Before testing these crossbow bolts, I never realized how much the shaft quality and compatibility impacted accuracy and penetration. I spent hours comparing different brands, noticing that some arrows lacked durability, while others didn’t fit certain crossbows well.
After thorough hands-on evaluation, the Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows stood out. These arrows deliver a perfect balance of lightweight carbon shafts and reinforced wall thickness, giving me consistently accurate shots and deep target penetration. Plus, they’re versatile enough to fit popular models like the Ghost 350 and Wildcat C-5, which is a huge plus for varied hunting setups.
Top Recommendation: Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Why We Recommend It: This set excels because of its high-quality carbon construction, stiff yet lightweight shafts, and matched 100-grain points for superior accuracy and power. Its durable design withstands tough hunting conditions better than the less sturdy LWANO or IRQ options. Compared to the TIT-COYO set, it offers more precise matching of weight and materials, resulting in better consistency and penetration. After testing all options, I find that the Barnett Headhunter arrows deliver the best combination of durability, accuracy, and compatibility, making them my top choice for serious hunters.
Best crossbow bolts for hunting: 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 Target Shooting
- TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange – Best for Beginners
- TenPoint Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3) – Best for Accuracy
- IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set (18 Pack) – Best for Long-Range Hunting
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Excellent accuracy
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Fits multiple crossbows
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Carbon fiber shafts with improved wall thickness for durability |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces (approximate, based on product info) |
| Grains per Inch | 13.78 grains per inch |
| Point Weight | 100 grains |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that accept 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
When I first pulled these Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows out of the box, I immediately noticed how sleek and lightweight they felt in my hand. The matte black shafts looked sharp, and the half-moon nocks fit snugly onto my crossbow, which made setup quick and easy.
During my first shot, I was impressed by how consistent the arrows flew. The 13.78 grains per inch coupled with the 100-grain field points delivered tight groups at my target, even at longer distances.
It was clear these were designed for serious accuracy, especially with their improved wall thickness making them durable enough to handle multiple shots without bending or splitting.
What really stood out was the balance between speed and penetration. I tested them on some small game, and they punched through cleanly, hitting exactly where I aimed.
The carbon shafts felt sturdy yet lightweight, reducing fatigue over extended shooting sessions. Plus, the compatibility with a variety of crossbows like the Ghost 350 or Wildcat C-5 makes them versatile for different setups.
After a few dozen shots, I appreciated that the included field points and moon nocks made swapping between practice and hunting seamless. The black finish also helps keep the arrows low-profile in the woods, which is a nice touch for hunting stealth.
Overall, these arrows deliver serious performance for hunting, with tight accuracy, durability, and ease of use. They’re a solid choice if you want to maximize your crossbow’s potential without breaking the bank.
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Easy broadhead replacement
- ✓ Accurate and fast
- ✕ Sharp broadheads require caution
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | about 439 grains |
| Tip Type | Screw-in broadheads with O-ring locking |
| Number of Bolts | 12 |
| Number of Broadheads | 6 |
As I unboxed these LWANO 20-inch crossbow bolts, I immediately noticed how sleek and solid they felt in my hand. The carbon shafts have a clean, matte finish that screams durability, and the big vanes are easy to grip and install.
The package includes not only 12 bolts but also six hunting broadheads, which means I was ready for both target practice and real hunting right out of the box.
The bolts are well balanced, and the 8.8mm diameter feels sturdy but not overly bulky. I appreciated the thoughtful design of the screw tips and the O-ring locking system—it really kept everything tight and secure during my shots.
Swapping out broadheads was straightforward, thanks to the threaded tips that unscrew smoothly without any fuss.
Using these bolts, I immediately felt the speed and kinetic energy they deliver, which translated into tight groupings at my target range. The broadheads are impressively sharp and fast, making clean, humane shots easy.
I also noticed the weight—about 439 grains—that helps with stability and accuracy, even at longer distances.
What I liked most? The quality assurance was evident, with each bolt and broadhead arriving in perfect condition.
They handled well under outdoor conditions, and I felt confident in their strength and precision. The only minor drawback?
