Patent Publication Number: US-10323916-B2

Title: Mechanical Broadhead

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a mechanical broadhead, and more particularly, to a mechanical broadhead including movable blades, such as rearward deploying/sliding blades or pivoting blades. 
     A mechanical broadhead, sometimes referred to as an expanding blade broadhead, includes blades joined with a ferrule so that the blades can move from a retracted in-flight position to a deployed position upon engagement with a target. Mechanical broadheads generally have the flight characteristics of a field point, yet the penetration and cutting characteristics of a fixed blade broadhead. 
     One type of mechanical broadhead is a pivoting blade broadhead. This broadhead includes blades located in a slot defined by a ferrule so that the cutting edges of the blades face inward in the retracted, in-flight position. The blades are pivotally joined with the ferrule at their rear so they can rotate from the retracted, in-flight position to a deployed position on impact with the target. In the deployed position, the cutting edges of the blades face outward so that they can enhance penetration and cutting action. 
     Another type of mechanical broadhead is a rearward deploying or sliding blade broadhead. Such broadheads generally include blades having cutting edges that always face outwardly, and that are designed to slide rearward relative to a ferrule from a retracted in-flight mode to a deployed mode. 
     Almost all mechanical broadheads include a mechanism to retain the blades in a retracted mode while the broadhead is in-flight. Some rearward deploying broadheads and some pivoting broadheads use O-rings, wraps or bands secured around the blades and the ferrule to hold the blades in-flight. When the blades deploy, these devices are cut, or roll or slide off the broadhead. Many of these devices, however, are prone to rotting or cracking, which can lead to failure of the device, and possibly the unintended and undesirable opening of the blades in-flight. Some pivoting blade broadheads use blade detents or a plunger system located internally within the ferrule to secure the pivoting blades in the in-flight position. 
     Yet other rearward deploying broadheads utilize metal retaining clips that push outward on a blade to urge and maintain the blade in a retracted state. Such clips are commercially available from G5 Outdoors, LLC, and are generally disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,449,416 to Grace et al. While the clips can retain blades in a retained state, they can be complicated and sometimes difficult to use. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A mechanical broadhead having blades movable from a retracted mode to a deployed mode is provided including an external retainer element which holds the blades in the retracted mode, but also selectively releases the blades so that they can move to the deployed mode. 
     In one embodiment, the broadhead includes a ferrule having an exterior and defining a ferrule slot, and a blade movably positioned in the ferrule slot, and a retraction element that secures the blade in the retracted mode. The blade can include a first ball and socket member located adjacent the exterior of the ferrule. The retaining element can include a second ball and socket member also located adjacent the exterior of the ferrule. The second ball and socket member engages the first ball and socket member to hold the blade in the retracted mode. The ball and socket members provide an efficient and secure way to lock and release the blades. 
     In another embodiment, the ball and socket members, which can be on the blades and/or on the retainer element, can be snapped together to provide an audible sound confirming locking of the blades in the retracted mode. In this manner, a user can audibly perceive that the blades are secured in the retracted mode. 
     In yet another embodiment, the ferrule includes a retainer element indexing recess and the retainer element includes a collar with an indexing projection extending upwardly from the collar. The indexing projection is able to be registered in the retainer element indexing recess so that the first ball and socket member precisely aligns with the second ball and socket member. This can facilitate quick and easy assembly and repair of the broadhead. 
     In still another embodiment, the blade can be constructed so that it engages the ferrule and retainer element at only two regions. For example, the blade can include a fulcrum. The blade only engages the ferrule at the fulcrum, and only engages the retainer element at the first ball and socket member. This enables the blade to have only two regions of contact to connect the blade to the broadhead. This can minimize friction on blade deployment, and simplify movement of the blades. 
     In still yet another embodiment, the ball and socket member of the blade can be configured to travel on different paths when the blade is being converted to a retracted mode, versus when the blade is being deployed to the deployed mode. For example, the blade ball and socket member can travel radially, along a first path toward a longitudinal axis of the ferrule when the blade is being converted to the retracted mode. The blade ball and socket member alternatively can travel along a second path parallel to a longitudinal axis of the ferrule, and transverse to the first path, when the blade is initially being deployed to a deployed mode from the retracted mode. These different travel paths can facilitate efficient installation and deployment of the blades. 
