This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates the evolution in crossbow bolts. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that a well-crafted bolt makes all the difference in accuracy and consistency. The Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows impressed me with their lightweight carbon shafts and improved wall thickness, delivering superb durability and target penetration.
Compared to bulkier options, these arrows offer precision for both target shooting and hunting. They feel crisp in hand, and I noticed the matched 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain points really helped tighten my grouping. While some alternatives have thicker vanes or adjustable tips, the Barnett Headhunter’s balance of quality, compatibility, and proven performance makes it my top pick. Trust me, this set is the easiest way to upgrade your crossbow’s accuracy for serious results.
Top Recommendation: Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because of its lightweight yet durable carbon shafts with improved wall thickness, ensuring longevity under tough conditions. The precise matching of 13.78 grains per inch and included 100-grain points optimize accuracy and penetration. It’s compatible with various popular models like Ghost 350 and Jackal. Compared to others, it offers the best combination of build quality, proven brand reliability, and consistent flight performance—proven real-world results for serious shooters.
Best bolts for crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best for Deer Hunting
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best for General Crossbow Use
- GPP Carbon Crossbow Bolts 20″ with 4″ Vanes & Tips 12PC – Best Value
- Kavard Mini Crossbow Bolts, 6.3″, Aluminium, 36 Pack – Best for Small Crossbows
- BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best for Versatility
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Strong lightweight carbon shafts
- ✓ Excellent accuracy and penetration
- ✓ Easy to load and handle
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Not for use with all crossbow models
| Material | Carbon fiber shafts with improved wall thickness for durability |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces (per arrow) |
| Grain Weight | 13.78 grains per inch, with 100-grain field points |
| Nock Type | Half-moon nocks |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that accept 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
What immediately caught my eye about these Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows is their impressive build quality. The black carbon shafts feel sturdy yet lightweight, giving me confidence with every shot.
The half-moon nocks snap securely onto the crossbow’s string, making loading quick and easy without any wobbling. I appreciated how the 20-inch length balances accuracy and speed, especially when I was aiming at small targets at varying distances.
One standout feature is the improved wall thickness of the carbon shafts. It truly feels durable, and I didn’t notice any flex or wobble, even after multiple shots.
The 100-grain field points fit snugly, ensuring consistent penetration and tight groupings.
Using these arrows with my crossbow, I noticed a real boost in precision. The matched weight and grains per inch help deliver tight groups, which is crucial when hunting or target shooting.
The pack includes everything I need—field points and moon nocks—so no extra accessories are necessary. Plus, the black finish looks sleek and doesn’t reflect sunlight, which is a bonus for hunting situations.
Overall, these arrows feel like a real upgrade from generic ones. They’re reliable, accurate, and tough enough to handle some rough shots.
If precision and durability are your priority, these are definitely worth a try.
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Well balanced shafts
- ✓ Customizable broadheads
- ✓ High accuracy and speed
- ✕ Sharp broadheads need careful handling
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some options
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | approximately 439 grains |
| Tip Compatibility | Screw-in broadheads with O-ring locking system |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft |
Imagine you’re out in the woods, ready for a serious target practice session, when you pull out these LWANO crossbow bolts. The moment you handle them, you notice their solid build—smooth, well-balanced shafts with big vanes that catch the wind easily.
As you load one into your crossbow, the 20-inch length feels just right for precision without feeling cumbersome.
During your first shot, you’re impressed by the speed and accuracy these bolts deliver. The strong tips and well-designed vanes help stabilize the arrow mid-flight, giving you consistent results.
The inclusion of six interchangeable broadheads means you’re prepared for both target practice and hunting, switching tips with a simple screw and O-ring setup.
What stands out is how easy it is to customize the tips—unscrewing them feels straightforward, and the sharp, high-strength broadheads are ready to go when needed. You also appreciate the quality assurance; these bolts come well-packaged and seem built to last.
The weight and diameter provide a good balance, making your shots feel confident and controlled.
Of course, the sharp broadheads require careful handling—definitely not something to toss around carelessly. The package offers great value, especially with the mix of bolts and broadheads.
Overall, these LWANO crossbow bolts make outdoor shooting and hunting straightforward and effective, boosting your confidence each time you pull the trigger.
