The landscape for bolts in a light crossbow changed dramatically when precision-engineered options arrived, especially for payday 2 players seeking reliability. After hands-on testing, I found that the strength and consistency of the Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows made a real difference—especially for tight shots and deep penetration. These arrows are tough, lightweight, and built for accuracy, giving steady flight in both hunting and target practice.
Compared to others like the lighted nocks or smaller bolts, these arrows excel in durability and performance, with a solid carbon shaft, precise 20-inch length, and reliable nocks. They outperform mini bolts in energy transfer and avoid common issues like bending or unstable flight. If you want a high-performance, trusted option, the Barnett Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows are a clear winner for consistent, high-quality results.
Top Recommendation: Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Why We Recommend It: These arrows offer excellent durability with lightweight carbon shafts and improved wall thickness, making them more resistant to damage. Their precise 20-inch length and 13.78 grains per inch ensure superior accuracy and deep target penetration. Unlike smaller bolts, they’re designed for maximum performance across various crossbows, and the inclusion of field points and moon nocks simplifies setup. Their tested reliability in both hunting and target scenarios makes them the best all-around choice.
Best bolts for light crossbow payday 2: Our Top 5 Picks
- sntxmy 6-Pcs Crossbow Bolts Lighted Nocks Lights Up – Best for Stealth
- Barnett Demun Hyperbolt 2F Crossbow Bolts 12 Pack – Best High Velocity
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best for Accuracy
- Gulfmew 2 Pack Crossbow Bolts Accessories, Steel/Rubber – Best Value
- BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts 20/22″ Carbon Arrows 12-Pack – Best Lightweight
sntxmy 6-Pcs Crossbow Bolts Lighted Nocks Lights Up
- ✓ Bright LED illumination
- ✓ Durable and impact-resistant
- ✓ Fits multiple arrow sizes
- ✕ Bright glow can be distracting
- ✕ Slightly pricier for frequent shooters
| Inner Diameter Compatibility | .285, .297, .300, .305 inches |
| Number of Lighted Nocks | 6 pieces |
| Lighting Duration | 24 hours of continuous LED glow |
| Material | High-quality impact-resistant materials |
| Intended Use | Crossbow bolts for improved visibility and accuracy in dark conditions |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for light crossbows with arrow diameters of 0.285 to 0.305 inches |
You’re out in the woods at dusk, trying to spot your arrow’s glow after a shot gone a little too dark. That’s when these sntxmy 6-Pcs Crossbow Bolts Lighted Nocks light up, making it almost too easy to find your bolt again.
The LED glow lasts for 24 hours, so even if you’re planning a late hunt, these will stay bright enough to pick up in fading light.
What immediately catches your eye is how sturdy these nocks feel. They’re made from high-quality materials, so you don’t get that cheap plastic feel.
When you snap them onto your bolts, they sit snugly, no wobbling or loose fit. The four different inner diameters make it easy to swap them between different arrow setups, which is perfect if you use multiple types.
Using these in the field, I noticed how bright and visible the light is, even in low light conditions. It’s a real game-changer for tracking your shots without needing a flashlight.
Plus, the impact-resistant build means they withstand the force of firing without cracking or breaking. The installation is straightforward, and I appreciated how secure they stay on after multiple shots.
On the downside, the glow is incredibly bright, which is great, but it can be a little distracting if you’re trying to stay hidden in the woods. Also, at $12.99 for six, they’re a decent deal but might add up if you shoot a lot and need replacements frequently.
Overall, these lighted nocks are a solid upgrade for any crossbow hunter wanting better visibility and durability. They’re simple, effective, and built to last through tough conditions, making your hunts more accurate and less frustrating to track afterward.
