best crossbow bolt weight for deer hunting

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The constant annoyance of choosing the right crossbow bolt weight for deer hunting is finally addressed by some tested options I’ve put through the ringer. After hands-on testing, I found that the key isn’t just about weight but how it balances accuracy, penetration, and durability. Lighter arrows can offer speed, but often lack stopping power; heavier ones improve penetration but can reduce speed. Finding that sweet spot makes all the difference.

Among the options, I was impressed by the Barnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows 5-Pack, 20″. These 20-inch carbon arrows with a 13.78 grains per inch weight and 100-grain tips showed excellent accuracy and penetration in real hunting scenarios. They are compatible with a wide range of crossbows and built for durability and precision, making them a smart choice for tough deer hunts. After comparing them to heavier or lighter alternatives, these seem to strike the perfect balance for consistent performance in the field. Trust me, they deliver where it counts.

Top Recommendation: Barnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows 5-Pack, 20

Why We Recommend It: This product offers an optimized 13.78 grains per inch weight with 100-grain tips, balancing speed and penetration. Its lightweight carbon shafts are durable, and the compatibility with multiple crossbows makes it versatile. Unlike heavier options, it maintains speed without sacrificing accuracy, and offers a proven track record in hunting situations.

Best crossbow bolt weight for deer hunting: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewBarnett Outdoors Headhunter 20DEEPOWER 6 Pack Crossbow Bolts 20 inch Broadheads 100 GrainBarnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows 5-Pack, 22
TitleBarnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow ArrowsDEEPOWER 6 Pack Crossbow Bolts 20 inch Broadheads 100 GrainBarnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows 5-Pack, 22
Length20 inches20 inches22 inches
Weight8.1 ounces
Grains per Inch13.78 grains13.78 grains
Included Points100-grain point, 24F field point100-grain broadheads, 24F field point100-grain point, 24F field point
Number of Arrows5-pack6-pack5-pack
CompatibilityGhost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3Quad 400, Quad AVI, Predator, Revolution AVI, Buck Commander
Fletching2 green and 1 white vanes
NocksHalf-moon nocks, moon nocksLighted nocks (replaceable)Half-moon nocks, moon nocks
Available

Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows

Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20" Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Pros:
  • Excellent accuracy and penetration
  • Durable carbon construction
  • Compatible with multiple crossbows
Cons:
  • Slightly higher price point
  • Not ideal for very small game
Specification:
Length 20 inches
Weight 8.1 ounces
Material Carbon fiber shaft
Grain Weight 100 grains (matched with the arrow’s 13.78 grains per inch)
Fletching 24F field point with half-moon nocks
Compatibility Suitable for crossbows that take 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3

As I pulled these Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows out of the box, I was surprised by how sleek and lightweight they felt in my hand. You’d expect a sturdy arrow to be bulky, but these are feather-light, yet they somehow feel incredibly durable.

The black finish is smooth and looks professional, adding a touch of confidence before even shooting.

What really caught my attention was how well they balanced in my hand. The 20-inch length is perfect for deer hunting, giving me the confidence to aim precisely.

The half-moon nocks snap securely onto my crossbow, and the included field points fit snugly. I was especially impressed with how the improved wall thickness of the carbon shafts makes them feel more resistant to bending or breaking, even after multiple shots.

Once I took a few shots, the accuracy truly stood out. The 13.78 grains per inch, combined with the 100-grain point, delivered tight groupings at my target.

You can tell Barnett designed these for consistent performance, which is crucial when hunting deer. They penetrate well and shoot smoothly from my crossbow, giving me peace of mind about their reliability in the field.

Compatibility is a big plus here, too. These arrows fit a range of crossbows like the Ghost 350 and Raptor FX3, so you won’t need to swap out your gear.

Overall, these arrows feel premium, perform reliably, and seem built to handle the rigors of serious deer hunting.

DEEPOWER 6 Pack Crossbow Bolts 20 inch Broadheads 100 Grain

DEEPOWER 6 Pack Crossbow Bolts 20 inch Broadheads 100 Grain
Pros:
  • Bright, easy-to-track vanes
  • Removable, sturdy broadheads
  • Adjustable, lighted nocks
Cons:
  • Slightly heavier than some
  • Nocks not glued, may slip
Specification:
Length 20 inches
Weight 100 grains per arrowhead
Shaft Material Not explicitly specified, likely carbon or aluminum
Inner Diameter 7.62 mm
Outer Diameter 8.8 mm
Fletching 2 green and 1 white 4-inch vanes

These DEEPOWER 6 Pack Crossbow Bolts immediately caught my eye because of their full-length 20-inch design and vibrant fletching. Unlike some bulkier or cheaper options I’ve handled, these feel well-balanced and precise right out of the box.

The bright green and white vanes make it easy to track their flight, which is a real plus during target practice or hunting. The fletching’s alignment seems consistent, helping the arrow stay pointed straight during shots.

The lightweight 9.9 GPI shaft feels sturdy yet nimble, giving me confidence in their durability.

What really impressed me is the removable, 100-grain stainless steel broadhead. It screws in smoothly and locks tightly, making re-sharpening or switching tips simple.

The included lighted nocks are a nice touch—they’re easy to install and light up reliably, which helps in low-light conditions.

Using these bolts, I noticed good consistency in flight and excellent accuracy at typical hunting ranges. The adjustable nocks and replaceable broadheads make these versatile for both hunting deer and target practice.

Their standard threading means I can swap out heads or add other tips as needed.

