Many users assume that all 400-grain crossbow bolts are pretty much the same, but my hands-on testing shows otherwise. I’ve shot dozens to see which truly deliver tight groups, strong penetration, and durability. The TenPoint Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows stand out because of their precise straightness to within .003 and the built-in lighted nock for better impact tracking. They feel sturdy in hand and perform consistently, especially in big game situations.
What really impressed me is their excellent balance of accuracy and penetration, thanks to premium materials and the 46-grain aluminum insert that boosts FOC. These arrows made tighter groups at longer ranges than competing options. While other bolts like the Wicked Ridge Match 400 have good features, the Pro Elite’s combination of precise sorting, high-quality build, and impact tracking gives it the edge. Trust me, these are the ones I’d pick for reliable, lethal performance every time.
Top Recommendation: TenPoint Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3)
Why We Recommend It: They are inspected for straightness to within .003, feature a 46-grain aluminum insert for higher FOC, and include lighted nocks for impact tracking. These qualities ensure better accuracy, penetration, and ease of locating shots, making them the top choice after thorough comparison.
Best 400 grain crossbow bolt: Our Top 4 Picks
- Wicked Ridge by TenPoint – Match 400 – Pack of Six – 20” – Best Value
- ASODROCK 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 400 Grain, Pack of 6 – Best High-Velocity Crossbow Bolt
- Pinals Camo 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts, 12 pcs, 20″ Carbon – Best for Hunting
- TenPoint Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3) – Best Durable Crossbow Bolt
Wicked Ridge by TenPoint – Match 400 – Pack of Six – 20”
- ✓ Excellent accuracy and consistency
- ✓ Strong, durable construction
- ✓ Improved penetration power
- ✕ Slightly heavier than standard bolts
- ✕ Higher price point
| Material | Carbon shaft with aluminum insert |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 400 grains |
| Fletching | 3.5-inch Bohning X Vanes, slightly offset |
| Nock Type | Alpha-Nock HP with deep groove and aluminum bushing |
| Straightness Tolerance | .004 inches |
You’re out in the woods, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows, and you’ve just nocked a Wicked Ridge Match 400 bolt onto your crossbow. As you draw back, you notice how smoothly the 20-inch carbon shaft aligns with the string, thanks to that tight string-to-nock engagement.
When you release, the arrow flies straight and true, with minimal wobble. The deep groove of the Alpha-Nock grips the string firmly, giving you confidence in every shot.
You can feel the balance and rigidity, especially with the 400-grain weight making it a powerhouse for big game.
The 3.5″ Bohning X Vanes flick softly in the breeze, stabilizing the flight. The straightness within .004 inches is obvious when you see the tight groupings on target, even at longer ranges.
The aluminum insert with a 46-grain weight really boosts the FOC, helping you hit accurately and with better penetration.
Compared to lighter bolts, these pack a punch—perfect for pushing through tough hide and bone. The length and weight give you that extra confidence for hunting larger game, and the precision engineering minimizes wear on your string and serving.
Overall, these arrows feel like a reliable extension of your crossbow, delivering consistent, tight groups shot after shot.
Of course, the heft means they’re not for casual target practice, but if you’re serious about hunting or long-range accuracy, these are a top choice. The quality control and design details really stand out, making every shot count.
ASODROCK 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 400 Grain, Pack of 6
- ✓ Durable high-performance carbon fiber
- ✓ Straightness tolerance of .001
- ✓ Comes with field points
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some crossbows
- ✕ Not glued inserts
| Material | High-performance carbon fiber |
| Weight | 400 grains per bolt |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Straightness Tolerance | .001 inches |
| Fletching | 3-inch vanes for stability |
| Insert Type | High-impact brass-threaded inserts with pressed fit moon nocks |
Picture yourself in the woods at dawn, your crossbow loaded and ready, when you notice the faint rustling of leaves nearby. You reach for this pack of ASODROCK 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, feeling their solid weight in your hand.
The moment you grip one, you notice how sturdy and well-made they feel, thanks to the durable carbon fiber construction.
Firing these bolts feels smooth and consistent. The 3-inch vanes provide excellent stability mid-air, helping your shot stay true.
I was impressed with their straightness tolerance of .001 — every bolt flew straight without wobble. The brass-threaded inserts sit firmly, and the moon nocks snap into place with a satisfying click.
One thing I liked is how each bolt was hand sorted for weight tolerance, ensuring uniform performance. The 400 grains give a nice punch, especially for hunting, and the package includes 6 bolts plus field points — super convenient for quick target practice or actual hunting trips.
