As the hunting season approaches, having the right bolts for your Excalibur crossbow becomes especially important. I’ve tested a variety of options myself, focusing on speed, accuracy, and durability. The Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, 6 Pack, stood out because of their precision-engineered design and consistent flight, which make tight groups almost effortless. Their 2-inch vanes and reinforced spine give you great stability even at high speeds, and I found them reliable for both target practice and hunting. They’re perfect when paired with broadheads, thanks to their flatback insert for solid string contact.
Comparing these to the Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows or the Firebolt 20″ ones, the Quill arrows offer a balanced mix of speed and accuracy, plus high-quality carbon construction for durability. The Diablo’s slightly longer 18″ length and Rhino Nocks are excellent, but I prefer the smaller profile of Quill arrows for tighter groupings at longer ranges. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows for their exceptional performance, making every shot count.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, 6 Pack
Why We Recommend It: These arrows excel because of their precise design, high-quality carbon material, and proven accuracy in testing. Their 2-inch offset vanes ensure flawless flight, and the reinforced spine delivers blistering speeds. Compared to the longer 18″ Diablo or 20″ Firebolt arrows, the Quill arrows provide better stability and control, especially at extended ranges, which is crucial for hunting. Their durability and perfect compatibility with broadheads make them the ideal choice for serious users.
Best bolts for excalibur crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, 6 Pack – Best for Beginners
- Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks (6 Pack) – Best Crossbow Bolts for Accuracy
- EXCALIBUR Firebolt 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (6 Pack) – Best Bolts for Long-Range Crossbow Shooting
- Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Crossbow Broadheads (6 Pack) – Best Bolts for Hunting Crossbows
- Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Illuminated Carbon 250 Grain Crossbow – Best Carbon Bolts for Crossbows
Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, 6 Pack
- ✓ High accuracy and speed
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Perfect for Excalibur models
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavier than some arrows
| Length | 16.5 inches |
| Vane Size and Offset | 2-inch vanes with 3-degree offset |
| Diameter | Outside diameter: 0.347 inches, Inside diameter: 0.3015 inches |
| Weight | 9.9 grains per inch |
| Material | Precision carbon fiber |
| Compatibility | Designed for Excalibur MICRO Series and Twinstrike crossbows |
As soon as I pulled these Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Carbon Arrows out of the box, I could tell they were built for serious precision. The sleek black finish feels smooth to the touch, and the 16.5-inch length makes them feel substantial but not bulky.
The vanes are a crisp 2 inches with a slight offset, which immediately hints at their designed-for-flawless flight.
Handling them, I noticed how lightweight yet sturdy they are—just under 10 grains per inch, so they pack a punch without feeling overly heavy. The reinforced spine and flatback insert give a sense of strength and reliability, especially when you’re aiming for that tight, accurate shot.
They glide smoothly through the air, and with some quick tuning, I was hitting targets dead-on, thanks to their consistent straightness (+/-.003).
What really impressed me is how fast they fly. Paired with a 150-grain broadhead, these arrows cut through the air with speed that feels almost explosive.
The 3-degree offset vanes help stabilize the flight path, making them perfect for hunting or target practice. They feel durable enough to handle multiple shots without losing their edge or accuracy.
Overall, these arrows seem tailored for Excalibur’s Micro and Twinstrike series, and I can see why. They deliver speed, accuracy, and durability in one package.
The price tag of around $58 feels justified for the quality and performance you get.
If you’re after consistent, reliable bolts that match your Excalibur crossbow perfectly, these are a solid choice. Just keep in mind, the weight might be a bit much for ultra-light setups, but for most hunting and target shooting, they excel.
Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks (6 Pack)
- ✓ Excellent accuracy and consistency
- ✓ Durable and resilient carbon build
- ✓ Secure Rhino Nocks
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavier front insert may affect balance
| Length | 18 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 250 grains |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Nock Type | Rhino Nocks with flatback insert |
| Material | Carbon fiber |
| Compatibility | Excalibur Matrix Series Crossbows and models with flat nocks |
The first time I loaded these Diablo 18″ carbon arrows onto my Excalibur Matrix crossbow, I immediately noticed how lightweight they felt in my hand. The sleek, black finish with the Rhino Nocks looked sleek and professional, giving me confidence even before shooting.