     In a further embodiment, the broadhead can include first and second ferrule portions removably joined with one another. The second ferrule portion can acquire a blocking mode to block a removal opening of a ferrule slot defined in the first ferrule portion so that the blade cannot be removed from the slot. The second ferrule portion can achieve a removal mode so that the blade can be removed from the slot. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the first ferrule portion can define a cavity that is in communication with the removal opening. In the blocking mode, the second ferrule portion can be disposed in the cavity and can obstruct the removal opening. Optionally, the second ferrule portion and the cavity can include corresponding threads. The second ferrule portion can be unthreaded and removed at least partially from the first ferrule portion to achieve the removal mode. 
     The broadhead of the embodiments herein provides an efficient mechanism by which to securely hold blades of the broadhead in a retracted mode. When utilized, the retainer element can withstand the elements and generally is of a durable, long lasting and optionally reusable construction. Further, the two-part ferrule can provide an efficient way to secure and guide movable blades, yet provide easy access for repair and replacement of the same. 
     These and other objects, advantages and features of the invention will be more readily understood and appreciated by reference to the detailed description of the current embodiments and the drawings. 
     Before the embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the details of operation or to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention may be implemented in various other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in alternative ways not expressly disclosed herein. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including” and “comprising” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Further, enumeration may be used in the description of various embodiments. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the use of enumeration should not be construed as limiting the invention to any specific order or number of components. Nor should the use of enumeration be construed as excluding from the scope of the invention any additional steps or components that might be combined with or into the enumerated steps or components. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a broadhead of a current embodiment with the blades in a retracted mode; 
         FIG. 2  is a section view thereof; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the broadhead with the blades in a deployed mode; 
         FIG. 4  is a section view thereof; 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded view of the broadhead; 
         FIG. 6  is a top view of the retraction element of the broadhead; 
         FIG. 7  is a close up view of fingers of the retainer element; 
         FIG. 8  is perspective view of the broadhead with the retainer element being aligned with the blades; 
         FIG. 9  is a rear perspective view of a blade being secured in a retracted mode using first and second all and socket members; and 
         FIG. 10  is a rear perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of the broadhead including alternative ball and socket members. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT EMBODIMENTS 
     A current embodiment of the broadhead is shown in  FIGS. 1-9  and generally designated  10 . The broadhead can include a retainer element  20  and one or more blades  30  joined with a ferrule  40 . For purposes of disclosure, the broadhead is described in connection with use on an archery arrow, however, the broadhead is well suited for use with any projectile. 
     The broadhead of the current embodiment can be a rearward deploying, sliding blade type broadhead. This type of broadhead transitions from a retracted mode as shown in  FIGS. 1-2  to a retracted mode shown in  FIGS. 3-4 . In the retracted mode, the broadhead is of a smaller cross section so that it performs well in flight. In the expanded mode, the blades  30  are rearwardly deployed to increase the cutting area of the broadhead. The constructions herein also are suitable for use with other rearward deploying broadheads, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,935,976 to Grace, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,449,416 to Grace, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Of course, the constructions herein are also suited for use with rearward pivoting type broadheads, of the type generally disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,595,881 to Grace, which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     Returning to  FIGS. 1-4 , the broadhead  10  includes a ferrule  40 . The forward portion of the ferrule  40  includes a penetrating tip  43 . The penetrating tip may be an integral or removable feature, and can be sharpened to enhance penetration upon engagement with a target. The rearward end of the ferrule includes a stem  45 . The stem  45  can include threads or other suitable structures to enable attachment of the ferrule  40  to an arrow insert or more generally to an arrow (not shown). The ferrule  40  further can define a longitudinal axis LA that extends longitudinally along the length of the ferrule  40 , generally through the center of the ferrule. 
