Here’s an overview of the Best Crossbow Bolts that we’ll explore today:
Crossbow bolts (arrows) are a core consumable that directly influence accuracy, penetration, and overall hunting or target performance. With options ranging from fiberglass to carbon shafts and varied tip configurations, choosing the right bolt depends on draw weight, crossbow model compatibility, flight stability, and the intended use (practice, target, or hunting). This comparison reviews five representative bolts from five brands across a price spectrum, highlighting what you get at each price point, how materials and construction affect performance, and where each bolt best fits a given shooter. Our methodology included evaluating shaft material (carbon vs fiberglass), shaft diameter, vane/feather design, tip type, weight consistency, nock compatibility, and user-centric factors such as packaging, warranty, and stated weight (grain). We also cross-checked manufacturer recommendations and typical use cases to assess real-world suitability.
1. Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 Pack
- Brand: BOWSOUL
- Manufacturer: BOWSOUL
This BOWSOUL package combines 20-inch carbon bolts with included 3-blade 100-grain broadheads and 100-grain points, delivering an all-in-one hunting-ready solution. The set emphasizes high-hardness vanes and weight sorting to minimize dispersion, with shafts described as 8.8 mm in outer diameter and an approximate 400-grain total weight per bolt. The included broadheads and fixed points reduce setup friction for new shooters or those who want a ready-to-fire option out of the box. The packaging and warranty promise a quality-inspected product with 24/7 customer support, signaling a consumer-first approach to post-purchase service.
Performance-wise, the carbon shafts should provide improved torsional stiffness and consistency at typical crossbow speeds, aiding stability and tracking with a stated weight spread within 5 grains across the 12 bolts. The combination of broadheads and field points allows quick head-to-head testing of hunting loads, but users should confirm compatibility with their specific crossbow model to avoid issues with clearance around the string or rail. Given the 20-inch length and 8.8 mm diameter, these bolts are suited to mid-to-high draw weight setups where flight stability and penetration are priorities. Potential drawbacks include the lack of individual bolt-by-bolt weight specification in the listing and a relatively short warranty window (1 month) compared to some premium options.
Pros
- All-in-one hunting package with 12 bolts, 6 broadheads, and 12 field points
- High-hardness vanes designed to resist deformation at high speeds
- Weight sorting claim to reduce variance within a 5-grain window
- Carbon shafts for stiffness and consistency
- Verified 24/7 customer support promise
Cons
- Weight variance troubleshooting requires independent verification since exact per-bolt weights aren’t itemized
- Broadhead compatibility with non-BOWSOUL crossbows isn’t guaranteed
- Limited warranty window (1 month) compared to some rivals
2. Archery Crossbow Bolts Fiberglass Arrows with Flat Nock Replaced Arrowheads for Outdoor Hunting 14 16 inch (Pack of 12)
- Brand: SHENG-RUI
- Manufacturer: SHENG-RUI
SHENG-RUI’s fiberglass crossbow bolts offer a budget-friendly option with 16-inch shafts, flat aluminum nocks, and replaceable 100-grain points. The fiberglass construction reduces cost and weight, while the aluminum inserts provide a robust interface for screw-in points. The set includes 3-inch TPU vanes in a high-visibility color pattern (green and orange) to aid recovery after shots. This package emphasizes entry-level value and ease of customization, making it an appealing choice for casual shooting, introductory hunting, or back-up bolt sets.
In practice, fiberglass bolts deliver usable performance for slower crossbows or lower-velocity setups, but they typically exhibit higher drag and lower stiffness than carbon, which can affect flight stability and consistency at longer ranges. The 12-pack configuration and replaceable points add flexibility for different hunting scenarios, but users should confirm the bolt’s compatibility with their crossbow’s power stroke, arrow length (16 inches in the listing), and nock type. A notable strength is the cost-per-bolt value, while a potential caveat is the absence of explicit weight specifications per bolt, which can influence grouping at typical hunting distances.
Pros
- Very affordable per-bolt cost
- Replaceable 100-grain points with aluminum inserts for versatility
- 3-inch TPU vanes improve flight visibility and tracking
- Flat nocks are easy to index and align
- Suitable for entry-level or casual shooting
Cons
- Fiberglass shafts generally heavier and less stiff than carbon
- Limited explicit weight consistency data
- Potentially reduced long-range accuracy compared to carbon bolts
3. Xpedition Archery XIT-20 Crossbow Bolts 6-Pack
- Brand: Xpedition Archery
- Manufacturer: Xpedition Archery
Xpedition Archery advertises the XIT-20 as a dedicated carbon bolt option designed for use with several Xpedition crossbows (Scrapeline 390X, Trophy 410X, Xtraction 400X, Xpedite 420). Each bolt runs 20 inches with 380-grain total weight, clip-on nocks, shield-cut fletchings, and included target points (broadheads sold separately). The six-pack emphasizes carbon shaft durability and consistent flight, with a manufacturer warranty of 1 year. While marketed as a cross-compatibility purchase within the brand family, the caveat notes that cross-use with other manufacturers’ crossbows requires user verification of safety and compatibility.