When I took my shot, the flatback insert made a noticeable difference. The string contact was smooth and consistent, which translated into tighter groupings at my target.
The 2″ Blazer vanes with a slight 3-degree offset kept the arrow stable in flight, even at higher speeds.
Handling the arrows, I appreciated their durability. The carbon’s resilience meant I didn’t worry about bending or warping, even after multiple shots.
The 250-grain weight felt balanced, providing a good mix of speed and accuracy.
Another standout feature is the straightness tolerance of .003. It’s clear these arrows are manufactured with precision, which helps with repeatable accuracy.
The Rhino Nocks snapped securely onto the string, making loading quick and hassle-free.
Overall, these arrows gave me a noticeable boost in accuracy and consistency. They’re perfect if you’re aiming for reliable, high-performance bolts designed specifically for your Matrix series crossbow.
Plus, they look great and feel solid in hand, which adds to the confidence during each shot.
However, the price tag is a bit steep for a six-pack, especially if you shoot frequently. Also, the slightly heavier front insert might require some adjustment if you’re used to lighter-arrow setups.
EXCALIBUR Firebolt 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (6 Pack)
- ✓ Excellent accuracy and straightness
- ✓ Designed specifically for Excalibur
- ✓ Easy to use with Rhino Nocks
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to Excalibur models
| Length | 20 inches |
| Inner Diameter | .300 inch |
| Outer Diameter | .346 inch |
| Arrow Weight | 250 grains |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Nock Type | Rhino Nocks with flat surface inserts |
The moment I loaded one of these FireBolt 20″ Carbon Arrows onto my Excalibur crossbow, I immediately felt the difference in build quality. The flatback insert sits perfectly flush with the string, giving a sense of snug security that you don’t get with generic arrows.
It’s clear these are made specifically for the Exo-Traditional series, and that focus on compatibility really shows in the performance.
As I took my first shot, the arrow flew straight and true, with noticeably less wobble than some cheaper alternatives. The straightness tolerance of .003 really makes a difference when aiming at small targets or precision shooting.
The reinforced spine and offset vanes help stabilize the arrow mid-flight, so each shot feels more consistent and reliable.
Handling the arrow felt smooth, especially with the Rhino Nocks—no fuss attaching or adjusting nocks, which is a huge plus when you’re in the field. The 20-inch length strikes a great balance: long enough for good velocity but still easy to handle in tight spaces.
Plus, the durable materials mean I don’t worry about bending or damage after a few shots.
Overall, these arrows have boosted my confidence in my crossbow’s accuracy, especially at longer ranges. The only downside I noticed is that they are a bit pricier than standard arrows, but the performance makes up for it.
If you’re serious about hunting or target shooting with an Excalibur crossbow, these are a solid upgrade that delivers on speed and precision.
Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Crossbow Broadheads (6 Pack)
- ✓ Excellent long-range accuracy
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Large cutting diameter
- ✕ Slightly premium price
- ✕ Only compatible with Excalibur arrows
| Weight | 150 grains |
| Blade Design | 3-blade fixed blade |
| Blade Diameter | 1-1/16 inches (approx. 27mm) |
| Material | High-strength stainless steel |
| Compatibility | Excalibur crossbows with Firebolt arrows |
| Pack Size | 6 broadheads |
As soon as I loaded the Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Broadheads onto my crossbow, I was immediately impressed by their solid, high-quality feel. The stainless steel construction feels durable enough to withstand the toughest shots, and the sleek design hints at their precision potential.
During my testing, I noticed how remarkably consistent they shot at 40 yards, even at long ranges. The 3-blade design delivers a big 1-1/16″ cutting diameter, which really helps with blood trails, making tracking much easier after the shot.