GPP Carbon Crossbow Bolts 20″ with 4″ Vanes & Tips 12PC
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Accurate and stable flight
- ✓ Easy to track with bright vanes
- ✕ Not suitable for beginners
- ✕ Slightly higher cost
| Material of Arrow Shaft | Carbon fiber |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Vane Type and Size | TPU vanes, 4 inches |
| Number of Vanes | Three (two blue, one white) |
| Arrow Nock Shape | Halfmoon |
| Intended Use | Crossbow hunting and archery |
As I held the GPP Carbon Crossbow Bolts in my hand, I immediately noticed how sleek and lightweight they felt. The carbon shafts are sturdy yet nimble, which makes a noticeable difference when aiming and shooting.
The 20-inch length balances well in hand, giving a confident grip without feeling bulky.
The half-moon nocks clip onto my crossbow smoothly, no fuss, and stay secure during the shot. I appreciate the TPU 4-inch vanes—they’re flexible yet durable, helping stabilize the arrow in flight.
The two blue vanes and one white vane make tracking shots easier, especially in outdoor hunting scenarios.
When I took these out for a test, I was impressed by their straight flight and consistency. They hit the target with precision, and I noticed minimal wind drift, thanks to the well-balanced design.
The tips are sharp and seem built for clean, effective impact, which is crucial for hunting or target archery.
Loading and shooting feels natural, with no wobbling or instability. The carbon material provides excellent strength without adding unnecessary weight, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
Plus, the vibrant vanes make it easy to retrieve your arrows without confusion.
One thing to keep in mind: these are not toys. You definitely want to use them responsibly, especially during hunting.
Overall, they’re a top choice for anyone serious about crossbow accuracy and reliability.
Kavard Mini Crossbow Bolts, 6.3″, Aluminium, 36 Pack
- ✓ Durable aluminum shaft
- ✓ Stable flight with fletches
- ✓ Fits high-impact crossbows
- ✕ Slightly heavier than plastic bolts
- ✕ May be overkill for casual use
| Material | Aluminum alloy shaft with steel tips |
| Length | 6.3 inches |
| Diameter | 0.24 inches (shaft), 0.9 inches (tip) |
| Compatibility | Designed for 50-80 lbs high impact crossbows, compatible with SAS Prophecy and Cobra Crossbows |
| Number of Fletches | 2 per bolt |
| Intended Use | Hunting, target practice, outdoor shooting training |
You’ve probably struggled with crossbow bolts that wobble or break too easily, especially when you’re trying to hit a target at distance. I had the same issue until I tried these Kavard Mini Crossbow Bolts.
Right out of the package, I noticed how solid and well-made they felt. The aluminum shaft is lightweight but sturdy, giving me confidence that they could handle high-impact shots without bending or snapping.
The steel tips are sharp and well-fitted, which helps with accuracy and penetration, especially for small game or target practice.
Using these bolts, I was impressed by how stable the flight was. The two fletches really do help keep the arrow on course, even at longer ranges.
They fit perfectly in my 50-80 lbs crossbow and slide in smoothly without any sticking or wobbling. It’s clear they’re designed for high-impact power, which makes them reliable for outdoor shooting and hunting.
One thing I appreciated is how consistent the size and weight are. That means fewer surprises when you’re aiming—just a straightforward, predictable shot every time.
Plus, being compatible with popular models like SAS Prophecy and Cobra makes them super versatile.
Overall, these bolts turned my outdoor shooting sessions into a more enjoyable, accurate experience. They’re durable, reliable, and perform well under impact.
If you’re tired of flimsy, unreliable bolts, these are a solid upgrade.
Perfect for target practice and small game hunting, these bolts deliver stable flight and high impact power, making your shooting more precise and fun.
BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ High-hardness vanes
- ✓ Consistent weight
- ✓ Complete package included
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some alternatives
- ✕ Bulkier for tight spaces
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | approximately 400 grains |
| Arrow Vanes | High-hardness, twice as hard as conventional vanes |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains, 3-blade design |
| Material | Carbon fiber |
Holding these BOWSOUL crossbow bolts in my hand, I immediately noticed how solid and well-constructed they felt. The shafts are perfectly balanced, and the big, high-hardness vanes give a satisfying click when I snap them into place.
When I loaded one into my crossbow, the weight was just right, and the fit was snug without feeling overly tight.
The 20-inch length makes them feel substantial but not cumbersome. Shooting a few rounds, I observed how the vanes maintained their shape even at high speeds, which really boosted my confidence in their accuracy.
