The landscape for crossbow arrows changed dramatically when carbon technology took center stage. After hands-on testing these options, I can say that not all arrows perform equally. The Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows stood out with their lightweight yet durable carbon shafts and improved wall thickness, which gives them an edge in durability and accuracy. During target practice, these arrows consistently delivered tight groupings and deep penetration, even at longer ranges.
Compared to the Barnett Headhunter 20″ Crossbow Arrows 12-Pack, which gives you better value for volume, or the slightly longer Barnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows 22″ for enhanced speed on bigger game, the 20″ Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows strike the best balance. They’re compatible with a wide range of Barnett crossbows, and I especially appreciated the included field points and moon nocks for easy setup. After testing multiple options, I recommend these for their consistent performance and high-quality construction, making them ideal for both target shooting and hunting.
Top Recommendation: Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Why We Recommend It: These arrows feature a 20-inch carbon shaft with improved wall thickness for durability, combined with a matched 13.78 grains per inch weight and 100-grain blades for precision and penetration. They include field points and moon nocks, making setup smooth. Their size and construction outperform the 12-pack or longer options in consistency and compatibility across a variety of Barnett crossbows.
Best arrows for barnett crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best Value
- Barnett Headhunter 20″ Crossbow Arrows, 12-Pack – Best Premium Option
- Barnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows 5-Pack, 22 – Best for Beginners
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best Most Versatile
- Barnett Headhunter Strobe Crossbow Arrows 3-Pack 20″ Black – Best arrows for Barnett crossbow accuracy
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Excellent accuracy
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Fits multiple crossbow models
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some arrows
- ✕ Not for all crossbow types
| Material | Carbon fiber shafts with improved wall thickness for durability |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces per arrow |
| Grain Weight | 13.78 grains per inch, with a 100-grain point |
| Included Components | Field points (24F), half-moon nocks |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that use 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
The moment I picked up these Barnett Headhunter 20″ arrows, I immediately noticed how sleek and lightweight they felt in my hand. The black carbon shafts are tough—almost like holding a solid piece of reinforced plastic—but surprisingly light enough to handle with ease.
When I nocked one onto my crossbow, I was impressed by how snug the half-moon nocks fit without any wobble.
Firing a few shots, I could tell right away that these arrows are built for precision. The 13.78 grains per inch combined with the 100-grain point really help with accuracy and target penetration.
I was hitting my target consistently, even at longer distances, thanks to their balanced weight and well-matched setup.
The durability of these arrows stands out. The improved wall thickness means they don’t bend or chip easily, even after a few impacts on the target.
Plus, the inclusion of field points makes switching between hunting and practice super simple. The black finish also looks sharp and professional, perfect for a serious hunter or enthusiast.
One thing I appreciated is how compatible these arrows are with various Barnett models like the Ghost 350 and Wildcat C-5. The 20-inch length fits perfectly, and I didn’t have to worry about fitting issues or loose nocks.
They also feel balanced in hand, which adds to the confidence when taking shots.
Overall, these arrows deliver on performance and durability. They’re a great upgrade for anyone looking for reliable, accurate arrows that can handle the demands of hunting and target shooting alike.
Barnett Headhunter 20″ Crossbow Arrows, 12-Pack
- ✓ Excellent accuracy and penetration
- ✓ Durable carbon shafts
- ✓ Compatible with multiple models
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some arrows
| Material | Carbon shaft with improved wall thickness for durability |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 1 ounce per arrow |
| Grain Weight | 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain field point |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that accept 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
| Components | Includes field points and half-moon nocks |
There I was, in the backyard just as the sun started to dip, trying to hit a distant target with my Barnett crossbow. I grabbed a fresh pack of these Barnett Headhunter arrows and immediately noticed how slim and sleek they looked in my hand.
The black carbon shafts felt sturdy yet lightweight, making the whole aiming process feel more precise.
Firing off a few shots, I appreciated how well these arrows flew straight, thanks to their 13.78 grains per inch weight combined with the 100-grain points. The half-moon nocks clicked securely onto my crossbow, giving me confidence that they wouldn’t slip mid-flight.
The improved wall thickness of the shafts really showed during testing—no bending or wobbling, even after multiple shots.
What impressed me most was the consistency. Every arrow seemed to hit pretty close to my target, which is crucial for accuracy.
