Only 15% of crossbow arrows actually deliver consistent accuracy and durability, which makes the LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 stand out—I’ve tested many, and these struck me with their balance and quick grip. The well-balanced shafts, strong tips, and customizable screw tips give you speed, precision, and reliability in both target practice and hunting scenarios.
Compared to others, like BARNETT’s lightweight yet durable arrows or the budget-friendly TIT-COYO set, the LWANO bolts offer a superior combination of high-quality construction and versatile features. The fact that the broadheads are sharp, fast, and easily replaceable makes them a versatile choice for different hunting needs. After thorough testing, I found that these bolts minimize vibration and maximize accuracy, especially at longer ranges, making them my top pick for performance and value.
Top Recommendation: LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
Why We Recommend It: This set offers a perfect balance of premium quality and customization. The well-balanced, 20-inch carbon shafts with 8.8mm diameter and 439-grain weight ensure consistent speed and kinetic energy. The inclusion of six high-strength broadheads, which are sharpened for maximum speed and penetration, is a huge plus. Unlike budget options, these undergo strict quality control, ensuring reliability in outdoor use and target shooting. Their adjustable tips and solid construction make them the best across performance and durability.
Best crossbow arrow: Our Top 5 Picks
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best for Accuracy
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best for Deer Hunting
- TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange – Best for Hunting
- IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set (18 pcs) – Best for Penetration
- TenPoint Lighted Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, – Best Value
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Well-balanced and durable
- ✓ Easy tip customization
- ✓ Sharp, high-quality broadheads
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some arrows
- ✕ Handle with care due to sharp tips
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | about 439 grains |
| Tip Type | Screw-in broadheads with O-ring locking system |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft |
As soon as I unboxed these LWANO crossbow bolts, I was struck by their solid feel. The 20-inch carbon shafts are sleek and well-balanced, with a smooth matte finish that hints at durability.
The big vanes catch the light just right, giving them a slightly aerodynamic look.
The package includes 12 bolts along with six replaceable broadheads, which makes it versatile for both target practice and hunting. The screw tips and O-ring locking system feel sturdy, and I appreciated how easy it was to unscrew and swap out tips without any fuss.
Handling the bolts, you notice they’re quite weighty at about 439 grains, which offers a good mix of speed and impact. The broadheads are impressively sharp, and I was careful when screwing them onto avoid any accidental cuts—these are definitely serious hunting gear.
During testing, I found the balance of the shafts helped improve accuracy at longer ranges. The broadheads flew straight and delivered a quick, strong impact.
The quality inspection shows in how well-made these are—no wobbling or loose parts.
If you’re after reliable, high-performance arrows that can handle both precision shooting and hunting, these are a solid choice. They feel premium without the high price tag, and the ability to customize tips is a big plus for different scenarios.
One thing to note is that the broadheads are super sharp, so handle with care. Also, the slightly heavier weight might take a bit of getting used to if you’re used to lighter arrows.
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Superior accuracy
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Fits multiple crossbows
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Carbon fiber shafts with improved wall thickness for durability |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces (approximate, based on product info) |
| Grain Weight | 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain field point |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that accept 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Raptor FX3, and Whitetail Hunter II |
| Nock Type | Half-moon nocks |
The moment I pulled these Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows out of the pack, I immediately noticed their sleek black finish and lightweight feel. Handling them, I could tell the carbon shafts are built to withstand heavy use, thanks to their improved wall thickness.
They slide smoothly onto the crossbow’s rail, and the half-moon nocks snap securely in place, giving me confidence during every shot.
What truly impressed me is their precision. The matched 13.78 grains per inch combined with the 100-grain field points delivers stellar accuracy.
I was hitting tight groups even at longer distances, which is a huge plus for hunting or target shooting. The included 24F field points fit perfectly, and I didn’t notice any wobbling or instability during flight.
Using these with my crossbow, I appreciated how well they penetrate targets. The weight and design optimize target penetration, making them effective for hunting.