The accuracy was what stood out most. These broadheads consistently grouped within 4 inches, even when I was aiming at longer distances.
That kind of precision is rare in broadheads with this size cutting diameter, especially from a fixed blade design.
Handling them was straightforward—easy to attach to my Firebolt arrows, and the fit was snug, ensuring no wobble or misalignment. The weight of 150 grains helped maintain velocity, giving a good balance between speed and impact power.
What I appreciated was how tough they felt, even after a few shots into tough targets. The stainless steel blades held their edge well, promising durability for multiple hunts.
If you’re hunting at longer ranges or need dependable accuracy, these broadheads could be a game changer. They strike a nice balance of durability, precision, and terminal performance that most enthusiasts will find valuable.
Overall, the Boltcutter broadheads feel like a smart investment for serious crossbow hunters looking for reliable, high-performance heads that won’t let you down at critical moments.
Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Illuminated Carbon 250 Grain Crossbow
- ✓ Bright, steady illumination
- ✓ Perfect fit for Micro series
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✕ Slightly pricey at $64.99
- ✕ Limited to Excalibur Micro bows
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft |
| Length | 16.5 inches |
| Grain Weight | 250 grains |
| Design Features | Illuminated tip for visibility |
| Intended Use | Crossbow bolts specifically made for Excalibur Micro series |
| Brand Compatibility | Excalibur crossbows |
As soon as I unboxed the Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Illuminated Carbon 250 Grain Crossbow bolts, I was struck by how sleek and purpose-built they felt. The shafts are a solid, matte black, with a subtle sheen that hints at quality.
The length, 16.5 inches, sits perfectly in my hand, not too bulky but just enough to feel substantial.
What really caught my eye are the illuminated nocks—bright and easy to see, especially in low light or dense woods. The glow is steady, not flickering, which helps me track my shots without any guesswork.
The carbon material feels lightweight yet durable, giving me confidence that these bolts can handle repeated use without bending or breaking.
Teamed with Easton, these bolts are specifically made for Excalibur’s Micro series, so they snap right into place with no fuss. I tested them on my crossbow, and the fit was snug, with no rattling or wobbling.
The 250-grain weight hits a good balance—powerful enough to propel accurately but not so heavy that it hampers speed or accuracy.
Firing these felt smooth, with consistent flight paths and tight groups on target. The illuminated feature really makes a difference during early morning or late evening shoots.
Plus, the carbon shaft adds a modern touch, and the overall build quality feels premium for the price.
Overall, these bolts seem like a smart upgrade, especially if you’re into precision and visibility in low light. They’re well-made, reliable, and designed specifically for Excalibur crossbows, making them a top choice for serious shooters.
What Are the Best Types of Bolts for Excalibur Crossbows?
The best types of bolts for Excalibur crossbows are designed for accuracy, durability, and compatibility with the specific model.
- Excalibur Carbon Bolts: These bolts are specifically engineered for Excalibur crossbows, made from lightweight carbon material that enhances speed and accuracy.
- Excalibur Aluminum Bolts: Known for their sturdiness, aluminum bolts provide excellent durability and are less prone to bending, making them suitable for repeated use.
- Field Points: These are used primarily for target practice, featuring a pointed tip that allows for easy penetration into targets and quick retrieval.
- Broadheads: Designed for hunting, broadheads have sharp blades that maximize damage upon impact, making them effective for big game hunting with Excalibur crossbows.
- Lighted Nocks: These bolts come with illuminated nocks that enhance visibility, allowing hunters to track their shots better in low-light conditions.
Excalibur Carbon Bolts are the top choice for performance, as their lightweight construction allows for higher velocities while maintaining excellent precision during flight. They are crafted to withstand the rigors of crossbow hunting, making them reliable for serious archers.
Excalibur Aluminum Bolts are favored for their resilience and reliability. Their construction means they can endure multiple shots without significant wear, and they tend to be more affordable than carbon alternatives, making them a practical choice for regular practice sessions.
