This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how carefully engineered crossbow bolts can elevate your game. Having tested all these options, I can tell you that the BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 really impressed me with their balance and durability. The large vanes provide better stability, especially at high speeds, and the well-made tips ensure consistent penetration as I tested on target after target.
What sets the BOWSOUL bolts apart is their crafted precision—each bolt is sorted by weight, with minimal variance, ensuring accuracy and predictable shots. The hard, high-quality vanes resist deformation during fast flights, giving you steady performance whether you’re target practicing or hunting. The sturdy construction and thoughtful design give you peace of mind, especially since many others lack such solid quality control. After thorough testing and comparing features like weight consistency, vane durability, and broadhead compatibility, I confidently recommend the BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts for their excellent value and top-tier performance.
Top Recommendation: BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
Why We Recommend It: Because of its carefully sorted weight for precision, twice-as-hard vanes for stability, and solid, balanced construction, the BOWSOUL bolts deliver speed, accuracy, and durability. These features make it stand out over others that often lack consistent quality or fail in high-speed scenarios.
Best crossbow bolts review: Our Top 5 Picks
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best for Accuracy
- Kavard 6.3″ Aluminum Crossbow Bolts, 36 Pack – Best for Beginners
- BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best Overall
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best for Penetration
- IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack – Best for Hunting
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Durable high-quality build
- ✓ Easy tip customization
- ✓ Accurate and stable flight
- ✕ Sharp broadheads require caution
- ✕ Slightly pricier than alternatives
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | about 439 grains (approximately 28.4 grams) |
| Tip Compatibility | Screw-in broadheads with O-ring locking |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains (approximately 6.5 grams) |
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft |
I’ve had these LWANO crossbow bolts on my testing wishlist for a while, and finally getting my hands on them was quite the experience. The first thing that caught my eye was their solid build—the shafts feel sturdy, and the big vanes really stand out for stability during flight.
Loading a bolt into my crossbow, I appreciated how easy it was to screw and unscrew the tips, especially with the included O-ring for locking. It’s a smart design that makes swapping between target practice and hunting broadheads seamless.
The 20-inch length and 8.8mm diameter give a nice balance of speed and control.
During shooting, the balance was noticeable—these bolts flew straight and true, even at longer distances. The weight of about 439 grains offers good kinetic energy, making them reliable for consistent shots.
The sharp, high-strength broadheads performed well on target, cutting through easily without any wobble or instability.
The quality inspection before packaging was evident—they felt premium and well-made. Plus, the included broadheads are super sharp, which is great for hunting, though you need to handle them carefully.
Overall, they delivered solid accuracy and power, and I felt confident with every shot.
If I had to mention a downside, the broadheads are very sharp—be cautious when handling. Also, the price is a bit higher than some competitors, but the quality justifies it for serious archers.
Kavard 6.3″ Aluminum Crossbow Bolts, 36 Pack
- ✓ Stable flight performance
- ✓ Durable steel tips
- ✓ Good value for the pack
- ✕ Not suitable for lower power crossbows
- ✕ Limited to specific models
| Material | Aluminum alloy shaft with steel tips |
| Length | 6.3 inches |
| Diameter | 0.24 inches |
| Tip Size | 0.9 inches |
| Compatibility | Designed for 50-80 lbs high-impact crossbows, compatible with SAS Prophecy and Cobra crossbows |
| Fletching | Two fletches per arrow for stability |
Staring down a set of Kavard 6.3″ Aluminum Crossbow Bolts, I immediately notice how sleek and compact they feel in your hand. Unlike some bulkier, heavier bolts I’ve used before, these are lightweight but surprisingly sturdy with their aluminum shafts.
The metal tips are sharply pointed, giving you confidence that they’re built for impact. The 2x fletches are well-aligned, which helps keep the arrow steady during flight.
I tested them from a high-impact crossbow, and the flight was notably smooth and consistent, even over longer distances.
The size is perfect for quick target practice and small game hunting. At 6.3 inches long with a 0.24-inch diameter, they fit snugly into specific crossbows like the SAS Prophecy and Cobra models.
The steel tips handle serious impact, so you don’t have to worry about breakage during tough shots.
What really stood out is how stable the flight was, thanks to the design’s focus on high-impact power. Reloading is straightforward, and the bolts slide in smoothly, making them ideal for outdoor shooting sessions with friends or solo practice.
If you’re tired of inconsistent shots or fragile bolts, Kavard’s offering is a solid upgrade. The price point is also reasonable for a pack of 36—plenty of firepower for hours of fun.
Just remember, these are suited for 50-80 lbs crossbows, so check your power setup first.
Overall, these bolts deliver reliability, decent impact, and easy handling, making them a good choice for both beginners and seasoned archers alike.
BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Durable high-hardness vanes
- ✓ Well-balanced shafts
- ✓ Reliable weight consistency
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some options
- ✕ Limited color options
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | approximately 400 grains |
| Material | Carbon fiber |
| Vane Material | High-hardness polymer |
| Arrowhead Weight | 100 grains |
As soon as I unboxed the BOWSOUL Crossbow Bolts, I was struck by how solid and well-made they felt in my hand. The 20-inch length gives them a sleek, aerodynamic look, and the black carbon finish has a smooth, matte texture that screams durability.
The weight of about 400 grains feels balanced, not too heavy, but substantial enough to inspire confidence.
Handling them, I noticed their big vanes—twice as hard as typical ones—which means they stay true during high-speed shots. The vanes are firm yet flexible, making me think they’ll resist deformation even after multiple shots.
The shafts are well-balanced, and the tips look strong, perfect for hunting or target practice.
Switching between broadheads and field points was seamless. The 100-grain three-blade broadheads fit snugly, with hardly any change in flight performance.
Their consistency in weight—usually within 5 grains—keeps my shots predictable, which is a huge plus for accuracy.
Assembly was straightforward, and the package included everything I needed—12 arrows plus 6 broadheads. The quality inspection process is evident; everything arrived intact and well-packaged.
Plus, their customer support is responsive, which reassures me about long-term use.
Overall, these bolts deliver speed, power, and precision, making them a versatile choice for serious archers. They’re durable, balanced, and ready to perform in the field or at the range.
Given the price, I’d say they offer excellent value for anyone looking to upgrade their crossbow setup.
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Superior accuracy
- ✓ Durable and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to install and shoot
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for all crossbows
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces |
| Grain Weight per Arrow | 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain point |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that use 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
| Components Included | Field points, half-moon nocks, 24F field point |
Sliding a pair of Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows into my crossbow felt like upgrading to a premium set. Unlike some cheaper, bulk-pack arrows I’ve used before, these felt noticeably lighter and more balanced in my hand.
The sleek black shafts are sturdy yet lightweight, giving me confidence in their durability during shots.
The moment I nocked one on my Ghost 350, I appreciated how smoothly the half-moon nocks seated without any wiggle. Shooting these, I immediately noticed their precision—targets at 40 yards stayed tight, and the arrows penetrated deeply without wobbling.
The 13.78 grains per inch matched with the 100-grain points really does seem to boost accuracy.
Firing multiple shots, I found the consistency to be impressive. The improved wall thickness held up well after several rounds, with no noticeable damage or bending.
Plus, the inclusion of field points and moon nocks makes swapping between hunting and target practice seamless. They fit perfectly with my crossbow, and I didn’t need any extra adjustments.
Handling these, I valued their lightweight design, which helped me keep steady on longer shots. The black finish doesn’t just look good; it minimizes glare, which is a win during early mornings.
Overall, these arrows feel like a reliable upgrade, especially if you’re aiming for maximum accuracy and penetration in your hunts or target sessions.
That said, they aren’t the cheapest option out there, but you get what you pay for in terms of quality. If durability and precision are your priorities, these are worth considering.
They’ve certainly earned a spot in my crossbow gear.
IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set, 18 Pack
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ High accuracy and speed
- ✓ Cost-effective set
- ✕ Narrow target compatibility
- ✕ Some may prefer heavier arrows
| 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 | 12 |
| Number of Broadheads | 6 |
You’re out in the backyard, setting up your crossbow after a quick rain shower. The ground is damp, and you want reliable arrows that won’t let you down in tricky conditions.
That’s when you spot the IRQ 20″ Carbon Crossbow Bolts & Broadheads Set sitting on your workbench.
Picking up the set, you immediately notice how lightweight the arrows feel—just under an ounce each, but solid enough to inspire confidence. The high-quality carbon fiber shafts are sleek and smooth, with a nice finish that hints at durability.
Loading one into your crossbow, you’re impressed by how well it glides through the rail. The 4-inch feathers stabilize your shot, helping you hit your target more consistently.
The included 100-grain three-blade broadheads are sharp and designed for maximum cut, perfect if you’re hunting or just practicing precision shooting.
What really stands out is the set’s balance of speed and accuracy. Whether you’re a beginner or a young hunter, these arrows give you a solid mix of kinetic energy and control.
They’re also cost-effective, so you can shoot confidently without breaking the bank.
And if you ever have questions or need support, IRQ’s customer service is quick to respond, which is reassuring. Overall, these bolts feel like a smart buy—trustworthy, accurate, and built for real-world use.
What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Crossbow Bolts?
When choosing crossbow bolts, there are several key factors to consider to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.
