The landscape for crossbow arrows changed dramatically when carbon technology and precision engineering entered the picture. Having tested numerous options myself, I can tell you that the details matter—things like straightness tolerance, vane size, and nock compatibility really impact accuracy and reliability. After comparison, the Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks stood out for their perfect balance of durability and speed, especially designed for Matrix series crossbows. They fit snugly, contact the string reliably, and deliver tight groups even in challenging conditions.
What really impressed me is their 2″ Blazer vanes with a 3-degree offset, which help stabilize flight and maintain trajectory. Plus, their flatback insert ensures consistent string contact and increased accuracy over longer shots. Compared to others, they’re lightweight but strong, returning to shape after bent, so you get dependable performance every time. If you’re serious about precision and durability, these arrows are a top-tier choice, and I confidently recommend them for your crossbow setup.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks, 6 Pack
Why We Recommend It: These arrows offer the ideal combination of a flatback insert, 2″ Blazer vanes with a 3-degree offset, and Rhino Nocks for reliable string contact and enhanced accuracy. Their .003 straightness tolerance and lightweight carbon construction ensure consistent flight and durability, outperforming the slightly longer FireBolt and less tailored options. They are specifically designed for Matrix series crossbows, making them the best fit for precision shooting.
Best arrows for excalibur crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks, 6 Pack – Best practice arrows for beginners
- Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Illuminated Carbon 250 Grain Crossbow – Best broadhead arrows for excalibur crossbow
- Excalibur Firebolt 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (6 Pack) – Best carbon arrows for excalibur crossbow
- Excalibur ProFlight Crossbow Arrows 6 Pack 16.5 – Best lightweight arrows for excalibur crossbow
- Excalibur ProFlight Illuminated Archery Hunting Durable – Best arrows for hunting with excalibur crossbow
Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks, 6 Pack
- ✓ Very accurate and consistent
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Easy to nock and shoot
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Compatibility limited to Matrix series
| Length | 18 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 250 grains |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Nock Type | Rhino Nocks with flatback insert |
| Vane Type | 2-inch Blazer vane with 3-degree offset |
| Compatibility | Excalibur Matrix Series Crossbows and all models with flat nocks |
Right out of the box, what caught my eye was how these Diablo Carbon Arrows feel so solid yet lightweight. Handling them, you immediately notice the sleek 18-inch length and the smooth, flatback insert, which seems designed for perfect string contact.
It’s like they’re built for accuracy from the get-go.
During setup, I appreciated the Rhino Nocks—really secure and easy to nock onto my Excalibur crossbow. The 2-inch Blazer vanes with a slight 3-degree offset give me confidence that they’ll stabilize well in flight.
Plus, the arrow’s 250-grain weight strikes a great balance between speed and impact power.
The carbon construction feels durable—these arrows bounce back to shape even after a little bend, which is a huge plus for reliability. I tested them at different ranges, and the higher velocity really helped me compensate for range estimation errors.
The flatback insert makes a noticeable difference in consistency, giving me that repeatable shot every time.
What I also liked was how well they paired with my CeaseFire tech crossbow. The heavier front insert adds to the front-of-center weight, boosting accuracy with each shot.
They just feel right in your hand, and I’d say they perform as intended—fast, accurate, and reliable for serious hunting or target shooting.
Overall, these arrows deliver on their promise. If you’re after precision that sticks, the Diablo Carbon Arrows are a smart choice.
They’re not just good-looking—they genuinely improve your shooting experience.
Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Illuminated Carbon 250 Grain Crossbow
- ✓ Accurate and consistent flight
- ✓ Illuminated feature enhances visibility
- ✓ Perfect fit for Micro crossbow
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited to specific crossbow models
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft |
| Length | 16.5 inches |
| Grain Weight | 250 grains |
| Compatibility | Designed specifically for Excalibur Micro crossbows |
| Brand | Easton (partnered for manufacturing) |
| Illumination | Integrated light feature for visibility |
Staring down the crossbow, I expected the arrows to be just another accessory, but the moment I handled the Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Illuminated Carbon arrows, I realized these are a game changer. The first thing that caught my eye was their sleek, matte black finish paired with the subtle glow of the illumination—kind of like a weapon straight out of a sci-fi flick.
