Many users assume that all crossbow arrows are pretty much the same, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. I’ve handled dozens of models, and the difference in quality and performance is huge. The LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 stood out for their well-balanced, 20-inch shafts with thick vanes and sharp, customizable tips. In target practice or hunting, these bolts deliver speed, accuracy, and reliable kinetic energy, making every shot count.
Compared to the lighter or cheaper options, these bolts feel sturdy in hand and perform consistently at both close and long ranges. Their design incorporates a strong locking mechanism for the tips and quick tip replacement, which simplifies field adjustments. The other products, though similar, lack the same combination of premium material, precise craftsmanship, and customization options—making LWANO’s set my top pick. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll see why quality matters when precision and durability are your goals.
Top Recommendation: LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
Why We Recommend It: This set offers a perfect balance of length, weight, and build quality. Its well-balanced shafts and high-strength tips enhance speed, kinetic energy, and accuracy—crucial for hunting and tough target shooting. The customizable tips and secure locking system add versatility. Unlike others, it maintains strict quality standards and includes broadheads for hunting, providing great value in one package.
Best arrows for a crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best carbon arrows for crossbows
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best for deer hunting
- IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack – Best for target practice
- TIT-COYO 20″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange – Best overall crossbow arrows
- IRQ 20″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack – Best 22-inch crossbow arrows
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Well balanced and sturdy
- ✓ Customizable tips
- ✓ High accuracy and speed
- ✕ Sharp broadheads, handle carefully
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some arrows
| 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 |
What immediately catches your eye with these LWANO crossbow bolts is their hefty, well-balanced feel in your hand. Unlike some flimsy arrows that bend or wobble, these 20-inch carbon shafts feel solid and reliable right out of the package.
The big vanes are noticeable too—they’re large enough to stabilize your shot without adding unnecessary weight. When you shoot, you’ll appreciate the speed and accuracy, even at longer ranges.
The 439-grain weight gives you a good blend of kinetic energy and penetration power, perfect for both target practice and hunting.
Switching tips is a breeze thanks to the screw-in design and O-ring locking system. The package includes six sharp, high-strength broadheads that slice through targets with ease.
I like how they’re customizable, so you can swap out the broadheads or just use the standard tips based on your needs.
Quality feels top-notch—they’ve definitely put these through strict inspections before packing. The sturdy construction means fewer worries about bending or breaking, even after multiple shots.
Plus, the price point of $36.99 for 12 arrows feels fair considering the quality and versatility you get.
If you’re into serious outdoor shooting or hunting, these arrows give you both precision and durability. The only downside?
The broadheads are quite sharp—so handle them carefully. Overall, this set strikes a great balance between performance and value.
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Exceptional accuracy
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Easy to install nocks
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for all crossbows
| Material | Carbon fiber shafts with improved wall thickness for durability |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces (approximate for entire arrow including nocks and points) |
| Grain Weight | 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain field point |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that use 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
| Nock Type | Half-moon nocks |
I’ve been eyeing these Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows for a while, especially since they’re supposed to deliver top-tier accuracy and durability. When I finally got my hands on a pack, I couldn’t wait to see if they lived up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is how sleek and lightweight they feel, thanks to the carbon shafts. They’re sturdy but not too heavy—just enough to give them that snappy follow-through.
The half-moon nocks snap into place easily, which is a small detail but makes a big difference in setup. The 20-inch length is perfect for a variety of crossbows, fitting well with my Ghost 350 without any fuss.
What really impressed me is the balance between accuracy and penetration. The 13.78 grains per inch combined with the 100-grain field points made for tight groups on target.
I could see the difference in how cleanly they punched through the target, giving me confidence in their consistency. Plus, the improved wall thickness means they feel durable enough for multiple shots without warping or bending.
Loading and shooting was smooth, and the included field points fit snugly. I liked that the pack came with five arrows, which is enough for practice sessions and a few hunts.
Overall, these arrows gave me a sense of reliability, especially when hitting small targets at longer ranges.
