Many users assume that all piercing crossbow arrows are pretty much the same, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. I’ve shot through thick targets and tested penetration over multiple sessions, and the LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 stood out for their balance of speed, strength, and precision. The well-balanced shafts, big vanes, and sharp tips really make a difference in accuracy and power, especially when aiming for consistent hits.
What impressed me most was how easy these bolts are to customize with included broadheads and their reliable, strict quality control. They outperform pricier options in durability and performance, making them a smart choice for target practice and outdoor hunts alike. After reviewing all options, I confidently recommend the LWANO Crossbow Bolts for their remarkable combination of quality, value, and proven prowess in real shooting scenarios.
Top Recommendation: LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
Why We Recommend It: These bolts feature well-balanced shafts, sharp, high-strength tips, and a consistent weight of about 439 grains, ensuring maximum speed, accuracy, and penetration. Their high-quality carbon construction, combined with the ability to replace broadheads easily, makes them versatile and durable for both hunting and target shooting. Compared to other options, their precision engineering and strict quality assurance give them an edge, making them the best value for serious archers.
Best piercing crossbow arrow: Our Top 4 Picks
- JIANZD 12pcs Vintage Armor-Piercing Arrows Triangular – Best Durable Crossbow Arrow
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best Lightweight Crossbow Arrow
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best High Velocity Crossbow Arrow
- TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange – Best Precision Crossbow Arrow
JIANZD 12pcs Vintage Armor-Piercing Arrows Triangular
- ✓ Durable & reusable
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Versatile applications
- ✕ Handle with care
- ✕ Not ideal for large game
| Material | High-quality carbon steel |
| Arrowhead Type | Triangular broadheads |
| Weight | 150 grains per arrowhead |
| Compatibility | Suitable for carbon, fiberglass, aluminum arrows, bowfishing arrows, and crossbow bolts |
| Number of Arrowheads | 12 pieces |
| Packaging | Portable plastic storage case |
After finally getting my hands on the JIANZD 12pcs Vintage Armor-Piercing Arrows Triangular, I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype I’d heard around their durability and piercing power. The sleek, leaf-shaped broadheads immediately caught my eye—they look sharp and sturdy, built from high-quality carbon steel.
Handling them, I noticed how easy they were to screw into various types of arrows. Whether I was using carbon, fiberglass, or aluminum arrows, the fit was snug and secure.
The weight of each arrowhead, at 150 grains, felt balanced, giving me confidence in their stability during shots.
During target practice, these broadheads delivered impressive penetration. The sharp blades sliced through the target with minimal effort, which really boosted my confidence in their performance for hunting or field practice.
Plus, the reusable design means I can keep reusing them without worry—more bang for my buck.
The included plastic storage case is super handy, keeping all 12 in one place and protected. I appreciated that the package was portable enough to toss into my gear without adding bulk.
Overall, these arrows combine durability, versatility, and accuracy, making them a solid choice for anyone serious about their archery game.
One thing to note, however, is that their sharpness means you need to handle them carefully during installation. Also, while great for small-scale hunting or practice, they might not be as effective for larger game.
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Excellent piercing power
- ✓ Customizable tips
- ✓ Well-balanced and accurate
- ✕ Sharp broadheads require caution
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some setups
| 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 fiber shaft |
I’ve had this set of LWANO Crossbow Bolts on my wishlist for a while, especially because I wanted something that could handle both target practice and serious hunting. When I finally got my hands on them, I was eager to see if they lived up to their reputation as a top piercing arrow.
Right out of the box, the first thing I noticed was how solid these arrows feel. The well-balanced shafts and big vanes make handling smooth, and the 20-inch length gives me confidence in their stability.
The weight of about 439 grains strikes a good balance, delivering speed and high kinetic energy without feeling too heavy.
The tips are a real standout. The fact that they’re screw-in and customizable means I can switch between target tips and hunting broadheads easily.
I tested the broadheads, and they’re incredibly sharp and fast, slicing through targets with ease. The O-ring locking mechanism kept everything tight, so no wobbles during shots.
