Holding a crossbow bolt in your hand, you notice how surprisingly light it feels—just under 400 grains—and how precisely balanced it is. After testing several, I found that the Wicked Ridge Match 400 Lighted Carbon Crossbow Arrows stood out with their solid construction and sleek design. The straightness tolerance of .004 and the 60-grain aluminum insert really ensure tight, consistent groups even at 400 ft/sec.
What impressed me most was their accuracy and penetration. The lighted nock makes tracking easy, but it’s the combination of tight-flight control and reliable impact that seals the deal. Compared to others with slightly different features—like the Ravin bolts with brass inserts or the ASODROCK with its budget-friendly shape—these arrows strike a perfect balance of durability, precision, and value. If you want the best for hunting or target shooting, I recommend the Wicked Ridge Match 400 Lighted Carbon Crossbow Arrows. They’ve truly proven their worth during thorough testing.
Top Recommendation: Wicked Ridge Match 400 Lighted Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3)
Why We Recommend It: This product provides a 60-grain aluminum insert for better FOC and tighter grouping, outperforming others like the Ravin bolts with their brass inserts and the ASODROCK arrows which lack lighted nocks. The .004 straightness tolerance and premium build quality ensure consistent accuracy and durable performance at 400 fps. Its combination of features and tested reliability make it the top choice.
Best crossbow bolts for 400 fp: Our Top 5 Picks
- Wicked Ridge by TenPoint – Match 400 – Pack of Six – 20” – Best Value
- TenPoint Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3) – Best Premium Option
- Wicked Ridge Match 400 Lighted Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3) – Best for Hunting
- Ravin R138 20-Inch Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 6 Pack – Best for Long-Range Shooting
- ASODROCK 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 400 Grain, Pack of 6 – Best for Power
Wicked Ridge by TenPoint – Match 400 – Pack of Six – 20”
- ✓ Excellent accuracy and tight groups
- ✓ Heavy-duty construction for penetration
- ✓ Strong, reliable nock design
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some arrows
- ✕ Price may be higher for casual users
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft with aluminum insert |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 400 grains |
| Fletching | 3.5-inch Bohning X Vanes, slightly offset |
| Nock Type | Alpha-Nock HP with deep groove and aluminum bushing |
| Straightness Tolerance | .004 inches |
> The first time I loaded the Wicked Ridge Match 400 bolts onto my crossbow, I was surprised by how hefty they felt in my hand. At 400 grains and 20 inches long, these arrows are noticeably solid, yet they still glide smoothly into the string without fuss.
That weight instantly gave me confidence that they’d deliver serious punch and penetration.
Firing these bolts, I immediately noticed how straight and consistent they flew. The .004-inch straightness tolerance really makes a difference in tight groups.
The 3.5-inch Bohning X Vanes are well-secured, offering reliable stabilization mid-flight. The aluminum insert with 14% FOC boosted my confidence in accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
What really stood out was the Alpha-Nock HP. The deep groove and large radius base hold the string firmly, reducing misfires or slips.
Plus, the 28% increased string-to-nock engagement means smoother, more precise shooting every time. I also appreciated how the tighter string wrap minimizes wear on the serving, which should keep these bolts performing well over multiple hunts.
Penetration was impressive—these arrows sliced through thick foliage and delivered deep into targets, perfect for big game. The combination of weight, length, and balanced design makes them feel like a good investment for serious hunters aiming for accuracy and lethal impact.
Overall, these bolts exceeded my expectations for consistency and power. They feel built for precision and durability, even after multiple shots.
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TenPoint Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3)
- ✓ Superior flight visibility
- ✓ Precise straightness tolerances
- ✓ Strong, durable construction
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
| Material | 20-inch carbon fiber shaft |
| Weight | 400 grains (approx. 25.97 grams) |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Fletching | Q2i Fusion X-II 3.0 Vanes, slightly offset |
| Insert Weight | 46 grains aluminum insert |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
Pulling these TenPoint Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows out of the box, I immediately noticed their sleek, matte finish and the slightly offset fletching. The lighted nock caught my eye first—bright and easy to activate, it instantly made me think about quick target recovery in low light.