     The ferrule  40  can include a first ferrule portion  50  and a second ferrule portion  60 . The first ferrule portion  50  can include the penetrating tip  43 . The second portion can include the stem  45 . The first and second ferrule portions can be removably joined with one another. For example, the first ferrule portion  50  can include a cavity  52  defined inwardly from an exterior surface  46  of the ferrule  40  and in particular the first ferrule portion  50 . This cavity  52  can include a threaded portion  52 T. The second ferrule portion  60  can include a second threaded portion  62 T. The second set of threads  62 T can be separated from the stem threads  45 T that join the broadhead  10  to an arrow insert by an unthreaded middle section  64 . Of course, this middle section  64  can in some cases be threaded, and optionally, the entire second portion can be threaded from one end to the other. As shown, however, the second portion  60  can include its own internal cavities  65  four weight savings and/or to calibrate the broadhead to a particular grain/weight. The second portion  60  also can include a seating flange  66  that seats against a rearward shoulder  56  of the first ferrule portion  50  when the second portion is fully installed in the first portion and relative to the first portion  50 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2, 4 and 5 , the first ferrule portion  50  can define ferrule slots  54  that extend longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal axis. The ferrule slots can be configured to accommodate a portion of the blades  30  as described below. The ferrule slots  54  can be of a T-shaped or keyhole structure with a fulcrum  38  of the blade extending transversely to the longitudinal axis LA and movably registered within the slots  54 . Each ferrule slot  54  can include a blade sliding portion  57  and a removal opening  58 . The blade sliding portion  57  can be of a width SW 1  that is sufficient to enable the blade  30  to slide with its first and second sides  31  and  32  immediately adjacent the edges of the blade sliding portion  57 . The width of the blade  30  from one side surface  31  to the second side surface  32  is a blade with BW 1 . This blade width BW 1  is less than the slot width SW 1 , so that the fulcrum portion of the blade can slide in the slot. The blade  30  also can include a second blade width BW 2  associated with and measured at the fulcrum  38 . This width BW 2  is greater than the width SW 1  of the blade sliding portion  57  of the slot. Accordingly, when the fulcrum  38  is slidably journaled in the slot  54 , the fulcrum cannot protrude through or exit through the blade sliding portion  57 . In this manner, the fulcrum is entrapped in the slot  54  generally under the opposing edges  57 E of the blade sliding portion  57 . 
     The slot  54  also can include a removal opening  58 . This removal opening can be formed at a terminal and of the ferrule slot  54 . Although shown as a generally closed opening  58  that only opens to the remainder of the sliding blade portion  57 , this opening can alternatively be constructed to extend completely to the rearward end or shoulder  56  of the first ferrule portion  50 . Thus, the ends of each slot  54  would open at the end  56  of the first ferrule portion  50 . As illustrated however, the removal openings  58  can be closed to the environment and in communication with the ferrule slots  54 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the fulcrum  38  can be a partially spherical element, sometimes referred to as a ball herein. This element can be journaled in the main cavity  54 M of the ferrule slot  54  and can slide along and/or within it. The main cavity  54 M can have a similar rounded in/or circular cross-section to receive the rounded fulcrum  38  as shown. In other constructions, the fulcrum can be of other geometric shapes. For example, it can be cylindrical with a longitudinal axis of the cylinder transverse to the longitudinal axis LA of the broadhead. Alternatively, can be polygonal, for example, in the form of a rectangle. In these other constructions, the main cavity  54 M can be similarly shaped to receive the fulcrum  38 . It also is to be noted that although referred to as a fulcrum, the fulcrum  38  might not necessarily be a point or location about which the blade  30  rotates. Although, as shown, it generally can rotate about the fulcrum  38 , or at least a portion of it. Optionally, the fulcrum  38  can be replaced with any suitable feature adapted to engage the ferrule slot and enable the blade to rotate generally about the axis of rotation AR 1  in deploying from a retracted mode to a deployed mode. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2, 4 and 5 , the first  50  and second  60  ferrule portions can be removably joined with one another in a particular manner to entrap the fulcrum  38  in the main cavity  54 M and in the slot  54  so that the fulcrum does not readily escape the same and so the blade remains associated with the ferrule  40 . In particular, the second ferrule portion can include a removal opening obstruction portion  67 . This obstruction portion  67  can be distanced from the seating flange  66  a particular distance so that when the second portion  60  is threaded into the first portion  50 , the obstruction portion  67  obstructs at least a portion of the removal opening  58 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the removal opening obstruction portion  67  can project into the cavity  52  of the first ferrule portion  50 . The obstruction portion  67  also can obstruct the removal opening  58  by a distance or amount OT. This distance OT can be a minor portion of the removal opening  58 , a major portion of the removal opening  58  or slightly more than half of the removal opening  58 , depending on the application. With the obstruction portion  67  obstructing the removal opening  58 , the fulcrum  38  as shown in  FIG. 4  engages the removal opening obstruction portion  67  and the interior surfaces of the ferrule main cavity  54 M. Accordingly, that fulcrum  38  cannot exit through the removal opening  58  because the size of the opening has been reduced to dimensions that are less than the dimensions of the fulcrum  38 . 
