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10 Best Crossbow Bolts 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BARNETT Headhunter 20" Lighted Strobe Crossbow Arrows – 9 Pack with Multicolor Strobing Nocks, Half-Moon Design, Fully Assembled

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,169
Material
Nock Type

Most important from
365 reviews

Material
Durability stands out, with the carbon construction offering a reliable balance of strength and lightweight handling.
Nock Type
The pre-installed lighted nocks provide excellent visibility for tracking arrows, making retrieval easy even in low light.

The Barnett Headhunter 20" Lighted Strobe Crossbow Arrows come fully assembled in a pack of nine, making them easy to use right away. Their 20-inch length and carbon material offer a good balance of durability and lightweight handling, which is important for consistent shooting and accuracy. The half-moon nocks with pressure-activated multicolor strobing lights help you easily track your arrows after shooting, especially in low light or dense environments. This feature is a big plus for anyone wanting to find arrows quickly and reduce lost bolts.

The strobe lights run for up to three days continuously, and a convenient on/off switch lets you manage battery life. The arrows are designed with tested strength and accuracy, which adds confidence for hunting or target practice. The 20-inch length is somewhat standard and may not suit all crossbows or personal preferences, so matching bolt length and spine stiffness to your crossbow is important. Additionally, the included limited warranty provides some peace of mind.

These arrows are a solid choice for hunters and outdoor archers looking for durable, easy-to-see bolts with enhanced tracking features.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,169
Material
Nock Type

Most important from
365 reviews

Material
Durability stands out, with the carbon construction offering a reliable balance of strength and lightweight handling.
Nock Type
The pre-installed lighted nocks provide excellent visibility for tracking arrows, making retrieval easy even in low light.
#2

TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows - 20", Pack of 6 - with Alpha-Nock HP & HP Aluminum Bushing

Rating
9.7
Material

Most important from
728 reviews

Material
They hold up well even after repeated use, maintaining straight and true shots.

The TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows come in a pack of six and are known for their precision and durability. These 20-inch arrows are made from carbon, which makes them lightweight yet strong. The carbon material contributes to their durability and consistent performance, essential for both hunting and target practice. Each arrow is fletched with 3.5-inch Bohning X Vanes, slightly offset to enhance flight stability and accuracy.

The arrows are rigorously inspected for straightness and weight consistency, ensuring high accuracy and reliability. An added 46-grain aluminum insert and a 13% front-of-center (FOC) weight distribution further improve their flight characteristics and penetration power. The Alpha-Nock HP system features a deep groove that securely holds the bowstring, preventing misfirings and enhancing precision. This nock design also minimizes string wear, extending the lifespan of the arrows and the crossbow string.

Despite these strengths, some users may find the precision inspections and added features slightly inflate the cost compared to other arrows on the market. Additionally, while the 20-inch length is standard, it may not suit crossbows requiring longer or shorter bolts. These arrows are best suited for users seeking high performance in both hunting and competitive shooting scenarios who are willing to invest in quality equipment.

Rating
9.7
Material

Most important from
728 reviews

Material
They hold up well even after repeated use, maintaining straight and true shots.
#3

Ravin Carbon Crossbow Arrows 400 Grain .003 - Six Pack, UPC :815942021385

The Ravin Carbon Crossbow Arrows are crafted with a strong carbon material, making them durable and suitable for frequent use. Weighing in at 400 grains, these arrows strike a balance between speed and impact power, ideal for enthusiasts looking for reliable performance. The distinct orange and black color design adds a visual flair, making them easily noticeable in your quiver.

These arrows come in a pack of six, making them a practical purchase for those looking to stock up without excessive cost. With an ambidextrous hand orientation, they cater well to both left and right-handed users. The material and weight suggest they are designed for accuracy and stability in flight.

One potential downside is that being a best seller might mean they are in high demand, possibly affecting availability. Additionally, users who prefer specific adjustments or features like customizable fletching might find these arrows less adaptable. Ravin arrows appear to fit well for hunters and target shooters who value consistency and reliability in their crossbow bolts.

Buying Guide for the Best Crossbow Bolts

Choosing the right crossbow bolts is crucial for ensuring accuracy, safety, and overall performance of your crossbow. The right bolts can make a significant difference in your shooting experience, whether you are hunting, target shooting, or participating in competitions. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting crossbow bolts, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
LengthThe length of a crossbow bolt is measured from the nock (the end that fits into the crossbow string) to the tip. This spec is important because using bolts that are too short or too long for your crossbow can affect accuracy and safety. Bolts typically range from 16 to 22 inches. Shorter bolts (16-18 inches) are generally faster and more maneuverable, making them suitable for hunting in dense areas. Longer bolts (20-22 inches) provide better stability and accuracy, which is ideal for target shooting and long-range hunting. Check your crossbow's manual for the recommended bolt length and choose accordingly.
WeightThe weight of a crossbow bolt is usually measured in grains and includes the weight of the shaft, nock, insert, and tip. This spec is important because it affects the bolt's speed, kinetic energy, and penetration power. Lighter bolts (300-350 grains) travel faster and are suitable for target shooting where speed is a priority. Heavier bolts (400-450 grains) have more kinetic energy and are better for hunting, as they provide deeper penetration and are less affected by wind. Consider your primary use and choose a bolt weight that matches your needs.
MaterialCrossbow bolts are typically made from carbon, aluminum, or a combination of both. This spec is important because the material affects the bolt's durability, weight, and performance. Carbon bolts are lightweight, durable, and provide consistent performance, making them ideal for both hunting and target shooting. Aluminum bolts are heavier and can be more affordable, but they may bend more easily. Composite bolts offer a balance of both materials. Choose a material based on your preference for durability and performance.
FletchingFletching refers to the vanes or feathers attached to the back of the bolt that help stabilize it in flight. This spec is important because proper fletching ensures accuracy and consistency. Fletching can be made from plastic or feathers and comes in different shapes and sizes. Shorter, low-profile vanes are suitable for high-speed shooting and provide less drag, while longer vanes offer better stability and control, which is beneficial for long-range shots. Consider the type of shooting you will be doing and choose fletching that complements your needs.
Nock TypeThe nock is the part of the bolt that fits into the crossbow string. This spec is important because the right nock ensures proper alignment and release of the bolt. There are different types of nocks, including flat, half-moon, and capture nocks. Flat nocks are versatile and can be used with most crossbows. Half-moon nocks provide a secure fit and are commonly used with high-speed crossbows. Capture nocks offer additional security and are ideal for ensuring the bolt stays in place. Check your crossbow's manual for the recommended nock type and choose accordingly.
SpineThe spine of a crossbow bolt refers to its stiffness or flexibility. This spec is important because it affects the bolt's flight and accuracy. A stiffer spine (higher spine value) is better for high-speed crossbows and provides more consistent performance. A more flexible spine (lower spine value) can be suitable for lower-speed crossbows and may offer better accuracy at shorter ranges. Consider the draw weight and speed of your crossbow when choosing the spine of your bolts to ensure optimal performance.

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