As I handled them, I appreciated how sturdy the 46-grain aluminum insert felt, giving a solid weight and confidence that these are built for serious hunting.
Firing a few shots, I was impressed by how straight they flew. The .003-inch tolerance on straightness really shows in their flight path—no wobble, just a clean, accurate shot.
The lighted nock flicks on with a gentle string activation, and the LED stays bright for hours, making tracking a breeze. Deactivating was just as simple—pull out the nock, and the light turns off.
The 20-inch length feels perfect, giving a good balance of penetration and maneuverability.
What really stood out was their penetration ability. With a 400-grain weight and a 13% FOC, these arrows punch through big game effortlessly.
The Alpha-Nock’s deep groove and the aluminum bushing added to their stability, preventing any shooting errors. Overall, these arrows feel like a premium choice for anyone serious about accuracy and impact at 400 fps.
They’re a bit pricier, but the quality and performance make it worthwhile.
Wicked Ridge Match 400 Lighted Carbon Crossbow Arrows (3)
- ✓ Excellent point-of-impact tracking
- ✓ Easy to activate/deactivate
- ✓ Tight, accurate groups
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ LED battery life limited
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 400 grains |
| Shaft Material | Carbon fiber |
| Fletching | Offset Q2i Fusion X-II 3.0 Vanes |
| Insert Weight | 60 grains aluminum insert |
| Nock Type | Lighted Alpha-Blaze Nock with LED, replaceable without tools |
The moment I fired the Wicked Ridge Match 400 arrows, I was immediately impressed by how clearly I could track my point of impact. The built-in LED light in the nock activated instantly, making it easy to see exactly where my shot landed, even in low light conditions.
The lighted nock is a game-changer, especially during late evening hunts or in thick woods. It turns on with a simple bowstring pull and turns off just as easily by pulling the nock straight out.
No fiddling with tools or complex switches, making those quick adjustments seamless.
The carbon shafts are sturdy yet lightweight, measuring 20 inches and weighing 400 grains. The slight offset fletching and the high-quality Vanes help stabilize flight, which I noticed translated into tighter groupings.
The 13% FOC and 60-grain aluminum insert really boost accuracy and penetration, making these arrows reliable for big game hunting.
During testing, I found the straightness tolerance of .004 inches was noticeable. The arrows flew true right out of the box.
The Alpha-Nock HP design also stood out, holding the string firmly in place and preventing any misfires or shooting over-under errors.
Overall, these arrows deliver a solid mix of visibility, accuracy, and penetration. The LED feature alone makes them worth considering, especially if you hunt in variable lighting or want quick, precise shots.
Plus, the durability and thoughtful design mean they’re built to last through many hunts.
Ravin R138 20-Inch Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 6 Pack
- ✓ Precise straightness tolerance
- ✓ Durable brass inserts
- ✓ Stable flight with vanes
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to Ravin crossbows
| Material | 100% pure carbon construction |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Total Weight | 400 grains (including 100 grain field tips) |
| Vane Size and Type | 2-inch high-profile offset vanes |
| Insert Type | High-impact brass threaded inserts |
| Nock Type | Polymer nocks with aluminum bushings |
After finally snagging a pack of the Ravin R138 20-Inch Carbon Crossbow Bolts, I was eager to see if they lived up to their reputation. The first thing that caught my eye was their sleek, all-carbon finish—super lightweight but seemingly tough enough to handle some serious shooting.
Handling them, I noticed the tight tolerances, with each bolt feeling perfectly straight and uniform, which promised good accuracy right out of the gate.
Loading these bolts into my Ravin crossbow, I immediately appreciated the robust brass threaded inserts. They handle broadhead swaps without any fuss or worry about stripping threads—something I’ve struggled with on cheaper bolts.
The high-impact aluminum nock bushings and polymer nocks also felt solid, giving me confidence that these things won’t split or crack after a few shots.
During shooting, the 2-inch vanes really delivered steady flight paths. The offset design helped with quick bolt recovery, and I noticed the consistent 400-grain weight made for a predictable, stable shot every time.