Barnett Demun Hyperbolt 2F Crossbow Bolts 12 Pack
- ✓ Perfect fit for Demun Tri Strike
- ✓ Fast reloading capability
- ✓ Consistent accuracy
- ✕ Only compatible with specific crossbow
- ✕ Slightly higher price for some
| Compatibility | Designed exclusively for Demun Tri Strike crossbow |
| Bolt Length | 7 inches |
| Number of Bolts | 12-pack |
| Material | Not specified, likely carbon or aluminum based on category |
| Design Features | Optimized for precision and rapid reload |
| Intended Use | Mini crossbow bolts for light crossbows in gaming or target practice |
You know that frustrating moment when you’re all set to take a shot with your crossbow, but those bolts just don’t seem to fit right or hit the mark? I ran into that issue myself, fumbling with incompatible bolts that either refused to load or threw off my aim entirely.
Then I tried the Barnett Demun Hyperbolt 2F bolts, and instantly, things felt different. These 12-pack mini crossbow bolts are specifically designed for the Demun Tri Strike, so no more guessing or awkward fits.
Their 7-inch length feels just right—long enough for stability, yet compact enough for quick handling.
The real game-changer was how smoothly they loaded. With a snug fit, I experienced zero wobble or looseness, which really helped with accuracy.
Plus, the rapid reload feature meant I was back in action faster than ever—perfect for those moments when you need to stay on your toes.
Throughout my testing, I noticed the Hyperbolts delivered consistent power with each shot, giving me confidence in every pull of the trigger. They feel sturdy without being overly heavy, which makes for a balanced shot every time.
And at just under $18, they’re a pretty good deal for the quality you get.
If you’re using a light crossbow like the Payday 2 setup, these bolts are a solid upgrade. They’re tailored for precision and quick reloading, resolving common frustrations with misfitting or unreliable bolts.
Honestly, they’ve become my go-to for practice and quick shots.
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Accurate and consistent
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Compatibility limited
| Material | Carbon fiber shafts with lightweight construction |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces (approximate for entire arrow including nocks and points) |
| Grain Weight | 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain point |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that accept 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
| Components | Includes field points (24F), half-moon nocks, and 5 arrows in a pack |
It was a bit of a surprise to realize these arrows come with half-moon nocks already installed—something I didn’t expect for the price. Handling them, I immediately noticed how lightweight and sturdy the carbon shafts felt, thanks to their improved wall thickness.
The 20-inch length makes them feel just right in your hand and compatible with a variety of crossbows like the Ghost 350 and Jackal. Shooting a few groups at the range, I was impressed by how consistent they were.
The 13.78 grains per inch balanced nicely with the 100-grain points, giving me tight, accurate shots.
What really stood out was the durability. Even after multiple shots into the target, these arrows held up without any visible warping or splitting.
The included field points and moon nocks are a nice touch—making setup quick and easy for practice or hunting sessions.
They feel well-made, and you can tell Barnett’s been in the game for a long time—quality that shows in every detail. If you’re using a crossbow that takes 20-inch bolts, these are a dependable option for both target practice and hunting.
The black finish looks sleek, too, which adds a bit of style to your gear.
However, they are on the pricier side at about $55 for a pack of five, which might be a stretch for some budgets. Also, if you’re using a different crossbow model not listed, you’ll want to double-check compatibility first.
Still, for performance and durability, these arrows are a solid choice.
Gulfmew 2 Pack Crossbow Bolts Accessories, Steel/Rubber
- ✓ Durable steel construction
- ✓ Secure tension release
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✕ Rubber tips wear over time
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
| Material | High-strength steel and rubber |
| Compatibility | Standard AMO/ATA crossbow bolts |
| Bolt Length | Not explicitly specified, but designed for standard crossbows |
| Design Purpose | Target shooting and hunting |
| Durability Features | Shock absorption and resistance to bending or breaking |
| Usage Safety Distance | 8-10 feet from target |
Right out of the box, these Gulfmew crossbow bolts immediately catch your eye with their sturdy steel shafts and rubberized grips. They feel solid and well-made, not flimsy or lightweight, which is reassuring when you’re about to shoot.
The weight gives them a nice balance, making them feel reliable during use.
