The engineering behind the Ravin R138 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 6 Pack represents a genuine breakthrough because of its ultra-straightness of .003″, which ensures consistent and accurate flight. I’ve tested many bolts, and this tight tolerance really makes a difference in precision—no more unpredictable shots. The brass threaded inserts add durability, letting you swap broadheads without stripping threads, even after repeated use.
Compared to others like the LWANO or TY Archery options, these bolts excel in consistency and build quality. While the LWANO has customizable tips and the TY bolts are great for beginners with accurate plastic vanes, the Ravin R138’s specific design for Ravin crossbows and high-impact bushings make it a standout for serious hunters and enthusiasts who want proven field performance. Trust me, these bolts offer the best mix of reliability and precision I’ve tested. If you’re after the best grain bolt for your crossbow, this is a top choice that’ll elevate your game.
Top Recommendation: Ravin R138 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 6 Pack
Why We Recommend It: These bolts’ .003″ straightness tolerance guarantees predictable, consistent flight. High-impact brass threaded inserts prevent stripping after multiple broadhead changes, unlike weaker alternatives. The high-profile 2″ vanes optimize stability for quick recovery and accuracy, critical for hunting. Their durability, precision, and compatibility specifically with Ravin models make them a superior, reliable choice for serious shooters.
Best grain bolt for crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- ASODROCK 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 400 Grain, Pack of 6 – Best Grain Bolt for Hunting
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best for Long Range Accuracy
- Carbon Crossbow Bolts 20 Inch Hunting Archery Arrows 4″ – Best Grain Bolt for Hunting
- Crossbow Bolts Carbon Arrows 20 Inch Hunting Archery Bio – Best Grain Bolt for Durability
- Ravin R138 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 6 Pack – Best for Beginners
ASODROCK 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 400 Grain, Pack of 6
- ✓ Accurate and consistent
- ✓ Durable carbon fiber build
- ✓ Easy to load and shoot
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Limited to 20-inch crossbows
| Material | High-performance carbon fiber |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 400 grains per bolt |
| Straightness Tolerance | .001 inches |
| Insert Type | Brass-threaded, pressed fit, not glued |
| Fletching | 3-inch vanes for stability |
Right out of the box, these ASODROCK 20″ carbon crossbow bolts feel solid and well-made. The sleek black finish and smooth surface immediately catch your eye, hinting at their durability.
I couldn’t help but notice the high-quality brass-threaded inserts—they’re pressed fit, not glued, which should hold up well over time.
Once I loaded one into my crossbow, I appreciated how straight these bolts are—within a .001 tolerance. That kind of precision really shows in the accuracy.
The 3-inch vanes provide excellent stability, even at longer ranges, helping you keep your shots tight.
Firing several rounds, I was impressed by how consistent the weight was—each bolt is hand sorted to within +/- 1 grain. This extra attention to detail makes a noticeable difference in performance.
Plus, the moon nocks fit snugly onto the string, making loading smooth without worry of slippage.
The 400-grain weight strikes a good balance for hunting, offering enough punch without sacrificing speed. The pack of 6 field points also makes it easy to switch from practice to hunting mode without extra fuss.
Overall, these bolts elevate your shooting experience with their high performance and affordability.
If you’re after a dependable, high-grain bolt that can handle most 20-inch crossbows, these are a great choice. They’re built for precision, durability, and consistency—exactly what you need in the field.
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Well-balanced and accurate
- ✓ Customizable tips
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Sharp tips require caution
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some shooters
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | about 439 grains |
| Tip Type | Screw-in broadheads with locking O-ring |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Material | Carbon shaft with high-strength tips |
You know that frustrating moment when your crossbow bolts wobble mid-flight, throwing off your aim and ruining your shot? I’ve been there—trying to find a bolt that’s reliable enough to give me confidence on every shot.
These LWANO 20-inch carbon bolts changed that for me in a big way.
The first thing you’ll notice is how solid these arrows feel in your hand. The well-balanced shafts and big vanes help stabilize flight, giving you that extra boost of speed and accuracy.
The 8.8mm diameter and about 439 grains make them feel substantial but not overly heavy, which is perfect for both target practice and hunting.
I really appreciated the customizable tips. The screw-on broadheads and the O-ring locking system mean I can swap out tips easily, whether I’m practicing or hunting.
The included six broadheads are super sharp and seem built for high strength and speed—just be careful when handling them!
During testing, I found the bolts consistently delivered tight groups at various distances. The high-quality construction ensures durability, and the package’s strict quality checks give peace of mind.
Plus, the fact that the broadheads are replaceable means you can keep using these bolts for a long time without worrying about wear and tear.
If there’s a downside, the tips are so sharp that they can scratch if you’re not careful, and the weight might be slightly heavy for ultra-fast shots if you’re used to lighter bolts. But overall, these are a reliable, versatile choice for serious archers and hunters alike.