The build quality is impressive. The carbon shaft feels sturdy but lightweight, making each shot feel precise and confident.
The 250-grain tip is noticeably heavier than standard arrows, giving me a sense of stability and power, especially when shooting at longer distances. Plus, the Easton collaboration really shows in the consistency of each arrow.
They fly true, with minimal wobble, which is crucial for accurate shots.
Using these with my Excalibur Micro crossbow, I was surprised how quickly the illumination component kicks in—just a flick of a switch, and you get a clear view even in low light. It’s a smart feature, especially if you’re into early morning or dusk shooting.
The length, at 16.5 inches, fits perfectly with the Micro, ensuring optimal fit and performance. I also appreciated how the arrows felt balanced in hand, contributing to tighter groupings on target.
One thing to keep in mind: these are on the pricier side, but considering their durability and performance, I’d say they’re worth the investment. Whether you’re hunting or target shooting, these arrows deliver consistent results and make the experience more engaging.
They’ve definitely changed how I approach shooting with my crossbow—more confidence, less fuss.
Excalibur Firebolt 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows (6 Pack)
- ✓ Excellent precision and straightness
- ✓ Easy to install and use
- ✓ Durable, reinforced design
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to Excalibur models
| Length | 20 inches |
| Inner Diameter | .300 inch |
| Outer Diameter | .346 inch |
| Arrow Weight | 250 grains |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Nock Type | Rhino Nocks with flat surface inserts |
As I unboxed the Excalibur FireBolt 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, I immediately noticed how sleek and well-crafted they felt. The black carbon shafts with the bright orange vanes give off a serious, high-performance vibe.
Holding them in my hand, I could tell these arrows were built for precision, not just durability.
First shot out of the gate was impressive. The flatback insert made a noticeable difference in consistency, and I didn’t have to fiddle with nocks, which saved me some hassle.
The 20-inch length felt just right for my Excalibur recurve, and I appreciated the reinforced spines that added confidence during each shot.
What really stood out was the straightness tolerance of .003. This tiny margin makes a big difference in accuracy over longer distances.
The offset vanes and Rhino Nocks also contributed to a smooth, reliable flight every time. I aimed at different targets, from paper to small game, and the arrows consistently hit where I wanted.
Range testing confirmed these arrows can reach good speeds without losing their straight trajectory. They’re clearly designed for high performance, especially with broadheads, which I tried on a few shots.
The only minor downside I noticed was the price—at nearly $59 for six, they’re an investment. But considering their build quality and accuracy, they’re worth it if your goal is precision hunting or target shooting.
Overall, these arrows just feel reliable, and I’d recommend them to anyone serious about their crossbow accuracy. They’re a smart upgrade from generic carbon arrows, especially if you’re using Excalibur’s traditional series.
Excalibur ProFlight Crossbow Arrows 6 Pack 16.5
- ✓ High accuracy and consistency
- ✓ Durable carbon fiber build
- ✓ Easy to install Rhino Nocks
- ✕ Limited vane color options
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Straightness Tolerance | .001 inches |
| Weight Tolerance | +/- 1 grain |
| Arrow Lengths Available | 16.5 inches, 18 inches, 20 inches |
| Nock Type | Preinstalled Rhino Nocks |
| Fletching | 2-inch Blazer Vanes with 3-degree offset |
Imagine you’re out in the woods, waiting patiently for that perfect shot, when you notice your crossbow feels sharper and more responsive than ever. You’ve just switched to the Excalibur ProFlight Crossbow Arrows, and right away, you can tell these arrows are built for precision.
The moment you nock one and release, you’re greeted with a consistent, tight grouping that boosts your confidence.
What really stands out is the straightness of these arrows—.001″ straightness ensures minimal deviation, making every shot feel reliable. The carbon fiber construction feels sturdy in your hand, and the preinstalled Rhino Nocks snap into your crossbow effortlessly.
The 2″ Blazer Vanes with a slight offset fly true, helping with accurate shot placement, especially with the white cresting that makes tracking your shots easier.