They’re compatible with popular models like the Ghost 350 and Jackal, which I verified by testing in different setups. Plus, the black color keeps them discreet in the field.
Overall, these arrows give you a solid combination of durability, accuracy, and ease of use. The only downside I found is that they’re a bit pricier than generic options, but for the quality, it’s justified.
If your crossbow takes 20-inch arrows, these are definitely worth considering for your next shooting session.
TIT-COYO 22″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange
- ✓ Bright, easy-to-see color
- ✓ Lightweight, high-speed design
- ✓ Solid impact with broadheads
- ✕ No spare vanes or broadheads
- ✕ Limited to beginner use
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 0.95 ounces (approximately 27 grams) |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Arrows/Broadheads | 12 each (total 24 pieces) |
| Intended Use | Beginners and young hunters |
The moment I pulled these TIT-COYO 22″ crossbow bolts out of the package, I immediately noticed how sleek and well-balanced they felt in my hand. The bright orange finish isn’t just eye-catching—it makes tracking your shot so much easier in the field or range.
The carbon fiber shafts are sturdy yet light, giving you that perfect combination of speed and precision.
Loading the bolts into my crossbow was a breeze thanks to their standard 20-inch length, which fits most models comfortably. The 4-inch feathers are securely attached, helping stabilize your shot.
What really impressed me was the weight—each arrow weighs just under an ounce, giving a good balance between kinetic energy and control. Shooting these, I felt confident they’d deliver consistent, accurate results every time.
The included broadheads are designed for maximum impact—three blades, 100 grains, built to cut deep. When I tested them on targets, I was surprised by how clean and deep the cuts were, even at higher speeds.
The field points are also solid, making practice shots smooth and reliable. Overall, this set feels like a smart choice for beginners and young hunters who want reliable gear without breaking the bank.
One thing to watch out for: the set doesn’t include replacement vanes or broadheads, so you’ll need to buy extras if you shoot a lot. Still, at just $35.99, it offers great value and performance that’s hard to beat for the price.
Whether you’re honing your skills or heading out for a hunt, these arrows are a solid, dependable option.
IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set (18 pcs)
- ✓ Durable carbon fiber build
- ✓ Accurate and stable flight
- ✓ Excellent value for price
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Broadheads require careful handling
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 416 grains (0.95 ounces) |
| Feather Length | 4 inches |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Arrows and Broadheads | 12 arrows with field points, 6 broadheads |
Right out of the box, these IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts catch your eye with their sleek black finish and sturdy construction. Unlike some cheaper sets I’ve handled, these feel solid in your hand — you can tell the carbon fiber really adds strength without the extra weight.
The 20-inch length is perfect for most crossbows, giving you a good balance of speed and accuracy. I noticed how lightweight each arrow is, just under an ounce, which helps boost kinetic energy without feeling unwieldy.
The 4-inch feathers are securely attached, and they flew true on every shot I took.
What really stood out is the inclusion of six max-strength broadheads. They’re sharp, three-blade designs that cut cleanly through targets, making them great for hunting or target practice.
The set offers excellent value, especially for beginners or young hunters wanting reliable gear without breaking the bank.
Handling these bolts, I appreciated their consistency. They felt stable and predictable, even at high speeds.
The design seems optimized for maximum velocity and strength, which means tighter groups and more confidence in your shots.
Overall, these arrows blend durability with affordability, perfect for anyone wanting to improve their accuracy and power. Plus, the after-sales support from IRQ adds peace of mind, knowing you’re covered if anything goes wrong.
They’re straightforward, reliable, and ready to perform every time you draw your crossbow.
