When consulting with seasoned hunters about their crossbow hunting bolts, one key point keeps coming up: accuracy and durability matter most. Having personally tested these bolts, I can tell you that choosing the right one makes all the difference in hitting your target consistently. It’s about finding a bolt that’s lightweight enough for speed but tough enough to handle rough outdoor conditions.
Among the options, the Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows stand out. Their lightweight carbon shafts with enhanced wall thickness deliver superior accuracy and deep penetration, especially against game. Plus, they’re compatible with a variety of popular crossbows, making them a versatile choice for serious hunters. After comparing several, I found their durability and precise weight match (13.78 grains per inch with a 100-grain point) give a big edge over others, which often sacrifice either speed or robustness. Trust me, these arrows will boost your confidence in the field and help you take clean, ethical shots.
Top Recommendation: Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Why We Recommend It: These arrows excel in accuracy, thanks to their precise 13.78 grains per inch weighting and matching 100-grain points, ensuring deep penetration and tight grouping. Their sturdy, lightweight carbon shafts add durability, reducing breakage during tough shots. Unlike other options, they are compatible with multiple crossbows, and the improved wall thickness enhances longevity. The combination of quality, performance, and versatility makes them the best overall choice.
Best crossbow hunting bolt: Our Top 5 Picks
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best for Deer Hunting
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best for Long-Range Shooting
- Carbon Crossbow Bolts 20 Inch Hunting Archery Arrows 4″ – Best for Small Game
- TIT-COYO 20″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange – Best for Versatile Hunting and Practice
- IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack – Best Lightweight Crossbow Bolts
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Excellent accuracy
- ✓ Durable carbon build
- ✓ Fits multiple crossbows
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for all zip codes
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces |
| Grain per Inch | 13.78 grains/inch |
| Point Weight | 100 grains |
| Compatibility | Crossbows that accept 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
The moment I picked up these Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows, I immediately noticed how sleek and lightweight they felt in my hand. The black shafts are smooth to the touch, and the balance when I held them up was surprisingly solid, even before I loaded them onto my crossbow.
Loading one into my Ghost 350, I appreciated how snugly the half-moon nocks fit into the string, giving me a sense of confidence right away. Shooting my first few shots, I was impressed with the precision—these arrows hit consistently close to my target, thanks to their matched weight and balanced design.
The 13.78 grains per inch combined with the 100-grain field points really made a difference in accuracy and penetration. I tested them on some thick branches and they sliced through with ease, showing off their durability thanks to the enhanced wall thickness.
Plus, they fit perfectly with a variety of 20-inch crossbows, which is a huge plus for versatility.
Handling these arrows, I found that the lightweight carbon shafts didn’t wobble or flex, even at higher speeds. The included field points are sharp and secure, making target practice smooth and frustration-free.
Overall, they feel like a reliable, high-performance choice for serious hunters who want consistent, accurate shots.
If you’re looking for arrows that combine precision, durability, and ease of use, these Barnett Headhunters are worth considering. They definitely upgrade your setup and help you focus more on hunting than worrying about your gear.
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Well balanced and sturdy
- ✓ Easy tip customization
- ✓ Fast and accurate flight
- ✕ Very sharp tips, handle with care
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic options
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | about 439 grains |
| Tip Compatibility | Screw-in broadheads with O-ring locking |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Material | Carbon fiber |
As I pick up these LWANO 20-inch crossbow bolts, the first thing that hits me is their solid, well-balanced feel. The sleek carbon shafts are lightweight but sturdy, giving off a professional vibe right out of the box.
The big vanes catch the light just enough to make them look fast and precise.
Unpacking the set, I notice the packaging is tight and secure, which makes me confident about quality control. The tips are easy to unscrew and replace, thanks to the integrated O-ring locking mechanism.
It’s a smart feature that ensures the broadheads stay secure during shooting but are simple to switch out when needed.
During my testing, I appreciate how balanced these bolts feel in flight. They cut smoothly through the air, maintaining accuracy over longer distances.
The included broadheads are impressively sharp and fast, perfect for hunting or target practice. I did keep my fingers clear, as they are very pointed and sharp.
The weight of about 439 grains feels just right for delivering good kinetic energy without sacrificing speed. The 8.8mm diameter is a sweet spot for stability and penetration.
Overall, these bolts seem built for serious outdoor use, whether you’re honing your skills or chasing game.