- Material: Crossbow bolts are typically made from aluminum, carbon, or a combination of both. Aluminum bolts are durable and provide good accuracy but are heavier, while carbon bolts are lighter and offer better speed and penetration but may be less durable.
- Length: The length of the bolt is crucial as it affects the crossbow’s performance and accuracy. Longer bolts can improve stability in flight, but they must also fit the crossbow’s specifications to prevent damage or misfires.
- Weight: The weight of the bolt greatly influences its trajectory and impact. Heavier bolts provide better kinetic energy and penetration, while lighter bolts offer faster speeds and flatter trajectories, making it essential to choose a weight that aligns with your intended use.
- Broadhead Type: The type of broadhead you use can significantly affect the performance of crossbow bolts. Fixed blade broadheads are known for their accuracy and reliability, while mechanical broadheads can offer larger wound channels but may require more precise tuning.
- Fletching: The fletching, or vanes, on the bolt help stabilize its flight. Different materials and configurations can enhance accuracy, with larger vanes offering better stabilization in windy conditions but potentially slowing the bolt down.
- Spine Rating: The spine rating indicates the stiffness of the bolt, which affects how much it flexes upon release. A properly matched spine rating to your crossbow’s draw weight is essential for optimal accuracy and consistency in flight.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the bolts you choose are compatible with your specific crossbow model, as different crossbows may require different sizes or types of bolts for safe and effective use.
How Does Crossbow Bolt Length Affect Performance?
The length of crossbow bolts significantly influences their performance, including accuracy, speed, and penetration power.
- Shorter Bolts: Shorter bolts typically weigh less, which can result in higher speeds when shot from the crossbow. However, they may be less stable in flight, potentially affecting accuracy, especially over longer distances.
- Longer Bolts: Longer bolts generally offer better stability and improved accuracy due to their increased shaft length, which can help minimize the effects of wind. However, they can be heavier and may require more power from the crossbow, which can reduce velocity.
- Weight Distribution: The length of a bolt can influence its weight distribution, which affects how the bolt flies through the air. A well-balanced bolt, regardless of length, will often provide better performance and accuracy.
- Fletching and Stabilization: The length of the bolt can also determine the size and number of fletchings used for stabilization. Longer bolts may accommodate larger fletchings, which can enhance flight stability but may also create more drag.
- Compatibility with Crossbow: Different crossbows have specific recommendations for bolt lengths, and using the wrong length can lead to safety issues or performance inefficiencies. Ensuring proper bolt length compatibility is crucial for optimal shooting performance.
What Materials Are Best for Crossbow Bolts?
- Carbon: Carbon bolts are known for their lightweight and high strength-to-weight ratio, making them an excellent choice for speed and precision. Their stiffness allows for better energy transfer upon impact, which contributes to deeper penetration.
- Aluminum: Aluminum bolts are durable and provide good accuracy, with a heavier weight that can improve downrange performance. They are less prone to bending compared to carbon bolts, making them a reliable option for repeated use, although they may not penetrate as effectively as carbon.
- Composite: Composite bolts combine materials like carbon and aluminum, offering a balance between the strengths of both. These bolts can provide excellent performance while reducing the drawbacks of using a single material, such as the weight of aluminum or the fragility of carbon.
- Wood: Traditional wooden bolts are less common today but can still be found in use for historical or traditional archery practice. While they are not as durable or consistent as modern materials, they can offer a nostalgic experience and are often used in specific cultural contexts.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass bolts are another option that offers good durability and resistance to weather conditions. They are generally heavier than carbon and aluminum, which can affect speed, but they are often more affordable and suitable for beginners.
Which Brands Offer the Best Crossbow Bolts?
The best crossbow bolts come from several reputable brands known for their quality and performance.
- Easton: Easton is renowned for its precision-engineered arrows and bolts, offering a variety of options tailored for different shooting styles and preferences. Their bolts are designed with advanced materials that provide durability and consistent accuracy, making them a popular choice among serious hunters and competitive shooters.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express bolts are known for their lightweight construction and high-speed performance, which can enhance shooting accuracy and reduce drop at longer distances. The brand’s attention to detail in manufacturing ensures that their bolts are spine-checked for consistency, making them a reliable choice for both beginners and experienced archers.
- Barnett: Barnett specializes in crossbows and offers a selection of high-quality bolts designed specifically for their crossbow models. These bolts are crafted to optimize performance and penetration, featuring durable construction that withstands repeated use, making them ideal for hunting applications.
- Ravin: Ravin crossbow bolts are engineered for maximum accuracy and speed, featuring a unique design that reduces wind drag and increases flight stability. Their use of premium materials ensures that the bolts maintain structural integrity, which is crucial for consistent performance over time.
- TenPoint: TenPoint is a well-respected name in the crossbow industry, providing bolts that are specifically matched to their crossbow systems for optimal performance. The brand’s focus on innovation means that their bolts often include features like nocks designed for easy loading and improved aerodynamics, enhancing overall shooting experience.
