STOS BHs?

[Jeff Sample]

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!

[John Nail]

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!

[Dave2old]

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.

[Fletcher]

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.

[shootssmallbulls]

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.

[JC]

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.

[DanDaMan]

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.

[Dr. Ed Ashby]

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

[PA Bones]

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

[Jeff Sample]

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!

[Bowmania]

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

[SlowBowinMO]

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:

 

[swp]

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

[SlowBowinMO]

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.

[jrchambers]

how does one get ahold of unground heads?

[DanDaMan]

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

[bayoulongbowman]

Kustom King archery has em...

[John Nail]

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.

[Horne Shooter]

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

[tomh]

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