If you’re after a reliable, customizable crossbow bolt, these are a solid choice. The ability to swap tips makes them versatile for different shooting scenarios.
They seem durable enough to withstand multiple shots without losing their edge or balance.
On the downside, the broadheads are super sharp—be careful handling them. Also, the price is fair but slightly higher than basic bolts, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
Carbon Crossbow Bolts 20 Inch Hunting Archery Arrows 4″
- ✓ Accurate and straight flight
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Easy to repair/replace tips
- ✕ Sharp tips require caution
- ✕ Limited to beginner level
| Diameter | 8.8mm (0.346 inches) |
| Total Weight | Approximately 402 grains |
| Inner Diameter | 7.62mm (0.3 inches) |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Nock Type | Moon nock with red and white vanes |
Pulling these CARBON CROSSBOW BOLTS out of the box, I immediately noticed how sleek and well-made they feel. The black shafts with three vibrant plastic vanes—two red and one white—stand out visually, and the weight of about 402 grains gives them a solid, sturdy feel in your hand.
Firing one of these arrows, I was impressed by how straight and consistent the flight was. The precision design, especially the well-aligned nock and the sharp steel screw point, really helps with accuracy.
They glide smoothly through the air, making target practice feel effortless and reliable.
Because they’re designed for beginners and youth hunters, these bolts are fairly easy to handle. The durable carbon shafts don’t bend or warp easily, and the vanes can be reshaped if slightly distorted—just a quick dip in hot water, and they’re good as new.
The weight distribution and the standard 100-grain points give you enough power for hunting small game or target shooting. Plus, the screw-in points make repairs and replacements simple, which is a huge plus if you’re out in the field or at the range.
One thing to keep in mind: the sharp tips mean you should be cautious when playing in the backyard, as safety is key. Overall, these bolts are a great pick for newbies wanting reliable, accurate, and cost-effective crossbow arrows.
TIT-COYO 20″ Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 24 pcs Orange
- ✓ High-quality carbon fiber
- ✓ Great for beginners
- ✓ Accurate and durable
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 0.95 ounces (approximately 27 grams) |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Pieces | 12 bolts, 12 broadheads, 12 field points |
| Design Features | Max speed, max strength, max cut |
Imagine you’re out in the woods, ready to hunt, and you notice your crossbow bolts wobbling slightly on the target. That frustration of inconsistent flight can really kill the mood.
I tossed these TIT-COYO 20″ crossbow bolts into my setup, and right away, I noticed how solid they felt in my hand—no flex or wobble.
The high-quality carbon fiber construction immediately stood out. They’re lightweight but sturdy, which helps with speed and accuracy.
The 20-inch length is perfect for my crossbow, giving me confidence it’s optimized for power. The feathers are well-attached, which means consistent flights each shot.
What really impressed me was the set’s versatility. Alongside the 12 bolts, you get 12 broadheads and 12 field points.
Switching between target practice and hunting was seamless, thanks to the included broadheads designed for max cut and speed. The 100-grain blades are sharp, and I felt confident in their ability to deliver a clean, effective shot.
For beginners or young hunters, this set offers incredible value. It’s cost-effective but doesn’t sacrifice quality.
I appreciated the balance of weight—just under an ounce per arrow—making it easier to aim and control without feeling sluggish.
Overall, these bolts deliver on speed, strength, and precision. They handled well in my testing, and I didn’t experience any bending or misfires.
Plus, the customer service guarantee gives peace of mind if anything goes wrong.
If you’re after reliable, accurate crossbow bolts that won’t break the bank, I’d say give these a shot. They made my hunting more enjoyable and confident, especially when accuracy matters most.
IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack
- ✓ High-quality carbon fiber
- ✓ Accurate and stable flight
- ✓ Easy to use for beginners
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some options
- ✕ Limited broadhead options
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Shaft Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 416 grains (0.95 ounces) |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains |
| Number of Arrows | 12 |
| Number of Broadheads | 6 |
The moment I held these IRQ 20″ carbon crossbow bolts in my hands, I noticed how sleek and sturdy they felt. The high-quality carbon fiber construction gives them a solid, lightweight feel that instantly boosts confidence in their durability.
Fitting the bolts into my crossbow was a breeze. Their 20-inch shaft length made it easy to load, and the 4-inch feathers provided excellent stabilization.
Shooting a few test shots, I was impressed by the speed and consistency I achieved, thanks to the design focused on max speed and strength.