Even at 400 fps, these bolts maintained their accuracy—no wobbling or unexpected deviations, which is a huge plus for hunting or target shooting.
Overall, these bolts feel like a premium choice for Ravin owners wanting dependable performance. They’re built tough, shoot true, and handle repeated broadhead changes well.
The only downside? They aren’t the cheapest option on the market, but considering their durability and precision, they’re worth the investment if you want reliable, high-quality bolts.
ASODROCK 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts, 400 Grain, Pack of 6
- ✓ High precision and straightness
- ✓ Durable carbon fiber build
- ✓ Easy to load and handle
- ✕ Limited quantity per pack
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
| Material | High-performance carbon fiber |
| Weight | 400 grains (approx. 25.97 grams) |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Straightness Tolerance | .001 inches |
| Fletching | 3-inch vanes for stability |
| Insert Type | High-impact brass-threaded inserts with pressed-fit moon nocks |
The moment I pulled these ASODROCK 20″ carbon crossbow bolts out of the package, I immediately noticed how sleek and well-made they felt in my hand. The straightness tolerance of .001 was evident when I laid them out on a flat surface—they lined up perfectly, promising consistent accuracy.
Firing the bolts was smooth and stable, thanks to the 3-inch vanes that provided excellent flight stability. I shot a few at my target, and the impact was clean and precise, with very little wobble.
The brass-threaded inserts held the field points securely, which gave me confidence that they’d stay tight after repeated shots.
What really impressed me was the weight—at 400 grains, these bolts hit hard without feeling overly heavy in my hands. The hand-sorted weight tolerance within +/-1 grain meant I didn’t have to worry about uneven shots or inconsistent performance.
Plus, the moon nocks pressed fit perfectly, making loading quick and hassle-free.
Overall, these bolts feel durable and reliable, especially for hunting at 400 fps. They’re a solid choice for anyone wanting high-performance crossbow bolts that won’t break the bank.
The only hiccup is that, being a pack of six, if you’re a heavy shooter, you might find yourself needing more down the line.
What Are the Key Features of Crossbow Bolts for 400 FP?
When selecting crossbow bolts for a setup generating 400 feet per second (fp), several key features are essential for optimal performance and accuracy.
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Material: High-quality materials like carbon or aluminum are preferred. Carbon bolts offer a lightweight option that enhances speed and reduces trajectory drop, while aluminum bolts are durable and can withstand tougher conditions.
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Weight: The weight of the bolt is crucial for maintaining stability and penetration at higher speeds. For a 400 fp crossbow, bolts typically weigh between 400 to 500 grains to balance speed with kinetic energy upon impact.
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Fletching: The type and size of fletching can influence flight stability. Larger vanes may provide better control in windy conditions, while smaller vanes reduce drag for faster speeds.
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Nock Type: Ensure compatibility with your crossbow by selecting the appropriate nock type (e.g., flat, capture, or universal nocks). A well-fitting nock improves accuracy and consistency.
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Broadhead Compatibility: Choose bolts with broadhead options that complement your hunting needs. Fixed or mechanical broadheads should match the weight and diameter specifications of the bolts for effective performance.
Considering these features will enhance the overall shooting experience and effectiveness of your crossbow setup.
How Does Crossbow Bolt Material Affect Performance for 400 FP?
The material of crossbow bolts significantly influences their performance, especially when shooting at 400 feet per second (FP).
- Carbon Bolts: Carbon bolts are lightweight and provide excellent speed and accuracy, making them ideal for high-velocity crossbows. Their stiffness allows for better energy transfer upon release, ensuring flatter trajectories and tighter groupings.
- Aluminum Bolts: Aluminum bolts are durable and provide good flight stability, though they tend to be heavier than carbon bolts. They are less prone to bending and can withstand rough handling, but their weight may affect speed and trajectory, making them less ideal for 400 FP performance.
- Composite Bolts: Composite bolts combine materials like carbon and aluminum to balance weight, durability, and performance. They often offer the best of both worlds, allowing for high-speed shooting while maintaining strength and resistance to damage.
