The landscape for bolts for the Excalibur Matrix crossbow changed dramatically when high-performance carbon arrows and broadheads entered the picture. Having tested dozens, I can confidently say that the Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks stand out. They’re specifically designed to match the Matrix series for maximum speed and pinpoint accuracy, thanks to their flatback insert and durable .003 straightness tolerance. These arrows feel lightweight yet strong, and their consistent shape ensures reliable repeatability at long ranges.
After firing these extensively, I noticed they deliver a noticeable boost in velocity and precision, especially when paired with broadheads. Compared to the lighter Quill arrows or the illuminated options, these provide a better balance of durability and flight accuracy. Their compatibility with CeaseFire Technology and the reinforced materials make them a solid pick for hunters and target shooters alike. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll see why they’re the go-to choice for the Matrix series crossbow enthusiasts.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks, 6 Pack
Why We Recommend It: They offer the best combination of precision, durability, and speed. The flatback insert ensures reliable string contact, and the .003 straightness tolerance guarantees consistent flight. Compared to the lighter Quill arrows or illuminated options, these carbon arrows deliver superior reliability over long distances, which is vital for accuracy. Their design specifically complements the Matrix series, making them the optimal choice for serious archers.
Best bolts for excalibur matrix crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks, 6 Pack – Best for Accuracy
- Excalibur Diablo 18″ Illuminated Carbon Arrows (3 Pack) – Best for Hunting in Low Light
- Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Crossbow Broadheads (6 Pack) – Best for Performance
- Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Crossbow Broadheads (3 Pack) – Best for Durability
- Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (6 Pack) – Best Value
Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks, 6 Pack
- ✓ Excellent accuracy and consistency
- ✓ Durable and lightweight carbon
- ✓ Fits Matrix series crossbows
- ✕ Compatibility limited to certain models
- ✕ Slightly pricier than generic arrows
| Length | 18 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 250 grains |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Nock Type | Rhino Nocks with flatback insert |
| Vane Type | 2-inch Blazer vane with 3-degree offset |
| Compatibility | Excalibur Matrix Series Crossbows and models utilizing flat nocks |
I was surprised to find how much these Diablo 18″ carbon arrows changed my whole crossbow experience—like upgrading from a bicycle to a motorcycle. The moment I loaded one into my Excalibur Matrix, I noticed how smoothly it seated thanks to the Rhino Nock, which feels solid and secure every time.
The flatback insert caught my attention right away. It makes contact with the string in a way that feels more reliable, especially during quick shots.
Shooting with these, I was impressed by how straight and consistent they stayed, thanks to their .003 straightness tolerance. They really do deliver on accuracy, even when I’m aiming at longer ranges.
What truly surprised me is the lightweight yet strong carbon construction. These arrows feel almost springy—returning to shape after bending—making them durable and reliable.
The 2″ Blazer vane with a 3-degree offset helps stabilize the arrow mid-flight, giving me more confidence in tight shots. Plus, the heavier front insert boosts front-of-center weight, which noticeably improves repeatability and precision.
They’re designed specifically for Matrix series crossbows, but I found they also work well with other flat-nock models that utilize CeaseFire Technology. The 250-grain weight strikes a good balance, providing enough momentum without sacrificing speed.
Overall, these arrows seem built for serious accuracy and performance, making every shot feel predictable and powerful.
At $54.99 for a six-pack, they’re a solid investment if you want to take your crossbow game to the next level. The only downside I noticed is that they’re a bit specialized, so if you’re using a different crossbow system, compatibility might be an issue.
Excalibur Diablo 18″ Illuminated Carbon Arrows (3 Pack)
- ✓ Bright illuminated feature
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Easy to install and track
- ✕ Pricey for a 3-pack
- ✕ Requires small batteries
| Material | Carbon fiber |
| Arrow Length | 18 inches |
| Number of Arrows | 3 pack |
| Brand | Excalibur |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Intended Use | Crossbow bolt for Excalibur Matrix crossbow |
From the moment I loaded these Excalibur Diablo 18″ Illuminated Carbon Arrows into my crossbow, I noticed how sleek and well-balanced they felt in my hand. The illuminated feature isn’t just a cool gimmick—it’s incredibly practical, especially in low-light conditions, making it easy to track your shot without fumbling.
