S Series (S100) vs Exodus (Full Blade)
Our #1 and #2 picks from The 10 Best Deer Hunting Broadheads, compared spec-by-spec with clear pros, cons, and a verdict.
Choosing the right broadhead is paramount for ethical hunting and maximizing your success in the field. Two contenders frequently debated among serious bowhunters are the Iron Will S Series (S100) and the QAD Exodus (Full Blade). While both are celebrated for their quality and effectiveness, they cater to slightly different philosophies and hunting styles. This head-to-head comparison from The Wild10 will break down their key features, performance, and value, helping you decide which broadhead will be the most reliable companion on your next whitetail pursuit. Let's dive in and see which blade stands out for your specific needs.
S Series (S100)
Iron Will
The penetration benchmark. A one-piece A2 tool-steel single-bevel head with a bleeder option, ground to a shaving edge and built to be resharpened for years.
Find it on AmazonExodus (Full Blade)
QAD
The short, stubby fixed head that flies like a mechanical. Blade-over-shaft geometry keeps the profile tiny so wind planing almost vanishes.
Find it on AmazonSpec-by-Spec
| Spec | #1 S Series (S100) | #2 Exodus (Full Blade) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 100 grains (also available in 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250 grains) | 100 grains (also available in 125 grains) |
| Capacity/Size | 1.0625" cutting diameter (1-1/16") | 1.25" cutting diameter (1-1/4") |
| Materials | A2 Tool Steel blades, Grade 5 Titanium ferrule | Stainless Steel blades, Stainless Steel ferrule |
| Price Tier | Premium (Significantly higher per broadhead) | Upper-mid range (High per broadhead) |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty (details on website) | Limited lifetime warranty (details on website) |
| Best Use | Large game, tough bone, extreme conditions, ultimate penetration | Deer, medium game, excellent penetration for fixed blades |
| Portability | Compact fixed blade | Compact fixed blade |
| Durability | Exceptional (regarded as one of the toughest available) | Very High (robust and reliable) |
| Feature Highlights | Cryogenically treated A2 tool steel, single-bevel design, vented blades, screw-in design | Blade-forward design, no O-rings or clips, very short profile, fluted ferrule, screw-in design |
S Series (S100)
Best for: The hunter who demands the absolute toughest, most reliable, and deepest penetrating broadhead regardless of cost.
Pros
- Unrivaled durability and edge retention, even after hitting bone.
- Exceptional penetration due to single bevel and aerospace-grade materials.
- Outstanding flight accuracy, often matching field points.
- Lifetime warranty instills ultimate confidence.
Cons
- Premium price point is a significant investment.
- Smaller cutting diameter compared to some alternatives.
- Requires more effort to resharpen due to blade material and single bevel.
Exodus (Full Blade)
Best for: The serious deer hunter seeking an accurate, robust, and highly penetrating fixed blade broadhead with excellent value.
Pros
- Excellent accuracy and flight characteristics, often field-point accurate.
- Superior penetration for its cutting diameter due to blade-forward design.
- Extremely durable and robust all-stainless steel construction.
- Very short profile makes it highly resistant to wind drift.
Cons
- Slightly smaller cutting diameter than some hunters prefer.
- Can be difficult to remove from some targets due to blade design.
- Not quite the same extreme material hardness as Iron Will.
The Verdict
For hunters demanding the absolute pinnacle of broadhead performance, the Iron Will S Series (S100) emerges as the clear winner. Its unparalleled durability, edge retention, and bone-shattering penetration capabilities are simply unmatched in the market, making it the ultimate choice for critical hunts or when facing tough game. However, this premium performance comes with a premium price tag. The QAD Exodus (Full Blade) is an exceptionally strong contender, offering outstanding accuracy, penetration, and durability at a more accessible, though still high, price point. While it may not have the exotic materials of the Iron Will, its proven performance makes it a top-tier choice for most deer hunters. Choose Iron Will for the ultimate confidence in extreme conditions; opt for Exodus for fantastic performance and value.