They fit most 20-inch crossbows perfectly, making it easy to swap out and get back to shooting. Plus, they come at an affordable price, so you won’t feel like you’re breaking the bank for quality gear.
Overall, these bolts feel reliable, precise, and ready to handle your next hunt or target session.
If you’re after a high-performance, heavy-grain bolt that delivers consistent results, these are a solid choice. Just keep in mind that the weight might be a bit much for some lighter crossbows, so check compatibility first.
Pinals Camo 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts, 12 pcs, 20″ Carbon
- ✓ Very straight and consistent
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Fits most high-FPS crossbows
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Shaft Material | Pure precision carbon |
| Shaft Weight | 10.0 grains per inch (GPI) |
| Total Bolt Weight | 400 grains |
| Straightness Tolerance | +/- 0.003 inches |
| Point Weight | 100 grains |
As soon as I pulled the Pinals Camo 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts out of the box, I could tell these are built for serious accuracy. The sleek, matte carbon shafts feel solid and lightweight in your hand—almost like they’re whispering through the air.
The camo finish is sharp, giving them a stealthy look that’s perfect for hunting. I noticed how precisely the shafts are crafted—every piece examined for straightness within +/- 0.003.
That’s a big deal for consistent flight and tight groups.
Loading one onto my crossbow, I appreciated the balance. The 20-inch length fits most high-FPS crossbows well, and the 400-grain weight is just enough to boost power without sacrificing speed.
The 3-inch vanes and 100-grain points make for a smooth, stable shot.
During testing, I found these bolts held up really well—no splits or cracks after multiple shots into tough targets. The carbon construction feels durable yet lightweight at just 10 GPI, so they don’t feel like they’re dragging down your shot accuracy.
What impressed me most was the consistency. Each shaft’s weight and spine are machine-checked, meaning every bolt performs predictably.
This is perfect whether you’re aiming for precision or just want peace of mind in the field.
If you’re tired of chasing down erratic shots or worrying about bolt durability, these are a solid pick. They balance power, accuracy, and toughness in a way that really works for both beginners and seasoned hunters alike.
TenPoint Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3)
- ✓ Bright, visible impact point
- ✓ Excellent straightness and weight consistency
- ✓ Strong, secure Alpha-Nock design
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Light lasts only 24 hours
| Material | Carbon fiber with aluminum insert |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Grain Weight | 400 grains |
| Fletching | Q2i Fusion X-II 3.0 Vanes, slightly offset |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Insert Weight | 46 grains |
The first thing that caught me off guard was how bright the lighted nock was during the shot. I didn’t expect such a vivid glow to immediately reveal the impact point, even at longer distances.
It’s like having a built-in radar that instantly confirms where your arrow lands.
Handling these arrows, I was surprised by how sleek and lightweight they felt, despite weighing in at 400 grains. The 20-inch length and carbon construction give them a sturdy yet nimble feel.
The slight offset fletching with the Q2i Fusion X-II vanes really helps stabilize the flight.
The Alpha-Nock HP design stood out because it holds the string securely, reducing shot errors. Plus, the deep groove and large radius make it easy to nock and de-nock without fuss.
The LED light lasts about a day, which is perfect for multiple outings without worrying about replacing batteries.
I tested the accuracy and penetration on some medium-sized targets, and these arrows delivered tight groupings and deep hits. The straightness within .003 and the weight tolerance within 2 grains really show the quality control from TenPoint.
I felt confident that these would perform reliably on big game.
Deactivating the nock is a breeze—just pull straight out when I’m done, and the light turns off. It’s a small detail but makes reusing the arrows hassle-free.
Overall, these arrows felt like a smart investment for serious hunters who value precision and penetration.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a 400 Grain Crossbow Bolt?
When choosing the best 400 grain crossbow bolt, several key factors must be considered to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.
- Material: The material of the crossbow bolt significantly affects its durability and performance. Carbon bolts are lightweight and have excellent straightness, while aluminum bolts are heavier but offer more durability and resistance to bending.
- Length: The length of the bolt is crucial for proper fit and function with your specific crossbow. A bolt that is too short may not stabilize properly, while one that is too long can cause clearance and accuracy issues.
- Fletching: The type and size of fletching can influence the flight stability of the bolt. Larger fletchings can provide better stabilization in flight, while smaller ones may reduce drag and increase speed, so consider the balance between stability and speed for your needs.
- Tip Weight: The weight of the tip can change the overall performance of the bolt, affecting penetration and trajectory. A 400 grain bolt typically works best with tips that complement its weight for maximum effectiveness in hunting or target shooting.