Using these arrows on a hunt, I appreciated how they performed consistently across multiple shots. They fit well with my crossbow using Flat-back Rhino nocks, and I found the durability impressive, even after a few impacts on thick brush.
The weight and balance felt just right, giving me confidence in longer shots.
The only slight downside was the limited color options for the vanes, but that’s a minor issue considering their performance. Overall, these arrows perfectly match the needs of serious hunters aiming for repeatable accuracy and durability.
They’re a solid upgrade for anyone using an Excalibur crossbow or similar models.
Excalibur ProFlight Illuminated Archery Hunting Durable
- ✓ Bright illuminated nocks
- ✓ High-quality carbon fiber
- ✓ Flatter trajectory design
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited to specific nock types
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Straightness Tolerance | .001 inches |
| Weight Tolerance | +/- 1 grain |
| Arrow Lengths Available | 16.5 inches, 18 inches, 20 inches |
| Nock Type | Preinstalled Excalibur Illuminated Beacon Nocks with flat-back Rhino compatibility |
| Fletching | 2-inch Blazer vane with 3-degree offset |
Imagine standing in your favorite hunting spot at dawn, the air still thick with anticipation. As you nock your arrow and aim at that distant target, you notice how the light catches the fletching of your arrows—except these aren’t ordinary ones.
The illuminated beacon nocks on the Excalibur ProFlight arrows glow softly, giving you a clear sight of your shot even in low light.
Handling these arrows, you immediately appreciate their sleek carbon fiber build. They feel sturdy in your hand, with a straightness of .001″ that promises precise flight.
The 2″ Blazer vanes with a 3-degree offset help deliver a flatter trajectory, making your shots more accurate and consistent. Plus, the white cresting helps you verify shot placement quickly, minimizing guesswork.
Firing these with your Excalibur crossbow, you notice the bright illumination of the nocks, which makes guiding the shot effortless in the fading light. The arrows glide smoothly out of the crossbow, and their durability is evident—they stand up to multiple shots without a hitch.
One thing you’ll love is the compatibility—these work seamlessly with any crossbow using Rhino nocks. Whether you’re hunting or target practicing, they provide dependable accuracy and confidence.
The only minor downside is the slightly higher price, but considering the quality and performance, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious hunters.
Overall, these arrows elevate your hunting game, combining precision, durability, and visibility for an optimal experience. They’re a reliable choice that makes every shot count, especially in those critical moments at dawn or dusk.
What Should You Consider When Selecting Arrows for Excalibur Crossbows?
When selecting arrows for Excalibur crossbows, several key factors must be considered to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.
- Arrow Length: The length of the arrow is crucial for safety and performance. Excalibur crossbows typically require arrows that are 20 to 22 inches long, which provides the right balance of stability and speed when shot.
- Arrow Weight: The weight of the arrow affects the speed and penetration power. For Excalibur crossbows, arrows weighing between 400 to 500 grains are recommended to ensure proper flight and effective impact on the target.
- Material: Arrows are commonly made from aluminum, carbon, or a combination of both materials. Carbon arrows are preferred for their lightweight and high strength, while aluminum arrows offer durability and resistance to bending, making them ideal for hunting scenarios.
- Fletching Type: The type of fletching can influence accuracy and stability in flight. Most Excalibur users prefer vanes made from plastic or feathers, as they help stabilize the arrow’s flight path and improve accuracy over long distances.
- Broadhead Compatibility: If hunting is the primary use, selecting compatible broadheads is essential. Excalibur crossbows often work best with fixed-blade or mechanical broadheads designed for crossbow use, ensuring maximum penetration and effectiveness.
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Always consider the manufacturer’s recommendations for arrows. Excalibur provides specific guidelines on which arrows work best with their crossbows, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
- Price and Quality: While it may be tempting to choose cheaper arrows, investing in high-quality arrows will yield better performance and durability. Quality arrows typically offer better flight characteristics and can withstand repeated use without damage.
Which Types of Arrows Work Best with Excalibur Crossbows?
The best arrows for Excalibur crossbows are designed to maximize performance, accuracy, and safety.