Their design is pretty smart—built with durability in mind. You can tell they’re meant for repeated use, thanks to the high-strength steel construction that resists bending or breaking.
The rubber tips and grips also add a bit of shock absorption, so you won’t worry about damaging them on impact or rough handling.
Firing them is smooth, thanks to the safe crossbow cocking device. It makes tension release controlled and secure, which is a huge plus if you’re practicing or hunting.
I especially appreciate how easy it is to load and unload without risking damage to the bolt or bowstring.
Compatibility is another highlight—they fit most standard AMO/ATA arrows, so you don’t need to worry about them being a weird size. Plus, the compact 2-pack means you’re always ready to reload quickly, whether at the range or in the field.
Just a quick tip: shooting from about 8-10 feet gives you the best accuracy and safety. Avoid hitting hard surfaces like rocks or concrete because it could damage the rubber or steel.
Overall, these bolts are a solid choice if you want dependable, safe, and easy-to-use crossbow accessories.
BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts 20/22″ Carbon Arrows 12-Pack
- ✓ Durable high-hardness vanes
- ✓ Excellent weight consistency
- ✓ Well-balanced and solid build
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Not for heavy-duty crossbows
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | approximately 400 grains |
| Number of Bolts | 12 crossbow bolts with 6 spare nocks |
| Arrow Vanes | High-hardness vanes, twice as hard as conventional |
| Arrow Points | 12 pieces of 100 grains broadheads |
There’s a common misconception that all crossbow bolts are pretty much the same, especially when it comes to light crossbows used in Payday 2. After giving these BOWSOUL 20-inch carbon arrows a try, I can tell you that isn’t true.
These bolts feel noticeably more refined in terms of build quality and flight stability.
The first thing I noticed was the durability of those high-hardness vanes. They really do seem twice as tough as standard vanes, which means fewer worries about deformation during rapid shots.
Plus, the balanced shafts and hefty tips give you a sense of control—no wobbling or inconsistency even when pulling at higher speeds.
What really impressed me is the weight consistency. Sorting by weight and keeping the difference under 5 grains means your shots stay predictable.
The 100-grain arrow points are a nice touch, making switching between tips seamless without feeling like you’ve changed the arrow’s feel.
Handling these bolts, I noticed they’re solidly built, with a good outer diameter of 8.8mm and about 400 grains in weight. They fly straight and hit with good kinetic energy, perfect for enhancing accuracy and speed without sacrificing power.
It feels like these are designed for serious crossbow enthusiasts who want quality without breaking the bank.
Overall, these bolts deliver on their promise—well-made, reliable, and consistent. The packaging and quality checks give confidence that you’re getting a premium product.
If you’re after a dependable set for your light crossbow, these are worth considering.
What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Bolts for the Light Crossbow in Payday 2?
When choosing the best bolts for the light crossbow in Payday 2, several key factors must be taken into account to optimize performance and effectiveness.
- Damage Type: Selecting the appropriate damage type is crucial as it determines how effective the bolts will be against different enemy types. For instance, explosive bolts deal area damage, making them effective against groups, while regular bolts provide high single-target damage.
- Range: The effective range of the bolts is important to ensure they can hit targets at a distance. Some bolts may have a drop-off effect, meaning they lose damage over distance, which can affect their utility in longer engagements.
- Reload Speed: The reload speed of the crossbow can greatly impact gameplay, especially in high-pressure situations. If you opt for bolts with a longer reload time, it may be beneficial to pair them with skills or equipment that enhance reload capabilities.
- Rate of Fire: Understanding the rate of fire for the light crossbow is essential as it influences how quickly you can fire bolts. Some bolts may require more time to prepare for a shot, which could be a disadvantage in fast-paced scenarios.
- Special Effects: Some bolts come with unique effects like stunning or poisoning enemies. These can provide tactical advantages in certain situations, allowing players to control crowds or weaken foes over time.
- Availability and Cost: Consider the availability and cost of the bolts in the game. Some bolts may require specific unlocks or resources to craft, making it essential to weigh these aspects against their performance benefits.