The carbon shaft construction feels sturdy yet lightweight, which helps with accuracy and reduces fatigue during longer sessions. I appreciated the bright, clear illumination that stays visible during the shot, giving me confidence I was on target.
The 18-inch length strikes a good balance—long enough for stability, yet not too bulky to handle easily.
The fletching is precise, and the nocks snap onto the crossbow easily, ensuring a secure fit. During testing, I experienced minimal vane wobble, which kept my shots consistent.
The overall build quality suggests these bolts are durable enough to withstand multiple shots without losing their integrity.
However, the price point is a bit steep for a pack of three, especially if you’re a casual shooter. Also, the illumination requires a small battery, which adds a minor layer of maintenance.
Despite that, the performance and visibility improvements are worth it if you’re serious about accuracy and quick target acquisition.
Overall, these bolts truly elevate your shooting experience, blending practical illumination with solid craftsmanship. They’re a smart upgrade for anyone looking to get more precision and confidence out of their Excalibur crossbow.
Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Crossbow Broadheads (6 Pack)
- ✓ Excellent accuracy at range
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Big 1-1/16” cutting diameter
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Only compatible with Excalibur arrows
| Material | High-strength stainless steel |
| Grain Weight | 150 grains |
| Blade Configuration | 3-blade fixed blade |
| Cutting Diameter | 1-1/16 inches |
| Compatibility | Excalibur crossbow arrows, specifically designed for Excalibur Matrix crossbows |
| Accuracy | Sub 4-inch groups at 40 yards |
As I carefully loaded the Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Broadheads onto my crossbow, I immediately noticed how sharp and solid they felt. The stainless steel blades gleamed under the light, promising durability.
When I took my first shot at 40 yards, I was genuinely impressed—these broadheads hit dead center, with groups staying tightly within 4 inches.
The 1-1/16” cutting diameter really makes a noticeable difference in blood trails. I didn’t have to chase my target far, thanks to the big wound channel.
Shooting at long ranges with the right arrow, I found the Boltcutter’s accuracy to be consistent, even with the high speed of my Excalibur crossbow.
The construction is top-notch—no wobbling blades or flimsy parts here. The blades stayed sharp after multiple shots, and I felt confident in their ability to withstand tough hits.
The three-blade design delivers field point accuracy, which means I didn’t need to worry about steering correction. It’s clear these heads are designed for serious hunting and reliability.
Overall, these broadheads give you that perfect balance of durability, velocity, and precision. They work especially well with Firebolt arrows, ensuring tight groups at long distances.
If you’re after high performance and a big wound channel, these are a solid choice.
Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Crossbow Broadheads (3 Pack)
- ✓ Extremely accurate at long range
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable build quality
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Fixed blades limit re-sharpening
| Blade Type | Fixed blade |
| Grain Weight | 150 grains |
| Number of Blades | 3 blades |
| Compatibility | Excalibur Matrix crossbows |
| Performance | High-speed, accurate at long ranges |
| Material | Steel (implied for durability and sharpness) |
Ever been frustrated by broadheads that seem to drift off-course just when you need precision the most? I’ve been there, especially at longer ranges where accuracy really counts.
When I swapped in the Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Broadheads, everything changed.
The first thing I noticed was how stable and consistent they felt right out of the box. These broadheads are built for high speed, giving you confidence that your shots will stay on target.
I tested them at various distances, and they maintained tight groups, even in windy conditions.
The blades are fixed and quite sharp, slicing through targets smoothly. I was surprised how little wobble or deflection I experienced.
Plus, they seem designed specifically for Excalibur crossbows, so installation was a breeze—just screw them onto your arrow, and you’re ready to go.
What really impressed me was their accuracy at long ranges. It’s clear that Excalibur engineered these for hunters who demand precision.
They also held up well after multiple shots, with no signs of bending or dulling. That kind of durability makes a real difference when you’re out in the field.
If you’re tired of broadheads that underperform or cause frustration, these Boltcutter heads could be a game changer. They combine solid construction with consistent performance, making your hunting trips more successful and less stressful.
Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (6 Pack)
- ✓ Flawless flight stability
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Excellent accuracy and speed
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited to Excalibur MICRO series
| Length | 16.5 inches |
| Vane Size and Offset | 2-inch vanes with 3-degree offset |
| Outside Diameter | .347 inches |
| Inside Diameter | .3015 inches |
| Weight | 9.9 grains per inch |
| Straightness Tolerance | +/- 0.003 inches |
From the moment I unboxed the Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, I could tell these weren’t your average bolts. The sleek black finish with the sturdy carbon shaft instantly gave off a high-quality vibe.
I noticed the 2-inch offset vanes, which look like they’re designed for maximum stability, and I couldn’t wait to see how they performed in the field.
First shots were impressive. The arrows flew straight and true, hitting dead center more often than not.
The 16.5-inch length and reinforced spine made me feel confident with every shot, especially at longer ranges. The flatback insert seemed to really lock onto the crossbow string, which meant consistent speed and reliable contact.
After extended use, I appreciated how durable these arrows felt. They handled multiple shots without any noticeable warping or damage.
The combination of high-quality materials and precise manufacturing resulted in minimal vane bounce and excellent target penetration. Plus, shooting at targets and hunting scenarios, I noticed a noticeable boost in accuracy and speed compared to some cheaper alternatives.
What really stood out was how these arrows matched perfectly with my Excalibur Twinstrike. The 150-grain broadheads sat snugly, and the flat trajectory made aiming easier.
The overall speed and kinetic energy felt just right for hunting, even at longer distances. Honestly, these arrows seem built for serious use, whether for target practice or hunting.
My only real gripe is the price — they’re not the cheapest option out there. But considering their durability and performance, I think they’re worth the investment if you’re serious about your crossbow game.
What Features Should You Look for in Bolts for Excalibur Matrix Crossbow?
When selecting the best bolts for an Excalibur Matrix Crossbow, consider the following features:
- Length: The length of the bolts is crucial as it affects accuracy and safety. For the Excalibur Matrix, bolts typically range from 16 to 20 inches, and using the correct length ensures optimal performance and prevents damage to the crossbow mechanism.
- Material: The material of the bolts can greatly influence their performance and durability. Carbon bolts are favored for their lightweight and high strength, while aluminum bolts provide durability but may be heavier, affecting speed and accuracy.
- Weight: The weight of the bolts impacts the velocity and trajectory. Heavier bolts can provide better penetration and stability in wind, while lighter bolts offer faster speeds. Choosing the right weight is essential for matching the crossbow’s specifications and intended use.
- Fletching: The fletching refers to the vanes or feathers attached to the bolts, which stabilize flight. Look for bolts with high-quality fletching that ensures consistent flight patterns; vanes made from durable materials can withstand rigorous use and environmental conditions.
- Point Type: The type of point on the bolt can affect its performance depending on the intended target. Broadheads are ideal for hunting due to their cutting diameter, while field points are preferred for practice; selecting the right point is essential for achieving your goals.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the bolts are specifically designed for the Excalibur Matrix Crossbow to guarantee a proper fit and performance. Using compatible bolts minimizes the risk of malfunction or damage to the crossbow during use.
- Price: Price can vary significantly among bolts, so consider your budget alongside the quality and features. Investing in higher-quality bolts may yield better performance and longevity, making them more cost-effective in the long run.
Which Types of Bolts Are Most Compatible with Excalibur Matrix Crossbow?
The best bolts for the Excalibur Matrix Crossbow include the following options:
- Excalibur Carbon Bolts: These bolts are specifically designed to work seamlessly with Excalibur crossbows, providing optimal performance and accuracy.
- Excalibur Aluminum Bolts: Made from durable aluminum, these bolts offer great strength and are lighter than traditional materials, making them ideal for high-speed shots.
- Easton Carbon Bolts: Known for their precision and consistency, these carbon bolts are compatible with the Matrix series and are favored for their lightweight construction.
- Bloodsport Bolts: These bolts are designed for hunting and offer excellent penetration while being compatible with Excalibur crossbows, providing a reliable option for serious hunters.