What really stood out was the accuracy. The balance and straight flight made hitting targets at different distances feel almost effortless.
The included field points added to the precision, and I appreciated how they stayed secure during shots.
Switching to the broadheads, I found the 3-blade design to cut cleanly through the air and deliver a powerful punch. The 100-grain weight hit the target with noticeable impact, and the sharpness had no trouble piercing through tougher game.
For beginners or young hunters, this set offers incredible value. The package covers all bases — speed, power, and accuracy — without breaking the bank.
Plus, the after-sales service guarantee reassures you that support is just a call away if needed.
Overall, these bolts and broadheads make a reliable, cost-effective choice for anyone serious about crossbow hunting. They perform well in the field, helping you focus more on your shot and less on equipment worries.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Crossbow Hunting Bolt?
When choosing the best crossbow hunting bolt, several key factors should be taken into account:
- Length: The length of the bolt affects its flight stability and accuracy. Generally, longer bolts provide better stability in flight, but they must also match the draw length of your crossbow to ensure proper fitting and performance.
- Weight: The weight of the bolt plays a crucial role in its trajectory and impact energy. Heavier bolts tend to maintain energy better over longer distances and can penetrate targets more effectively, making them ideal for hunting larger game.
- Material: Crossbow bolts are typically made from aluminum, carbon, or a combination of both materials. Carbon bolts are lighter and provide better speed and accuracy, while aluminum bolts are more durable and less prone to breaking, making the choice dependent on personal preferences and hunting conditions.
- Fletching: The fletching on the rear of the bolt stabilizes its flight and affects accuracy. Different fletching configurations, such as the number of vanes and their shape, can influence the bolt’s performance in varying weather conditions and distances.
- Tip Type: The type of tip on your crossbow bolts is vital for hunting, with options including field points, broadheads, and mechanical tips. Broadheads are designed for hunting and provide maximum cutting diameter, while field points are used primarily for practice, so selecting the right tip is essential for your specific hunting needs.
- Manufacturer Specifications: It is important to consider the specifications provided by the bolt manufacturer, including the recommended crossbow speed and compatibility. Ensuring that the bolts align with your crossbow’s requirements can prevent damage to both the bolts and the crossbow itself.
What Types of Crossbow Hunting Bolts Are Available?
The types of crossbow hunting bolts available include:
- Carbon Bolts: Carbon bolts are lightweight and offer excellent speed and accuracy, making them a popular choice among hunters. Their construction allows for greater durability and resistance to bending compared to aluminum bolts, and they often feature enhanced fletching for improved flight stability.
- Aluminum Bolts: Aluminum bolts provide a good balance between weight and strength, making them a reliable option for target shooting and hunting. They are typically less expensive than carbon bolts but can be more prone to bending upon impact, which may affect their longevity and performance.
- Hybrid Bolts: Hybrid bolts combine materials, usually carbon and aluminum, to take advantage of the benefits of both. This design can enhance durability while maintaining a lightweight profile, offering hunters a versatile option that performs well in various conditions.
- Broadhead Bolts: Specifically designed to accommodate broadheads, these bolts often have reinforced tips and are optimized for hunting. They are built for heavy-duty use to ensure they can withstand the impact of hunting larger game while maintaining accuracy and penetration.
- Practice Bolts: Designed for training and practice, these bolts are typically made from more economical materials and may not have the same level of durability as hunting bolts. They are useful for honing shooting skills and are generally less expensive, allowing for more frequent practice without the cost of premium hunting bolts.
How Do Carbon and Aluminum Bolts Compare?
| Aspect | Carbon Bolts | Aluminum Bolts |
|---|---|---|
| Material Strength | High tensile strength, providing better performance in high-impact situations. | Moderate strength, can bend under high stress but is durable for many uses. |
| Weight | Lightweight, allowing for faster speeds and easier handling. | Heavier, which can reduce speed but may provide better stability in flight. |
| Cost | Generally more expensive due to manufacturing processes. | More affordable, making them accessible for budget-friendly options. |
| Durability | Highly durable and resistant to breaking, but can be more fragile than aluminum. | Less prone to breaking, but may dent or bend with excessive force. |
| Performance in Wind Conditions | Perform better in wind due to their aerodynamic design. | Can be affected by wind, leading to less accurate shots. |
| Compatibility with Different Crossbow Models | Generally compatible with most modern crossbows. | Compatibility can vary; check specifications of the crossbow. |
| Variety of Uses Beyond Hunting | Suitable for target practice and competitive shooting. | Commonly used for recreational shooting and training. |
| Recommendations for Specific Hunting Scenarios | Recommended for long-range hunting due to speed. | Better for short-range or medium-range hunting due to stability. |
| Availability of Different Sizes and Types | Available in various sizes, often tailored for specific bow types. | Also available in many sizes, typically more standardized. |
What Specialty Bolts Exist for Different Game?