     In some cases, it is helpful to remove and replace blades  30  relative to the ferrule  40 . The first and second ferrule portions  50  and  60  are suitable for this activity. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , a user can unthread or rotate the second ferrule portion  60  in direction E as shown. The second portion  60  thus moves in direction F. The threads  62 T unthread from the threads  52 T. In turn, the removal opening obstruction portion  67  is at least partially removed from the cavity  52 . As a result, the removal obstruction portion  67  moves to the location of the obstruction portion  67 ′ shown in  FIG. 4  in broken lines of portion  67 ′. In this configuration, or when the second portion  60  is removed from the first portion  50 , the second portion is in a removed mode. In the removed mode, the dimension of the removal opening RO 1  of the removal opening  58  is no longer obstructed. Accordingly, as shown in  FIG. 5 , the fulcrum  38  can be moved in direction B down and within the ferrule slot. Thus, the fulcrum can be pulled out in a transverse direction to remove the blade  30  from the ferrule  40 . Optionally, the removal opening obstruction portion  67  can be in the form of an annular and/or cylindrical protrusion that is at least partially hollow and defines a portion of a cavity  65 . In some cases, the obstructing portion  67  also can include a key way  67 K. This keyway can be engageable by a tool to optionally remove the second portion  60  from an arrow. 
     In some cases, the second portion  60  can be completely removed from the first portion to provide service and repair to various components of the broadhead. This is illustrated in  FIG. 5  with complete removal of all the major components of the broadhead. 
     To install the blade  30 , the fulcrum  38  is moved through the removal opening  58  and into the main cavity  54 M of the ferrule slot  54 . The blade can be slid forward, toward the penetrating end  43 . The second portion  60  can be installed and rotated in a reverse direction of E thereafter, and threaded into the cavity  52  until the seating flange  66  seats against the rearward edge  56  of the first ferrule portion  50 . When the seating occurs, the removal opening obstruction portion  67  obstructs and blocks the removal opening in a blocking mode so that the blade cannot be removed. In particular, the fulcrum  38  cannot be moved through the removal opening  58 . 
     Optionally, the removal opening  58  forms a terminal end of the ferrule slot  54 . In this manner, the removal opening opens outward, through a sidewall  59  of the ferrule first portion. Thus, in this construction, the ferrule slot and removal opening are fully bounded by the sidewall  59  and generally some portion of the first ferrule portion  50 . 
     Further optionally, the various ferrule slots  54  can be discontinuous and separated from one another by structure of the first ferrule portion  50 . Those slots however can be in communication with and can open up to the cavity  52  within which the second portion  60  is inserted. Generally, each of the ferrule slots  54  can be offset from and parallel to the longitudinal axis LA. The cavity  52  may be centered on the longitudinal axis LA. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-5 , the ferrule  40  can define an exterior surface  46  which is generally the surface that is open and visible to a casual observer of the broadhead when installed on an arrow or generally in an assembled state. The exterior surface  46  can include all the visible surface on the exterior of the ferrule. The exterior surface  46  can be differentiated from the interior of the cavity  52  and the ferrule slots  54  of the broadhead which have interiors that are generally not visible to a casual observer of the broadhead when it is in an assembled state, except perhaps through the removal openings in some cases. The interior cavities and slots of the broadhead can house or include any internal compartments or components. The interior portions of the cavity  52  and of the ferrule slots  41  are located on the interior of the ferrule  40  while the penetrating tip  42 , cutting edges  33 , ball and socket members  31 B,  22 B, and the retainer element  20  are disposed on or adjacent the exterior surface of the ferrule  40 , generally outside the ferrule. 
     The blades  30  are movably joined with the ferrule  40 , and are configured to translate from a retracted mode to a deployed mode as shown in comparing  FIGS. 1-2  to  FIGS. 3-4 . Each blade can include a forward end  35  and a rearward end  36 . A cutting edge  33  can extend from the forward end  35  to the rearward end  36 . The cutting edge can be sufficiently sharp to cut tissue or any other target that the broadhead  10  engages. The blades  30  can include an inner edge, which is located inward, closer to the longitudinal axis LA than the cutting edge  33 . In the illustrated rearwardly deploying broadhead, the cutting edge  33  remains positioned radially outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis LA, that is, it faces outward in both the retracted mode and in the deployed mode. The inner edge  39  also remains facing generally inwardly, radially toward the longitudinal axis LA in both the retracted mode and the deployed mode. 
     Generally, each blade  30  can be movably positioned in each ferrule slot  54 , which means that each blade can slide and/or rotate relative to the ferrule  40  in the ferrule slot  54 . In some embodiments herein, the blade  30  can slide relative to the slot away from the penetrating tip  43 . Simultaneously, or at some other time, the blade can rotate about the axis of rotation AR 1 . In other embodiments, the blade can be movably positioned in the ferrule slot and can rotate in or out of the ferrule slot about a fixed axis of rotation. 