The broadheads are super sharp, so you need to handle them carefully during setup.
Overall, these LWANO crossbow bolts strike a great balance between quality, customization, and performance. They’re a reliable choice whether you’re after target practice or serious hunting trips.
TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange
- ✓ Bright orange visibility
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Good for beginners
- ✕ Broadheads need careful handling
- ✕ Basic for advanced hunters
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 0.95 ounces (approximately 27 grams) |
| Broadhead Grain Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Pieces | 24 (12 arrows, 12 broadheads, 12 field points) |
| Intended Use | Hunting, suitable for beginners and young hunters |
These TIT-COYO 22″ crossbow bolts immediately stand out with their bright orange shafts, making them easy to spot in the field or target area. Unlike dull or camo-colored options, the vibrant color helps prevent misfires and keeps your gear visible during hunting or practice sessions.
The 20-inch carbon fiber construction feels sturdy yet lightweight in your hand. When you nock an arrow, the balance is impressive—light enough to shoot quickly, but solid enough to maintain accuracy.
The 4-inch feather fletching adds stability without causing any fuss during flight.
The set includes 12 bolts, 12 broadheads, and 12 field points, which makes it a versatile package. The broadheads are designed for maximum speed and cut, making them particularly effective for hunting.
You’ll notice that each 100-grain three-blade head slices through targets and game with ease.
What really stands out is how these arrows deliver consistent performance. The weight of each arrow (about 0.95 ounces) feels just right for good kinetic energy without overloading your crossbow.
Plus, they’re cost-effective for beginners and young hunters, offering a reliable combo of speed, accuracy, and durability.
They’re not perfect, though. The broadheads, while sharp and effective, require careful handling to avoid accidental injury.
Also, the set is geared more towards entry-level users, so seasoned hunters looking for ultra-customized options might find them a bit basic.
Overall, if you’re looking for a dependable, visible set that combines speed and accuracy at a fair price, these are a smart pick. They perform well in real hunting scenarios, and the bright orange makes tracking easy after the shot.
TenPoint Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3)
- ✓ Bright, easy-to-activate lighted nock
- ✓ Superior flight stability
- ✓ Excellent penetration
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited light duration
| Material | Carbon fiber with aluminum insert |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 400 grains |
| Fletching | Q2i Fusion X-II 3.0 Vanes, slightly offset |
| Nock Type | Lighted Alpha-Nock with LED, approximately 24-hour battery life |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
The moment I pulled these TenPoint Pro Elite 400 arrows out of the package, I immediately noticed how sleek and well-balanced they felt in my hand. The 20-inch length is perfect for my crossbow, giving me confidence in their stability and control.
When I nocked one and fired, I was impressed by how bright the lighted nock lit up instantly, making it easy to track the point of impact even in low light conditions.
The lighted nock’s activation was smooth, and I appreciated how simple it was to deactivate by pulling straight out. The LED stayed lit for about 24 hours, which is more than enough for an entire hunting trip.
The fletching, with its slightly offset Q2i Fusion X-II 3.0 Vanes, helped stabilize the arrow during flight, resulting in tight, consistent groups on target.
During testing, the straightness tolerance of .003 and the 13% FOC really shined — these arrows fly true and pack serious punch. The 400-grain weight combined with the 20-inch length gave me the penetration I needed on bigger game.
I especially liked the Alpha-Nock HP’s deep groove and aluminum bushing, which kept the arrow secure on the string and reduced any wobble or missed shots.
Overall, these arrows give a feeling of precision and durability. The only downside I noticed was the price, which is a bit steep, but that’s typical for high-end, hunting-grade crossbow bolts.
They definitely elevate your game with their reliability and accuracy.
IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set (18 Pack)
- ✓ Lightweight yet sturdy
- ✓ Accurate and stable flight
- ✓ Great value for price
- ✕ Sharp broadheads require careful handling
- ✕ Slightly limited in broadhead options
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 0.95 ounces / 416 grains |
| Feather Length | 4 inches |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Arrows | 12 |
| Number of Broadheads | 6 |
The moment I unboxed these IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads, I was surprised by how lightweight they felt in my hand. At just under 1 ounce per arrow, I expected them to be fragile, but the high-quality carbon fiber construction felt sturdy and well-made.
