Is impact with something hard (i.e. rib) required to deploy the main blades or would the blades deploy if they just went through soft tissue only (i.e. muscle, organs, tendons, etc.)?

A tremendous amount of research and testing was poured into the characteristics of the retention shrink band including type of material, size, thickness and strength. The result was a band that keeps the blades closed during flight and deploys when intended. Once you hit your target species the main cut blade will deploy after entering the body cavity regardless of where the broadhead enters the animal’s anatomy. Physics forces the broadhead to deploy. Once you dialed-in your equipment and get off a good shot, you will experience a positive outcome.