Table of Contents
Best Crossbow Bolts
Lost a couple bolts in the leaf patches? Did they get damaged hitting the wall? Maybe you’re looking for some extra bolts now before either of those scenarios happen, and if that’s the case, this best crossbow bolts has you covered.
Comparison Table: Best Crossbow Bolts In 2021
Award | Crossbow Bolts | Specs |
|---|---|---|
| 20-Inch Carbon  | Length = 20" Weight = 386 grain Material = Carbon Lighted nock = Yes |
| Hunter Fletched BuffTuff Plus Carbon Crossbolt  | Length = 20" Weight = 390 grain Material = Carbon Lighted nock = No |
|  | Length = 20" & 22" Weight = 330 grain Material = Carbon Lighted nock = No |
|  | Length = Able to cut Weight = 340 grain Material = Carbon Lighted nock = Yes |
|  | Length = Able to cut Weight = 340 grain Material = Carbon Lighted nock = Yes |
|  | Length = 20" & 22" Weight = Undisclosed Material = Carbon Lighted nock = No |
|  | Length = 20" Weight = 290 grain Material = Carbon Lighted nock = No |
|  | Length = 20" Weight = 275 grain Material = Carbon Lighted nock = No |
Helpful Information About Crossbow Bolts
What Is A Crossbow Bolt?
A bolt is the ammunition, or the thing being shot from a crossbow. A bolt is shorter in length than an arrow.
What Are The Parts Of A Crossbow Bolt?
A crossbow includes the following parts:
- Head/ field points
- Shaft
- Fletching
- Nock
What’s The Difference Between An Arrow And A Bolt?
Crossbows shoot both arrows and bolts, so what’s the difference? The answer is a technicality. Bolts are shorter than 16 inches, whereas arrows are longer than 16 inches. The trend I’m noticing, however, is that more and more bow shooters are using the term arrow.
What Bolts Do I Need For My Crossbow?
Check Manufacturer’s Warranty And Crossbow Requirements
The manufacturer of the crossbow that you own will include a brochure all about your crossbow, which will include the types of bolts that will fit your bow.
Sometimes, crossbow models require a certain model of bolt to shoot. Other times, the manufacturer will state the specifications for the type of bolt that can be used for your crossbow.
If the second option is available for you, that’s great, because you have options! Continue reading below for more information on how to pick the best bolts for your crossbow.
Aluminum vs. Fiberglass vs. Carbon
The difference of material used for a crossbow bolt will be easy to tell when out shooting. There are advantages and disadvantages to each material. Below, I will provide the pros and cons for each.
Aluminum
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Traditional
- Will get the job done
Cons
- Easy to bend and become defected
- Heavier than other options – more weight can actually be an advantage, especially while hunting big game
fiberglass
Pros
- Material built to bend and be flexible
- Oftentimes less expensive than carbon bolts
- Absorbs shock well
Cons
- Won’t last as long as carbon
Carbon
Pros
- Best quality
- Maintain straightness
- Extremely strong
Cons
- Expensive
Determine The Bolt Weight You Want To Shot
The weight of a crossbow bolt is measured by adding the field point, shaft, fletching and nock together. The bolt is measured in grains per inch, just like traditional arrows.
For a good rule of thumb, a lighter crossbow bolt flies faster and straighter, given optimal weather conditions.
Heavier bolts on the other hand hold more kinetic energy, are more wind resistant and have more power to take down larger animals.
There are three standards of bolt weights below, which include lightweight, standard, and heavy. Next, I will go into more detail about the difference of bolt weight to help you select the best for your shooting needs.
Lightweight Bolts (less than 350 grains)
Pros
- Faster speed
- Flat trajectory
- Longer lasting
Cons
- At the mercy of current weather conditions
- More vibration shock to limbs of bow
- Loader shot (because of more vibration produced)
- Less penetration (think of a light vs. heavy bowling ball to the pins)
Standard-Weight Bolts (350-400 grains)
Standard-Weight Bolts (350-400 grains)
Pros
- More momentum than lighter bolts
- Less dry-fire issues than lighter bolts due to less vibration when shot
- Good overall performance
Cons
- Less take down power than heavier bolts
Heavyweight Bolts (more than 400 grains)
Heavyweight Bolts (more than 400 grains)
Pros
- Most take down power
- Most adequate during less-than-favorable weather conditions
- Highest kinetic energy produced
- Great for hunting big game
- Maintain steady path in the air
Cons
- Slower shot speed
- Easier damaged
Pick A Nock That’s Compatible With Your Crossbow
Flat
As seen on the very left from the image above, the flat nock of a crossbow bolt is the most simple of the different types of nocks.
