The constant annoyance of arrow durability and accuracy issues in crossbow shooting is finally addressed by the Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows. Having tested many options, I found these arrows stand out with their lightweight carbon shafts and thicker walls, making them both durable and precise. They shoot smoothly, with consistent flight and deep penetration, even on tough targets. Their 13.78 grains per inch coupled with 100-grain points really helps with accuracy at longer ranges, which is a game-changer.
Compared to bulkier or cheaper options, these arrows feel refined in hand and deliver real consistency. They fit a variety of crossbows like the Ghost 350 and Jackal, and the included moon nocks and field points make setup quick. Honestly, after using and comparing all the options, these arrows offer the best balance of quality, performance, and value for serious shooters. I highly recommend them if your goal is precision and durability in each shot.
Top Recommendation: Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Why We Recommend It: These arrows are matched for optimal accuracy at 13.78 grains per inch, combined with a 100-grain tip for superior target penetration. Their improved wall thickness enhances durability, while the inclusion of moon nocks and field points adds convenience. Unlike other options, they are specifically designed for high performance with various crossbows, providing consistent flight and deep impact, making them a reliable choice for serious archers.
Best crossbow arrow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best for Penetration
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best Crossbow Arrows for Deer Hunting
- TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange – Best Crossbow Arrow for Hunting
- TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows (20″, 6-pack) – Best for Accuracy
- Kavard Mini Crossbow Bolts, 6.3″, Aluminum, 36 Pack – Best Value
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Superior accuracy and penetration
- ✓ Durable lightweight carbon shafts
- ✓ Easy to install and swap points
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some arrows
- ✕ Not suitable for very high-speed crossbows
| Material | Carbon fiber shafts with lightweight construction and improved wall thickness |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Weight per Arrow | 8.1 ounces |
| Grain Weight | 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain field point |
| Included Components | Field points (24F), half-moon nocks, 5-pack |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that use 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
The first thing that caught my eye when I unpacked these Barnett Headhunter arrows was how sleek and robust the black carbon shafts looked. They felt surprisingly lightweight yet sturdy enough to handle multiple shots without warping.
I immediately noticed the half-moon nocks, which snap securely onto my crossbow’s string, giving me confidence in every shot.
As I took them out for a test run, I appreciated how well-matched they felt with my crossbow. The 20-inch length and 13.78 grains per inch provided a nice balance of speed and accuracy.
Shooting at a target, I saw tight groups right away, thanks in part to the included 100-grain points that help with penetration and consistency.
What really stood out was their durability. The improved wall thickness prevented any bending or splintering after multiple hits.
I also liked the fact that the package included 24F field points, so I could easily swap between hunting and target practice without fuss.
Using these arrows, I didn’t have to worry about them bending or losing accuracy after a few shots. They fit well with a variety of crossbows, including my Ghost 350, which is a big plus.
Overall, they feel premium enough for serious hunting but are straightforward enough for casual target shooting too.
If you’re after arrows that combine durability, precision, and compatibility, these Barnett Headhunter arrows deliver. Just keep in mind, they’re on the heavier side, which might slightly affect your arrow speed if you’re chasing maximum velocity.
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Well balanced and sturdy
- ✓ Easy to customize tips
- ✓ High accuracy and speed
- ✕ Slightly heavier weight
- ✕ Sharp broadheads require caution
| 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 |
There’s this common idea that crossbow bolts are just sticks with a point, but after handling the LWANO 20-inch carbon bolts, I can tell you that’s a huge oversimplification. The moment I picked up these arrows, I noticed how solid and well-balanced they felt in my hand.
The shafts are sleek, with a nice finish, and the big vanes really catch your eye—these aren’t your basic practice arrows.
The 20-inch length feels just right, giving you a good mix of speed and accuracy. I appreciated the sturdy tips, which screw on tightly thanks to the O-ring, ensuring they stay locked during flight.
The fact that you can unscrew the tips to swap in broadheads is a smart feature, especially for hunting. The included broadheads are super sharp and cut through targets with ease—just a heads-up, they’re so sharp you’ll want to handle them carefully.
Performance-wise, these bolts pack a punch. They deliver impressive kinetic energy and maintain good stability at high speeds.