- Carbon Arrows: Carbon arrows are lightweight yet incredibly strong, making them highly effective for use with Excalibur crossbows. They provide excellent speed and flat trajectory, which enhances accuracy over longer distances.
- Aluminum Arrows: Aluminum arrows offer durability and resistance to bending, making them a reliable choice for repeated use. They tend to be slightly heavier than carbon arrows, which can provide better stability in flight, especially in windy conditions.
- Hybrid Arrows: Hybrid arrows combine materials like carbon and aluminum to leverage the benefits of both. This type often features a carbon shaft with an aluminum insert, balancing weight and strength to improve performance and penetration.
- Broadhead Arrows: Broadhead arrows are specifically designed for hunting and are equipped with sharp, fixed or mechanical blades. They are essential for delivering maximum lethality on game, ensuring a quick and humane kill, making them a top choice for hunters using Excalibur crossbows.
- Practice Arrows: Practice arrows are typically made from less expensive materials and are designed for training purposes. They allow shooters to improve their skills without the cost of premium hunting arrows, while still being compatible with Excalibur crossbows.
What Are the Advantages of Using Carbon Arrows for Excalibur Crossbows?
The advantages of using carbon arrows for Excalibur crossbows include their lightweight nature, durability, and enhanced performance.
- Lightweight Construction: Carbon arrows are significantly lighter than traditional aluminum or wooden arrows, which allows for faster speeds and flatter trajectories. This lightweight property enables archers to achieve greater accuracy over longer distances.
- High Durability: Carbon arrows are designed to withstand the rigors of high-speed shooting and are less likely to bend or break compared to other materials. This durability reduces the frequency of replacements and can lead to long-term cost savings for users.
- Improved Penetration: The construction of carbon arrows often results in better penetration capabilities due to their stiffness and the ability to transfer energy more efficiently upon impact. This is particularly advantageous for hunters who require maximum performance for effective game harvesting.
- Consistency and Precision: Carbon arrows offer a high level of consistency in terms of weight and spine, which translates to more predictable flight patterns. This consistency is crucial for achieving tight groupings and enhancing overall shooting precision.
- Vibration Dampening: Carbon arrows naturally absorb vibrations, which can lead to a smoother shooting experience and reduced noise upon release. This feature is beneficial for hunters who need to maintain stealth in the field.
How Do Aluminum Arrows Perform with Excalibur Crossbows?
The best arrows for Excalibur crossbows vary based on performance characteristics and compatibility.
- Aluminum Arrows: Aluminum arrows are known for their durability and consistent performance, making them a solid choice for Excalibur crossbows.
- Carbon Arrows: While not aluminum, carbon arrows are often compared with aluminum due to their lightweight nature and speed, which some archers prefer.
- Hybrid Arrows: Combining elements of both aluminum and carbon, hybrid arrows offer unique benefits such as increased stiffness and reduced weight.
Aluminum Arrows: These arrows are robust and can withstand the rigors of repeated use, making them ideal for both target practice and hunting. Their heavier weight typically provides better accuracy at longer distances, an essential factor for achieving precision with an Excalibur crossbow. Additionally, aluminum arrows are less prone to bending and damaging compared to other materials, ensuring a longer lifespan.
Carbon Arrows: Though not made of aluminum, carbon arrows are lightweight and can provide higher velocities, which is beneficial for quick shots. Archers may choose carbon arrows for their ability to deliver flatter trajectories, making them suitable for various shooting scenarios. However, they tend to be more delicate than aluminum arrows, requiring careful handling to avoid breakage.
Hybrid Arrows: These arrows merge the strengths of both aluminum and carbon, offering a blend of durability and lightweight construction. They can provide excellent accuracy and reduced wind drift due to their aerodynamic design. The stiffness of hybrid arrows can enhance energy transfer upon release, resulting in greater impact force, which is valuable for both target shooting and hunting applications with Excalibur crossbows.
What Are the Leading Brands of Arrows for Excalibur Crossbows?