The advantage of the flat nock is that the shooter has the most amount of control for nock-to-string placement.
The disadvantage of a flat nock is that it takes a lot of skill to keep the flat nock straight on the string. This causes less experienced shooters to at times lose control of the bolt and accidentally fire a dry shot.
Half-Moon
Moving one to the right of the flat nock, the next nock is called the half-moon. As the shape of the nock looks, it appears to be in the half moon shape.
The advantage of a half-moon nock is that there is a built-in placement section to rest the string inside. This helps support a properly positioned bolt to bow.
Half-Moon Hybrid
The next nock to the right of the half-moon nock is the half-moon hybrid nock. As you can see, the half-moon hybrid is a combination of the flat and the half-moon shaped nock.
The advantage to the half-moon hybrid is that the shooter has the flexibility to position the nock where they best see fit, just like with the flat nock, but with a little extra support.
The disadvantage to the half-moon hybrid is that it can take a little bit of time to keep the arrow steady and straight while maintaining proper positioning during aiming.
Lighted Nocks
The bolt nock placed farthest to the right in the image above is called a lighted nock. It’s called this because it has a shot-sensor that lights the nock up upon shooting the bolt.
The advantage to this modern technology is that it can be a great help in retrieving bolts that missed the target, as the light is easy to see.
The groove on lighted nocks is a new-age design of the half-moon and it makes a great fit-to-string placement.
Pick A Length That’s Compatible With Your Crossbow
Most crossbows require a particular crossbow bolt length. Make sure to double check the crossbow specifications to determine which bolt length is best for your bow.
The majority of crossbow bolts are between 16 and 22 inches. The length of the bolt matters depending on your crossbow bolt requirements.
Quick Links: Best Crossbow Bolts
- Best carbon hunting bolts: Tenpoint Pro Lite 20-Inch Carbon
- Best for the money: Carbon Express Maxima Hunter Fletched BuffTuff Plus Carbon Crossbolt
- Best cheap bolts: Bloodsport Witness Vane Bolt
- Best Easton bolts on the market: Easton Full Metal Jacket
- Best Easton bolts for the money: Easton FMJ Pro Arrows Blazers
- Best Black Eagle carbon bolts: Black Eagle Executioner
- Best Barnett bolts: Barnett Outdoors
- Best priced bolts: ANTSIR 20″ Carbon Arrow
1. Best Carbon Hunting Bolts
| Model | Length | Weight | Material | Lighted Nock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
TenPoint Pro Lite Carbon |
20" |
386 grain |
Carbon |
Yes |
Pros
- Made in USA
- Fitted with a 25-grain aluminum insert with Omni Nock
- Hand sorted for consistency
- Premium carbon construction
Cons
- Cannot add Alpha nocks
- Nocks are difficult to interchange
TenPoint Crossbow Technologies packs a bunch with their crossbow series, and their bolts hit hard too.
What Recent Purchasers Said
“Consistent groupings. No complaints so far after several months of use.”
“These bolts fly true right out of the box, perfect fit for the crossbow.”
“They are good for shooting and have strong arrows. Great flight to the target.”
What Makes These Bolts A Good Pick
TenPoint is a high-performance crossbow brand that delivers quality products. This is a brand I and many in the crossbow world trust. They make solid products.
The shaft of these bolts are made from carbon construction. TenPoint actually puts workers on the line to hand check and sort the bolts. Any bent or damaged bolts get tossed. I appreciate that.
Speaking of appreciation, the entire assembly from design to production is manufactured right here in the U.S. That means a lot.
Who These Bolts Are Best For
The Pro Lite’s are best for the avid hunter, who wants a reliable and long lasting bolt from a trusted brand.
2. Best Carbon Bolts for the Money
| Model | Length | Weight | Material | Lighted Nock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Carbon Express Maxima |
20" |
390 grain |
Carbon |
No |
Pros
- 2 spines in 1 arrow for higher speed
- Carbon weave for superior strength
- Laser checked straightness
- Camo Mossy Oak for proven camouflage
Cons
- Tight inner diameter, making it hard to find the right size nock
As an industry leader in premium performance carbon arrows, Carbon Express built the Maxima Hunter as their robust offering bolt for superior shooting.
What Recent Purchasers Said
“I bought a set last year, and now with the new season coming up, I’m getting another set!”
“My crossbow loves this combo, and I’m a happy camper!”
“These are some goooooood hunting bolts!”
What Makes These Bolts A Good Pick
The Maxima Hunter provides a fast and tight tolerance through its weight-forward design for better down-range accuracy.
These are lightweight, yet strong for the hunter looking to get a lot out of this purchase.
Carbon Express arrows feature dual spine technology for optimal shots every time and precise flight consistency.