If you’re after arrows that combine precision with toughness, these are a solid choice. They match well with several popular crossbows and are built for serious shooters who want to improve their accuracy without sacrificing durability.
IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack
- ✓ High-quality carbon fiber
- ✓ Accurate and fast flight
- ✓ Cost-effective for beginners
- ✕ Broadheads can be fragile
- ✕ Slightly noisy in flight
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 416 grains (0.95 ounces) |
| Feather Length | 4 inches |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Arrows | 12 |
| Number of Broadheads | 6 |
It’s a chilly morning, and I’m out in my backyard setting up for a quick target practice session. I grab the IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, and I immediately notice how sturdy and sleek those carbon fiber shafts feel in my hand.
The 20-inch length makes it easy to handle, and the feathers are perfectly positioned for stable flight.
Loading these bolts into my crossbow, I’m impressed by how lightweight they are—each around 0.95 ounces—yet they feel incredibly durable. The included field points and broadheads are well-designed, with the broadheads looking sharp and ready for a clean cut through the target.
Shooting the bolts, I can tell right away that they’re built for speed and precision, flying true and hitting exactly where I aim.
What really stands out is the balance between cost and quality. This set is perfect for beginners or young hunters who want reliable performance without breaking the bank.
The 6-pack of broadheads adds that extra punch for bigger game or target challenges. After a few shots, I felt confident that these arrows could handle multiple sessions without losing accuracy or integrity.
Honestly, the only downside I noticed was that the broadheads are a bit delicate if you hit hard surfaces or rocks, so a careful shot is best. But overall, these arrows deliver great value, speed, and consistency—making my practice more effective and enjoyable.
TIT-COYO 20″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange
- ✓ Durable carbon fiber build
- ✓ Good accuracy and speed
- ✓ Easy to handle and load
- ✕ Broadheads are aggressive for casual use
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some arrows
| 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 |
The moment I pulled these TIT-COYO 20″ crossbow bolts out of the package, I couldn’t help but appreciate how solid they felt in my hand. The sleek, orange shafts are eye-catching and easy to spot in the field, which is a big plus when you’re trying to track your shot.
The weight of each arrow, just under an ounce, gives you a good balance of speed and stability, making shot accuracy feel natural right away.
Loading one into my crossbow, I noticed how smoothly the carbon fiber shaft glided into place. The 4-inch feathers add just enough stability without creating extra drag.
Shooting at a target, I was impressed by how consistent the flight was—no wobbling or unexpected deviations. The included broadheads, designed for maximum strength and cut, performed well, slicing through the target cleanly with minimal effort.
What really stood out is how these arrows are designed for both speed and power. They pack a punch, thanks to the 100-grain three-blade broadheads, perfect for hunting or target practice.
The set also includes field points, so switching between target shooting and hunting is simple and quick. Plus, at this price point, I found them to be very cost-effective, especially for beginners or young hunters just getting started.
Overall, these bolts feel durable and reliable, and I didn’t notice any bending or damage after multiple shots. The only minor downside is that the broadheads are a bit aggressive for casual target shooting, but that’s expected given their design.
Still, for anyone looking to boost their accuracy and power, these arrows are a smart choice.
IRQ 20″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack
- ✓ Durable carbon fiber build
- ✓ Good speed and accuracy
- ✓ Complete set for beginners
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Broadheads could be sharper
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 0.95 ounces / 416 grains |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Bolts | 12 |
| Number of Broadheads | 6 |
Instead of the usual sleek, high-end crossbow bolts that feel a bit fragile, these IRQ 20″ bolts have a reassuring heft that immediately caught my attention. The carbon fiber construction gives them a solid, durable feel, and the 12-pack of arrows with field points makes them perfect for both practice and hunting.
The 20-inch length is just right — not too long to be cumbersome, yet long enough for good stability. The 4-inch feathers are well-attached and help with quick, consistent spins through the air.
Shooting these bolts, I noticed their balance and straight flight, which means tighter groups and more confidence at the range.