Field Points are essential for archers focused on honing their skills, as they provide a straightforward design that eases target penetration and simplifies the retrieval process. Their compatibility with various targets makes them a staple for anyone practicing with an Excalibur crossbow.
Broadheads are integral for hunters, as they feature razor-sharp blades that increase lethality for hunting purposes. They come in various designs, such as fixed-blade or mechanical, allowing hunters to choose based on their specific hunting needs and preferences.
Lighted Nocks offer an innovative feature for tracking arrows in low-light environments, which is particularly beneficial for evening hunts. This visibility can make a significant difference in recovering bolts and ensuring a successful hunting experience.
What Key Features Make Bolts Ideal for Excalibur Crossbows?
The key features that make bolts ideal for Excalibur crossbows include accuracy, durability, and weight consistency.
- Accuracy: Bolts designed for Excalibur crossbows are engineered for precision, providing a streamlined shape that enhances aerodynamics. This ensures that they fly true and hit the target where aimed, which is crucial for both hunting and target shooting.
- Durability: The materials used in Excalibur bolts, such as high-strength aluminum or carbon, make them resistant to bending and breaking upon impact. This durability means that shooters can rely on their bolts for multiple uses without significant wear, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Weight Consistency: Ideal bolts maintain a uniform weight, which leads to consistent performance across shots. This uniformity allows shooters to predict the trajectory and impact of their shots, facilitating improved grouping and overall shooting efficiency.
- Fletching Quality: The fletching or vanes on Excalibur bolts are often designed to provide optimal stability during flight. High-quality fletching helps maintain the bolt’s orientation in the air, reducing drag and improving accuracy.
- Broadhead Compatibility: Many of the best bolts for Excalibur crossbows are designed to accommodate a variety of broadheads, making them versatile for different hunting scenarios. This compatibility allows hunters to choose the best broadhead for their specific needs without worrying about mismatches.
How Do I Choose the Right Weight of Bolts for My Excalibur Crossbow?
Understanding your Excalibur crossbow’s specifications, such as draw weight and speed, is essential for proper bolt selection. Each crossbow model may have specific recommendations for compatible bolt weights to ensure safe and efficient shooting.
Conducting field tests with different bolt weights can help determine which option provides the best accuracy and performance. Testing various weights in your specific shooting conditions will allow you to find the perfect match for your shooting style and preferences.
Which Brands Offer the Best Bolts for Excalibur Crossbows?
The best bolts for Excalibur crossbows are produced by several reputable brands known for their quality and performance.
- Excalibur: Excalibur manufactures its own line of bolts specifically designed for their crossbows, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility. These bolts are crafted from high-quality materials and are engineered to maximize the speed and accuracy of Excalibur crossbows.
- Easton: Easton is a well-known brand in the archery world, offering a variety of bolts that are highly regarded for their durability and precision. Their bolts often feature advanced materials and designs, making them a great choice for hunters and target shooters alike, providing consistent performance shot after shot.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express bolts are recognized for their lightweight construction and excellent straightness tolerance, which translates to better accuracy. Their products cater to different shooting styles and preferences, making them versatile and popular among Excalibur users.
- TenPoint: Although primarily known for their crossbows, TenPoint also produces high-quality bolts that are compatible with Excalibur models. These bolts are engineered for high performance and durability, often featuring unique fletching designs that enhance flight stability and accuracy.
- Barnett: Barnett offers a range of bolts that are suitable for various crossbow brands, including Excalibur. Their bolts are designed with strength and precision in mind, making them a reliable option for both hunting and target practice, with a focus on enhancing overall shooting experience.
What Benefits Can I Expect from Using Premium Bolts with Excalibur Crossbows?
Using premium bolts with an Excalibur crossbow offers several advantages that enhance performance and accuracy.
- Improved Accuracy: Premium bolts are manufactured with higher precision, leading to better flight stability and consistency in performance. This ensures that your shots hit the intended target more reliably, making your hunting or target practice more effective.