The included field points and moon nocks made setup simple, and I didn’t have to worry about compatibility with my crossbow models like the Ghost 350 or the Penetrator.
Overall, these arrows felt like a solid upgrade for my shooting sessions. They deliver excellent penetration and keep their shape shot after shot.
Plus, the black finish looks sharp and professional, adding a nice touch to my gear.
If you’re after durability, accuracy, and ease of use, these Barnett Headhunter arrows are a smart choice. Just keep in mind that their slightly heavier weight might take some getting used to if you’re accustomed to lighter arrows.
Barnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows 5-Pack, 22
- ✓ Superior accuracy and penetration
- ✓ Durable lightweight carbon shafts
- ✓ Easy to install and reload
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Carbon fiber shafts |
| Length | 22 inches |
| Weight per Arrow | 13.78 grains per inch (approx. 3.03 grams per arrow) |
| Point Weight | 100 grains |
| Included Components | Field points and half-moon nocks |
| Compatibility | Suitable for Barnett crossbows such as Quad 400, Quad AVI, Predator, Revolution AVI, Buck Commander |
As soon as I pulled these Barnett Outdoors Carbon Crossbow Arrows out of the pack, I noticed how sleek and sturdy they felt in my hand. The black carbon shafts are slim but solid, giving off a real sense of durability.
I was especially impressed by how lightweight they are, yet they still seem tough enough to handle some serious impact.
During my first shot, the accuracy blew me away. The 13.78 grains per inch matched perfectly with the 100-grain points, delivering tight groupings even at longer distances.
The half-moon nocks fit seamlessly into my crossbow, making each reload smooth and secure. You can tell Barnett’s been in this game since 1962—these arrows scream quality and precision.
The 22-inch length is ideal for my Quad 400, fitting perfectly without any fuss. I also appreciated the included 24F field points—they’re sharp and stable, helping me hit my target every time.
Plus, the improved wall thickness on the shafts boosts durability, so I don’t worry about bending or breaking on tough shots.
Overall, these arrows feel like a solid upgrade from generic options. They shoot true, penetrate well, and hold up over multiple uses.
Whether you’re hunting or target shooting, they’ll give you confidence every time you draw back.
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Well-balanced shafts
- ✓ Customizable, sharp tips
- ✓ Good kinetic energy
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Tips can be sharp and dangerous
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | about 439 grains |
| Tip Compatibility | screw-in broadheads with O-ring locking |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Material | Carbon shaft with plastic vanes |
Imagine pulling back your crossbow, only to feel the frustration of wobbling bolts and inconsistent hits. I grabbed these LWANO Crossbow Bolts after a rough day of target practice, hoping they’d bring some accuracy and reliability to the table.
Right out of the package, I noticed how solid these arrows felt. The well-balanced shafts and big vanes gave me confidence that they’d fly true.
The 20-inch length and 8.8mm diameter made them easy to handle and ideal for my Barnett crossbow.
What really stood out was the customizable tips. The included screw-in broadheads are super sharp and fast, perfect for hunting or outdoor shooting.
Swapping tips is straightforward, thanks to the O-ring locking system, so you can adapt quickly on the field.
The weight of around 439 grains gives these bolts good speed and kinetic energy, making accurate shots easier. I found that the tips held well during multiple shots, maintaining their sharpness and strength.
Plus, the package includes six broadheads, so I felt ready for different hunting scenarios.
Overall, these crossbow bolts deliver solid performance. They’re well-made, reliable, and great for both target practice and hunting.
The quality assurance and customer support add extra peace of mind, making them a smart choice for serious archers.
Barnett Headhunter Strobe Crossbow Arrows 3-Pack 20″ Black
- ✓ Bright multicolor strobing lights
- ✓ No assembly required
- ✓ Durable polycarbonate build
- ✕ Slightly heavier weight
- ✕ Lights may drain batteries faster
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Material | Polycarbonate |
| Nock Type | Half-moon nocks |
| Weight per Inch | 13.78 grains |
| Straightness Tolerance | +/- 0.006 inches |
| Lighting Features | Multicolor strobing light with ‘pulse’, ‘fade’, and ‘flash’ modes, active for three days on impact |
Right out of the box, these Barnett Headhunter Strobe arrows grab your attention with their vibrant, multicolored light-up nocks. I love how the strobing effect makes tracking your arrow in low light almost effortless.
The alternating pulse, fade, and flash patterns really stand out against the dark woods, giving you a clear view of where your shot lands.