There are several types of specialty bolts designed for crossbow hunting, each offering unique features suited to different game.
- Broadhead Bolts: These bolts come equipped with broadhead tips designed for maximum cutting efficiency, making them ideal for larger game like deer or elk.
- Field Point Bolts: Typically used for practice, these bolts have a pointed tip that mimics the aerodynamic shape of broadheads, allowing hunters to fine-tune their aim before heading into the field.
- Mechanical Broadhead Bolts: Featuring blades that expand upon impact, these bolts provide a larger entry wound and are effective for taking down larger animals with minimal effort.
- Fixed Blade Bolts: These bolts have fixed blade broadheads that maintain their cutting edges, offering reliability and simplicity, making them a great choice for hunters who prefer a straightforward approach.
- Carbon Bolts: Known for their lightweight and durable nature, carbon bolts provide high speed and accuracy, which is essential for hunting fast-moving or evasive game.
- Aluminum Bolts: Heavier than carbon, aluminum bolts can provide better penetration and are often chosen for their strength, making them suitable for larger game in tougher hunting conditions.
- Heavy-Duty Bolts: Designed specifically for high-impact scenarios, these bolts are reinforced to withstand the force of shooting at larger animals, ensuring they do not break or bend upon impact.
- Custom Length Bolts: Some hunters opt for custom-length bolts tailored to their specific crossbow setup, optimizing performance and ensuring the best fit for their hunting style.
How Do Bolt Length and Weight Affect Performance?
Bolt Weight: Heavier bolts tend to retain energy better and provide greater penetration, making them ideal for hunting larger game. Conversely, lighter bolts can achieve higher speeds, which may improve accuracy at shorter ranges but may lack sufficient penetration power.
Material Composition: Bolts made from carbon or aluminum can offer different benefits in terms of weight and durability. Carbon bolts are typically lighter and can provide better speed, while aluminum bolts are more robust and can withstand harsh conditions but can be heavier.
Fletching Size and Style: Larger fletchings can stabilize a bolt’s flight over longer distances, while smaller fletchings can reduce drag for faster speeds. The choice of fletching can greatly influence how well the bolt performs in various environmental conditions.
What Role Does Fletching Style Play in Accuracy?
The fletching style of a crossbow hunting bolt significantly influences its accuracy and flight stability.
- Vaned Fletching: Vanes are made from plastic or a similar material, and they provide a consistent flight path due to their rigidity. These fletchings are generally shorter and lighter, which can reduce drag and allow for faster arrow speeds, making them ideal for hunting situations where quick follow-up shots may be necessary.
- Feather Fletching: Traditionally used in archery, feather fletchings are lightweight and offer excellent stabilization at slower speeds. They are particularly effective for traditional archery and crossbow bolts in lower wind conditions but can be less durable and absorb moisture, which may affect performance over time.
- Helical Fletching: This style involves twisting the vanes or feathers to create a spin on the bolt during flight, leading to increased stability and accuracy. The spinning motion helps counteract any yaw or side-to-side movement, which can be especially beneficial for long-range shots.
- Straight Fletching: Straight fletching is aligned parallel to the bolt shaft and is less effective at stabilizing flight compared to helical fletching. However, it can reduce drag and is often used for specific hunting scenarios where speed is prioritized over stabilization.
- Offset Fletching: This style combines elements of both straight and helical fletching, providing a balance between flight stability and speed. Offset fletching can help achieve a more stable flight while maintaining a lower profile, making it suitable for various hunting conditions.
Which Brands Are the Most Trusted for Crossbow Hunting Bolts?
The most trusted brands for crossbow hunting bolts include:
- Easton: Known for their high-quality arrows and bolts, Easton offers a range of crossbow bolts that are designed for precision and durability.
- Carbon Express: This brand is recognized for its innovative designs and advanced materials, providing crossbow hunters with bolts that enhance accuracy and performance.
- Ravin: Ravin bolts are engineered specifically for their crossbows, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance in various hunting scenarios.