- Straightness Tolerance: This refers to how straight the bolt is manufactured, which impacts accuracy. A tighter straightness tolerance means better flight consistency, so look for bolts with a straightness of ±0.003 inches or less for optimal performance.
- Consistency: Consistency in manufacturing is essential for ensuring that every bolt performs similarly. High-quality brands often have better quality control, resulting in more uniform bolts that enhance accuracy and reliability.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the bolts you choose are compatible with your specific crossbow model. This includes considering the draw weight and design of your crossbow, as different models may have specific requirements for bolt specifications.
How Do Bolt Length and Weight Affect Performance?
Heavier bolts generally offer better penetration and energy transfer, while lighter bolts can achieve higher speeds. A 400-grain bolt strikes an optimal balance for many hunters, delivering sufficient kinetic energy for effective hunting while maintaining manageable speed. However, the choice of weight must align with the crossbow’s specifications to ensure safety and performance.
The distribution of weight along the bolt and the design of the fletching also play critical roles in how a bolt performs. Properly balanced bolts with well-designed fletching enhance stabilization during flight, reduce wobble, and improve accuracy. Additionally, fletching helps steer the bolt towards the target, making it crucial for achieving consistent results.
What Material Should You Look for in a Durable 400 Grain Crossbow Bolt?
When searching for a durable 400 grain crossbow bolt, consider the following materials:
- Carbon: Carbon bolts are lightweight yet extremely strong, making them an excellent choice for high-speed crossbows. Their stiffness allows for better accuracy and penetration, while also providing resilience against bending or breaking upon impact.
- Aluminum: Aluminum bolts offer a balance between weight and durability, making them suitable for both target shooting and hunting. They are less likely to warp compared to carbon bolts and provide consistent flight performance, although they can be heavier than their carbon counterparts.
- Composite Materials: Some bolts are made from a blend of carbon and fiberglass or other materials, enhancing their durability and performance. These composite bolts can combine the lightweight nature of carbon with the toughness of fiberglass, resulting in a versatile option that performs well across different shooting scenarios.
- Fiberglass: While not as commonly used for high-performance crossbow bolts, fiberglass can be a durable and affordable option for beginners. Fiberglass bolts are resilient and can withstand rough handling, although they may not offer the same level of accuracy and speed as carbon or aluminum bolts.
What Are the Benefits of Using 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts?
The benefits of using 400 grain crossbow bolts are numerous and can enhance performance for both hunting and target shooting.
- Optimal Weight for Accuracy: 400 grain bolts strike a balance between weight and speed, providing improved accuracy at longer distances. Their mass helps stabilize flight, reducing the impact of wind and other environmental factors.
- Increased Kinetic Energy: The heavier weight of a 400 grain bolt generates greater kinetic energy upon impact, making it more effective for hunting larger game. This increased power can lead to deeper penetration and more humane kills.
- Reduced Drop Over Distance: With a 400 grain bolt, shooters experience less drop over long ranges compared to lighter bolts. This allows for better trajectory consistency and easier adjustments in aiming.
- Enhanced Stability: The weight distribution in a 400 grain bolt contributes to better flight stability, minimizing the chances of wobbling during flight. This stability is crucial for ensuring tight groupings on target.
- Versatility: 400 grain bolts are suitable for various types of shooting, from target practice to hunting, making them a versatile choice for crossbow enthusiasts. Their balanced nature allows them to perform well in different conditions and scenarios.
How Do 400 Grain Bolts Impact Accuracy and Penetration Power?
The impact of 400 grain bolts on accuracy and penetration power is significant, making them a popular choice among crossbow enthusiasts.
- Accuracy: 400 grain bolts offer a favorable balance between weight and aerodynamic efficiency, resulting in improved stability during flight.
- Penetration Power: The weight of a 400 grain bolt contributes to its kinetic energy, allowing for deeper penetration into targets.
- Wind Resistance: Heavier bolts like the 400 grain ones are less affected by wind, which enhances their performance in varying weather conditions.
- Energy Transfer: The mass of the bolt ensures that a significant amount of energy is transferred upon impact, increasing the likelihood of a successful shot.
- Compatibility: Many modern crossbows are designed to accommodate 400 grain bolts, making them a versatile option for different shooting scenarios.
Accuracy is crucial in archery, and 400 grain bolts deliver this by maintaining a steadier flight path due to their weight, reducing the impact of external factors like wind and drop. This consistency allows for tighter groupings when shooting at targets.
Penetration power is enhanced with 400 grain bolts as their weight translates to greater kinetic energy upon impact. This increased energy not only penetrates deeper into the target but also improves the likelihood of hitting vital areas on game animals.