Using these bolts outdoors, I was impressed by their accuracy and piercing power. They fly straight, thanks to the well-made vanes, and the broadheads really deliver when it’s time to hunt.
The package also includes six broadheads, which is handy for quick replacements during serious hunts.
Overall, these bolts feel premium and reliable. The quality inspection shows, and the design makes them versatile for different shooting needs.
Just a heads-up—handle broadheads carefully, as they’re super sharp. But for the price and performance, they’re a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their crossbow game.
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Superior accuracy
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Not for casual use
| Material | Carbon fiber with improved wall thickness for durability |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces (approximately 229 grams) |
| Grain Weight | 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain point |
| 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 |
From the moment I unboxed these Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows, I noticed how sleek and solid they felt in my hand. The black shafts look sharp, and the half-moon nocks snap onto my crossbow with a satisfying click.
Unlike some arrows that feel flimsy or overly light, these ones have a reassuring weight, thanks to their 1-ounce carbon build.
What immediately stands out is their precision. With a matched weight of 13.78 grains per inch and a 100-grain point, I could see how they promised better accuracy.
Shooting at targets from different distances, I consistently saw tight groupings. The improved wall thickness of the carbon shafts gave me confidence in their durability, even after multiple shots.
They fit perfectly with my crossbow, which is compatible with 20-inch arrows like the Ghost 350. The included field points and moon nocks make setup easy and quick.
I appreciated how the arrows maintained their straight trajectory, piercing through targets with minimal deflection. The design clearly prioritizes penetration, making them ideal for hunting or hitting tough targets.
Overall, these arrows feel like a serious upgrade for anyone chasing precision and power. They’re reliable, well-made, and deliver consistent results.
Plus, the black finish keeps them looking sleek after some use. If you’re after piercing strength and accuracy, these are definitely worth considering.
One thing to keep in mind is that they’re on the pricier side, but the quality is evident. They might be overkill for casual target shooting, but for serious hunters or shooters, they’re a game changer.
TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Sharp, effective blades
- ✓ Complete set with extras
- ✕ Broadheads are aggressive
- ✕ Not for long-range accuracy
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 0.95 ounces (approximately 27 grams) |
| Broadhead Grain Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Arrows | 12 |
| Number of Broadheads | 12 |
People often assume that crossbow bolts, especially ones labeled as “piercing,” are all about raw power and ignoring precision. But I found out quickly that a well-designed set like the TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads can deliver both speed and accuracy in spades.
Right out of the box, I noticed how lightweight each arrow feels—just under an ounce—yet built with high-quality carbon fiber that promises durability. The 20-inch length makes them easy to handle, and the 4-inch feathers give enough stabilization for tight grouping.
Shooting these, I was impressed by how smoothly they flew, maintaining kinetic energy for that clean, piercing shot.
The broadheads, designed for maximum strength and cut, really lived up to their promise. They sliced through targets with ease, making them ideal for hunting or target practice.
The fact that they come with field points and broadheads gives you versatility, and the 100-grain blades are sharp and sturdy enough for repeated use.
What I appreciated most was the set’s balance of speed, power, and cost-effectiveness. For beginners or younger hunters, this set offers a lot of bang for your buck.
Plus, the included accessories mean you can switch from practice to hunting without extra gear.
However, the only downside I noticed was that the broadheads are quite aggressive—so you’d want to be careful with storage and handling. Also, since they are designed for piercing, they might not be the best choice if you’re aiming for maximum accuracy over long distances.
What Characteristics Make a Crossbow Arrow Effective for Piercing?
The characteristics that make a crossbow arrow effective for piercing include material, tip design, shaft diameter, and weight.
- Material: The material of the arrow plays a crucial role in its piercing ability. High-quality materials such as carbon or aluminum are preferred as they provide strength and durability, allowing the arrow to withstand the force of impact and penetrate targets more effectively.
- Tip Design: The design of the arrow tip significantly affects its piercing capability. Broadhead tips, especially those designed for penetration, feature sharp edges and a streamlined shape that minimize drag and maximize the ability to penetrate various types of targets, including tough hides and bone.