Who These Bolts Are Best For
The Maxima Hunter bolts are best for the avid crossbow hunter, who shoots to kill and demands top-notch tools.
3. Best Cheap Carbon Bolts
| Model | Length | Weight | Material | Lighted Nock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Bloodsport Witness |
20" & 22" |
390 grain |
Carbon |
No |
Pros
- Blood Ring Technology
- Built with more front of center
- Superior flight and penetration
- Extremely accurate
Cons
- Broadheads known to disconnect from bolt head
The Bloodsport Witness bolts come in size 20” and 22” and pack a medium weight. This is a great overall crossbow bolt for an excellent price.
What Recent Purchases Said
“No complaints about what I received. Quality is excellent.”
“These bolts have good frontal weight and are great on this crossbow.”
“May be the best value in crossbow arrows going right now – my bow certainly loves them!”
What Makes These Bolts A Good Pick
Ever had a tough time finding your bolt after the shot? I really like how these Witness bolts come standard with blood ring technology to make tracking game easier.
These are stiff and strong bolts, and they come in two different sizes at 20” and 22”. The package includes brass inserts, moon nocks, and flat nocks. I really appreciate that full package.
Who These Bolts Are Best For
These bolts are best for the hunter who buys on value. The Bloodsports provide durability, reliability and a damn straight shot. I back ‘em.
4. Best Easton Bolts on the Market
| Model | Length | Weight | Material | Lighted Nock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Easton Fmj |
20" & 22" |
340 grain |
Carbon |
Yes |
Pros
- Lighted nock
- Allows any broadhead to work with this arrow
Cons
- Not cheap
What Recent Purchases Said
“Best bolts on the market.”
“Buy Eastern full metal jackets and call it a day.”
“This bolt is extremely straight and the most accurate one I have ever shot.”
What Makes These Bolts A Good Pick
Where do I begin with the Easton Fmj’s- this bolt kickass, period.
However, let’s start with that they deliver excellent performance, provide a high amount of strength and last a long time.
The way it works is that the Easton Fmj’s have a carbon shaft and then are wrapped with a full-metal jacket- aluminum.
Carbon composite crossbow bolts are fletched with vanes and include nocks and HP inserts. Micro smooth finish for quiet release and easier removal from targets.
Who These Bolts Are Best For
For the hunter shooting a high-performance crossbow and wants the highest performance bolts to get that full package, the Easton Fmj’s are what you’re looking for.
5. Best Easton Bolt for the Money
| Model | Length | Weight | Material | Lighted Nock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Easton Fmj |
20" & 22" |
340 grain |
Carbon |
Yes |
Pros
- Match Grade
- High strenght carbon core with 7075 metal jacket
- Straightness: .001″
Cons
- Not cheap
What Recent Purchases Said
“Best bolts for the Money!”
What Makes These Bolts A Good Pick
Easton Fmj’s best for the money pick. These Full Metal Jackets have match grade to give each of your shots even more penetration.
You might be asking yourself, why these arrows over others. These FMJ Pro Blazers give a high-powered kinetic punch and work great for larger sized game, such as bucks, elk, and bear.
These FMJ Pro Blazers have high-strength carbon cores with a 7075 metal jacket that help protect the arrow and extend each arrow’s life.
Who These Bolts Are Best For
Perfect for the hunter who wants to shoot Easton arrows that don’t break the bank and last for a long time.
6. Best Black Eagle Carbon Bolts
| Model | Length | Weight | Material | Lighted Nock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Executioner Flectched Carbon Arrow |
20" & 22" |
Undisclosed |
Carbon |
No |
Pros
- Designed for superior performance
- 20″ & 22″ length options
- Comes with 3″ Boning X Vanes
- Comes with half moon and flat nocks
- Executioner brass inserts are installed
- Compatible for lighted nock inserts
Cons
- Points sold separately
Looking for a performance bolt at no loss of speed or kinetic energy to make a deadly combination for your crossbow? Look no further than the Black Eagle Executioner bolts.
What Recent Purchases Said
“I purchased the Executioner bolts and have to admit, I should have made the purchase earlier.”
“These Executioners are well worth the money!”
“A friend of mine recommended Black Eagle Executioners. I can honestly say I’ll never shoot a different crossbow bolt, these things fly awesome and group so tight it caused me to Robin Hood a shaft at 40 yards. Definitely recommend it!”
What Makes These Bolts A Good Pick
Don’t miss out on one of today’s best hitting bolts, the Executioner. Black Eagle uses their premium Spine Matched Technology to package each box of bolts.
They ensure completely straight bolts unlike I’ve ever seen a company do. Talk about picky, these guys do their jobs.
They test all of their products before they go on the market to deliver better straightness tolerances sorted by weight for perfection.