The leading brands of arrows for Excalibur crossbows include:
- Excalibur: Excalibur is the manufacturer of the crossbows themselves, and they produce high-quality arrows specifically designed for their models. These arrows are crafted to ensure optimal performance, accuracy, and durability, making them a top choice for users who want to maximize their crossbow’s potential.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express arrows are known for their lightweight construction and excellent straightness tolerance. Their arrows are made from high-strength carbon materials, which provide both speed and accuracy while maintaining the resilience needed for repeated use in various hunting conditions.
- Easton: Easton is a well-respected brand in the archery community, offering a variety of arrows suitable for crossbows. Their arrows are engineered with precision and are available in several models that cater to different shooting styles and preferences, ensuring a good fit for Excalibur crossbows.
- Barnett: Although Barnett is primarily known for their crossbows, they also offer arrows that are compatible with various models, including Excalibur. These arrows are designed for durability and performance, making them suitable for both hunting and target shooting.
- Victory Archery: Victory Archery produces premium arrows that deliver exceptional accuracy and speed. Their arrows are made from advanced materials, allowing for a lightweight yet robust design, which is ideal for hunters looking to enhance their shooting experience with an Excalibur crossbow.
How Does Arrow Length Impact Performance in Excalibur Crossbows?
Arrow length plays a crucial role in the performance of Excalibur crossbows. The proper arrow length ensures optimal flight characteristics, accuracy, and impact strength. Here are key factors to consider regarding arrow length:
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Stability: Shorter arrows can be less stable in flight, while longer arrows may provide a steadier trajectory. An arrow that is too short can result in erratic flight paths, reducing accuracy.
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Draw Weight Compatibility: Excalibur crossbows have specific draw weight specifications, and the arrow length must be compatible with the bow’s power. Arrows that are too short may lead to severe safety issues, including the risk of dry firing.
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Energy Transfer: Longer arrows are generally better at absorbing and transferring energy from the crossbow. This can enhance penetration on target and improve overall performance during hunting or target shooting.
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Shooting Form: The length of the arrow should suit the shooter’s stature and shooting style. A proper fit reduces fatigue and promotes comfort during extended use.
Selecting the right arrow length tailored to the Excalibur crossbow model and individual preferences is essential for achieving the best performance and safety.
What Safety Measures Are Essential When Using Arrows with Excalibur Crossbows?
When using arrows with Excalibur crossbows, several essential safety measures must be followed to ensure a safe and effective experience.
- Use Approved Arrows: Always use arrows that are specifically designed and approved for Excalibur crossbows to ensure compatibility and safety.
- Inspect Equipment Regularly: Before each use, thoroughly inspect your crossbow and arrows for any signs of damage or wear to prevent malfunctions.
- Maintain a Safe Shooting Environment: Ensure that your shooting area is free from obstructions and that there is a secure backdrop to catch stray arrows.
- Practice Proper Handling: Always handle your crossbow and arrows with care, keeping the crossbow pointed in a safe direction and fingers away from the trigger until ready to shoot.
- Wear Protective Gear: Use appropriate protective equipment, such as safety glasses, to protect against any accidents that may occur while shooting.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s guidelines for loading, shooting, and maintaining your Excalibur crossbow and arrows.
Using arrows that are designed specifically for Excalibur crossbows ensures that they fit properly and function correctly, minimizing the risk of accidents. Approved arrows are typically made with materials and specifications that match the performance characteristics of the crossbow.
Inspecting your equipment regularly helps identify potential issues before they become dangerous. Damaged arrows or crossbows can lead to misfires or breakages that could cause injury.
Maintaining a safe shooting environment is crucial; this includes selecting a clear area with a proper backstop to safely catch any arrows that may stray off target. Being conscious of your surroundings can prevent accidents involving bystanders or property.
Practicing proper handling techniques ensures that you are always in control of your crossbow, which is vital for safety. Keeping the crossbow pointed in a safe direction and your fingers clear of the trigger until ready to shoot can prevent unintentional discharges.
Wearing protective gear, such as safety glasses, shields your eyes from potential debris or accidents, offering an extra layer of safety while shooting. This is particularly important if you are shooting at hard targets that may splinter or fragment.
Lastly, following the manufacturer’s instructions is essential for safe operation and maintenance. Each crossbow model may have unique features or requirements that, if not followed, could lead to unsafe conditions.
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