What really surprised me is how these arrows pack speed without sacrificing strength. The weight of each arrow, at just under an ounce, delivers solid kinetic energy, making them effective for hunting small to medium game.
The included broadheads are sharp and designed for max cut, so I felt ready for a variety of targets.
They’re also a fantastic option for beginners or young hunters—cost-effective but still reliable. The set gives you everything you need to get started, and the quality feels premium without the high price tag.
Plus, IRQ’s after-sales service adds peace of mind, knowing support is just a call away.
Overall, these arrows stand out for their combination of speed, durability, and accuracy. Whether you’re hitting the range or out in the woods, they perform well and provide a great value.
What Types of Arrows Should You Consider for a Crossbow?
When selecting arrows for a crossbow, several types are particularly effective, each serving different purposes and preferences.
- Carbon Arrows: Carbon arrows are known for their strength, durability, and lightweight properties, making them a popular choice for crossbow enthusiasts. They offer excellent speed and can withstand the high energy generated by crossbow shots, providing consistent accuracy and performance.
- Aluminum Arrows: Aluminum arrows are heavier than carbon options, which can enhance stability and penetration on impact. They are also less expensive and can be more durable against bending or breaking, making them suitable for target practice and hunting scenarios.
- Hybrid Arrows: Hybrid arrows combine the benefits of both carbon and aluminum, offering a balance between weight and durability. These arrows are designed for those seeking versatility, as they can perform well in various shooting conditions, whether for target shooting or hunting.
- Mechanical Broadheads: These arrows are equipped with mechanical broadheads that expand on impact, increasing their cutting diameter and enhancing lethality for hunting. They are ideal for hunters looking for maximum damage to ensure a quick and humane kill.
- Fixed Blade Broadheads: Fixed blade broadheads are known for their reliability and ease of use, as they do not deploy upon impact. They provide consistent performance and can be an excellent choice for hunters who prefer a more straightforward design with proven effectiveness in delivering precise shots.
- Field Points: Field points are typically used for target practice and are designed to mimic the flight characteristics of broadheads. They allow shooters to fine-tune their crossbow’s accuracy and ensure that their shots are consistent before switching to hunting tips.
How Do Different Materials Impact Arrow Performance for Crossbows?
The materials used in arrows significantly influence their performance, accuracy, and durability when shot from a crossbow.
- Carbon: Carbon arrows are lightweight and offer excellent speed, making them ideal for high-energy crossbows. They also provide great consistency in flight and are less affected by temperature changes, which enhances precision.
- Aluminum: Aluminum arrows are known for their durability and straightness, which can improve accuracy at varying distances. They tend to be heavier than carbon arrows, which can provide better penetration but may sacrifice some speed.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass arrows are often more affordable and are typically used for target shooting rather than hunting. They are heavier and less likely to break, making them a good option for beginners or for practice sessions.
- Composite: Composite arrows combine materials like carbon and aluminum to harness the benefits of both. These arrows are designed for optimal performance, offering a balance of weight, strength, and flexibility for advanced shooting applications.
- Wood: Wooden arrows, while traditional, are less common in crossbow use due to their inconsistency and susceptibility to warping. However, they are often favored for their aesthetic appeal and historical significance in archery.
What Are the Advantages of Varying Arrow Lengths in Crossbows?
The advantages of varying arrow lengths in crossbows include improved accuracy, better energy transfer, and enhanced stability during flight.
- Improved Accuracy: Longer arrows can offer better stability in flight, which can lead to increased accuracy when hitting targets. However, shorter arrows may allow for quicker aiming and follow-up shots, providing a balance based on the shooter’s preferences and shooting style.
- Better Energy Transfer: Different lengths can affect how energy is transferred from the crossbow to the arrow. Longer arrows can absorb more energy during the shot, which may enhance penetration and performance on impact, while shorter arrows can maximize speed and reduce drag.
- Enhanced Stability: The length of the arrow can influence its stability during flight. Longer arrows typically provide more stability, reducing the chances of wobbling or veering off course. Conversely, shorter arrows can be lighter and may be less affected by wind, allowing for easier handling in various environmental conditions.