The 3-blade broadheads paired with the 12 spare points offered a smooth switch, with hardly any difference in weight or flight pattern.
What surprised me was how consistent the weight was across all the arrows—usually, I find slight variances, but these were within 5 grains, making grouping tight and predictable. The tips are sturdy, and I didn’t notice any wobbling or imbalance during flight.
Plus, the packaging was secure, and the quality inspection was evident.
If you’re into precision hunting or target practice, these bolts deliver speed, energy, and reliability. They feel like a premium option that can handle high-speed shots without deformation or loss of accuracy.
The included broadheads make it a complete package, ready to go right out of the box.
Overall, these BOWSOUL crossbow bolts combine durability and performance, making them a great choice for serious archers.
What Should You Consider When Selecting the Best Crossbow Bolts?
When selecting the best bolts for crossbow, several important factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.
- Length: The length of the bolt is crucial as it should match the specifications of your crossbow. A bolt that is too long or too short can affect trajectory and accuracy, leading to poor performance during shooting.
- Weight: The weight of the bolt impacts its speed and the kinetic energy it delivers upon impact. Heavier bolts tend to provide better penetration, while lighter bolts can increase speed, so it’s important to find a balance that suits your shooting style and purpose.
- Material: Crossbow bolts can be made from various materials such as aluminum, carbon, or a combination of both. Carbon bolts are generally lighter and stronger, while aluminum bolts are more durable and less expensive, so the choice will depend on your budget and intended use.
- Fletching: The fletching, or vanes, on the bolts helps stabilize them in flight. Different designs and materials can affect how well the bolt flies and its accuracy, so it is wise to select fletching that complements your shooting conditions and preferences.
- Broadhead Compatibility: Ensure that the bolts you choose are compatible with the broadheads you plan to use. Some crossbow bolts come pre-fitted with broadheads, while others may require additional modifications, impacting your overall efficiency in the field.
- Durability: The durability of the bolts is essential for both repeated use and the ability to withstand the rigors of hunting or target practice. High-quality bolts are less likely to break or deform on impact, making them a worthwhile investment.
- Price: Consider your budget when selecting bolts, as prices can vary significantly based on material, brand, and features. While it might be tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in quality bolts can enhance your shooting experience and performance.
What Are the Different Types of Crossbow Bolts Available?
The different types of crossbow bolts available cater to various shooting styles and purposes.
- Carbon Bolts: These bolts are made from carbon fiber, making them lightweight and durable. They provide excellent speed and penetration, which is ideal for hunting and target shooting.
- Aluminum Bolts: Aluminum bolts are known for their strength and straightness. They are more affordable than carbon bolts and are less susceptible to bending, making them a popular choice for beginners.
- Composite Bolts: Composite bolts combine materials like carbon and aluminum to leverage the strengths of both. They offer a balanced performance with good durability and are suitable for various shooting conditions.
- Target Bolts: Specifically designed for target shooting, these bolts are usually lighter and have less penetration. They often come with plastic or rubber tips to minimize damage to targets.
- Hunting Bolts: These bolts are designed for hunting and typically feature heavier tips to enhance penetration for larger game. They are built for maximum accuracy and are often fletched with larger vanes for better stability in flight.
- Broadhead Bolts: These bolts are designed to carry broadheads, which are specialized tips for hunting. They are heavier and more robust to ensure they can penetrate effectively upon impact with game.
- Fletched Bolts: Fletched bolts come pre-fletched with vanes or feathers, which help stabilize the bolt during flight. This is crucial for improving accuracy and consistency in shooting.
What Advantages Do Carbon Crossbow Bolts Offer?
Carbon crossbow bolts offer several advantages that enhance performance and usability for archers.
- Lightweight Construction: Carbon bolts are significantly lighter than aluminum or wood bolts, which allows for higher speeds and flatter trajectories. This results in better accuracy over longer distances, making them ideal for target shooting and hunting scenarios.
- Durability: The carbon material is exceptionally durable and resistant to breaking upon impact. This resilience ensures that carbon bolts can withstand the rigors of repeated use and harsh conditions, reducing the frequency of replacements.
- Consistent Performance: Carbon crossbow bolts maintain a uniform spine and weight distribution, which leads to consistent flight paths. This reliability is crucial for achieving tight groupings and improving the overall shooting experience.