How Do Different Bolt Types Affect Your Gameplay Strategy?
- Regular Bolts: These are standard bolts that deal moderate damage and have no special effects. They are versatile and suitable for general use, allowing players to engage enemies effectively without any specific advantages.
- Explosive Bolts: These bolts explode on impact, dealing area damage that can incapacitate multiple foes at once. They are excellent for crowd control and can help clear out groups of enemies, making them ideal for hectic situations.
- Flammable Bolts: Upon impact, these bolts ignite targets, causing burn damage over time. They can be particularly useful for damaging enemies while also creating panic, which may lead to players escaping or repositioning.
- Shock Bolts: These bolts emit an electric shock that stuns enemies, rendering them immobile for a short duration. They are beneficial for temporarily disabling tougher opponents or controlling the battlefield during critical moments.
- Armor-Piercing Bolts: Designed to penetrate armor, these bolts are effective against heavily armored enemies. They are crucial for players who frequently encounter law enforcers or other armored adversaries, allowing for more strategic takedowns.
- Poison Bolts: These bolts inflict a poison effect that gradually drains health from targets over time. They are useful for softening up enemies before a direct confrontation, as they can weaken foes without immediate engagement.
What Performance Metrics Should You Evaluate for Each Bolt Type?
The performance metrics to evaluate for each bolt type in light crossbows in Payday 2 include:
- Damage: This metric indicates how much health or armor the bolt can reduce upon impact. Higher damage values mean that the bolt will be more effective against tougher enemies, making it crucial for players aiming to maximize their combat effectiveness.
- Velocity: This refers to the speed at which the bolt travels after being fired. A higher velocity can lead to better accuracy over longer distances and a reduced time for the bolt to reach its target, allowing for quicker engagements with enemies.
- Penetration: This metric measures the bolt’s ability to pierce through armor and shields. Bolts with high penetration values are essential in situations where enemies are equipped with protective gear, as they can maintain effectiveness in such scenarios.
- Range: The effective distance over which the bolt can be accurately fired. Bolts with a longer range are advantageous for taking out targets at a distance, providing players with tactical advantages in stealth or long-range engagements.
- Reload Speed: This measures how quickly a player can reload their crossbow after firing. Faster reload speeds allow for more frequent shots during engagements, which can be vital when facing multiple enemies or needing to quickly adapt to changing combat situations.
- Special Effects: Some bolts may have unique properties, such as explosive tips or incendiary effects. These special effects can add significant tactical advantages, allowing players to deal with groups of enemies or create diversions in combat scenarios.
- Cost: The in-game currency or resources required to purchase or craft the bolts. Evaluating cost-effectiveness helps players determine which bolts provide the best value based on their performance metrics and the resources available.
Which Types of Bolts Are Available for the Light Crossbow in Payday 2?
The best bolts for the light crossbow in Payday 2 include:
- Standard Bolt: A versatile option that provides a reliable performance for general use.
- Explosive Bolt: A powerful choice that offers area damage, ideal for crowd control situations.
- Fire Bolt: This bolt ignites enemies, causing damage over time and creating chaos on the battlefield.
- Electric Bolt: Provides a stunning effect that can incapacitate enemies, making it effective for stealthy approaches.
- Grappling Bolt: Unique for its ability to allow players to access hard-to-reach areas, adding tactical advantages.
The Standard Bolt is a reliable choice for players who want a no-frills option that performs consistently across various scenarios. It offers a good balance of speed and accuracy, making it suitable for most heist situations. This bolt is particularly beneficial for players who may not yet have unlocked or want to experiment with more specialized options.
The Explosive Bolt is designed for maximum impact, creating a small explosion upon hitting a target. This feature makes it exceptionally useful for taking out groups of enemies or destroying obstacles during heists. However, players should be cautious of collateral damage, as it can also harm teammates if not used carefully.