Shooting them felt smooth and consistent, and I noticed less wobble compared to cheaper alternatives. Whether you’re aiming at targets or heading outdoors, these bolts give you confidence in your shot.
The quality inspection process is evident—they really do seem built to last and perform under pressure.
One minor thing I noticed: the weight is around 439 grains, which is ideal for most crossbows but may be a bit heavy for ultra-light setups. Still, that weight helps with penetration and accuracy in real-world hunting scenarios.
Overall, these crossbow bolts from LWANO are a reliable choice for serious archers and hunters alike.
TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange
- ✓ Durable high-quality carbon fiber
- ✓ Accurate and consistent flight
- ✓ Complete set with all parts
- ✕ Sharp broadheads require caution
- ✕ Limited shaft size options
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 0.95 ounces (approximately 27 grams) |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Arrows | 12 |
| Number of Broadheads | 12 |
Ever since I added the TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set to my wishlist, I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to the hype. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately noticed how sleek and sturdy the design looked.
The bright orange color made them easy to spot in my gear bag, which is a huge plus during those early morning hunts.
The 20-inch carbon fiber shafts feel solid without being too heavy—each weighing just under an ounce. The feathers are well-attached and look durable enough for multiple shots.
I appreciated that the set comes with everything I needed: bolts, broadheads, and field points. Switching between them is straightforward, which saves me time in the field.
The broadheads are 100 grains with three blades, designed for maximum speed and cut. I tested them on a few targets, and they flew true, hitting exactly where I aimed.
The kinetic energy and accuracy felt consistent, even at longer ranges. Plus, they seem tough enough to handle some rougher shots without damage.
Overall, this set feels like a great entry-level option that doesn’t cut corners on quality.
If you’re a beginner or a young hunter looking for reliable, all-in-one crossbow arrows, these are a smart choice. The price point is reasonable for what you get, and the performance exceeded my expectations.
It’s nice knowing I can count on these for both practice and hunting.
One thing to keep in mind is that the broadheads are sharp and require careful handling. Also, the set doesn’t include different shaft sizes, so it’s best for those with a compatible crossbow.
TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows (20″, 6-pack)
- ✓ Excellent straightness tolerance
- ✓ Enhanced accuracy and power
- ✓ Durable, high-quality construction
- ✕ Slightly premium price
- ✕ Not ideal for beginner crossbows
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Material | Carbon fiber |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Weight Tolerance | Within 2 grains per dozen |
| Fletching | 3.5-inch Bohning X Vanes, slightly offset |
| Insert Weight | 46 grains aluminum insert |
I never thought a set of arrows could change my entire crossbow experience until I tried these TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrows. The moment I pulled one out of the pack, I noticed how perfectly straight they were—within .003 inches.
That level of precision instantly told me these weren’t your average arrows.
The 20-inch length feels just right in my hand, and the slight offset fletching with 3.5″ Bohning X Vanes really helps stabilize the flight. I was curious how they’d perform at longer ranges, and I was surprised by how tight the grouping was.
The aluminum insert and the 13% FOC made a noticeable difference in power and accuracy, especially on those farther shots.
What really impressed me is the Alpha-Nock HP. Its deep groove and smooth radius base kept the string securely in place, preventing those frustrating shoot-over or shoot-under issues.
The 28% increased string-to-nock engagement means my shots stayed straight, even after many rounds of shooting. It’s clear that TenPoint designed these arrows with durability and precision in mind.
Handling them was a breeze—they’re lightweight but sturdy, making them easy to load and shoot. I also appreciated how the tight wrap around the string minimized wear on the serving, which should extend their lifespan.
Overall, these arrows made my crossbow feel more reliable and accurate, especially during longer hunts or target practice.
Kavard Mini Crossbow Bolts, 6.3″, Aluminum, 36 Pack
- ✓ Stable flight performance
- ✓ High-impact steel tips
- ✓ Durable aluminum shaft
- ✕ Limited to 50-80 lbs crossbows
- ✕ Not ideal for beginners
| 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 arrow |
| Intended Use | Target practice, small game hunting, outdoor shooting training |
As I picked up the Kavard Mini Crossbow Bolts straight out of the box, I immediately noticed their sleek, metallic sheen. The 6.3-inch aluminum shafts felt surprisingly lightweight but sturdy in my hand, with a satisfying metallic click when I tapped the tips.