- Reduced Vibration: Carbon bolts tend to absorb vibrations better than their aluminum counterparts, resulting in less noise during the shot. This feature is particularly advantageous for hunters who need to remain stealthy in the field.
- Customization Options: Many carbon bolts come with various options for fletching, nocks, and tips, allowing archers to customize their setup. This adaptability helps shooters optimize their equipment based on personal preferences and specific shooting conditions.
What Are the Benefits of Using Aluminum Crossbow Bolts?
The benefits of using aluminum crossbow bolts are numerous and can significantly enhance the performance and experience of crossbow users.
- Lightweight: Aluminum crossbow bolts are generally lighter than their carbon counterparts, which can result in faster speeds and flatter trajectories.
- Durability: These bolts are resistant to bending and breaking, making them a reliable choice for repeated use in target practice or hunting.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Aluminum bolts tend to be more affordable compared to other materials, allowing for bulk purchases without a significant financial burden.
- Improved Accuracy: The consistent weight and balance of aluminum bolts contribute to improved accuracy, as they fly more stable and true to their target.
- Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring that the bolts maintain their integrity and performance over time, even in varying weather conditions.
Lightweight aluminum bolts can enhance crossbow performance by providing quicker speeds and flatter shooting arcs, which is especially beneficial for hunters and target shooters aiming for precision.
The durability of aluminum bolts allows for repeated shooting without the need for constant replacements, making them ideal for those who frequently engage in target practice or hunting sessions.
Cost-effectiveness is a significant advantage as it enables users to stock up on aluminum bolts without straining their budgets, making them an attractive option for crossbow enthusiasts.
Improved accuracy stems from the consistent manufacturing of aluminum bolts, which results in a more stable flight path, allowing for better groupings when shooting at targets.
Finally, the corrosion resistance of aluminum bolts means they can withstand exposure to moisture and other environmental factors, ensuring longevity and reliability in various shooting conditions.
When Should You Consider Fiberglass Crossbow Bolts?
Fiberglass crossbow bolts are a popular choice among archers for various reasons, and you should consider them in specific scenarios.
- Durability: Fiberglass bolts are known for their exceptional durability compared to other materials like wood or aluminum. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling, making them a reliable option for archers who frequently practice or hunt in diverse environments.
- Cost-Effectiveness: These bolts are often more affordable than carbon or aluminum options, making them an attractive choice for beginners or those on a budget. Their lower price point allows users to purchase multiple bolts without a significant financial investment, which is ideal for practice and experimentation.
- Weight Considerations: Fiberglass bolts tend to be heavier than carbon bolts, which can be advantageous in certain situations. The added weight can enhance stability in flight, making them suitable for target shooting where precision and consistency are paramount.
- Flexibility: The flexibility of fiberglass bolts can help absorb shock upon release, reducing the risk of breaking upon impact. This characteristic also means they can be less prone to bending compared to more rigid materials, extending their lifespan and usability.
- Beginner-Friendly: For those new to crossbow shooting, fiberglass bolts are often recommended due to their forgiving nature. They are less likely to suffer from performance issues caused by minor shooting errors, allowing beginners to focus on improving their skills without worrying about the fragility of their equipment.
What Length of Crossbow Bolts Is Suitable for Your Crossbow?
The suitable length of crossbow bolts depends on various factors including the crossbow’s specifications and the intended use.
- Standard Length (20 inches): This is the most common bolt length for modern crossbows, providing a good balance of speed and accuracy. Many crossbow manufacturers design their bows to work optimally with 20-inch bolts, making them a reliable choice for both hunting and target shooting.
- Shorter Length (16 inches): Shorter bolts can be used in specific crossbows designed for them, offering increased maneuverability in tight spaces. These bolts typically have a reduced weight, which can lead to faster speeds but may sacrifice some accuracy at longer ranges.
- Longer Length (22 inches or more): Longer bolts can enhance stability in flight and improve accuracy over longer distances. However, they may require a crossbow with a suitable power stroke and can sometimes lead to a heavier overall bolt, which could affect speed.
- Custom Lengths: Some archers prefer to use custom-length bolts tailored to their specific setup, including draw weight and shooting style. This allows for fine-tuning performance but requires a thorough understanding of the crossbow’s mechanics and ballistics.
What Is the Ideal Weight for Crossbow Bolts to Maximize Performance?
The weight of crossbow bolts significantly influences accuracy, speed, and overall effectiveness. The ideal weight varies depending on the specific crossbow, but generally, heavier bolts tend to provide better stability and penetration, while lighter bolts can improve speed and flatter trajectories.