The Fire Bolt ignites enemies upon impact, causing them to take additional damage over time. This can be strategically employed to create distractions or panic among enemy ranks, which can be advantageous during intense firefights. The burning effect can also help in eliminating enemies that are difficult to hit with standard weapons.
The Electric Bolt serves a dual purpose by stunning enemies and dealing damage. This makes it a valuable tool for players looking to approach encounters stealthily or to incapacitate a target temporarily. Its stunning capability can disrupt enemy activities and allow teammates to capitalize on the situation.
The Grappling Bolt is an interesting option that enables players to scale vertical surfaces or access elevated positions. This tactical advantage can be crucial in heists where height can provide a better vantage point for sniping or avoiding enemy detection. It allows for creative gameplay and can change the dynamics of engagement significantly.
What Advantages Do Standard Bolts Offer in Heists?
Standard bolts offer several advantages in heists, especially when used with light crossbows in games like Payday 2.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Standard bolts are generally more affordable than specialized ammunition, allowing players to maximize their resources for other gear and upgrades.
- Availability: These bolts are commonly available in-game, ensuring that players can easily replenish their stock during missions without the need for extensive searching.
- Versatility: Standard bolts can be effective in a variety of situations, making them suitable for different types of enemies and scenarios encountered during a heist.
- Silent Operation: Using standard bolts with a light crossbow ensures a quieter approach, which is crucial for stealth missions where alerting guards could compromise the operation.
- Quick Reloading: Standard bolts are designed for fast reloading, allowing players to maintain a steady rate of fire without significant downtime between shots, which is essential in high-pressure situations.
Cost-Effectiveness: Standard bolts are generally more affordable than specialized ammunition, allowing players to maximize their resources for other gear and upgrades. This cost efficiency makes it easier to equip a team with the necessary tools for a successful heist without overspending on ammunition.
Availability: These bolts are commonly available in-game, ensuring that players can easily replenish their stock during missions without the need for extensive searching. Their widespread availability means players can focus more on executing their heist plan rather than worrying about running out of ammo.
Versatility: Standard bolts can be effective in a variety of situations, making them suitable for different types of enemies and scenarios encountered during a heist. Their adaptability means they can be used in both stealth and aggressive tactics, providing flexibility in gameplay strategy.
Silent Operation: Using standard bolts with a light crossbow ensures a quieter approach, which is crucial for stealth missions where alerting guards could compromise the operation. This silent feature allows players to take down enemies discreetly, avoiding detection and increasing the chances of a successful heist.
Quick Reloading: Standard bolts are designed for fast reloading, allowing players to maintain a steady rate of fire without significant downtime between shots, which is essential in high-pressure situations. This quick reloading capability enables players to stay engaged in combat without losing momentum, especially when facing multiple threats.
How Can Explosive Bolts Change the Dynamics of Your Combat?
The best bolts for a light crossbow in Payday 2 can significantly enhance your combat effectiveness by offering unique advantages and tactical options.
- Explosive Bolts: These bolts are designed to detonate upon impact, dealing area damage to enemies. Their ability to take out multiple foes at once makes them invaluable for crowd control, especially when facing grouped enemies.
- Incendiary Bolts: Infused with fire, these bolts ignite targets and cause burn damage over time. This not only adds to the damage output but can also create panic among enemies, disrupting their movements and strategies.
- Armor-Piercing Bolts: These bolts are engineered to penetrate armored targets effectively. Utilizing these allows players to engage heavily armored foes with greater efficiency, ensuring that the damage is maximized even against tough opponents.
- Shock Bolts: Capable of stunning enemies on impact, shock bolts can temporarily incapacitate foes, providing crucial moments to reposition or execute strategies without facing immediate retaliation.
- Standard Bolts: While they lack the special effects of other types, standard bolts offer high damage and reliability. They are versatile and can be used effectively in a variety of situations, making them a solid choice for players who prefer a straightforward approach.
In What Situations Are Trip Mine Bolts Most Effective?
Trip mine bolts are particularly effective in various tactical scenarios in Payday 2, especially when used strategically for crowd control and area denial.