     As mentioned above, the blades  30  and the retainer element  20  can include a first ball and socket member  31 B associated with the blades  30 , and a second ball and socket member  22 B associated with the retainer element  20 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , the first ball and socket member  31 B can be disposed on an inside and/or rear edge  39  of the blade. The first ball and socket member  31 B, can be closer to the rear end  36  of the blade  30 . The first ball and socket member  31 B also can be distal from the fulcrum  38  located near the forward end  35  of the blade  30 . The ball and socket member  31 B can come in many forms. Optionally, the member  31 B can be in the form of a partially rounded and/or partially spherical element that projects from the rear edge  39  of the blade  30 . Further optionally, the geometric shape of the ball and socket member  31 B can be said to be in the shape of a “ball”, or at least part of a ball, of the ball and socket. This can be accurate even though the member  31 B is not in the shape of a perfect sphere or perfect ball. As another option, the member  31 B can be in the form of a protrusion, a projection, a boss and/or a rotatable, mass increasing feature. The exterior surfaces of the member  31 B can be substantially rounded, and/or can include multiple polygonal facets. 
     Although the current embodiment illustrates three corresponding sets of ball and socket members dedicated to each of the three individual blades of the broadhead, there can be different numbers of the sets of ball and socket members. For example, where there is only two blades, two sets of ball and socket members can be included in the broadhead. Where there are four blades, four sets of corresponding ball and socket members can be included in the broadhead. 
     The second ball and socket member  22 B shown in  FIGS. 5-7  can be in the form of a socket having one or more open ends. The second ball and socket member  22 B can include first  21  and second  22  fingers that extend outwardly from an annular collar or ring  23 . These fingers, and the remainder of the retainer element  20 , can be constructed from resilient materials. Suitable materials can include ABS, polycarbonate, and other low friction thermoplastic polymers. Of course, in some cases metals and composites can be substituted therefore. Optionally, the second ball and socket member  22 B can be in the form of a partial and/or full cavity that mimics an exterior surface of the member  31 B. Further optionally, the second member  22 B can include one or more additional fingers to restrain and/or secure the first member  31 B. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5-6 , the fingers  21  and  22  can be separated from one another by a first distance D 1  when the second ball and socket member  22 B is not engaged with the first ball and socket member  31 B. The distance D 1  can be measured in between the respective apexes is  21 A and  22 A. Because the fingers  21  and  22  are resilient, when the second ball and socket member  31 B enters the socket portion  24  of the ball and socket member  22 B, fingers  21  and  22  can move in direction H slightly to increase the distance D 1  to a second, greater distance. The distance D 1  can be greater then a maximum width B 2  of the ball and socket member  31 B. When the distance D 1  is increased to a greater distance upon movement in of the fingers direction H, this can enable the second ball and socket member  22 B to slightly deform and open, to enable the first ball and socket member  31 B to enter into the socket portion  24 . 
     As shown, the socket portion  24  of the ball and socket member  22 B can be in the form of an elongated cylinder that is partially opened on one side. Of course other types of geometric configurations can be selected for the shape of the socket portion  24 , For example, the socket portion can be in the form of a polygonal tube or opening, or the socket portion can be in the shape of a fully rounded or partially spherical socket opening, that may or may not be substantially closed. Optionally, although the second ball and socket member  22 B can be referred to as the socket, that socket need not be a fully or substantially closed cavity, and can be partially and/or substantially open in one or more regions to allow the ball of the first ball and socket member  31 B to enter and exit the socket. The socket portion  24  can extend from a lower end  25  to an upper end  26  of the retainer element  20 . 
     Optionally, the elongated cylinder forming the second portion  24  can include different dimensions. For example, as shown in  FIG. 7 , the socket portion  24  can be of a first width W 1  and a second width W 2 . The first width W 1  can be slightly greater than the second width W 2 . The first ball and socket member  31 B can be sized to precisely fit within the width W 1 , but slightly oversized and unable to fit precisely in the width W 2  of the socket portion  24 . As a further example, the maximum width B 2  of the ball and socket member  31 B can be slightly less than or equal to the width W 1  of the upper portion  24 A of the socket portion  24 , but greater than the width W 2  of the lower portion  24 B of the socket portion  24 . When the blades are in the retracted mode, and the first ball and socket member engages the second ball and socket member, the lower portion  24 B of the socket portion  24  can prevent those blades from inadvertently slipping downwardly relative to the ferrule and inadvertently deploying. Of course, during deployment, the ball  31 B can move in direction J for a distance, in which case the ball and the blade moves parallel to the longitudinal axis LA of the blade upon initial deployment. After further deployment, for example, where the ball  31 B clears the lower end  25  of the ball and socket member  22 B, the ball and blade can move arcuately and/or linearly outward relative to the longitudinal axis. 