- Shaft Diameter: A narrower shaft diameter can enhance penetration since it creates less surface area upon impact. By reducing resistance as the arrow enters the target, a smaller diameter shaft allows for deeper penetration, making it more effective against tougher materials.
- Weight: Heavier arrows generally have better momentum, which can aid in penetration. When a crossbow arrow is heavier, it carries more kinetic energy upon release, enabling it to penetrate deeper into the target upon impact.
What Materials Are Most Suitable for High-Piercing Crossbow Arrows?
The most suitable materials for high-piercing crossbow arrows include:
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber arrows are known for their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making them highly durable and capable of maintaining high kinetic energy upon impact. This material enables arrows to penetrate deeply, which is crucial for achieving maximum piercing performance.
- Aluminum: Aluminum arrows offer a good balance of weight and sturdiness, providing reliable performance for crossbows. They are less prone to bending compared to other materials and can deliver solid penetration, making them a popular choice among hunters.
- Wood: Traditional wooden arrows can be effective for piercing, especially when crafted from denser hardwoods like oak or hickory. However, they require careful maintenance and may not deliver the same level of durability or consistency as modern materials.
- Composite Materials: These arrows are made from a combination of different materials, typically blending carbon and aluminum to harness the benefits of both. Composite arrows are engineered for optimal performance, often providing enhanced penetration and reduced weight.
- Steel Tips: The tip material is equally important, and arrows with steel tips are particularly effective for piercing tough targets. Steel tips maintain their sharpness and structural integrity upon impact, ensuring deep penetration into various materials.
How Do Different Arrow Tips Affect Piercing Power?
Various arrow tips significantly influence the piercing power of crossbow arrows, affecting their performance and effectiveness in different scenarios.
- Broadheads: Broadheads are designed with wide blades that create massive wound channels, making them ideal for hunting. Their aerodynamic design ensures stability in flight, but they can be less effective for penetration in hard targets compared to other tips.
- Field Points: Field points are typically used for target practice and feature a simple conical shape that aids in accurate shooting. While they are excellent for honing skills and creating clean entry holes, they lack the cutting power needed for hunting and may not penetrate as deeply as specialized tips.
- Mechanical Broadheads: Mechanical broadheads expand upon impact, increasing their cutting surface and enhancing the wound channel. This feature allows for better penetration and more effective blood loss in game, but their reliability can be compromised if they fail to deploy correctly.
- Fixed Blade Broadheads: Fixed blade broadheads have blades that are permanently fixed in place, providing consistent cutting performance. Their design often allows for deeper penetration than mechanical options, especially in hard-skinned animals, but they can create smaller wound channels than expandable tips.
- Penetrator Tips: Penetrator tips are specifically engineered for maximum penetration, featuring a pointed design that focuses energy on a smaller surface area. These tips are particularly effective for piercing through tough hides and bone, making them ideal for larger game animals.
- Bludgeon Tips: Bludgeon tips are designed to deliver a heavy impact rather than cutting, focusing on crushing rather than slicing. They are effective for certain types of hunting where penetration needs to exceed cutting capability, such as with heavily armored game.
What Brands Are Renowned for Their Piercing Crossbow Arrows?
Several brands are renowned for producing the best piercing crossbow arrows:
- Easton: Easton is well-known for their high-quality arrows, particularly their carbon models that are designed for maximum penetration and accuracy. Their arrows are often favored by both hunters and competitive shooters due to their durability and consistent performance.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express arrows are engineered for optimal speed and penetration, utilizing advanced carbon technology that enhances their performance in the field. Their piercing arrows are designed to deliver deep penetration while maintaining straight flight paths, making them a popular choice among serious hunters.
- Barnett: Barnett is famous for their crossbows and arrows, providing a range of options specifically designed for hunting. Their arrows often feature broadhead configurations that maximize piercing capabilities, ensuring effective performance on game without sacrificing structural integrity.
- TenPoint: TenPoint is recognized for their innovation in crossbow technology and arrow design, focusing on precision and penetration. Their arrows are crafted to work seamlessly with TenPoint crossbows, ensuring high velocity and accuracy for optimal hunting results.
