for the money you'll spend for bhds soon. Better quit now!

[Kingstaken]

Falk whats length are the barbless big. I have 18 which measure 3". New condition. Sharp as any blade I own.
Question is how strong is the plastic ferrule?

[Falk]

Kingstaken,
the big one on the far right is 3 1/2" long - your's are the normal sized version, second from right.

Sharp?
They have a true needle point, and will poke out an eye easily, yes, but I never had one that appeared sharp, at least not out of the package. But sharpening these narrow blades with bleeders in place is - ah difficult ...
Some ferrules might be brittle and hardened with time. I would never use them on something else then small game or birds.

[Kingstaken]

So the ones that I have were made around 1966?
I got them from an auction site with a return address in New Jersey. I assume thats where they were made.
 
 

 

[Falk]

Yes, made in Chatham, New Jersey. Sold by and know as Colt "Super Hilbre". Made since 1966, but I don't know until when.

[raghorn]

You also need to join the American Broadhead Collectors Club. Lots more info available from them. Wade does not have the only broadhead books.