What should you do before using a broadhead on game?

Before using a broadhead on game, it is essential to undertake several important steps to ensure safety and effectiveness. Cleaning the broadhead thoroughly removes any dirt or debris that could interfere with its performance. A clean broadhead also reduces the risk of infection or contamination if it makes contact with the game animal.

Sharpening the blade is crucial for ensuring that the broadhead can effectively penetrate the game. A sharp blade increases the likelihood of a quick, humane kill by ensuring a clean cut, which is vital for ethical hunting practices.

Inspecting the broadhead for damage is another critical step. Any nicks, bends, or other damage to the blade can severely impact its ability to perform properly. Using a damaged broadhead could result in poor penetration and an unsuccessful hunt, or worse, a wounded animal that suffers unnecessarily.

Therefore, performing all these actions—cleaning, sharpening, and inspecting—will enhance the hunter’s effectiveness and uphold hunting ethics, making "all of the above" the most comprehensive and appropriate choice.