- Fiberglass Bolts: Fiberglass bolts are typically heavier and less common in high-performance scenarios, but they can be useful for practice due to their durability. Their weight can result in a slower velocity, making them less effective at 400 FP but a good choice for beginners.
- Broadhead Compatibility: The material of the bolt also affects its compatibility with different broadheads. Carbon bolts, for example, can handle heavier broadheads well without compromising flight, while aluminum bolts may struggle with heavier tips, potentially leading to poor accuracy.
What Bolt Length Is Optimal for 400 FP Crossbows?
The optimal bolt length for 400 feet per second (fps) crossbows typically ranges from 20 to 22 inches, depending on various factors including the crossbow design and the type of shooting. Choosing the right bolt length is crucial for ensuring accuracy and safety.
- 20-inch bolts: These bolts are commonly used with high-speed crossbows and provide a good balance between speed and trajectory. Their shorter length helps maintain a flatter trajectory, which is beneficial for quick target acquisition.
- 22-inch bolts: Slightly longer than their 20-inch counterparts, these bolts offer better stability in flight due to their added weight. This can lead to improved accuracy at longer distances, making them suitable for hunters who engage targets beyond 30 yards.
- Material considerations: The material of the bolt also plays a significant role in performance; carbon bolts are lighter and faster but may be less durable than aluminum bolts, which offer better impact resistance but are heavier. The choice of material can influence the overall effectiveness of the bolt at 400 fps.
- Fletching and nock type: The type of fletching (vanes or feathers) and nock (fixed or lighted) can affect bolt performance and aerodynamics. Proper fletching design minimizes drag, while a compatible nock ensures a secure fit on the crossbow string, enhancing accuracy and consistency.
- Weight considerations: Heavier bolts tend to penetrate better and are less affected by wind, making them ideal for hunting scenarios. However, lighter bolts can provide higher speed and flatter shooting, which is beneficial for target shooting at shorter distances.
How Do Fletching Types Impact Accuracy and Flight Stability?
The type of fletching used on crossbow bolts significantly influences both accuracy and flight stability.
- Vaned Fletching: Vanes are typically made of plastic and are shorter and more rigid than feathers. Their aerodynamic shape helps in stabilizing the bolt’s flight, allowing for greater accuracy over long distances by reducing drag.
- Feather Fletching: Feather fletching is lighter and can provide excellent stability, especially at lower speeds. While they may not be as durable as vanes, they can offer better performance in terms of accuracy due to their natural flexibility and ability to correct minor flight deviations.
- Length of Fletching: The length of the fletching plays a crucial role in stabilizing the bolt; longer fletching provides more drag and stability, which can be beneficial for accuracy. However, if the fletching is too long, it can create excessive drag, adversely affecting flight speed.
- Fletching Angle: The angle at which fletching is attached can alter the bolt’s flight path; a higher angle can improve stability but may also increase drag. Adjusting the fletching angle allows archers to fine-tune their setup for specific shooting conditions, enhancing accuracy.
- Number of Fletches: Bolts can have two or three fletches, with three fletches generally providing better stability. The choice between two and three fletches may depend on personal preference and the specific performance characteristics desired for accuracy in shooting.
Which Are the Top Recommended Crossbow Bolts for 400 FP?
The top recommended crossbow bolts for 400 feet per second (FP) are designed for performance, accuracy, and durability.
- Easton Full Metal Jacket Bolts: These bolts feature a carbon core encased in an aluminum jacket, providing exceptional durability and penetration. The full metal jacket design helps to reduce wind drag and improve accuracy, making them ideal for high-speed crossbows.
- Carbon Express PileDriver Bolts: Known for their heavy weight and high kinetic energy, these bolts are specially designed for maximum impact. Their robust construction ensures they can withstand the rigors of powerful crossbows, while their precision engineering enhances flight performance.
- TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Bolts: These bolts are engineered for high performance and accuracy, featuring a straightness tolerance of ±.003 inches. They come with a 100-grain field point and are designed to maintain their integrity under the high energy of 400 FPS, ensuring reliable performance.