Performance-wise, 380 grains implies a mid-range weight profile that should maintain good velocity in mid-to-high draw weight setups while delivering reasonable kinetic energy for hunting. The shield-cut fletchings are designed to reduce air resistance and help stabilize flight, though the absence of included broadheads means shooters will need to source compatible hunting tips separately. Given the 6-pack configuration and carbon construction, these bolts are well-suited for repeatable accuracy and reliable group performance for owners within the Xpedition ecosystem, while cross-brand use should be approached cautiously to avoid warranty voidance or performance issues.
Pros
- Carbon shafts for stiffness and precision
- Shield-cut fletchings promote stable flight
- 6-pack provides a ready-to-use, low-setup option
- Tailored for specific Xpedition crossbows with recommended compatibility
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Broadheads not included; separate purchase required
- Limited cross-compatibility once outside the Xpedition line
- No explicit per-bolt weight specification in the listing
4. Barnett Evac Decocking Bolt (5
- Brand: BARNETT
- Manufacturer: BARNETT
Barnett’s Evac de-cocking bolts are a safety-focused accessory rather than a hunting bolt set. Sold as a 5-pack, these aluminum bolts are designed to decock the crossbow safely after use. The bolts glow in the dark to aid alignment and track, addressing practical handling in low light. They are compatible with Barnett quivers but not compatible with the Hyper series, signaling brand-specific ecosystem constraints. A 500-grain weight description suggests a bulkier option appropriate for deactivation rather than high-velocity hunting performance.
From a user-experience perspective, these de-cocking bolts are about safe, controlled disengagement rather than penetration performance. They are intended for practice sessions, safe unloading, and storage rather than hunting efficiency. The glow-in-the-dark feature is helpful for quick retrieval and proper fletching alignment, reducing chance of misfires during post-shoot handling. However, as a safety accessory, they do not replace standard hunting bolts for performance-focused use.
Pros
- Specialized safety function for de-cocking
- Glow-in-the-dark visibility aids handling in low light
- Strong aluminum construction
- Brand compatibility with Barnett quivers
Cons
- Not a hunting bolt; limited relevance for field performance
- Only compatible with non-Hyper Barnett models
- No performance metrics like weight distribution or flight stability
5. Small Crossbow Bolts 6.3 Inch Mini Crossbow Arrows 50lbs-80lbs for Kids Adults Hunting Shooting Practice (60Pack)
- Brand: Kavard
- Manufacturer: Kavard
Kavard offers an ultra-short, 6.3-inch mini crossbow bolt set designed for 50–80 lb draw-weight mini crossbows and pistol crossbows. These are plastic/metal construction with plastic flighting and metal tips designed for high-impact practice and casual use. The 60-pack format makes them an economical option for frequent plinking and training scenarios, especially for youth or beginners using compact crossbow platforms. With a stated draw weight and compact dimensions, these bolts emphasize durability and repeatable practice ammo rather than hunting efficiency.
In practice, these mini bolts deliver straightforward performance for close-range practice and target shooting. The plastic flights and shorter shaft reduce weight and complexity, but actual penetration and stability will be limited at higher velocities or longer ranges. They are best suited for indoor ranges, backyard practice, or introductory training to teach bolt handling and basic aim without incurring significant cost per shot.
Pros
- Low-cost, high-volume pack ideal for training
- Compact size compatible with small crossbows
- Durable plastic flights help with reuse
- Easy to handle for beginners and youth shooters
Cons
- Not intended for hunting or high-velocity use
- Short shaft length limits effective range and accuracy
- Mixed materials may yield inconsistent flight compared to carbon
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about crossbow boltss to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final assessment: If your priority is hunting-grade performance with assured flight stability across standard crossbows, the Xpedition XIT-20 (Product 2) stands out as the premium pick due to its carbon construction, 380 gr weight target, and warranty. For value-conscious buyers, the SHENG-RUI fiberglass set (Product 1) provides a solid entry-level option, though expect trade-offs in stiffness and distance performance.
The BOWSOUL all-in-one package (Product 0) is attractive for new hunters seeking convenience, but confirm weight consistency and broaden compatibility with your crossbow. Barnett users who want safe, simple post-shot handling will appreciate the Evac de-cocking bolts (Product 3) as a safety accessory rather than a hunting bolt.
Finally, Kavard’s mini bolts (Product 4) are best for young or casual shooters focusing on practice rather than field hunting. Overall, match your choice to your crossbow’s draw weight, desired range, and whether you value immediate hunting-ready accessories versus long-term flight performance..