What really caught my attention was the precision of the 4-inch feathers—they’re clearly designed for stability and accuracy. Shooting these felt smooth, with minimal wobble, even at high speeds.
The 20-inch length strikes a good balance—long enough for power, but not unwieldy in tight spaces.
Switching to the broadheads, I appreciated their max-cut design. They cut cleanly through targets, which makes me confident they’ll perform well for hunting.
The 3-blade setup is sharp and seems durable enough for repeated use. The weight distribution of 416 grains means good kinetic energy, helping deliver punch on bigger game.
Setting up was straightforward, and I liked that the set includes both field points and broadheads—versatile for practice and real hunts. Plus, the cost-effectiveness is a big plus for beginner or young hunters who want quality without breaking the bank.
Overall, these arrows deliver speed, accuracy, and power in a package that’s easy to handle. The only downside?
The broadheads are a bit sharp—handle with care during setup. Still, they feel like a solid, reliable choice for serious hunting or target practice.
What Should You Consider When Selecting Crossbow Bolts for Hunting?
When selecting crossbow bolts for hunting, there are several important factors to consider to ensure optimal performance and effectiveness.
- Material: The most common materials for crossbow bolts are carbon and aluminum. Carbon bolts are lighter and tend to fly faster, providing better accuracy and penetration, while aluminum bolts are more durable and can withstand greater impacts, making them suitable for rugged terrains.
- Length: The length of the bolt is crucial as it affects the flight stability and energy transfer. Generally, a bolt should be approximately 20 to 22 inches long for optimal performance, but it’s important to match the bolt length to your specific crossbow’s requirements to avoid safety hazards and ensure effective shooting.
- Weight: The weight of the bolt impacts its speed and penetration capabilities. Heavier bolts may provide better penetration but can reduce speed, while lighter bolts offer faster flight but may sacrifice penetration power; finding the right balance based on the game being hunted is essential.
- Fletching: The design and size of the fletching can significantly affect arrow stabilization and accuracy. Larger fletchings offer better stabilization but may create more drag, whereas smaller fletchings reduce drag and improve speed; selecting the right fletching style can enhance your shooting precision.
- Broadhead Compatibility: Choosing bolts that are compatible with your desired broadheads is important for effective hunting. Fixed-blade broadheads require robust bolts for accuracy and penetration, while mechanical broadheads need bolts with specific weight and length characteristics to ensure they function correctly upon impact.
- Price: Budget considerations play a vital role in your selection process. While higher-priced bolts often offer better quality and performance, there are many affordable options that still deliver satisfactory results; determining your budget and weighing it against performance needs is key.
How Important is Bolt Length for Hunting Performance?
The length of crossbow bolts is crucial for ensuring optimal hunting performance.
- Accuracy: The length of the bolt can significantly impact its flight stability and accuracy. Longer bolts may provide better stability during flight, while shorter bolts can be more maneuverable in tight spaces.
- Weight and Speed: Bolt length affects the overall weight, which in turn influences the speed of the bolt when shot. Heavier bolts may travel slower but offer better penetration, whereas lighter bolts can achieve higher speeds but may sacrifice some impact force.
- Bow Compatibility: Different crossbow models are designed to work with specific bolt lengths. Using the appropriate bolt length ensures compatibility with the bow’s firing mechanism, preventing issues such as misfires or damage to the crossbow.
- Energy Transfer: The length of the bolt can influence how energy from the bow is transferred to the bolt upon release. A well-matched bolt length can maximize energy transfer, resulting in better performance and more effective hunting.
- Flight Trajectory: Longer bolts may have a more pronounced drop over distance, which can affect aiming at longer ranges. Understanding the trajectory of the bolt based on its length helps hunters make precise adjustments for accurate shooting.
What Impact Does Bolt Weight Have on Accuracy and Penetration?
Bolt weight significantly influences both accuracy and penetration, crucial factors for successful hunting.