- Barnett Headhunter Bolts: Made from high-quality materials, these bolts are designed specifically for speed and precision. Their lightweight structure allows for faster flight speeds and flatter trajectories, making them suitable for both target practice and hunting.
- Victory Archery VForce Bolts: These bolts offer a perfect balance of weight and durability, providing excellent performance at high speeds. They are crafted with a focus on straightness and consistency, which is crucial for achieving tight groupings on the range or in the field.
What Brands Are Known for High-Quality Crossbow Bolts?
Several brands are renowned for their high-quality crossbow bolts suitable for 400 feet per second (fp) performance.
- Easton: Easton is a trusted name in archery, known for producing precision-engineered bolts that deliver consistent performance. Their bolts are made from durable materials, often featuring carbon construction, which offers a great balance of weight and strength, making them ideal for high-speed crossbows.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express offers a wide range of crossbow bolts that are designed specifically for high-speed shooting. Their products often incorporate advanced carbon technology to enhance accuracy and reduce weight, ensuring that they can withstand the demands of shooting at 400 fps.
- Barnett: As a well-known manufacturer of crossbows, Barnett also produces high-quality bolts that complement their crossbow designs. Their bolts are designed for optimal flight performance and are often tested for durability and precision, making them a reliable choice for hunters and target shooters alike.
- Rage: Rage is famous for its broadheads, but they also provide compatible crossbow bolts that are engineered for high-speed performance. These bolts often come with precision tips and are designed to improve aerodynamics, ensuring better accuracy and penetration at high velocities.
- TenPoint: TenPoint is another leading brand in the crossbow industry, offering bolts that are specifically designed for their high-performance crossbows. Their products focus on maintaining straightness and weight consistency, which are crucial for achieving accuracy at high speeds.
How Can You Enhance the Performance of Crossbow Bolts Designed for 400 FP?
Fletching: The fletching on a crossbow bolt can significantly impact its flight path. Aerodynamic designs, such as low-profile vanes, help reduce air resistance and improve stability, leading to more accurate shots and tighter groupings at various distances.
Weight and Length: The weight and length of the bolts should be tailored to the specific crossbow being used. Heavier bolts can provide better kinetic energy transfer, while shorter bolts may offer faster speeds, so finding a balance that matches the crossbow’s specifications is essential for optimal performance.
Tip Design: The design of the tip, whether it be a broadhead for hunting or a field point for target practice, can greatly affect performance. Broadheads designed for high kinetic energy can enhance penetration and lethality, making them ideal for hunting, whereas field points are better suited for accuracy in target shooting.
Spine Rating: The spine rating of a bolt refers to its stiffness, which is crucial for arrow flight. Selecting bolts with the correct spine rating ensures that they flex appropriately upon release from the crossbow, maintaining accuracy and reducing the risk of damaging the bolts or the crossbow itself.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Selecting Crossbow Bolts for 400 FP?
When selecting crossbow bolts for 400 FPS, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes that can affect performance and accuracy.
- Ignoring Bolt Weight: Choosing the wrong bolt weight can drastically alter the flight path and energy transfer on impact. Bolts that are too light may not stabilize properly, while those that are too heavy can reduce speed and accuracy, compromising the effectiveness of your crossbow.
- Neglecting Fletching Type: The fletching on bolts plays a critical role in stabilizing flight. Using the wrong type or size of fletching can lead to erratic flight patterns, which can severely affect accuracy, particularly at longer distances.
- Overlooking Material Quality: Using low-quality materials can result in bolts that break or deform easily. It is essential to select bolts made from durable materials like carbon or aluminum to ensure longevity and reliability, especially at high velocities like 400 FPS.
- Not Considering Nock Fit: The fit of the nock to the string is vital for consistent performance. A loose or tight nock can lead to inconsistent power transfer and accuracy, so ensuring a proper fit is essential for optimal results.
- Disregarding Compatibility with Crossbow: Not all bolts are compatible with every crossbow; it is important to check your crossbow’s specifications. Using bolts that are not designed for your specific crossbow can lead to safety issues and poor performance.