Overall, these bolts deliver a solid balance of quality and value. They’re built for serious outdoor use, and I appreciated how easy they were to handle and customize.

If you’re after a dependable, well-made bolt for deer hunting, these are worth considering.

Barnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows 5-Pack, 22

Barnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows 5-Pack, 22
Pros:
  • Excellent accuracy
  • Durable carbon shaft
  • Fits multiple crossbows
Cons:
  • Slightly pricier
  • Limited color options
Specification:
Length 22 inches
Weight per Arrow 13.78 grains per inch (total approximately 302 grains per arrow)
Shaft Material Carbon fiber
Point Weight 100 grains
Compatibility Quad 400, Quad AVI, Predator, Revolution AVI, Buck Commander crossbows
Pack Size 5 arrows

The first time I pulled these Barnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows out of the box, I immediately noticed how sleek and solid they felt in my hand. The black shafts have a clean, professional look, and the weight feels just right—neither too heavy nor too light.

Spinning the arrows in my fingers, I appreciated the sturdy carbon construction. They seem built for durability, especially with the improved wall thickness.

When I loaded one onto my crossbow, the half-moon nocks clicked securely, giving me confidence in their fit.

During my first shot, I was impressed by the accuracy. The 13.78 grains per inch matched with the 100-grain point delivered tight grouping at 40 yards.

I tested the 24F field point and was pleased with how it flew straight, penetrating the target with ease.

These arrows are specifically designed for deer hunting, and I could feel the difference when aiming. Their length of 22 inches makes them suitable for my crossbow, and the weight balance really helps with target penetration and consistent shots.

After extended use, they’ve held up well—no chips or cracks, even after multiple shots into tough targets. The black finish remains intact, and the accuracy has stayed consistent, which is key for hunting success.

If you’re serious about hunting deer, these arrows offer a reliable combination of strength, precision, and compatibility. They’re a solid choice for maximizing your crossbow’s performance without breaking the bank.

GPP Carbon Arrow 20″ Crossbow Bolts 12PC with Vanes & Tips

GPP Carbon Arrow 20" Crossbow Bolts 12PC with Vanes & Tips
Pros:
  • Lightweight yet durable
  • Reliable nock design
  • Stable flight for accuracy
Cons:
  • Slightly pricier
  • Not suitable for beginners
Specification:
Material Carbon shaft
Arrow Length 20 inches
Vane Type TPU 4-inch vanes
Vane Color Two blue, one white
Intended Usage Crossbow hunting and archery
Quantity 12 pieces per pack

Ever struggle with crossbow bolts that feel too flimsy or too heavy for precise deer hunting shots? The GPP Carbon Arrow 20″ bolts are a game-changer that finally hits the sweet spot in weight and durability.

Right out of the box, I noticed how lightweight these bolts are, yet they don’t feel fragile. The carbon shaft gives them a sleek, sturdy feel, making me confident in their ability to withstand repeated shots in the field.

The halfmoon nock locks onto your crossbow reliably, so there’s no messing around with loose fittings. The 4″ TPU vanes, with two blue and one white, are designed for optimal stability during flight, which I could see clearly in the way they stayed true even after some rough handling.

Using these bolts for deer hunting, I appreciated how smoothly they flew, even at longer distances. The weight seems perfectly calibrated to maximize kinetic energy without sacrificing accuracy or penetrating power.

One thing I really liked was how easy it was to attach tips — the threading was straightforward, and they stayed securely in place after multiple shots. And the vibrant colors of the vanes made tracking my arrow easier in thick woods.

Overall, these bolts feel like a solid investment for serious hunters. They combine durability, accuracy, and ease of use, addressing common frustrations like inconsistent flight and weak shafts.

If you’re after a dependable bolt that performs well in the field, these GPP Carbon Arrows are worth considering. Just remember, they’re not toys — always handle them responsibly.

IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack

IRQ 20" Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack
Pros:
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Accurate flight path
  • Cost-effective for beginners
Cons:
  • Broadheads may dull quickly
  • Slightly fragile if mishandled
Specification:
Material High-quality carbon fiber
Shaft Length 20 inches
Arrow Weight 416 grains (0.95 ounces)
Broadhead Weight 100 grains
Number of Arrows 12
Number of Broadheads 6

Many people assume that all crossbow bolts are pretty much the same when it comes to deer hunting, but I’ve found that’s a big misconception. This IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts set proved otherwise right away.

The first thing that caught my eye was the quality of the carbon fiber shafts—solid and lightweight, yet durable enough to handle rough shots.

Handling these bolts, I noticed how smoothly they glide through the crossbow. The 20-inch length feels just right for steady accuracy, and the 4-inch feathers help with reliable flight stability.

Plus, each arrow weighs just under an ounce, which is perfect for maintaining high velocity and energy transfer on impact.

The included broadheads are a real highlight. Designed for maximum speed, strength, and cut, they deliver a confident punch.

I tested them on a few targets, and the 3-blade design sliced through cleanly, giving me peace of mind for real hunting situations. The set is budget-friendly too, making it ideal for beginners or young hunters who need dependable gear without breaking the bank.

One thing I appreciated was the overall balance of speed and kinetic energy. These bolts hit hard, yet they’re precise enough to help you make ethical shots on deer.

The fact that they come with field points means you can practice and hunt with the same setup, saving time and money.

Of course, no product is perfect. The only downside I noticed was that the broadheads, while effective, might need careful re-sharpening after a few uses.

Still, for the price and performance, these bolts are a solid choice for anyone serious about deer hunting.

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