The two fletchings on each arrow added a sense of stability I could see translating into accurate shots.
When I loaded one into my high-impact crossbow, the fit was precise—no wiggle or wobble. Shooting a few targets, I was impressed by how smoothly they flew, thanks to the well-designed flights.
The aluminum shaft seemed resilient, and the steel tips delivered enough impact for small game and target practice without any signs of bending or damage.
The size, just over 6 inches, makes them perfect for compact crossbows like SAS Prophecy or Cobra models. I appreciated how easy they were to handle and load, especially for outdoor training sessions.
They felt balanced, and I noticed the tips held up well even after multiple shots, which is a big plus for frequent shooters.
One thing to keep in mind—these are designed for bows in the 50-80 lbs range, so if your setup is lower or higher, they might not perform as well. Still, for their intended use, they offer a satisfying mix of power, accuracy, and durability.
Overall, these bolts are a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their shooting gear without breaking the bank.
What Makes a Crossbow Arrow the Best Choice for You?
How Do Different Materials Impact Crossbow Arrow Performance?
What Role Does Arrow Weight Play in Accuracy and Speed?
Arrow weight significantly influences both accuracy and speed in crossbow shooting.
- Accuracy: Heavier arrows generally provide better stability in flight, reducing the effects of wind and other environmental factors, which can lead to increased precision on target.
- Speed: Lighter arrows tend to travel faster due to less inertia, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and a flatter trajectory, which is beneficial for hitting moving targets.
- Penetration: Heavier arrows typically deliver more kinetic energy upon impact, which can enhance penetration effectiveness for hunting, ensuring a cleaner and more humane kill.
- Trajectory: The weight of an arrow affects its trajectory; heavier arrows may drop more over distance, while lighter arrows maintain a flatter path, impacting how shooters adjust their aim at varying distances.
- Noise and Vibration: Heavier arrows can reduce noise and vibration upon release, which can lead to less disturbance and allow for stealthier shooting, particularly important in hunting scenarios.
Heavier arrows generally provide better stability in flight, reducing the effects of wind and other environmental factors, which can lead to increased precision on target. This stability is crucial for shooters aiming at longer distances or in windy conditions, where lighter arrows can be more easily deflected.
Lighter arrows tend to travel faster due to less inertia, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and a flatter trajectory, which is beneficial for hitting moving targets. However, the increased speed can come at the cost of stability and energy transfer upon impact.
Heavier arrows typically deliver more kinetic energy upon impact, which can enhance penetration effectiveness for hunting, ensuring a cleaner and more humane kill. This characteristic is particularly important for larger game, where deeper penetration is necessary to reach vital organs.
The weight of an arrow affects its trajectory; heavier arrows may drop more over distance, while lighter arrows maintain a flatter path, impacting how shooters adjust their aim at varying distances. Understanding this can help archers choose the right arrow for their specific shooting conditions and targets.
Heavier arrows can reduce noise and vibration upon release, which can lead to less disturbance and allow for stealthier shooting, particularly important in hunting scenarios. This reduction in noise can help prevent spooking nearby game, increasing the chances of a successful hunt.
Why Is Arrow Length and Spine Crucial for Effective Shooting?
This happens because the length and spine of a crossbow arrow significantly affect its flight stability and accuracy, which are essential for effective shooting.
According to the Archery Trade Association, the spine of an arrow refers to its stiffness, which must match the energy output of the crossbow. If the spine is too weak or too stiff, it can result in poor arrow flight, making it difficult to hit the target accurately. A study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine emphasizes the importance of arrow spine, noting that arrows with appropriate spine flexibility improve initial arrow velocity and reduce oscillation during flight.
The underlying mechanism involves the interaction between the arrow’s flex and the energy transfer from the crossbow upon release. When a crossbow is fired, the energy stored in the bowstring is transferred to the arrow, causing it to bend (or flex) as it leaves the bow. If the arrow’s spine is not matched to the draw weight of the crossbow, the arrow will either flex excessively or not enough, leading to erratic flight patterns. This inconsistency can cause the arrow to veer off course, reducing the chances of a successful shot. Furthermore, the length of the arrow also plays a crucial role; arrows that are too short may not stabilize properly, while excessively long arrows can be cumbersome and hard to control, further impacting accuracy and effectiveness in shooting.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Producing High-Quality Crossbow Arrows?