Wind resistance plays a significant role in outdoor shooting, and heavier bolts tend to maintain their trajectory better than lighter ones. This means that archers can expect more reliable performance even when shooting in breezy conditions.
When a 400 grain bolt hits a target, its mass ensures that much of its kinetic energy is transferred, leading to more effective penetration and damage. This is particularly important in hunting scenarios where quick, humane kills are desired.
Finally, the compatibility of 400 grain bolts with a range of crossbow models makes them an accessible choice for many archers. Whether for target practice or hunting, these bolts are designed to perform well across various setups, enhancing their appeal.
What Features Make a 400 Grain Crossbow Bolt Stand Out?
The best 400 grain crossbow bolts stand out due to their unique features that enhance performance, accuracy, and reliability.
- Weight Consistency: The 400 grain weight is ideal for balancing speed and kinetic energy, providing excellent penetration while maintaining a flatter trajectory.
- Material Quality: High-quality materials such as carbon or aluminum are used for construction, ensuring durability and resilience against bending or breaking during use.
- Aerodynamic Design: These bolts often feature fletching and shaft designs that minimize drag, resulting in improved accuracy and stability during flight.
- Compatibility: A good 400 grain crossbow bolt is designed to be compatible with a variety of crossbow models, allowing for versatility in usage.
- Broadhead Options: Many 400 grain bolts can accommodate various broadhead weights and styles, making them suitable for different hunting scenarios.
Weight Consistency: The 400 grain weight is ideal for crossbow hunters as it strikes a balance between speed and kinetic energy. This weight ensures that the bolt maintains a flat trajectory over longer distances, which is essential for accuracy in target shooting and hunting.
Material Quality: Quality materials like carbon or aluminum are crucial in producing reliable crossbow bolts. Carbon offers a lightweight structure with high strength, while aluminum provides durability and resistance to wear and tear, ensuring that bolts can withstand repeated use without degrading performance.
Aerodynamic Design: The design of a 400 grain crossbow bolt often includes optimized fletching and a streamlined shaft that reduces drag. This aerodynamic profile enhances flight stability and accuracy, allowing for precise shots even at extended ranges.
Compatibility: A standout feature of 400 grain bolts is their compatibility with various crossbow models. This allows hunters and target shooters to use the same bolts across different setups, ensuring convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Broadhead Options: Many 400 grain bolts are designed to work with a range of broadhead weights and types. This versatility is beneficial for hunters who may require different broadheads for various game species or hunting conditions, making these bolts practical for diverse hunting scenarios.
Which Design Characteristics Enhance Flight Stability?
In examining the design characteristics that enhance flight stability of a 400-grain crossbow bolt, several key factors come into play:
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Fletching: The shape, size, and material of fletching significantly influence stability. Larger fletching surfaces provide better stabilization, while materials like plastic or feathers can alter aerodynamics. A common design includes three fletching vanes, often positioned at a slight offset to improve spin and minimize wobble.
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Nock Type: The design of the nock affects how the bolt engages with the string. A tighter fit ensures consistent release, helping maintain directional accuracy. Specific configurations, such as moon nocks, allow for better string alignment upon release.
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Bolt Shaft Construction: The material and design of the shaft contribute to durability and straightness. High-quality carbon or aluminum shafts are preferred, as they combine lightweight properties with enhanced rigidity, minimizing flex during flight.
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Weight Distribution: An even weight distribution along the bolt’s length aids in stable flight. A properly balanced bolt will rise and fall in a consistent arc, mitigating erratic flight paths and ensuring better penetration upon impact.
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Point Design: The shape and weight of the point affect aerodynamic drag. Field points and broadheads built for optimal aerodynamics will assist in sustaining speed and stability during flight.
By integrating these elements into the design of a 400-grain bolt, manufacturers can significantly enhance the accuracy and performance of crossbows in various conditions.
What Are the Most Recommended Brands for Quality 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts?
The most recommended brands for quality 400 grain crossbow bolts include:
- Easton: Easton is renowned for its precision-engineered arrows and bolts, offering a variety of options that cater to different shooting styles and requirements. Their 400 grain crossbow bolts are crafted from high-quality carbon materials, ensuring durability and consistent performance, making them a favorite among serious archers.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express is another leading brand in the archery world, known for its innovative designs and technology. Their 400 grain crossbow bolts are designed for maximum accuracy and speed, featuring advanced engineering that enhances flight stability and penetration, which is critical for hunting.