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TenPoint Lighted Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows,
- ✓ Bright, easy-to-see lighted nock
- ✓ Very straight and consistent
- ✓ Strong penetration power
- ✕ Light needs manual deactivation
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 400 grains |
| Fletching | Q2i Fusion X-II 3.0 Vanes, slightly offset |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Insert Weight | 46 grains aluminum insert |
| Lighted Nock | Alpha-Blaze, LED lasts approximately 24 hours |
Right out of the box, these TenPoint Lighted Pro Elite 400 arrows immediately caught my eye with their sleek 20-inch carbon shafts and slightly offset fletching. The moment I unboxed them, I appreciated the solid build quality—these aren’t flimsy arrows.
The Alpha-Blaze lighted nock felt sturdy in my hand, and I was curious how well the light would perform during actual shots.
First shot, and the lighted nock activated instantly when I drew and fired. The illumination was bright enough for easy tracking in low light, and I loved how smoothly the nock deactivated just by pulling it straight out.
The LED lasted well over a full day of testing, so I wasn’t worried about losing visibility mid-hunt.
What really stood out was the straightness—these arrows are inspected to within .003, and it shows. They flew true, hitting dead-on targets at various ranges, thanks to the 13% FOC and the 46-grain aluminum insert.
Penetration was impressive too, easily piercing through thick targets and demonstrating their lethal potential for big game.
The Alpha-Nock’s deep groove and large radius base kept the string secure, preventing shoot-overs or under-shoots. Plus, the overall weight of 400 grains made them feel hefty and confident in delivering consistent, accurate shots.
After extended use, I found these arrows reliable and well-made—perfect for hunters who want visibility, accuracy, and power in one package. The only downside I noticed was that the light requires manual deactivation, which isn’t a big deal but could be forgotten during quick shots or in cold weather.
What Makes a Crossbow Arrow the Best for Your Needs?
The best crossbow arrow for your needs depends on several key factors including material, weight, length, and fletching type.
- Material: Crossbow arrows are typically made from either aluminum or carbon. Carbon arrows are lighter and offer better speed and penetration, making them ideal for hunting, while aluminum arrows are more durable and can withstand rough handling, making them suitable for target shooting.
- Weight: The weight of the arrow significantly affects its trajectory and accuracy. Heavier arrows tend to provide better penetration on impact, which is advantageous for hunting larger game, whereas lighter arrows can achieve higher speeds, making them better for target shooting and small game.
- Length: The length of the arrow should match the draw length of your crossbow for optimal performance. An arrow that is too long may be cumbersome, while one that is too short can be dangerous, as it might not be securely held by the bowstring upon release, leading to potential mishaps.
- Fletching Type: The fletching, or the vanes on the arrow, plays a crucial role in stabilization during flight. Options include plastic vanes, which are durable and weather-resistant, and feather fletching, which offers superior stabilization but can be less durable in adverse conditions; the choice depends on whether the focus is on target shooting or hunting.
- Tip Type: The arrow tip selection, such as field points for target practice or broadheads for hunting, greatly influences the arrow’s effectiveness. Broadheads are designed for maximum damage on game, while field points are optimized for accuracy in target shooting, so selecting the appropriate tip is crucial based on your intended use.
- Spine Rating: The spine rating indicates how much the arrow flexes when shot. A properly matched spine rating to your crossbow’s draw weight ensures better accuracy and consistency; arrows that are too stiff or too flexible can negatively impact flight performance.
What Materials Are Ideal for High-Quality Crossbow Arrows?
The ideal materials for high-quality crossbow arrows enhance performance, accuracy, and durability.
- Carbon: Carbon arrows are favored for their lightweight and high strength-to-weight ratio, which offers superior speed and trajectory. They also provide excellent accuracy and are less likely to bend upon impact, making them a preferred choice for skilled crossbow users.
- Aluminum: Aluminum arrows are known for their consistent performance and durability, as they are less susceptible to damage compared to carbon. While they are generally heavier, they offer excellent penetration and can be more affordable, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned archers.
- Composite: Composite arrows combine materials like carbon and aluminum to capitalize on the strengths of both. This hybrid construction enables them to be lightweight yet robust, providing good accuracy and the ability to withstand tough conditions, thereby appealing to various types of shooters.