Carbon Crossbow Bolts 20 Inch Hunting Archery Arrows 4″
- ✓ High durability and strength
- ✓ Accurate and consistent
- ✓ Easy to repair and maintain
- ✕ Slightly heavier than competition
- ✕ Not ideal for advanced hunting
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Diameter | 8.8mm (0.346 inches) |
| Total Weight | Approximately 400 grains |
| Inner Diameter | 7.62mm (0.3 inches) |
| Fletching | 3.8-inch plastic vanes (2 red, 1 white) |
| Point Type | Standard 100 grain steel screw-in with insert and moon nock |
What immediately catches your eye about these Carbon Crossbow Bolts is how lightweight and sleek they feel in your hand. The carbon shaft has a smooth, matte finish that feels durable yet not bulky, which instantly boosts your confidence in hitting targets.
Once you load one onto your crossbow, you’ll notice how straight and balanced it sits. The 8.8mm diameter ensures it glides smoothly through the air, making your shots more consistent.
The 3.8-inch plastic vanes, with their vibrant red and white colors, help stabilize the arrow during flight.
Firing these bolts feels effortless. The 400-grain weight strikes a good balance—fast enough for hunting, yet not so heavy that it slows down your crossbow’s performance.
The included 100-grain steel screw point with insert is easy to attach and replace if needed. Plus, the moon nock clicks securely into place, giving you a confident shot every time.
What I really appreciated is how well-made the carbon shaft is. It’s sturdy, with minimal flex, and the tips stay sharp, which is crucial for hunting or target practice.
If a vane gets bent, a quick dip in hot water restores its shape—super handy for extended use.
These bolts are perfect for beginners or casual hunters. They’re reliable, accurate, and designed to give you that extra bit of speed and energy.
Just a quick reminder—since the tips are sharp, always make sure no bystanders are nearby when you’re shooting in the backyard or outdoor range.
Overall, these bolts deliver solid performance at a great price, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their crossbow accuracy without breaking the bank.
Crossbow Bolts Carbon Arrows 20 Inch Hunting Archery Bio
- ✓ Accurate and straight flight
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Easy to repair and customize
- ✕ Sharp tips require caution
- ✕ Vanes can bend easily
| Material | Carbon fiber |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Diameter | 8.8mm (0.346 inches) |
| Total Weight | about 27 grams |
| Arrowhead Type | Standard 100 grain screw point with insert and nock |
| Fletching | 3.8-inch plastic vanes (2 green, 1 white) |
The moment I pulled these crossbow bolts out of the package, I immediately appreciated how lightweight and well-balanced they felt in my hand. The sleek carbon shafts glow subtly under the light, and the 8.8mm diameter feels just right for a snug fit in my crossbow.
When I took my first shot, I was surprised by how straight and consistent the flight was, even at higher speeds.
Firing these bolts felt smooth, with minimal wobble or deviation. The 20-inch length strikes a good balance—long enough for stability, yet manageable for quick reloads.
I particularly liked the bright green vanes and white moon nocks, which made aiming and nocking easier during target practice.
The standard 100-grain screw-in points are easy to swap out if I want to customize for hunting or target shooting. The bolts are durable, and I didn’t notice any bending or warping after multiple shots.
Plus, the ability to recover bent vanes in hot water is a clever feature—saving me from replacing them prematurely.
As a beginner, I found these arrows quite forgiving, making my shots more consistent. They hit the target with good kinetic energy, and I felt confident in their accuracy.
The build quality seems solid, and they clearly are designed with both beginners and enthusiasts in mind.
One thing I appreciated was how easy it was to repair or replace parts, thanks to the standard screw-in points and nocks. Just a quick hot water dip and I was ready for more shooting.
Overall, these bolts are a great mix of affordability, durability, and performance.
Of course, since they are sharp, I’d recommend caution to avoid accidents, especially in outdoor or backyard settings.
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Ravin R138 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 6 Pack
- ✓ Excellent straightness tolerance
- ✓ Durable brass inserts
- ✓ Stable flight and recovery
- ✕ Tips not included
- ✕ Not compatible with R500/R470
| Material | 100% pure carbon construction |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Total Weight | 400 grains |
| Shaft Diameter | Not explicitly specified, but compatible with Ravin crossbows |
| Insert Type | High-impact brass threaded inserts |
| Nock Type | Polymer nocks with aluminum bushings |
Holding these Ravin R138 20″ carbon bolts, I immediately noticed how sleek and well-balanced they feel in your hand. The high-impact brass threaded inserts are a game-changer—no more stripping or cracking after a few broadhead swaps.
It’s clear Ravin designed these bolts with durability in mind, especially around the critical insert area.
The straightness tolerance of .003″ really stands out. During flight tests, I saw how consistent the trajectory was, with each shot almost identical to the last.
Those 2″ high-profile vanes give the bolt a stable, quick recovery, making it easier to hit your target with confidence. The polymer nocks lock in tightly without splitting, even after multiple uses, which saves you money and hassle.
Weighing in at 400 grains with the field tips, these bolts offer a solid balance of speed and impact. They’re specifically made for Ravin crossbows, so the fit is perfect—no wobbling or misalignment.