- Enhanced Durability: High-quality materials used in premium bolts contribute to their durability, allowing them to withstand the high stress of crossbow shooting. This means fewer broken bolts and a longer lifespan, ultimately saving you money on replacements.
- Better Penetration: Premium bolts are often designed with optimized weight and aerodynamic features, which improve their penetration capabilities. This is particularly beneficial for hunting, as it ensures that the bolts can effectively penetrate the target for a humane and ethical kill.
- Increased Speed: The design and construction of premium bolts can contribute to higher velocities when fired from your crossbow. This results in flatter trajectories and reduces the time it takes for the bolt to reach the target, which is crucial for hitting moving game.
- Consistent Performance: Premium bolts undergo rigorous testing to ensure they perform consistently under various conditions. This reliability is crucial for hunters and competitive shooters who need to trust their equipment in the field or on the range.
- Compatibility with Accessories: Many premium bolts are designed to work seamlessly with a variety of crossbow accessories, such as broadheads and lighted nocks. This compatibility enhances your overall shooting experience and can improve your setup’s effectiveness.
What Do User Reviews Reveal About the Best Bolts for Excalibur Crossbows?
User reviews highlight several key factors and preferences regarding the best bolts for Excalibur crossbows.
- Material Quality: Many users emphasize the importance of using high-quality materials such as carbon or aluminum for bolts. Carbon bolts are generally favored for their lightweight nature and increased speed, while aluminum bolts are praised for their durability and straightness retention over time.
- Length and Weight: Reviewers often discuss the optimal length and weight of bolts for their specific Excalibur model. Most users find that bolts in the range of 20 to 22 inches offer a good balance of power and accuracy, depending on the draw weight of the crossbow.
- Fletching Type: The type of fletching has been a common topic among users, with many preferring vanes over feathers for their weather resistance and stability in flight. Users note that a three-fletch design is typically more effective for maintaining straight flight paths compared to two-fletch options.
- Compatibility: Reviews often mention the importance of selecting bolts that are specifically compatible with Excalibur crossbows. Users report better performance and safety when using manufacturer-recommended bolts, as they are designed to fit the crossbow’s specifications precisely.
- Price Point: User feedback reflects a wide range of price points, with many indicating that while higher-priced bolts may offer better performance, there are also budget-friendly options that perform adequately. Reviewers often recommend considering both performance and cost to find the best value for their needs.
What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid When Selecting Bolts for Excalibur Crossbows?
When selecting bolts for Excalibur crossbows, several common mistakes can lead to suboptimal performance and safety issues.
- Choosing the Wrong Length: Selecting bolts that are too long or too short can affect accuracy and safety. Bolts that are too long may not fit properly in the crossbow, while those that are too short may not provide enough clearance or stability during flight.
- Ignoring Weight Considerations: Using bolts that are too heavy or too light can impact the crossbow’s performance. Heavier bolts may reduce speed and increase drop, while lighter bolts may not deliver sufficient kinetic energy for effective hunting or target shooting.
- Neglecting Fletching Quality: The type and quality of fletching on the bolts can significantly influence their flight stability. Poorly designed or damaged fletching can lead to erratic flight patterns, making it difficult to achieve accurate shots.
- Not Considering Material: The material of the bolts affects their durability and performance. Carbon bolts tend to be lighter and faster, while aluminum bolts offer greater durability but may be heavier, potentially affecting shooting dynamics.
- Overlooking Compatibility: Using bolts that are not specifically designed for Excalibur crossbows can lead to safety issues and mechanical failure. Always ensure that the bolts you choose are compatible with your specific model to avoid any mishaps.
- Disregarding Point Type: The type of point (field point, broadhead, etc.) should match your intended use, whether for target practice or hunting. Using the wrong point type can affect accuracy and the effectiveness of the bolt during impact.
- Failing to Check for Damage: Before each use, it’s critical to inspect bolts for cracks, bends, or other damage. Using damaged bolts can lead to catastrophic failures, posing a safety risk to the shooter and those nearby.