Judo Points in Archery Explained | Legend Archery

Judo points are a type of arrowhead fitted with small protruding wire spring arms — sometimes called grabbing hooks or claws — that deploy radially on impact. The arms, typically about 1" in diameter, catch onto grass, dirt, and debris the moment the arrow strikes the ground, stopping it from burrowing into thick cover and becoming impossible to find. The name "JUDO" is a registered trademark of Zwickey Archery, Inc.

What Judo Points Are Used For

Judo arrow tips are the go-to choice for two practice styles: stump shooting and roving. Both involve selecting natural targets — stumps, leaves, sticks — at unknown distances in the woods, simulating real hunting scenarios. Because arrows regularly land in tall grass or dense underbrush in these settings, the wire-arm design is genuinely practical rather than decorative. They are not intended for use in formal foam-block or hay-bale targets, where their design advantage is lost.

Technical Details Worth Knowing

Screw-in judo point arrowheads use the industry-standard 8-32 thread, making them compatible with virtually all carbon and aluminum arrow inserts (except Easton Deep Six). They are commonly available in 100- and 125-grain weights. Glue-on versions, suited to traditional wood shafts with a 5° taper, come in 120 grains (5/16" shaft) or 135 grains (11/32" shaft). Because judo tips archery hunters favor often match the weight of popular broadheads, switching between practice and hunting setups requires minimal re-tuning — but any point-weight change still demands a spine check. See the arrow point glossary entry for how point weight interacts with arrow selection.

Advantages and Limitations

• Easier retrieval: The wire arms prevent deep burial in soft ground, which is especially valuable in thick cover.
• Reusability: Made from durable materials, judo points can be used repeatedly, making them cost-effective for regular practice.
• Reduced deflection: The blunt-style tip limits the skip and skid that can occur when a standard pile strikes uneven terrain.
• Limited penetration: The gripping design restricts depth of penetration, making judo point arrowheads a poor choice where deeper penetration is needed.
• Weight penalty: Heavier than field points, which can affect arrow speed and trajectory at longer distances.
• Hard-surface damage: Striking rocks or tree trunks can bend or break the wire arms, reducing their grabbing ability.

When choosing the right arrowhead type for your next outing, match the point to the terrain and purpose — judo points reward archers who spend time shooting in the field rather than on the range.