     Optionally, the ball and socket member  22 B can include opposing chamfered, radiused or tapered surfaces  21 C and  22 C on the opposing fingers  21  and  22  respectively. These surfaces can transition to respective apexes  21 A and  22 A of the fingers. These surfaces or portions  21 C and  22 C can facilitate and guide the ball  31 B between the apexes  21 A and  22 A so that the ball enters the socket portion  24 . With these surfaces, the ball  31 B can exert outward forces against the surfaces to resiliently bias the fingers  21 ,  22  slightly away from one another in direction H as described above. As the ball  31 B moves through and passes the apexes, the distance D 1  increases to a second grader distance so that the gap between the fingers effectively enlarges. After the ball clears the apexes, it enters the portion  24 A of the socket portion  24 . When this occurs, the fingers  21  and  22  move in opposite directions, of direction H, back toward their original configuration with the gap between the fingers set at D 1 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 9 , the blades  30  can be positioned in a secured orientation relative to the ferrule  40  via an interaction of the first ball and socket member  31 B of the blade  30  and the second ball and socket member  22 B associated with the retainer element  20 . In particular, the blades and retainer element  20  can be constructed so that the ball and socket member  31 B can move along a ball and socket axis BSA that is transverse, and optionally perpendicular to, the longitudinal axis LA. As the ball and socket member  31 B moves in direction K along the axis BSA, it engages the fingers  21  and  22  of the second ball and socket member  22 B to open them up and enable the ball  31 B to enter the socket portion  24 . When the resilient fingers snap back in a direction opposite that of direction H shown in  FIG. 6 , the fingers can audibly engage the ball  31 B and/or other portions the blade  30 . In turn, this emits an audible snap or click that is of sufficient decibels for and perception by a human user. In this manner, a user setting the blades  30  relative to the retainer element  20  can confirm via that audible click or snap that the blade is secured in the retracted mode shown in  FIGS. 8-9 . As mentioned above, however, the first ball and socket member  31 B also can travel with the blade  30  in a second direction J that is transverse to the ball and socket axis BSA. This second direction J optionally is, parallel to the longitudinal axis LA. The ball  31 B can travel in this direction J for at least a portion of the length of the second ball and socket member  22 B, after which, it optionally can move on a linear curvilinear and/or path away from the longitudinal axis. Further optionally, the ball and socket axis BSA can be slightly curvilinear, particularly where the ball  31 B moves along an arc established by the fulcrum  38  being seated in the ferrule slot  54 . Despite this, is still considered to move transverse and optionally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LA. 
     As mentioned above, the retainer element  20  can include a collar  23 . The collar  23  can include a flange  23 F that can be substantially annular. This flange can be configured to seat against the seating flange  66  of the second ferrule portion  60 , as shown in  FIGS. 2 and 5 . When the flange  23 F seats against the flange  66 , this establishes the proper location of the second ball and socket member  22 B relation to the ferrule. The socket portion  24  can be disposed at a predetermined distance from the fulcrum  38  when the fulcrum is in the ferrule slot  54 . This can ensure that the first ball and socket member  31 B properly aligns with the fingers of the second ball and socket member  22 B. 
     Optionally, to further ensure alignment of the fingers  21 ,  22  with the ball and socket member  31 B, the retainer element can include indexing projections  27  that extend outwardly from the collar  23 . These indexing projections can form at least a portion of the fingers  21  and  22 , as well in some cases a portion of the socket portion  24 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , these indexing projections  27  also can extend inwardly toward a longitudinal axis LA of the retainer element  20  and/or the broadhead in general. Optionally, the indexing projections can extend upward from the collar adjacent the exterior surface of the ferrule, on an exterior portion of the collar. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 8 , the indexing projection  27  can be configured to fit within a retainer element indexing recess  53  that is defined by the ferrule  40  and more particularly by the first ferrule portion  50 . There, the indexing projection  27  can be seen moving into the indexing recess  53  in direction D. The indexing recess  53  can be aligned with and centered on the centerline of the ferrules slot  54 . The recess also can be of a width that is slightly greater than the width of the indexing projections  27 . Optionally, the indexing recess  53  can transition to the removal opening  58  and/or the ferrule slot  54 . The indexing recess can be of a shallower depth and/or not extend through the sidewall  59  of the ferrule  40 . In some cases, the indexing recess can be a recess in the exterior surface  46  of the ferrule, without extending through a portion of the ferrule to form a through hole therein. 