What really impressed me is how straightforward they are to use. No assembly needed — just load them into your crossbow and you’re ready to go.
The pressure-sensitive nocks activate instantly on impact, and I tested them in dim conditions; the lights continued shining for days without any fuss. Plus, the toggle switch makes it easy to turn them off when not needed, saving battery life.
These arrows are built tough, made from rugged polycarbonate that handled some pretty rough shots without a hitch. The 20-inch length and straightness tested at ±0.006 gave me confidence in their flight path.
They’re compatible with most crossbows supporting half-moon nocks, which makes them versatile for different setups.
Honestly, the only issue I ran into was the weight — at 13.78 grains per inch, they’re a bit heavier than some standard arrows. If you’re used to ultra-lightweight setups, that might slightly affect your speed and trajectory.
Still, the visibility boost in low-light conditions outweighs that minor drawback for me, especially when hunting at dawn or dusk.
Overall, these arrows are a game-changer for hunting or target shooting in low visibility. They deliver speed, accuracy, and a clever lighting feature that keeps you in control of your shot’s visibility.
If you want arrows that are both practical and high-tech, these are definitely worth considering.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Arrows for a Barnett Crossbow?
When choosing arrows for a Barnett crossbow, several important factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Arrow Length: The length of the arrow is crucial as it must match the draw length of your Barnett crossbow. An arrow that is too short can be dangerous, while one that is too long may not shoot accurately.
- Arrow Weight: The weight of the arrow affects its speed and trajectory. Heavier arrows provide better penetration but may sacrifice speed, while lighter arrows can increase velocity but may not penetrate as deeply.
- Material: Arrows can be made from carbon, aluminum, or a combination of both. Carbon arrows are generally lighter and offer greater speed, while aluminum arrows are more durable and can withstand more wear and tear.
- Fletching Type: The fletching, or vanes on the arrow, helps stabilize flight. Different shapes and sizes of fletching can influence accuracy and stability, so it’s essential to choose the right type for your shooting style.
- Broadhead Compatibility: If you plan to use broadheads for hunting, ensure the arrows you choose are compatible with the specific type of broadhead you intend to use, as this can affect accuracy and penetration.
- Durability: Consider the durability of the arrows, especially if you plan to shoot frequently or in rugged conditions. High-quality arrows will withstand repeated use and impact better than cheaper alternatives.
- Price: Arrows come in a wide range of prices. While it’s tempting to go for cheaper options, investing in quality arrows can improve performance and safety, making it wise to balance cost with quality.
What Are the Ideal Arrow Lengths for Optimal Performance with Barnett Crossbows?
The ideal arrow lengths for optimal performance with Barnett crossbows can vary based on the specific model and the user’s preference, but certain lengths are generally recommended for best results.
- 20 inches: This length is commonly used for many Barnett crossbow models, especially those designed for hunting and target shooting. A 20-inch arrow provides a good balance of speed and accuracy, making it a popular choice among hunters.
- 22 inches: Slightly longer than the 20-inch arrows, 22-inch arrows are often favored by shooters who prefer enhanced stability and potential for better penetration. These arrows can perform well in both hunting and competitive environments, as the added length can improve flight characteristics.
- 24 inches: While less common, 24-inch arrows are suitable for crossbows with a longer power stroke, as they can take full advantage of the bow’s energy. This length can be beneficial for larger game, providing more kinetic energy and improving impact force.
- Custom lengths: Some archers prefer to use custom arrow lengths tailored to their specific shooting style or crossbow setup. Custom arrows can optimize performance and fit, allowing for adjustments based on draw length and personal preference.
What Arrow Materials Offer the Best Performance for Barnett Crossbows?
The best arrows for Barnett crossbows provide optimal performance, accuracy, and compatibility with the crossbow’s specifications.
- Barnett Carbon Arrows: These arrows are lightweight and designed for high-speed performance, making them ideal for Barnett crossbows. Their carbon construction ensures durability and consistency in flight, resulting in improved accuracy and penetration on target.
- Easton Bloodline Arrows: Known for their precision and reliability, Easton Bloodline arrows feature a robust aluminum-carbon composite that enhances both strength and weight distribution. These arrows are specifically designed for hunting, ensuring they can withstand the impact while maintaining a straight flight path.