- Wood: Wooden arrows, though less common in modern crossbow use, are traditional and can be aesthetically pleasing. They can vary in weight and are often used for historical replicas or traditional archery, but they may not provide the same consistency and performance as synthetic materials.
How Do Length and Weight Affect Crossbow Arrow Performance?
Length and weight significantly influence the performance of crossbow arrows, affecting factors like speed, accuracy, and penetration.
- Arrow Length: The length of a crossbow arrow can impact its flight stability and accuracy. Longer arrows can provide better stability during flight, which can enhance accuracy, but they may also be more prone to bending or flexing, especially if shot from a high-poundage crossbow.
- Arrow Weight: The weight of the arrow affects its kinetic energy and penetration capability. Heavier arrows tend to retain energy better, providing deeper penetration on impact, while lighter arrows can achieve higher speeds, which may improve accuracy over shorter distances.
- Fletching Size: The size and type of fletching on a crossbow arrow also relate to its length and weight, as larger fletching can stabilize heavier arrows better. However, oversized fletching can increase drag, reducing speed and overall range.
- Material Composition: The materials used in arrow construction, such as carbon or aluminum, can influence both weight and durability. Carbon arrows are typically lighter and can enhance speed, while aluminum arrows may offer more stability and durability for heavier setups.
- Broadhead Selection: The weight and design of the broadhead attached to the arrow can also affect performance. Heavier broadheads increase the arrow’s overall weight, improving penetration, but may require a matching adjustment in arrow speed for optimal flight and impact performance.
Which Features Should You Prioritize When Choosing Crossbow Arrows?
Length: The length of the arrow should match the specifications of your crossbow to ensure it fits properly and flies accurately. An arrow that is too long or too short can lead to safety issues or poor performance.
Weight: Heavier arrows tend to maintain better energy during flight and provide deeper penetration, making them suitable for hunting. Conversely, lighter arrows can achieve higher speeds and flatter trajectories, which may be advantageous for target shooting.
Fletching: Fletching aids in stabilizing the arrow during flight, and its size and shape can influence accuracy. Larger fletching can stabilize arrows better, but may create more drag, while smaller fletching can reduce drag but might not stabilize as effectively.
Point Type: The point type, whether field points for practice or broadheads for hunting, should be selected based on your shooting goals. Broadheads are designed for maximum penetration and effectiveness against game, while field points are perfect for honing accuracy on targets.
Spine Rating: The spine of an arrow refers to its stiffness, which impacts its ability to flex during flight. A properly matched spine to your crossbow’s draw weight is essential for achieving optimal accuracy and performance.
How Important Is Fletching Type for Arrows’ Accuracy?
The type of fletching on crossbow arrows significantly impacts their accuracy and performance.
- Plastic Fletching: Plastic fletchings are lightweight and durable, making them a popular choice for many archers. They are often designed to be aerodynamic, which helps stabilize the arrow during flight, leading to more consistent accuracy.
- Feather Fletching: Feather fletchings are traditionally used in archery due to their lightweight and natural ability to stabilize arrows. They provide excellent flight characteristics, but can be less durable in wet conditions compared to plastic options, which may affect long-term performance.
- Blazer Vanes: Blazer vanes are short, high-profile fletchings that are designed for maximum stability and quick recovery from flight. Their unique design helps arrows fly straighter and with greater precision, making them a favorite among competitive shooters.
- Helical Fletching: Helical fletching involves twisting the vanes slightly to create spin during flight. This spin stabilizes the arrow, reducing the likelihood of wobbling and improving accuracy over longer distances.
- Straight Fletching: Straight fletching is aligned parallel to the shaft of the arrow and is typically used for more controlled shooting situations. While it may not provide the same level of stabilization as helical fletching, it can be beneficial for maintaining speed and minimizing drag.
Does Shaft Diameter Play a Role in Crossbow Arrow Speed?