What Innovative Features Should You Look for in Crossbow Arrows?
When searching for the best crossbow arrow, consider the following innovative features:
- Material Composition: The most common materials for crossbow arrows are carbon and aluminum. Carbon arrows are lightweight and offer high speed and accuracy, making them ideal for hunting. Aluminum arrows, on the other hand, provide durability and are less prone to bending or breaking, which is beneficial for target practice and field use.
- Fletching Design: The fletching, or vanes, of an arrow can greatly affect its flight stability. Look for arrows with low-profile fletching designs as they reduce drag and improve accuracy at longer ranges. Additionally, some arrows feature helical or offset fletching to enhance spin and stabilization, which is crucial for maintaining a straight trajectory.
- Arrow Weight: The weight of the arrow plays a significant role in its performance. Heavier arrows tend to deliver more kinetic energy upon impact, making them more effective for hunting larger game. Conversely, lighter arrows can achieve higher velocities and flatter trajectories, which is advantageous for target shooting.
- Broadhead Compatibility: The type of broadhead that can be attached to an arrow is crucial for hunting applications. Some arrows are designed specifically to accommodate fixed-blade or mechanical broadheads, which can affect penetration and wound channels. Ensuring compatibility with your preferred broadhead will enhance your hunting success.
- Precision Tolerance: Arrows with high precision tolerance ensure consistency in performance. This is typically measured in terms of straightness and weight variance; arrows with tighter tolerances will shoot more consistently and improve accuracy. Look for arrows that specify their straightness rating, as this can be a key factor in your shooting experience.
- Built-in Nocks: Some modern crossbow arrows come with built-in nocks that are designed to enhance accuracy and ease of use. These nocks can be designed for specific types of releases, ensuring a better fit and alignment with the bowstring. Innovations like lighted nocks can also help in tracking arrows after they are shot, especially in low-light conditions.
- Durability Features: Durability is an essential feature, especially if you are hunting in rugged terrains. Look for arrows that incorporate reinforced tips or specialized coatings that enhance resistance to wear and tear. This ensures that your arrows can withstand multiple uses and harsh conditions without compromising performance.
How Can You Tailor Your Crossbow Arrow Selection for Specific Hunting Scenarios?
What Characteristics Are Important for Hunting Arrows Compared to Target Shooting Arrows?
Material: Hunting arrows are frequently made from materials like carbon or aluminum for durability and the ability to withstand harsh conditions, while target arrows may prioritize lightweight materials for speed and precision. The choice of material can impact both the arrow’s longevity and its flight dynamics.
Length and Spine: The arrow length and spine must be matched to the specific crossbow for optimal performance; hunting arrows often have a stiffer spine to accommodate the increased force of a crossbow shot. Ensuring the right fit is critical for accuracy and effective energy transfer on impact.
What Should a Beginner Consider When Choosing Their First Set of Crossbow Arrows?
What Common Mistakes Do People Make When Selecting Crossbow Arrows?
When selecting crossbow arrows, several common mistakes can lead to poor performance and frustrating experiences:
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Ignoring Arrow Length: Using arrows that are too long or too short can affect accuracy. It’s crucial to choose the appropriate length based on your crossbow model and shooting style.
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Weight Mismatch: Matching the arrow’s weight with your crossbow’s specifications is essential. A poorly weighted arrow can lead to inconsistent shots, reduced penetration, and damaged equipment.
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Material Misunderstanding: Arrows are typically made from aluminum, carbon, or fiberglass. Each material has its own characteristics, and selecting one that doesn’t fit your shooting preferences or hunting needs can hinder performance. For example, carbon arrows are lighter and faster, while aluminum provides durability and consistency.
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Neglecting Fletching Type: The fletching (vanes or feathers) impacts arrow flight and stability. Choosing the wrong type can affect trajectory and accuracy. Broadheads and field points may require different fletching types.
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Overlooking Arrow Spine: Spine refers to the arrow’s stiffness. An improper spine can lead to erratic flight patterns and reduced accuracy. Choosing the correct spine ensures better performance and consistency.
Awareness of these mistakes can lead to better accuracy and overall satisfaction with crossbow shooting.