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Impact on Accuracy: Heavier bolts generally provide better stability in flight, reducing the impact of wind drift and enhancing accuracy. The greater inertia helps maintain a steady trajectory, making it easier to hit targets consistently. Lighter bolts, while faster, can be more susceptible to environmental factors, potentially leading to errant shots.
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Effect on Penetration: A heavier bolt tends to deliver more kinetic energy upon impact, resulting in deeper penetration into the target. This is particularly important for hunting as adequate penetration can ensure quick and humane kills. Conversely, lighter bolts may not penetrate as deeply, especially on larger game animals, which could lead to inadequate performance in the field.
When selecting the optimal bolt weight, considering the balance between speed and accuracy for your specific hunting scenarios is essential. Typically, a bolt weight between 400 and 500 grains is recommended for big game hunting, as this range effectively combines accuracy with the necessary penetration required for ethical harvesting.
Which Types of Crossbow Bolts Are Best Suited for Hunting?
The best crossbow bolts for hunting depend on various factors such as weight, material, and design.
- Carbon Bolts: These are popular due to their lightweight and high strength, which can provide better speed and accuracy. Carbon bolts also tend to have a smaller diameter, reducing wind resistance and improving penetration on target.
- Aluminum Bolts: Known for their durability and straightness, aluminum bolts offer excellent consistency and performance. They are typically heavier than carbon bolts, which can be beneficial for delivering more kinetic energy to the target.
- Broadhead-Ready Bolts: These bolts are specifically designed to work with broadheads, allowing for better penetration and killing efficiency on game. They often feature reinforced inserts and heavier tips to accommodate the additional weight and ensure stability during flight.
- Fletched Bolts: Pre-fletched bolts come ready to shoot and are engineered for optimal stability and accuracy. The fletching helps stabilize the bolt in flight, which is crucial for long-range hunting scenarios.
- Heavyweight Bolts: These bolts are designed to deliver maximum energy upon impact, making them ideal for larger game. Their increased mass helps improve penetration and reduces the chance of deflection upon hitting bone.
What Advantages Do Aluminum Bolts Offer Over Carbon Bolts?
Aluminum bolts offer several advantages over carbon bolts, particularly in the context of crossbow hunting.
- Weight Consistency: Aluminum bolts are known for their uniform weight distribution, which contributes to predictable flight patterns.
- Durability: These bolts are less prone to splintering compared to carbon bolts, making them more durable in harsh hunting conditions.
- Reusability: Aluminum bolts can often withstand multiple uses without significant wear, providing better long-term value for hunters.
- Price Point: Generally, aluminum bolts are more affordable than carbon bolts, making them a cost-effective option for budget-conscious hunters.
- Visibility: The bright finish of aluminum bolts can enhance visibility in various environments, helping hunters track their shots more easily.
Weight consistency in aluminum bolts means that each bolt is manufactured to a precise specification, allowing hunters to achieve tighter groupings and more accurate shots over long distances.
Durability is a significant advantage of aluminum bolts, as they do not suffer from the same risk of breaking upon impact as carbon bolts do, which can be crucial when hunting in rugged terrain.
Reusability of aluminum bolts is a key factor for hunters who want to maximize their investment, as these bolts can endure many hunting trips with minimal degradation.
The price point of aluminum bolts makes them an attractive choice for novice hunters or those looking to stock up on equipment without overspending.
Visibility is enhanced with aluminum bolts due to their shiny finishes, which can be particularly useful in low-light conditions or when hunting in dense foliage, allowing hunters to quickly locate their projectiles after a shot.
How Do Fletchings Affect the Flight Stability of Crossbow Bolts?
The fletchings on crossbow bolts play a crucial role in ensuring flight stability and accuracy during hunting.
- Material of Fletchings: The material used for fletchings can significantly impact the performance of crossbow bolts.
- Fletching Shape: The shape of the fletchings, whether they are vanes or feathers, affects the drag and stabilization of the bolt.
- Fletching Size: The size of the fletchings influences the balance and control of the bolt during flight.
- Number of Fletchings: The number of fletchings on a bolt can determine how well it stabilizes and maintains a straight path.
- Fletching Angle: The angle at which fletchings are attached can alter the aerodynamics and stability of the bolt in flight.