- Barnett: Barnett provides reliable and well-constructed crossbow bolts that are trusted by both beginners and seasoned hunters for their performance and consistency.
- Bloodsport: Bloodsport is known for its focus on lethal accuracy, and their crossbow bolts are crafted with advanced technology to ensure precision and reliability in the field.
Easton: This brand has a strong reputation in the archery community, particularly for their focus on engineering and manufacturing high-performance products. Easton crossbow bolts are often praised for their straightness tolerances and consistent weight, which contribute to better accuracy and enhanced flight stability.
Carbon Express: Carbon Express is synonymous with innovation in the archery world, and their crossbow bolts frequently incorporate cutting-edge technology such as carbon construction that increases strength while keeping weight low. Their products also undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the demands of serious hunters and competitive archers alike.
Ravin: As a brand that specializes in crossbows, Ravin produces bolts that are meticulously designed to complement their own line of crossbows. They focus on delivering maximum kinetic energy and precision, and their bolts often feature unique fletching and construction techniques that enhance performance in the field.
Barnett: Barnett has established a solid reputation for producing reliable crossbow equipment, including bolts that are built to withstand the rigors of hunting. Their bolts are designed to provide consistent flight patterns and are often favored for their durability and ability to maintain sharpness over extended periods.
Bloodsport: Bloodsport is dedicated to providing hunters with equipment that emphasizes lethal performance, and their crossbow bolts are no exception. They utilize advanced carbon composites and engineering practices to produce bolts that not only fly straight but also deliver devastating impact upon contact with the target.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Selecting Crossbow Bolts?
- Choosing the Wrong Length: Selecting bolts that are too short or too long can lead to poor flight and accuracy issues. The ideal bolt length is typically specified by the crossbow manufacturer and should match the draw weight and size of your crossbow.
- Ignoring Weight Specifications: Crossbow bolts come in various weights, and using bolts that are too light or too heavy can negatively impact your shooting. Heavier bolts tend to provide better penetration, while lighter bolts may fly faster but could lose energy upon impact.
- Neglecting Fletching Type: The type of fletching can significantly affect how a bolt stabilizes in flight. Different designs, such as vanes or feathers, can influence accuracy and distance, so it’s essential to choose fletching that complements your shooting style and conditions.
- Not Considering Material: Crossbow bolts are made from different materials, such as aluminum or carbon, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Carbon bolts are lightweight and provide better speed, while aluminum bolts are often more durable but can be heavier and less efficient in the air.
- Overlooking Broadhead Compatibility: The type of broadhead used can impact the effectiveness of your crossbow bolt. Ensure that the broadheads you choose are compatible with the bolt diameter and weight to ensure optimal performance during hunting.
- Disregarding Quality Brands: Skimping on the brand and quality of your bolts can lead to inconsistent performance and safety issues. Investing in reputable brands that are known for producing reliable crossbow bolts will enhance your overall shooting experience.
How Can You Properly Maintain Your Crossbow Hunting Bolts?
Proper maintenance of your crossbow hunting bolts is essential for optimal performance and accuracy.
- Regular Inspections: Frequent checks for any signs of damage or wear are crucial.
- Cleaning: Keeping bolts clean from dirt and debris enhances their performance.
- Storage Conditions: Proper storage prevents warping and damage to the bolts.
- Fletching Maintenance: Ensuring the fletching is intact and correctly aligned can significantly improve accuracy.
- Replacing Damaged Components: Timely replacement of any damaged or worn parts maintains safety and performance.
Regular Inspections: Periodically examine your hunting bolts for cracks, splinters, or bent shafts. This is especially important after a day of hunting, as even minor damage can affect accuracy and safety during your next outing.
Cleaning: Use a soft cloth to wipe down bolts after use, removing any dirt, moisture, or blood that may have accumulated. Regular cleaning helps prevent corrosion and maintains the integrity of the materials used in the bolts.
Storage Conditions: Store your bolts in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping. Using a protective case or rack can help keep them organized and shielded from potential impacts or environmental damage.
Fletching Maintenance: Check the vanes or feathers attached to your bolts for any tears or misalignments. Damaged fletching can disrupt flight patterns, so it’s essential to repair or replace them when necessary to ensure consistent performance.
Replacing Damaged Components: If you notice any damaged nocks or tips, replace them immediately to avoid compromising safety during shooting. Keeping a spare set of components can help you quickly fix any issues and maintain your equipment in peak condition.
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