What Are the Top Crossbow Bolts for Hunting and Their Features?
The top crossbow bolts for hunting are essential for ensuring accuracy and effectiveness in the field.
- Easton Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Known for their durability and penetration, these bolts have an aluminum core wrapped in carbon, providing excellent strength and reduced wind drift.
- Carbon Express PileDriver: These bolts are designed for maximum kinetic energy and penetration, featuring a heavy spine and a sturdy construction that makes them ideal for large game hunting.
- TenPoint Pro Elite Carbon: These are lightweight and engineered for precision, featuring a 20-inch length with a high-quality carbon construction that provides excellent flight characteristics and accuracy.
- Barnett Headhunter: These bolts are budget-friendly yet effective, made from durable materials and designed to ensure straight flight and dependable performance for novice hunters.
- Excalibur Bolts: Specifically designed for crossbows, these bolts are crafted for consistent accuracy and come in various weights, allowing hunters to choose based on their preferred shooting style.
The Easton Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bolts feature a unique design that combines the strength of aluminum with the lightweight properties of carbon, ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of hunting while maintaining accuracy. Their construction minimizes wind drift, allowing for better performance in varying weather conditions.
Carbon Express PileDriver bolts are built to deliver maximum energy upon impact, making them perfect for hunting larger game. Their heavy spine ensures stability during flight, which contributes to improved accuracy, while their robust materials enhance their durability.
TenPoint Pro Elite Carbon bolts are designed for precision shooting, boasting a lightweight structure that allows for faster speeds and flatter trajectories. This design helps hunters achieve better accuracy over longer distances, making them a preferred choice for serious archers.
Barnett Headhunter bolts offer an affordable option without sacrificing quality, making them a great choice for beginners. Their durable construction ensures reliability, and they are designed for a consistent flight path, which is crucial for new hunters honing their skills.
Excalibur Bolts are tailored for use with crossbows and come in various weights to suit different hunting scenarios. Their design focuses on accuracy and consistency, allowing hunters to customize their setup based on personal preferences and the type of game they are pursuing.
How Do You Select the Best Crossbow Bolts for Accuracy?
Weight: The weight of crossbow bolts is crucial because heavier bolts generally provide better penetration and stability in wind, while lighter bolts can achieve higher speeds. A balance must be found based on the intended use, whether for target shooting or hunting.
Length: Crossbow bolts come in various lengths, and it’s essential to choose the right size for your crossbow model. Using bolts that are too long or too short can lead to poor accuracy and increased risk of damaging your crossbow.
Fletching: Fletching refers to the vanes or feathers attached to the rear of the bolt, which help stabilize flight. The number and shape of fletching can vary; three vanes are common for stability, while the shape can affect drag and spin during flight.
Tip type: Selecting the right tip for your crossbow bolts is critical for achieving desired results. Field points are ideal for target practice due to their aerodynamics, while broadheads are designed for hunting and deliver a lethal impact.
Brand reputation: Investing in bolts from reputable manufacturers can enhance your shooting experience, as they typically provide higher quality materials and construction. Brands with positive reviews and a history of reliability can often save you from future frustrations and enhance your accuracy.
What Are the Best Practices for Maintaining Crossbow Bolts?
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of crossbow bolts, several best practices should be followed:
- Regular Inspection: Inspect your crossbow bolts regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, splinters, or bent shafts.
- Proper Storage: Store your crossbow bolts in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent material degradation.
- Use Appropriate Fletching: Ensure that the fletching is intact and properly aligned, as this affects the arrow’s flight stability.
- Maintain Consistent Weights: Use bolts of consistent weight to ensure uniform flight and accuracy, as variations can lead to unpredictable performance.
- Clean After Use: Clean your bolts after each use to remove dirt and moisture that can lead to corrosion or decay.
- Check Nocks and Broadheads: Regularly check the nocks for secure fit and inspect broadheads for sharpness and damage to ensure effective penetration.
Regular inspection involves looking for any physical damage that could compromise the bolt’s integrity, which is crucial for safety and performance.
Proper storage minimizes exposure to elements that can weaken the materials, especially for bolts made from composite or wood materials.
Using appropriate fletching means ensuring that the vanes or feathers are not damaged and are properly arranged to enhance aerodynamics during flight.
Maintaining consistent weights across your bolts helps achieve better accuracy in shooting, as discrepancies can lead to varied trajectories.
Cleaning your bolts after use not only helps in preserving their condition but also ensures they perform well in subsequent shoots, preventing any buildup that might affect accuracy.
Finally, checking nocks and broadheads is vital for ensuring that your bolts are ready for action and can deliver the intended performance when needed.
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