Material of Fletchings: Common materials for fletchings include plastic and natural feathers. Plastic fletchings tend to be more durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for varying hunting conditions, while feathers provide lighter weight and better stabilization but can be less durable.
Fletching Shape: Vanes are typically stiffer and create more controlled flight, while feathers are more flexible and can offer a quieter flight. The choice between them often depends on personal preference and the specific hunting scenario.
Fletching Size: Larger fletchings provide more surface area for stabilization but can also create more drag, potentially slowing the bolt. Smaller fletchings reduce drag and can enhance speed but may compromise stability, making the right choice a balance between speed and accuracy.
Number of Fletchings: Most crossbow bolts use three fletchings for optimal balance; however, some hunters may opt for two fletchings to reduce weight. The traditional three-fletching setup typically provides better stability as it helps to correct any flight deviations more effectively.
Fletching Angle: The angle at which fletchings are installed, known as the “offset” or “helical” configuration, can improve the spin of the bolt, enhancing stability during flight. A slight offset helps the bolt to stabilize faster after release, while a helical twist can increase spin for better accuracy.
What Are the Most Recommended Brands for Crossbow Bolts in Hunting?
When it comes to the best crossbow bolts for hunting, several brands are highly recommended for their quality, performance, and reliability.
- Easton: Known for producing high-quality arrows and bolts, Easton crossbow bolts are made from durable materials that ensure accuracy and penetration. Their products often feature precision-engineered components that enhance flight stability, making them a popular choice among serious hunters.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express specializes in carbon composite bolts, which are lightweight yet incredibly strong. Their bolts are designed for optimal speed and accuracy, with advanced technology that minimizes wind drift, allowing hunters to achieve better shot placement.
- TenPoint: TenPoint is a leading manufacturer of crossbows and bolts, offering products that are specifically designed to work seamlessly with their crossbow systems. Their bolts are crafted for maximum durability and performance, often featuring unique designs that increase penetration and energy transfer on impact.
- Barnett: Barnett provides a range of crossbow bolts that are engineered for both beginners and experienced hunters. Their bolts are typically made from high-quality materials, ensuring consistent performance with every shot, and they often come pre-fletched for added convenience.
- Victory Archery: Victory Archery is known for its precision-engineered bolts, which offer excellent performance and consistency. Their products are often tested for accuracy and durability, making them a preferred choice for hunters looking to enhance their shooting experience.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Choosing Crossbow Bolts?
When selecting crossbow bolts for hunting, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can affect performance and accuracy.
- Choosing the Wrong Length: Selecting bolts that are too long or too short can lead to poor accuracy and safety issues. The ideal length should match the specifications of your crossbow to ensure proper flight and stability.
- Neglecting Weight Considerations: The weight of the bolt significantly impacts its speed, trajectory, and penetration. It’s crucial to choose bolts that are heavy enough for hunting but light enough to maintain velocity, typically between 400 to 500 grains for optimal performance.
- Ignoring Fletching Type: Fletching affects the stability and accuracy of the bolt in flight. Opting for the wrong type, such as low-profile vanes for high-speed crossbows, can result in decreased accuracy and inconsistent flight paths.
- Overlooking Material Quality: The material of the bolts plays a vital role in their durability and performance. Low-quality materials may lead to breakage or deformation upon impact, so investing in well-constructed bolts made from carbon or aluminum is advisable.
- Disregarding Broadhead Compatibility: Not all broadheads are compatible with every bolt, and mismatches can lead to inefficiencies. Ensuring that the broadheads fit securely and work well with the bolts enhances both accuracy and lethality during a hunt.
- Failing to Test for Accuracy: Skipping the step of testing your selected bolts for accuracy can lead to disappointing results in the field. Conducting practice shots will help you assess the performance of the bolts and make necessary adjustments before actual hunting.
How Can You Maintain Crossbow Bolts for Optimal Performance?
Using crossbow bolts of consistent weight is vital for accuracy; mismatched weights can lead to unpredictable results. Selecting the best crossbow bolts for hunting ensures that you achieve the necessary precision and effectiveness in the field.
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