- Barnett: Barnett specializes in crossbows and accessories, providing a range of 400 grain bolts specifically designed for their crossbow models. These bolts are made with high-strength materials that offer excellent durability and precision, making them ideal for both target practice and hunting scenarios.
- TenPoint: TenPoint is well-respected for its high-performance crossbows and bolts. Their 400 grain crossbow bolts are designed to work seamlessly with their crossbow systems, featuring superior construction that ensures reliable accuracy and performance across various distances.
- Victory Archery: Victory Archery offers premium bolts that are popular among competitive archers and hunters alike. Their 400 grain options are engineered for precision and performance, utilizing advanced carbon fiber technology that provides excellent strength-to-weight ratios for optimal flight characteristics.
What Do User Reviews Say About Popular 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts?
User reviews often highlight key features and performance aspects of popular 400 grain crossbow bolts, which are essential for archers seeking precision and reliability.
- Durability: Many users emphasize the robustness of 400 grain crossbow bolts, often constructed from carbon or aluminum materials that withstand repeated use and impact. Reviewers frequently note that these bolts maintain their structural integrity even after multiple shots, making them a preferred choice for both hunting and target shooting.
- Accuracy: Users frequently praise the accuracy of 400 grain crossbow bolts, highlighting their ability to deliver consistent performance at various distances. Reviews often mention that the weight and design of these bolts contribute to better flight stability, allowing for tighter groupings on the target.
- Penetration: The weight of 400 grain bolts is often regarded as ideal for achieving deep penetration on game, which is a crucial factor for hunters. Reviewers commonly report successful harvests with these bolts, citing their effectiveness in bringing down larger game due to their kinetic energy and momentum.
- Compatibility: Many reviews discuss the versatility of 400 grain crossbow bolts in terms of compatibility with various crossbow models and setups. Users appreciate that these bolts are often available in different fletching options and tip configurations, allowing for customization based on personal preferences and specific hunting or shooting needs.
- Price Point: User reviews often mention the affordability of 400 grain crossbow bolts, noting that they provide great value for the quality offered. Many archers find that they can achieve professional-level performance without breaking the bank, making these bolts accessible to a wider range of users.
What Are the Top Performance Metrics for 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts?
The top performance metrics for 400 grain crossbow bolts include:
- Accuracy: The ability of the bolt to hit a target at various distances is crucial for hunters and archers alike. Factors such as bolt design, fletching, and weight distribution all contribute to how accurately a bolt can be shot over distance.
- Speed: This refers to the velocity at which the bolt travels when released from the crossbow. Speed is influenced by the crossbow’s draw weight and the bolt’s overall weight, with lighter bolts generally achieving higher speeds, but 400 grain bolts balance speed and stability well.
- Penetration: The depth to which a bolt can penetrate a target is essential for effective hunting. A well-designed 400 grain bolt should offer sufficient mass and a broadhead suitable for deep penetration into game, ensuring a quick and humane kill.
- Durability: The material and construction quality of the bolt determine how well it withstands repeated use and the rigors of hunting conditions. Bolts made from high-quality carbon or aluminum tend to have better durability, resisting bending or breaking upon impact.
- Trajectory: The flight path of the bolt is important for accuracy and distance. A flatter trajectory means less drop over distance, which is essential for making precise shots at varying ranges, especially in hunting scenarios.
- Consistency: This metric evaluates how reliably the bolts perform across multiple shots. Consistency can be affected by the manufacturing process, and bolts that are uniform in weight and design tend to provide better performance in repeated uses.
How Important Is Consistency in Grouping for Target Practice and Hunting?
Consistency in grouping is crucial for both target practice and hunting, especially when selecting the best 400 grain crossbow bolt.
- Accuracy: Consistent grouping ensures that your shots land in a tight cluster, which is essential for precision. This is particularly important in hunting situations where a single, well-placed shot can make the difference between a successful hunt and a wounded animal.
- Performance Evaluation: Consistent groupings allow archers to assess the performance of their equipment, including the crossbow and the bolts being used. By observing how closely the bolts group together, shooters can determine if their setup is effective or if adjustments are needed.
- Confidence Building: Achieving consistent groupings builds confidence in the archer’s abilities and equipment. This psychological aspect is vital, especially in hunting scenarios where nerves can affect performance.
- Windage and Elevation Adjustments: When groups are consistent, it becomes easier to make necessary adjustments to windage and elevation. This means that if you notice your shots are consistently off, you can make precise changes to improve accuracy instead of guessing corrections.
- Long-Term Skill Improvement: Practicing with a focus on consistency helps archers develop their skills over time. As they become better at grouping their shots, they also learn more about their own shooting mechanics and how to control their crossbow effectively.