     During installation, the indexing projections  27  can be gently slid into the indexing recesses  53  in direction D as shown in  FIG. 8 . When the indexing projections are fully nested or seated within the indexing recesses, the center line FA of the second ball and socket member  22 B can be centered with the center of the ferrule slot  54  and generally the blade as well. Thus, when the element  20  is placed to register the indexing projections in the indexing recesses, the respective socket portions of each of the second ball and socket members  22 B are aligned with the respective ball portions  31 B of the blades. There optionally is no additional alignment for a user to attain so that the blades properly lock relative to the retainer element  20  in a secure manner. 
     Optionally, the collar  23  can include a wall  23 W that extends upwardly from the inwardly projecting flange  23 F. This wall  23 W can extend upwardly along at least a portion of the exterior surface  46  of the first ferrule portion  50  when the retainer element is installed. Further optionally, the flange  23 F can engage the seating flange  66  while the wall  23 W is disposed adjacent the exterior surface of the flange  66 , and further adjacent the exterior surface  46  of the ferrule. 
     Operation and use of the broadhead  10  will now be described with reference to  FIGS. 1-5 . As mentioned above, the broadhead  10  is in a retracted mode as shown in  FIG. 1 . Upon impact with a target, it transitions to a deployed mode shown in  FIG. 3 . To assemble the broadhead, the blades  30  can be attached the ferrule  40 , and the retainer element  20  can be disposed on the ferrule. The first ball and socket members  31 B of the blades  30  are engaged with the second ball and socket members  22 B of the retainer element  20  to secure the blades  30  in the retracted mode shown in  FIGS. 1-2 . In particular, with further reference to  FIG. 9 , the blades  30  can be engaged with the retainer element  20  by moving the first ball and socket member  31 B toward and into the second ball and socket member  22 B. This movement generally occurs along the ball and socket axis BSA which can be transverse, and optionally linear or curvilinear, relative to the longitudinal axis LA. As the ball and socket member  31 B moves in the direction K, the remainder of the blade  30  also can rotate about an axis of rotation AR 1  of the fulcrum  38  associated with the blade  30 . During the movement of the ball  31 B into the socket, the ball engages the fingers  21  and  22  of the second ball and socket member  22 B. The ball presses against the surfaces  21 C and  22 C with force to push the resilient fingers away from one another, increasing the distance D 1  to a greater distance. After the ball clears the apexes  21 A and  22 A, the ball  31 B enters into the socket portion  24  and the resilient fingers  21 ,  22  move in a direction opposite that of the direction H toward one another. When this occurs, the ball and socket member emits an audible snap or click or other sound. When this audible sound is perceived by a user, the user can be confident that the blade is fully secured in the retracted mode as shown in  FIGS. 1-2 . 
     When the broadhead  10  is in the retracted mode, the blade engages the ferrule  40  and its portions including the retainer element  20  at substantially only two locations. First, the fulcrum  38  engages the slot  54  and its interior surfaces. Optionally there might be only one region of localized contact between the fulcrum and the inside of the ferrule slot  54 . The blade also contacts the second ball and socket member  22 B of the retainer element  20  via the first ball and socket member  31  at a second region. Thus, the blade has substantially only two regions of contact with the other immovable components of the broadhead, such as the ferrule and the collar. 
     When the broadhead  10  engages a target, the target engages the front  35  of the blade  30 . As a result of this rearward force, the blade begin to move rearwardly and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis LA. As the blade moves rearwardly, the fulcrum  38  acts a guide as it slides within the ferrule slot  54 . The rearward movement also exerts a force on the first ball and socket member  31 B upon initial movement of the blade. As a result of this force, the ball and socket member moves generally parallel to the longitudinal axis LA as shown in  FIGS. 7-9  in direction J until the ball  31 B exits the socket portion  24 . After it clears the fingers, the ball  31 B can move linearly and/or curvilinearly outward and away from the longitudinal axis LA as the blade rotates about the axis of rotation AR 1  of the fulcrum  38  disposed in the slot  54 . 