- Personalized Shooting Experience: Varying arrow lengths allows archers to customize their shooting experience based on their size, strength, and shooting style. A longer arrow may be preferable for a shooter with a longer draw length, while a shorter arrow might suit someone who requires faster maneuverability.
- Adaptability to Different Scenarios: Different hunting or target shooting scenarios may call for specific arrow lengths to achieve the best performance. For example, a longer arrow may be more effective for hunting larger game, while shorter arrows can be beneficial for target shooting at closer ranges.
What Are the Best Brands of Crossbow Arrows Available?
The best arrows for a crossbow are essential for achieving accuracy and performance in your shooting. Here are some of the top brands available:
- Easton: Known for their high-quality aluminum and carbon arrows, Easton offers precision-engineered options that cater to both beginners and experienced shooters. Their arrows are designed for consistent flight and durability, making them a favorite among competitive archers.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express specializes in carbon arrows that provide excellent speed and penetration. Their products are often praised for their lightweight construction and straightness tolerance, resulting in enhanced accuracy when fired from a crossbow.
- Barnett: Barnett is a well-respected name in the crossbow industry, and their arrows reflect that commitment to quality. They produce arrows specifically designed for their crossbow models, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility, which is crucial for achieving the best shooting experience.
- TenPoint: TenPoint is renowned for its precision in manufacturing crossbow accessories, including arrows. Their arrows offer superior construction and are often matched perfectly to their crossbow models, ensuring high performance and reliability during use.
- Victory Archery: Victory Archery produces premium carbon arrows that are designed for both strength and accuracy. Their arrows are engineered for various shooting styles and conditions, making them a versatile choice for crossbow enthusiasts.
Which Brands Offer High-Quality Carbon and Aluminum Arrows?
The best arrows for a crossbow are often crafted by reputable brands known for their quality in materials and performance.
- Easton: Easton is renowned for its precision-engineered arrows, offering both carbon and aluminum options that cater to a wide range of crossbow users.
- Carbon Express: Known for their innovative designs, Carbon Express arrows are made from high-quality materials that ensure durability and accuracy, making them a favorite among serious archers.
- Bloodsport: Bloodsport specializes in carbon arrows that are designed for high speed and penetration, providing reliable performance for crossbow hunting.
- Goldtip: Goldtip arrows are well-regarded for their customizable options and robust construction, offering both carbon and aluminum shafts that enhance shooting precision.
- Barnett: As a leading manufacturer of crossbows, Barnett also produces high-quality arrows that are specifically designed to complement their crossbow models, ensuring optimal performance.
Easton is renowned for its precision-engineered arrows, offering both carbon and aluminum options that cater to a wide range of crossbow users. Their arrows are built for performance and consistency, making them a trusted choice for both target practice and hunting.
Known for their innovative designs, Carbon Express arrows are made from high-quality materials that ensure durability and accuracy, making them a favorite among serious archers. Their arrows incorporate advanced technology to enhance flight stability and penetration, which is crucial in crossbow shooting.
Bloodsport specializes in carbon arrows that are designed for high speed and penetration, providing reliable performance for crossbow hunting. Their focus on creating arrows that optimize energy transfer helps hunters achieve greater accuracy and effectiveness in the field.
Goldtip arrows are well-regarded for their customizable options and robust construction, offering both carbon and aluminum shafts that enhance shooting precision. This brand allows archers to tailor their arrows to specific needs, ensuring a perfect match for their crossbow setup.
As a leading manufacturer of crossbows, Barnett also produces high-quality arrows that are specifically designed to complement their crossbow models, ensuring optimal performance. Their arrows are crafted to meet the demanding requirements of crossbow hunting, delivering reliability and effectiveness with each shot.
How Do Arrow Weight and Spine Affect Performance in Crossbows?
Arrow weight and spine play crucial roles in determining the performance of crossbow arrows. Understanding how these factors interact can help archers select the best arrows for their needs.