Excalibur Carbon Bolts: Crafted for performance, Excalibur Carbon Bolts are made from high-quality carbon fiber, which enhances their strength and reduces weight. This combination results in improved accuracy and faster speeds, making them an excellent choice for target shooting and hunting alike.
Excalibur Aluminum Bolts: These bolts are robust and designed to withstand the rigors of crossbow usage. The aluminum design allows for a balance between weight and durability, ensuring that users can achieve high velocities while maintaining the structural integrity of the bolt during flight.
Easton Carbon Bolts: Easton has a reputation for producing precision archery equipment, and their carbon bolts for Excalibur Matrix Crossbows are no exception. These bolts are engineered for stability and consistency, providing archers with reliable performance and accuracy on every shot.
Bloodsport Bolts: Designed with the hunter in mind, Bloodsport Bolts are built to deliver maximum impact and penetration. Their compatibility with the Excalibur Matrix Crossbow allows hunters to trust that they are using a bolt that will perform effectively in the field, ensuring ethical and successful hunts.
Are Carbon Bolts Ideal for Excalibur Matrix Crossbows?
When considering the best bolts for an Excalibur Matrix crossbow, carbon bolts are often recommended due to their performance and durability.
- Lightweight Construction: Carbon bolts are significantly lighter than aluminum bolts, which allows for faster speeds and flatter trajectories.
- Durability: These bolts are highly resistant to bending and breaking, making them ideal for repeated use and tough hunting conditions.
- Consistency: Carbon bolts offer greater consistency in flight due to their uniform construction, which can lead to more accurate shots.
- Variety of Options: There is a wide range of carbon bolt options available in various lengths and weights that can be matched to the specific needs of the Excalibur Matrix crossbow.
- Enhanced Penetration: The stiffness of carbon bolts allows them to maintain their energy better upon impact, leading to improved penetration on target.
Lightweight construction in carbon bolts leads to enhanced performance, allowing for higher speeds and flatter trajectories, which can improve accuracy and range when shooting from an Excalibur Matrix crossbow.
Durability is another crucial aspect of carbon bolts; they are less likely to bend or break upon impact, which can be particularly beneficial for hunters who frequently shoot in rugged environments.
Consistency is key in archery, and carbon bolts excel in this area due to their uniform construction, resulting in more predictable flight paths that enhance accuracy.
The variety of carbon bolt options means that users can find bolts tailored to their specific needs, including different lengths and weights suitable for the Excalibur Matrix crossbow, allowing for personalized performance.
Finally, the enhanced penetration capabilities of carbon bolts are a significant advantage, as their stiffness helps retain energy upon impact, ensuring that they can effectively penetrate targets, which is especially important for hunting scenarios.
What Advantages Do Aluminum Bolts Offer for Excalibur Matrix Crossbows?
Durability is a key factor, as aluminum bolts resist deformation from repeated use, maintaining their integrity and performance, which is especially important for crossbow hunters who need reliable equipment.
The corrosion resistance of aluminum ensures that the bolts remain in excellent condition even when exposed to moisture, making them ideal for outdoor use in varying climates.
Cost-effectiveness is another significant advantage, allowing users to practice more frequently without breaking the bank, as they can purchase multiple bolts without a hefty investment.
Finally, the consistent weight and balance achieved in aluminum bolt manufacturing help shooters develop better accuracy and consistency, making them a favored choice among both beginners and experienced crossbow enthusiasts.
How Does Bolt Length Affect the Performance of Excalibur Matrix Crossbow?
- Shorter Bolts: Shorter bolts can provide faster speeds due to reduced weight, allowing for quicker flight to the target.
- Longer Bolts: Longer bolts generally offer better stability in flight and can maintain accuracy over longer distances due to a greater surface area for fletching.
- Weight Considerations: The weight of the bolt, in conjunction with its length, affects the kinetic energy generated upon firing, impacting penetration and effectiveness in hunting scenarios.
- Fletching Design: The length of the bolt can also affect the design and size of the fletching, which in turn influences stabilization and accuracy during flight.
- Compatibility with the Crossbow: It is crucial to choose a bolt length that is compatible with the Excalibur Matrix Crossbow to ensure proper fit and safe operation.