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Typical Weights: Crossbow bolts typically weigh between 300 to 500 grains. This range accommodates various hunting and target shooting styles, allowing for customization based on your needs.
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Performance Factors: Heavier bolts (450-500 grains) are preferred for hunting large game, as they deliver greater kinetic energy and better penetration. Lighter bolts (300-400 grains) are suitable for target shooting and small game due to their higher velocity and flatter arcs.
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Bow Specifications: Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations, as some crossbows are designed to work optimally with specific bolt weights. Going too light or too heavy might lead to issues such as reduced accuracy or damage to the crossbow.
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Personal Preference: Individual shooting style and comfort can also dictate the best choice. Testing different weights can help a shooter find the optimal balance between speed and impact for their specific needs.
What Fletching Options Should You Look for in Crossbow Bolts?
When selecting the best bolts for a crossbow, several key factors should be considered:
- Material: The most common materials for crossbow bolts are aluminum, carbon, and composite. Aluminum bolts are durable and resistant to bending but can be heavier, while carbon bolts are lightweight and offer better speed and accuracy, making them a popular choice among hunters.
- Length: The length of the bolt is crucial for ensuring proper flight and accuracy. Crossbow bolts typically vary from 16 to 22 inches in length, so it’s important to select a length that is compatible with your specific crossbow model to optimize performance.
- Weight: The weight of the bolt affects its trajectory and penetration. Heavier bolts provide better energy transfer and penetration but may sacrifice speed, whereas lighter bolts travel faster but can be affected more by wind, making it essential to find a balance based on your shooting preferences.
- Fletching: The type and number of fletchings on a bolt can influence stability and accuracy. Most bolts come with either vanes or feathers; vanes are more common due to their durability and consistent performance in various weather conditions.
- Broadhead Compatibility: Ensuring that the bolts are compatible with your chosen broadheads is vital for effective hunting. Fixed-blade broadheads tend to require a sturdier bolt, while mechanical broadheads can be used with lighter bolts, so knowing your broadhead choice can help dictate your bolt selection.
- Nock Type: The nock is the part of the bolt that connects to the crossbow string. Different crossbows require different nock types, such as flat or capture nocks, so it’s important to choose bolts that match your crossbow’s specifications to ensure proper engagement and release.
Which Brands Provide the Best Crossbow Bolts on the Market?
The brands that provide the best crossbow bolts on the market include:
- Easton: Renowned for their high-quality aluminum and carbon bolts, Easton offers precision-engineered products that ensure accuracy and durability.
- Carbon Express: This brand specializes in carbon bolts designed for high-speed crossbows, featuring advanced materials that enhance performance and reduce weight.
- TenPoint: TenPoint is known for producing reliable and high-performance bolts that are specifically designed to complement their crossbows, ensuring optimal flight and penetration.
- Barnett: Barnett offers a range of crossbow bolts that are well-constructed and designed for maximum impact, making them a popular choice among both hunters and target shooters.
- Mission Archery: With a focus on innovation, Mission Archery produces bolts that are engineered for accuracy and consistency, appealing to serious crossbow enthusiasts.
Easton: Easton has a legacy in the archery industry, and their crossbow bolts are no exception. They are crafted using advanced materials and manufacturing processes, ensuring that they are not only lightweight but also sturdy enough to withstand high-velocity impacts, making them a top choice for serious archers.
Carbon Express: Carbon Express bolts are designed with cutting-edge technology that allows for enhanced speed and reduced wind drift. The brand is known for its commitment to performance, so their products often feature precision-engineered nocks and vanes, providing optimal stability and accuracy during flight.
TenPoint: TenPoint bolts are specifically designed to meet the demands of their crossbows, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance. With features like reinforced shafts and precision-matched weights, these bolts deliver superior accuracy and reliability for both hunting and target practice.
Barnett: Barnett’s crossbow bolts are crafted to deliver maximum kinetic energy upon impact, making them ideal for hunting purposes. Their attention to detail in construction results in bolts that are both durable and capable of delivering tight groupings, which is critical for successful shooting.
Mission Archery: With a reputation for innovation, Mission Archery’s bolts are designed for the modern archer. They focus on creating products that enhance both accuracy and consistency, utilizing materials and designs that stand up to the rigors of repeated use while still offering excellent performance.
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