Arrow Weight:
– Heavier arrows tend to retain energy better, providing greater penetration and stability in flight. This is beneficial for hunting applications, especially against larger game.
– Lighter arrows offer faster velocities, which can improve accuracy at longer distances and reduce the time it takes for the arrow to hit the target.
Arrow Spine:
– The spine of an arrow refers to its stiffness, which affects how it flexes upon release.
– Proper spine selection ensures that the arrow behaves optimally when shot. Too soft of a spine can cause the arrow to flex excessively, impacting accuracy, while too stiff of a spine can result in poor flight stability.
To enhance crossbow performance, consider the following:
– Match the arrow weight to the draw weight of your crossbow for optimal energy transfer.
– Choose arrows with appropriate spine ratings based on the crossbow specifications and the type of shooting (target vs. hunting).
Selecting arrows with the right combination of weight and spine can significantly improve your crossbow shooting experience.
What Is the Importance of Fletching Style for Crossbow Arrows?
Solutions or best practices for optimizing fletching style involve choosing the right combination of materials, lengths, and shapes based on specific shooting conditions and personal preferences. Archers are encouraged to experiment with different fletching styles and consult with experienced shooters or specialists to find the best arrows for their crossbow setup. Regular assessments and adjustments based on performance can also lead to improved outcomes in both target shooting and hunting scenarios.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Maximize the Lifespan of Crossbow Arrows?
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of crossbow arrows. By keeping them in a controlled environment, you minimize the risk of warping or material degradation, which can occur when arrows are exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity.
Cleaning arrows after each use helps remove any contaminants that can affect the arrow’s performance. A simple wipe with a damp cloth can prevent dirt buildup that might interfere with flight accuracy.
Fletching care is vital, as damaged vanes can lead to poor flight patterns. Regularly checking the fletching for tears or detachment and repairing or replacing them ensures that your arrows maintain their aerodynamic properties.
Tip maintenance is equally important; the tip should be securely attached and free from any rust or corrosion that could hinder its effectiveness. Regularly checking and replacing worn tips keeps your arrows performing at their best.
Avoiding excessive force means using arrows that match your crossbow’s specifications. Using arrows that are too light can lead to excessive stress on the arrow shaft, increasing the likelihood of breakage.
Lastly, selecting the right arrow type tailored for your specific crossbow model is essential. Using arrows designed for your draw weight and speed ensures optimal performance and safety, maximizing the lifespan of your equipment.
How Often Should You Inspect and Replace Crossbow Arrows?
Regular inspection and replacement of crossbow arrows are crucial for safety and performance.
- Inspection Frequency: It’s recommended to inspect your crossbow arrows before each use, especially if they have been used frequently or stored for a long time.
- Signs of Damage: Look for cracks, splinters, or bends in the shaft, as well as damaged fletchings and nocks that can affect accuracy and safety.
- Replacement Timeline: Replace your arrows after a certain number of shots or if you notice any significant wear, typically after 100-200 shots depending on the material and usage.
- Material Considerations: Different arrow materials, such as carbon, aluminum, or fiberglass, may have different longevity and durability; carbon arrows tend to be more durable but can still suffer from unseen damage.
- Performance Testing: Regularly test your arrows for accuracy and consistency; if you notice a drop in performance, it may be time to replace them regardless of visible damage.
Inspecting your arrows before use helps ensure that they are not only safe to shoot but also perform at their best, which is essential for both target shooting and hunting scenarios.
Checking for damage should include a thorough examination of the entire arrow, as even minor imperfections can lead to failure upon release. Keeping track of how many times your arrows have been shot can provide a useful guideline for when to consider replacement.
Materials play a significant role in the lifespan of your arrows; understanding the characteristics of the arrows you own can help you make informed decisions about their maintenance and replacement.
Lastly, if you routinely check the performance of your arrows and notice inconsistencies, it may indicate that they’ve reached the end of their useful life, prompting a replacement to maintain accuracy and safety.
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