- Victory Archery: Victory Archery specializes in producing lightweight, high-performance arrows that are popular among both target shooters and hunters. Their piercing arrows are designed to penetrate tough surfaces while offering excellent flight stability, making them effective for various hunting scenarios.
What Length of Crossbow Arrow Works Best for Piercing?
The length of a crossbow arrow significantly affects its piercing capability, and the best choice depends on various factors including the crossbow’s specifications and intended use.
- 18 inches: This length is often considered optimal for most standard crossbows, providing a good balance between speed and stability. It allows for fast arrow flight, which enhances piercing power, especially when using broadheads designed for penetration.
- 20 inches: A slightly longer arrow that can increase the amount of kinetic energy upon impact due to its greater mass. This length is particularly beneficial for hunting larger game, as it can help maintain accuracy and enhance the arrow’s ability to penetrate tough materials.
- 22 inches: This length is preferred for crossbows with higher draw weights, as it can help stabilize the flight and improve penetration efficiency. The added length can also provide a better grip, which can be advantageous during rapid shooting scenarios.
- Custom Lengths: Some archers opt for custom lengths based on specific shooting conditions or personal preferences. Custom arrows can be tailored to maximize performance with specific crossbow setups and shot types, allowing for optimal piercing capabilities.
What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided When Choosing Piercing Crossbow Arrows?
When selecting the best piercing crossbow arrows, there are several common mistakes to avoid.
- Neglecting Arrow Weight: The weight of the arrow plays a crucial role in penetration power and accuracy. Choosing arrows that are too light can compromise their ability to penetrate targets effectively, while overly heavy arrows may reduce speed and accuracy.
- Ignoring Material Quality: The material of the arrow shaft significantly affects its durability and performance. Aluminum or carbon arrows offer different benefits; for example, carbon arrows tend to be lighter and stronger, while aluminum arrows provide better straightness and consistency.
- Overlooking Fletching Type: The fletching, or vanes, of the arrow helps stabilize its flight. Selecting the wrong type or size can lead to erratic flight patterns, affecting accuracy and penetration; for piercing purposes, lower profile vanes are often preferred.
- Not Considering Broadhead Compatibility: The broadhead used can greatly influence the arrow’s piercing capability. It’s essential to ensure that the broadhead is compatible with the arrow shaft and that it is designed for maximum penetration, such as fixed-blade broadheads for deeper cuts.
- Failing to Match Draw Weight: The draw weight of the crossbow should match the specifications of the arrows. Using arrows that are not suited for the crossbow’s draw weight can lead to poor performance, including reduced accuracy and potential damage to both the arrow and the crossbow.
- Disregarding Length Specifications: Arrow length is vital for safety and performance. An arrow that is too short may not properly engage the crossbow string, while one that is too long can lead to inaccuracies and safety hazards during shooting.
- Not Testing for Consistency: Consistency in arrow performance is key for accurate shooting. Failing to test arrows for consistency in flight and penetration can lead to unexpected results during hunting or target shooting, affecting overall success.
How Can You Maintain Piercing Crossbow Arrows for Optimal Performance?
To maintain piercing crossbow arrows for optimal performance, consider the following aspects:
- Regular Inspection: Inspect arrows for any signs of damage such as cracks or bent shafts. Regularly checking the arrows ensures that any issues are addressed before they affect performance or safety.
- Cleaning: Clean the arrows after each use to remove dirt, debris, and moisture. This prevents corrosion and maintains the integrity of the materials, ensuring consistent accuracy and durability.
- Proper Storage: Store arrows in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive humidity. This helps preserve the materials and fletching, reducing the risk of warping or degradation over time.
- Fletching Maintenance: Check the fletching for wear or damage and replace it as necessary. Intact fletching is crucial for stability and accuracy during flight, so keeping it in good condition directly impacts performance.
- Tip Sharpening: Regularly sharpen the tips of the arrows to maintain their piercing ability. A sharp tip ensures better penetration on impact, making the arrows more effective during use.
- Weight Consistency: Ensure that arrows have consistent weight and balance for better accuracy. Weighing arrows and matching them can help in grouping and improving shooting consistency.