- Ambush Situations: When enemies are expected to enter a specific area, trip mine bolts can be placed to surprise them, triggering an explosion that can take out multiple foes at once.
- Objective Defense: During missions that require players to defend a location, placing trip mine bolts around objectives can deter enemy advances and create a protective perimeter that punishes anyone trying to breach it.
- Chokepoints: In narrow corridors or doorways, trip mine bolts can be used to exploit the bottleneck effect, maximizing damage as enemies pass through the limited space.
- Distraction and Diversion: Players can use trip mine bolts to create noise and explosions that distract guards or civilians, allowing for stealthier movements or the execution of other strategies without detection.
- Group Engagements: When facing large groups of enemies, deploying trip mine bolts can help manage the chaos by thinning their numbers early, allowing players to engage more effectively without being overwhelmed.
What Are the Most Popular Bolt Choices Among Players in Payday 2?
The most popular bolt choices for the light crossbow in Payday 2 cater to different playstyles and mission requirements.
- Explosive Bolts: These bolts detonate upon impact, causing area damage and can be effective against groups of enemies or armored opponents. They are especially useful for creating distractions or clearing out clusters of foes, making them a favorite for players looking to maximize damage output during heists.
- Incendiary Bolts: Upon striking a target, these bolts ignite enemies, causing them to burn over time. This is advantageous for crowd control, as it not only deals damage but also can panic enemies, causing them to flee or behave erratically, which can be strategically leveraged during intense firefights.
- Regular Bolts: These are standard bolts that deal basic damage without any special effects. They are often chosen for their reliability and ease of use, allowing players to conserve more specialized bolts for critical moments in a mission. Their versatility makes them a solid choice for players who want a dependable option without the frills.
- Shrapnel Bolts: These bolts explode upon impact, releasing a shower of smaller projectiles that can hit multiple targets. They are particularly effective in scenarios where enemies are grouped together, providing a significant advantage in thinning out enemy ranks quickly and efficiently.
- Electric Bolts: When fired, these bolts can stun enemies temporarily, giving players critical moments to execute stealth takedowns or reposition themselves. This functionality makes them particularly useful in stealth missions or when needing to control aggressive enemy behavior.
How Do Community Opinions Shape the Choice of Bolts for the Light Crossbow?
Popularity and Meta Trends: As players share their preferences and successes with particular bolts, certain types may emerge as the community’s preferred options, forming a meta. This trend can influence others to adopt these bolts to remain competitive in the game’s ever-evolving landscape.
Availability and Cost-effectiveness: Community members frequently discuss the accessibility and costs associated with different bolts, offering insights on where to find them and their relative value. This advice helps players make strategic decisions, ensuring they can equip effective bolts without overspending their in-game resources.
How Can You Optimize the Use of Bolts for Maximum Efficiency During Heists?
To optimize the use of bolts for maximum efficiency during heists in “Payday 2,” consider the following options:
- Explosive Bolts: These bolts create a small explosion upon impact, making them ideal for taking out multiple enemies or distracting guards. Their area-of-effect damage can cause chaos, allowing players to escape or reposition themselves during a heist.
- Incendiary Bolts: Incendiary bolts ignite targets, causing them to take continuous damage over time. This effect can be used strategically to flush enemies out of cover or to create diversions, as affected enemies will often panic and flee.
- Shrapnel Bolts: These bolts release a spray of projectiles upon impact, effectively allowing players to hit multiple targets in a single shot. This is particularly useful in crowded environments, where precision is less critical than sheer volume of fire.
- Gas Bolts: Gas bolts release a cloud of toxic gas on impact, incapacitating enemies within its radius. This is valuable for stealth-focused players, as it can neutralize guards silently without alerting others nearby.
- Standard Bolts: While not as flashy as other options, standard bolts offer high accuracy and consistent damage. They are reliable for skilled players who prefer to take out enemies quietly and methodically, especially in precision-target situations.