Black Eagle uses nothing but the best material for their bolts that are all pressed fit and not glued. This means that they’re tightly installed, but not permanent fixtures so if you want to upgrade to a lighted nock or simply switch out nock styles, the process is a piece of cake.
Who These Bolts Are Best For
The Executioners are best for hunters, yet excellent for target practice. The price is in the mid-to-high range, and the quality is solid. Shoot with care, and they’ll last years. Boyah.
7. Best Barnett Carbon Bolts
| Model | Length | Weight | Material | Lighted Nock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Barnett Outdoors Carbon Arrow |
20" |
290 grains |
Carbon |
No |
Pros
- Optimal accuracy and target penetration
- Includes 24F field point and moon nocks
- Lightweight carbon shafts
- Improved wall thickness for added durability
- Compatible with crossbows that require a 20″ arrow
- Able to use a variety of broadheads
Cons
- Can become off target when shooting over 50 yards
What Recent Purchases Said
“Excellent quality and durable bolts. I am very happy with their performance.”
“These fly super straight and have tight groups!”
“5 stars from me!”
What Makes These Bolts A Good Pick
Barnett is your kind of brand for crossbow needs if you’re the budget hunter. They always pull through with some great mid-range products, and their Outdoors bolts are the same way.
For the low price they’re tagged at, these bolts have great short-to-mid range accuracy.
Compatible with all crossbows that require 20” bolts, these bolts are highly versatile. You can stick broadheads on ‘em too!
Who These Bolts Are Best For
To the hunter on a budget, the Barnett Outdoors bolts work great for 30 yard shots and closer, and make the perfect backup bolts.
8. Best Bolts for the Price
| Model | Length | Weight | Material | Lighted Nock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Antsir Carbon Arrows |
20" |
275 grains |
Carbon |
No |
Pros
- Carbon arrow shaft
- Black half moon nocks
Cons
- Not compatible for future lighted nock upgrade
- Cheap packaging can cause damage during transit
What Recent Purchases Said
“These arrows are great for the price.”
“Surprisingly amazing accuracy.”
“Cheap yet effective arrows for a crossbow. Great for practice.”
What Makes These Bolts A Good Pick
Antsir’s brand made a carbon bolt at a fraction of the price that the rest of the competition has priced their bolts. These bolts are produced with thick walls for heavy durability.
These bolts are matched with a 125 grain point for maximum accuracy, penetration and reliability.
Who These Bolts Are Best For
These Antsir bolts are best for the entry-level crossbow enthusiasts, or the amateur shooter looking for a set of inexpensive practice bolts.
People also asked:
How Fast Does A Crossbow Bolt Travel?
Crossbow bolts travel between 180 and 470 feet per second.
The optimal speed for hunting is 300 FPS or higher.
How Far Does A Crossbow Bolt Travel?
High performance crossbows can accurately hit targets that are 100 yards away and further. That being said, the actual bolt itself can travel much further, even beyond 500 yards if shot in a straight distance with minimal weather and object interference.
Which Is Better Aluminum Or Carbon Crossbow Bolts?
The difference between aluminum or carbon crossbow bolts, or other materials such as fiberglass is a shooter’s personal preference. There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of bolt, and the shooter should first check the manufacturer’s requirements for bolts, and then research the difference in material with the information provided above to find the best type of bolt for the purpose of their shooting needs.
Are Crossbow Bolts Universal?
Not every crossbow bolt can fit with every crossbow. Certain crossbows have specific specifications for the type of bolts they require.
What Are Crossbow Bolts Made Of?
The majority of crossbow bolts are made from either aluminum or carbon, or a combination of the two. These materials work well for crossbow bolts due to their strength to weight ratio.
How Many Grains Are In A Crossbow Bolt?
The average grains per bolt are between 300 and 500 grains in a single crossbow bolt.
What Is Fired From A Crossbow?
The object fired from a crossbow is called a bolt, or an arrow.
Will A Crossbow Bolt Go Through A Deer?
If the shot is clean and the speed is beyond 300 feet per second, yes, crossbow bolts will often make a straight pass through of a deer.
Can A Crossbow Shoot Bolts?
Yes, crossbows shoot bolts, and arrows.
- Bolt weight
- Head
- Kinetic energy
- Bolt length
- Diameter
- Shafts
- Spine
- Nocks
- Fletchings
- Shaft tolerance
Recap
Sometimes the hardest part of crossbow shooting is getting the best equipment for you. I hope this review helped you find the best crossbow bolts for your crossbow so you can get out and shoot sooner than later!
Below you will find a summary of the reviews with the links that will take you directly to where you can pick up the bolts.
Best Crossbow Bolts
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