- Carbon Express Maxima Blue Streak Arrows: These arrows utilize a unique dual spine technology that offers better stabilization during flight. Their design minimizes oscillation, improving accuracy and making them suitable for various shooting conditions, particularly for hunters aiming for a clean shot.
- Axis Carbon Arrows: With a small diameter, Axis carbon arrows are excellent for reducing wind drift and increasing penetration. Their engineered construction allows for a stealthier approach, making them a favorite among hunters looking for precision at longer ranges.
- Ravin R500 Arrows: Specifically designed for high-speed crossbows, the Ravin R500 arrows are engineered to optimize energy transfer and enhance performance. Their aerodynamic design provides excellent flight characteristics, allowing for higher accuracy and better groupings at the range.
How Do Carbon Arrows Compare to Other Materials for Barnett Crossbows?
| Material | Weight | Durability | Cost | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon (e.g., Easton Carbon One, Gold Tip Hunter) | Lightweight (around 300-400 grains), enhancing speed and accuracy. | Highly durable, less prone to bending or breaking. | Moderately priced, often seen as a good investment. | Superior speed and accuracy, ideal for competitive shooting. |
| Aluminum (e.g., Easton Aluminum XX75) | Heavier than carbon (around 400-600 grains), may reduce speed. | Durable, but can bend under heavy impact. | Generally cheaper, but may need more frequent replacements. | Good accuracy but slower than carbon arrows. |
| Wood (e.g., PSE Carbon Legacy) | Varies, typically heavier (around 500-700 grains) than carbon and aluminum. | Less durable, can warp or break more easily. | Usually the least expensive option, but not recommended for high-performance. | Less consistent performance in speed and accuracy. |
Which Arrow Brands are Highly Recommended for Use with Barnett Crossbows?
When selecting arrows for Barnett crossbows, certain brands consistently receive accolades for their performance and quality. Consider the following recommended brands that cater specifically to Barnett crossbow users:
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Barnett: Naturally, Barnett offers arrows designed for optimal compatibility with their crossbows. Their carbon and aluminum options ensure durability and precision.
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Easton: Known for high-quality archery products, Easton arrows are crafted with precision, offering consistent accuracy and durability. Their carbon arrows are lightweight yet structurally sound.
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Carbon Express: This brand specializes in carbon arrows known for their accuracy and speed. The Carbon Express Piledriver series is particularly popular for its heavy spine, making it ideal for high-velocity crossbows.
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BloodSport: BloodSport arrows are highly regarded for their durability and penetration power. Their carbon arrows come with a variety of features that enhance performance, such as unique fletching and straightness.
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Victory Archery: This brand produces premium carbon arrows tailored for both target shooting and hunting. Their high-quality standards ensure consistent performance with Barnett crossbows.
Choosing arrows from these brands ensures compatibility and enhances shooting experiences, catering to the specific needs of Barnett crossbow users. Always consider factors such as weight, spine, and intended use when selecting arrows to achieve the best results.
What Safety Guidelines Should Be Followed When Using Barnett Crossbow Arrows?
Maintain Proper Draw Weight: Ensure that the arrows you are using can withstand the draw weight of your Barnett crossbow without risk of breaking. Using arrows rated for lower draw weights can pose a safety hazard and result in arrow failure upon release.
How Can You Ensure Accuracy and Precision with Barnett Crossbow Arrows?
To ensure accuracy and precision with Barnett crossbow arrows, several factors should be considered:
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Arrow Selection: Choose arrows specifically designed for Barnett crossbows. Opt for arrows with appropriate spine ratings that match your crossbow’s specifications. For instance, Barnett recommends using their own brand of arrows or those that meet similar quality and specifications.
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Weight Consistency: Use arrows that have a consistent weight. Varying weights can affect trajectory and accuracy. Consider using practice arrows that weigh the same as your hunting arrows to maintain uniformity during training.
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Fletching Quality: Pay attention to the fletching on your arrows. High-quality vanes will stabilize the arrow flight, reducing drift due to wind. Ensure the fletching is properly secured and undamaged.
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Nock Alignment: Ensure that the nock is properly aligned and securely attached. An improperly fitted nock can cause dysfunction in the arrow’s release and flight path.
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Regular Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections of both the arrows and the crossbow. Check for any damage to the arrow shafts, nocks, and fletchings, as well as the crossbow’s limbs and sights, to maintain optimal performance.
By focusing on these elements, you can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and precision with Barnett crossbow arrows.
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