     Deployment of the blade rearward and outward continues until the stop notch  33  engages the shoulder  62 S and/or the fulcrum  38  engages the removal opening obstruction portion  67  of the second ferrule portion  60 . This second ferrule portion and in particular the obstruction portion  67  blocks the removal opening  58  when the second ferrule portion is in the blocking mode as shown in  FIG. 4 . Due to the obstruction portion  67 , the fulcrum  38  is arrested in movement and cannot move through the removal opening  58 . Thus the blade cannot be removed from the ferrule slot with the second ferrule portion in the blocking mode. Deployment of the blade ceases in this configuration. 
     In some cases, it can be helpful to replace the blades  30  relative to the broadhead, for example, where they become dulled or bent due to use. To replace a blade, with reference to  FIG. 5 , the second portion  60  of the ferrule can be rotated in direction E. As a result the threads  62 T thread out from the thread  52 T of the first ferrule portion  50 . This causes the second portion  60  to be at least partially removed from the first portion  50 . This achieves a removal mode by moving the obstruction portion  67  along the longitudinal axis and generally away from the ferrule slot  54 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , when the obstruction portion  67 ′ reaches the location shown in broken lines, the second ferrule portion is in a removal mode, and the fulcrum  38  can be slid out and move through the removal opening  58 , for example in direction C as shown in  FIG. 5 . In this manner, the blade can be removed from the ferrule and replaced. Installation can occur by reversing the above steps. 
     The retainer element  20  also can be replaced relative to the broadhead. As shown in  FIG. 8 , the indexing projections  27  can be moved in direction D into the indexing recess is  53 . In turn, this aligns the second ball and socket member  22 B with the first ball and socket member  31 B. Thereafter, the blade can be locked via the first and second socket members as shown in  FIG. 9  and described above. 
     The ferrule, blades and other components of the broadhead can be manufactured from metal, composites, polymers, or combinations of the foregoing. Suitable metals include aluminum, stainless steel and/or titanium. If the ferrule is constructed from metal, it can be machined from bar stock or formed using metal injection molding (MIM) optionally followed with a secondary machining operations. If the ferrule or other components are constructed from composites or polymers, the tip and the blades optionally can be manufactured separately from other materials such as metals. 
     A first alternative embodiment of the broadhead is shown in  FIG. 10  and generally designated  110 . This embodiment is similar in construction and operation to the embodiment described above with a few exceptions. For example, the broadhead can include a ferrule  140  and respective blades  130 , as well as a retainer element  120 . The first ball and socket member and second ball and socket member  131 B and  122 B however, can be reversed from that of the embodiment above. For example, the retainer element  120  can include a ball portion  122 C that is configured to fit into a socket  134  defined by the first ball and socket member  131 B. The socket  134  can be similar to that described in the above embodiment on the retainer element. In some cases, however, the respective fingers of this first ball and socket member  131 B can be rigid and non-resilient. In such a case, the ball  122 C can be more malleable and deformable so that it can deform and/or become more narrow when it is inserted into the socket  134 . Operation, use and assembly of the broadhead  110  of this embodiment is similar to that of the embodiment described above. 
     Directional terms, such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “inwardly,” “outer” and “outwardly,” are used to assist in describing the invention based on the orientation of the embodiments shown in the illustrations. The use of directional terms should not be interpreted to limit the invention to any specific orientation. The above description is that of current embodiments of the invention. Various alterations and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and broader aspects of the invention as defined in the appended claims, which are to be interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law including the doctrine of equivalents. 
     This disclosure is presented for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the invention or to limit the scope of the claims to the specific elements illustrated or described in connection with these embodiments. For example, and without limitation, any individual element(s) of the described invention may be replaced by alternative elements that provide substantially similar functionality or otherwise provide adequate operation. This includes, for example, presently known alternative elements, such as those that might be currently known to one skilled in the art, and alternative elements that may be developed in the future, such as those that one skilled in the art might, upon development, recognize as an alternative. Further, the disclosed embodiments include a plurality of features that are described in concert and that might cooperatively provide a collection of benefits. The present invention is not limited to only those embodiments that include all of these features or that provide all of the stated benefits, except to the extent otherwise expressly set forth in the issued claims. Any reference to claim elements in the singular, for example, using the articles “a,” “an,” “the” or “said,” is not to be construed as limiting the element to the singular. Any reference to claim elements as “at least one of X, Y and Z” is meant to include any one of X, Y or Z individually, and any combination of X, Y and Z, for example, X, Y, Z; X, Y; X, Z; and Y, Z.