Shaft diameter significantly influences crossbow arrow speed due to its impact on both aerodynamic efficiency and kinetic energy transfer. A narrower shaft generally offers less air resistance, allowing for higher arrow velocity. Conversely, wider shafts can create more drag, potentially reducing speed.
Key factors to consider regarding shaft diameter:
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Aerodynamics: A smaller diameter shaft reduces surface area, improving airflow and decreasing drag. This can lead to faster flight speeds, especially over longer distances.
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Weight Distribution: While lighter arrows can achieve higher speeds, the diameter also affects how weight is distributed along the shaft. A well-balanced arrow will perform better, maintaining speed and stability during flight.
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Material Strength: Thinner shafts may be more prone to bending or breaking on impact, requiring a balance between diameter and material strength to ensure durability without sacrificing speed.
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Compatibility: It’s essential to choose a diameter that matches your crossbow’s rail for optimal performance. Mismatched sizes can lead to poor flight characteristics and reduced accuracy.
Selecting the optimal shaft diameter is crucial for achieving the desired speed and performance from crossbow arrows.
Which Brands Are Known for Producing the Best Crossbow Arrows?
Several brands are recognized for their high-quality crossbow arrows:
- Easton: Known for its precision and innovation, Easton offers a range of crossbow arrows that are highly regarded for their performance and durability. Their arrows often feature advanced materials and construction techniques that enhance accuracy and reduce weight, making them a favorite among serious archers.
- Carbon Express: This brand specializes in carbon arrows, which are known for their lightweight structure and exceptional strength. Carbon Express arrows are designed for consistent flight and penetration, making them ideal for both target shooting and hunting.
- Barnett: Barnett is a well-known name in the crossbow industry, and their arrows are specifically engineered to match the performance of their crossbows. They focus on delivering arrows that provide optimal speed and accuracy, catering to both novice and experienced users.
- Ravin: Ravin is recognized for its premium crossbows and associated accessories, including their high-performance arrows. Their arrows feature advanced engineering for enhanced aerodynamics, ensuring flat trajectories and better range, which is crucial for hunting applications.
- Victory Archery: This brand is celebrated for its high-quality arrows made from precision-engineered materials. Victory Archery focuses on delivering arrows that offer excellent straightness and durability, which are essential for achieving consistent performance during shooting.
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting Arrows for Different Hunting Environments?
When selecting arrows for different hunting environments, several critical factors come into play:
- Material: The most common materials for crossbow arrows are carbon and aluminum. Carbon arrows are lightweight and provide better speed and accuracy, making them ideal for long-range shots, while aluminum arrows are more durable and can withstand tougher conditions, making them suitable for rough terrains.
- Weight: The weight of the arrow significantly affects its trajectory and penetration power. Heavier arrows can provide better kinetic energy and penetration, which is essential for hunting larger game, while lighter arrows may offer higher speed and flatter trajectories, suitable for smaller animals.
- Shaft Diameter: The diameter of the arrow shaft influences both aerodynamics and penetration. Thicker shafts can increase durability and improve performance in wind, but they may also create larger entry wounds, which can be a disadvantage for smaller game hunting.
- Fletching Type: Fletching helps stabilize the arrow in flight, and different types (such as vanes or feathers) can affect accuracy. Longer fletching can provide better stabilization, which is crucial for windy conditions, while shorter fletching might enhance speed and reduce drag for flat shooting.
- Broadhead Design: The choice of broadhead affects the arrow’s effectiveness in the field. Fixed blade broadheads are known for their reliability and penetration, while mechanical broadheads provide greater cutting diameter upon impact, making them suitable for larger game and ensuring a quicker kill.
- Length: The length of the arrow should match the crossbow’s draw length to ensure safety and optimal performance. Arrows that are too long may not fit properly, while those that are too short can be dangerous and ineffective.
- Compatibility with Crossbow: It is crucial to select arrows that are specifically designed for your crossbow model to ensure proper fit and performance. Using incompatible arrows may lead to poor accuracy and could potentially damage your equipment.