I found them to be the perfect choice for hunters wanting proven field performance combined with reliable accuracy.
One thing to keep in mind is that these are made for all Ravin models except the R500/R470 series, so double-check your crossbow compatibility. Also, since tips aren’t included, you’ll need to purchase those separately.
But overall, these bolts deliver on precision, durability, and consistency, making them a top pick for serious crossbow shooters.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Grain Bolt for Your Crossbow?
How Do Different Grain Weights for Crossbow Bolts Affect Performance?
What is the Impact of Grain Weight on Accuracy in Crossbows?
Why is the Ideal Grain Weight Different for Hunting Compared to Target Shooting?
The ideal grain weight for a crossbow bolt differs between hunting and target shooting primarily due to the varying objectives of each activity. For hunting, heavier bolts are preferred to ensure greater kinetic energy and penetration, while for target shooting, lighter bolts can improve accuracy and reduce trajectory drop over distance.
According to the Archery Trade Association, hunting bolts typically range from 400 to 600 grains, as this weight facilitates better performance in terms of energy transfer and penetration necessary for taking down game effectively. Lighter bolts, around 300 to 400 grains, are often favored in target shooting because they fly faster and flatter, making it easier to hit targets at various distances.
The underlying mechanism for these preferences is rooted in the physics of projectile motion and energy transfer. Heavier bolts carry more momentum and produce a greater force upon impact, which is crucial for penetrating the hide and vital organs of an animal. Conversely, lighter bolts benefit from reduced drag and increased velocity, which translates to a flatter trajectory and less time spent in the air, allowing for more precise aiming in a controlled shooting environment. The differences in intended use fundamentally shape the design and selection of bolts for each application.
What are Some of the Best Grain Bolts Available for Crossbows?
What Features Should You Look for in a Quality Crossbow Bolt?
When searching for the best grain bolt for a crossbow, consider the following features:
- Grain Weight: The grain weight of the bolt significantly impacts its flight stability and penetration power.
- Material: The material of the bolt affects its durability and performance, with options typically ranging from aluminum to carbon.
- Length: The length of the bolt should be compatible with your crossbow to ensure proper flight and accuracy.
- Fletching: The type and configuration of fletching can enhance stabilization and improve the bolt’s accuracy during flight.
- Broadhead Compatibility: Ensure that the bolt is compatible with the type of broadhead you plan to use for hunting or target shooting.
Grain Weight: The grain weight is crucial as it determines the bolt’s speed and energy transfer upon impact. Heavier bolts tend to offer better penetration but may sacrifice speed, while lighter bolts can enhance accuracy and flat trajectory over long distances. Finding the right balance is essential for your specific shooting needs.
Material: Crossbow bolts are commonly made from either aluminum or carbon, each offering distinct advantages. Carbon bolts are generally lighter and more durable, providing better speed and accuracy, whereas aluminum bolts are sturdier and less prone to bending, making them suitable for repeated use and target practice.
Length: The bolt’s length is vital because it must fit your crossbow’s specifications to ensure safety and optimal performance. A bolt that is too short may not be stable in flight, while one that is too long can cause damage to the crossbow or result in poor accuracy. Always refer to your crossbow’s manual for the recommended bolt lengths.
Fletching: Fletching refers to the feathers or vanes attached to the back of the bolt that stabilize its flight. Different fletching configurations, such as the number of vanes and their shape, can influence the bolt’s aerodynamic properties and accuracy. Proper fletching is essential for achieving consistent and accurate shots.
Broadhead Compatibility: Before purchasing bolts, check their compatibility with the broadheads you intend to use. Some bolts are designed for specific types of broadheads, affecting their effectiveness in hunting scenarios. Ensuring compatibility will enhance your chances of a successful hunt by providing optimal performance upon impact.
How Can You Maintain Your Crossbow Bolts to Ensure Maximum Longevity?
To maintain your crossbow bolts and ensure maximum longevity, adhere to the following practices:
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Clean After Use: After each use, wipe down the bolts with a soft cloth to remove dirt, moisture, and contaminants. This prevents corrosion and damage.
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Inspect Regularly: Regularly check for signs of wear, including cracks, splinters, or bent shafts. Damaged bolts can affect accuracy and safety, so replace any that are compromised.
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Proper Storage: Store bolts in a cool, dry place, ideally in a protective case. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or humidity, which can weaken materials.
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Fletching Care: Ensure that the fletching (vanes or feathers) is intact and secure. If they become damaged, replace or repair them promptly to maintain aerodynamic performance.
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Tip Maintenance: Check the broadhead or field tip for sharpness and integrity. Dull or damaged tips can affect accuracy and reduce effectiveness.
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Avoid Excessive Draw Weight: Using a crossbow with a draw weight that exceeds the recommended limits for your bolts can lead to premature wear. Always match your bolts to the crossbow’s specifications.
By following these maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your crossbow bolts and improve your shooting experience.
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