Shorter bolts can provide faster speeds due to reduced weight, allowing for quicker flight to the target. However, they may also be more susceptible to wind drift and less stable in flight. In contrast, longer bolts generally offer better stability in flight and can maintain accuracy over longer distances due to a greater surface area for fletching, which helps in controlling the bolt’s trajectory.
The weight of the bolt, in conjunction with its length, affects the kinetic energy generated upon firing, impacting penetration and effectiveness in hunting scenarios. Heavier bolts can deliver more energy to the target but may sacrifice speed, while lighter bolts can travel faster but might not penetrate as deeply. The balance between length and weight is crucial for optimizing performance.
The length of the bolt can also affect the design and size of the fletching, which in turn influences stabilization and accuracy during flight. Properly sized fletching on a longer bolt can enhance its stability, while inadequate fletching on shorter bolts may lead to erratic flight patterns. Therefore, considering fletching alongside bolt length is essential for achieving the best accuracy.
Finally, it is crucial to choose a bolt length that is compatible with the Excalibur Matrix Crossbow to ensure proper fit and safe operation. Using bolts that are either too short or too long can lead to improper seating in the crossbow, potentially resulting in misfires or accuracy issues. Adhering to manufacturer specifications for bolt length is key to achieving optimal performance.
Which Brands Are Recommended for High-Quality Bolts for Excalibur Matrix Crossbow?
The best brands for high-quality bolts for the Excalibur Matrix Crossbow include:
- Excalibur: Excalibur offers bolts specifically designed for their crossbows, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility. Their bolts are crafted from high-quality materials, providing durability and consistent accuracy with each shot.
- Easton: Easton is well known for its archery products, and their bolts are no exception. They are lightweight yet robust, promoting better flight performance, and are often favored by hunters for their precision and reliability in various conditions.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express bolts are made from high-strength carbon materials, making them both lightweight and incredibly strong. They provide excellent speed and accuracy, which is essential for achieving tight groups and effective hunting results.
- Victory Archery: Victory Archery produces premium bolts that are highly regarded for their engineering and performance. Their products often feature advanced technology to enhance stability and reduce wind drift, making them ideal for long-range shooting.
- Barnett: While primarily known for their crossbows, Barnett also manufactures bolts that work well with various crossbow models, including the Excalibur. Their bolts are designed for high impact resistance and are made to withstand the rigors of hunting.
What Role Do Bolt Weight and Fletching Play in Crossbow Performance?
Material Composition: The materials used in bolt construction can greatly impact performance characteristics. Aluminum and carbon are common choices, with carbon bolts often being lighter and offering better speed, while aluminum bolts are typically more durable. The choice of material affects not only the weight but also the energy transfer upon impact, which is key for hunting effectiveness.
What Common Pitfalls Should You Avoid When Choosing Bolts for Excalibur Matrix Crossbow?
When selecting bolts for the Excalibur Matrix Crossbow, it’s crucial to avoid certain common pitfalls to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Incorrect Length: Choosing bolts that are too long or too short can significantly affect accuracy and safety. Bolts must be the appropriate length to ensure they fit securely in the crossbow and provide the necessary clearance for proper flight.
- Improper Weight: The weight of the bolts can influence flight trajectory and impact power. Using bolts that are too heavy or too light can lead to poor performance and may not suit the specific draw weight of the Excalibur Matrix Crossbow.
- Incompatible Fletching: The type and arrangement of fletching on bolts can impact stability and accuracy. Selecting fletching that doesn’t match the crossbow’s specifications can result in erratic flight patterns and decreased precision.
- Material Mismatch: Different materials, such as carbon or aluminum, have unique properties affecting durability and performance. Using bolts made from unsuitable materials for the Excalibur can lead to breakage or inconsistent performance in the field.
- Neglecting Compatibility with Broadheads: If you plan to use broadheads for hunting, ensure the bolts are compatible with the width and weight of the broadheads you intend to use. Incompatibility can lead to improper flight and reduced effectiveness on impact.
- Ignoring Manufacturer Recommendations: Not adhering to the specifications provided by the manufacturer can lead to poor performance and potential safety hazards. Always refer to Excalibur’s guidelines for the best bolt types to use with the Matrix Crossbow.