That frustrating moment when your bolts fail right at the shot’s peak is finally addressed by carefully choosing the right ones. Having tested all these options, I can tell you that the Excalibur Firebolt 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, 6 Pack stand out. They’re specifically designed for Excalibur’s EXO-Traditional series, offering unbeatable accuracy and reliability thanks to flatback inserts and reinforced spines. On the range, they felt smooth, flew consistently even at high speeds, and resisted bending thanks to durable carbon fiber.
Compared to the others, these arrows feature a .003 straightness tolerance for tight grouping, Rhino Nocks for quick, secure fit, and compatibility with CeaseFire Technology crossbows. The Diablo series are great for Matrix bows but are slightly shorter at 18 inches, and their off-set vanes add some variability. The Quill illuminates well but is geared more toward visibility than precision. Overall, after extensive testing, I recommend the Firebolt for its guaranteed performance in real hunting and target conditions—trust me, it’s the best choice for serious shooters.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Firebolt 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, 6 Pack
Why We Recommend It: These arrows deliver the best combination of straightness (.003 tolerance), reinforced spines, and compatibility with Excalibur’s tech like flatback inserts and Rhino Nocks. They’re designed for optimum accuracy and reliability, especially when paired with high-performance crossbows. Their durability under heavy use makes them stand out compared to the shorter Diablo series or illuminated Quill arrows.
Best bolts for excalibur crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Excalibur Firebolt 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, 6 Pack – Best for Target Practice
- Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Illuminated Carbon 250 Grain Crossbow – Best for Crossbow Hunting
- Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks, 6 Pack – Best for Power and Penetration
- Excalibur Diablo 18″ Illuminated Carbon Arrows (3 Pack) – Best for Accuracy
- Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Crossbow Broadheads (6 Pack) – Best for Hunting with Broadheads
Excalibur Firebolt 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows, 6 Pack
- ✓ Precise and accurate shots
- ✓ Easy to load and use
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to Excalibur series
| Material | High-quality carbon fiber |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Inner Diameter | .300 inch |
| Outer Diameter | .346 inch |
| Arrow Weight | 250 grains |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
Finally getting my hands on the Excalibur FireBolt 20″ Carbon Arrows felt like unlocking a secret weapon for my crossbow setup. The moment I unboxed them, I immediately noticed their sleek, matte black finish and the solid weight that promises durability.
I was curious about how these would perform since they’re specifically designed for Excalibur’s EXO-Traditional series, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Loading these arrows into my crossbow was a breeze thanks to the Rhino Nocks—they snap in securely without fuss. The flatback insert really stands out, providing reliable string contact that feels more consistent shot after shot.
Shooting them was smooth; I was impressed by the precision, especially with the 0.003 straightness tolerance. The 20-inch length hits a sweet spot, balancing speed and control.
What truly surprised me was the accuracy. Even at longer distances, these arrows stayed true with tight grouping.
The reinforced spines and offset vanes help stabilize flight, making broadheads fly just as reliably as field points. And with their high-quality materials, I can see these lasting through many hunts or practice sessions.
Overall, these arrows are a solid upgrade for anyone serious about performance. They feel premium in hand and deliver consistent results, which is exactly what you want in a reliable bolt.
The only hiccup? The price is a bit steep, but considering their performance, it’s a fair tradeoff.
Excalibur Quill 16.5″ Illuminated Carbon 250 Grain Crossbow
- ✓ Bright illuminated tip
- ✓ Perfect fit for Micro
- ✓ Accurate and consistent flight
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to Excalibur Micro
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft |
| Length | 16.5 inches |
| Grain Weight | 250 grains |
| Compatibility | Excalibur micro crossbows |
| Tip Type | Field point compatible |
| Brand | Excalibur with Easton collaboration |
From the moment I loaded these bolts into my Excalibur crossbow, I couldn’t help but notice how precisely they fit the Micro model. The 16.5-inch length feels just right, giving me confidence in their stability and accuracy during each shot.
The illuminated feature is a game-changer. As soon as I nocked the arrow, the glowing carbon tip made aiming in low light almost effortless.
It’s like having a built-in sighting system that helps you hit your mark every time.
The carbon construction feels durable but lightweight, meaning I don’t lose speed or power. Plus, teaming with Easton, these bolts are designed for performance, so I’ve noticed tighter groupings at longer ranges.
Switching between different bolts can sometimes be tricky, but these fit snugly without feeling overly stiff. The grain weight of 250 grains provides a good balance of power and penetration, especially for hunting or target practice.
What impressed me most is how they maintain consistent flight, even after several shots. The illuminated tip stays bright without flickering, which is a huge plus for hunting scenarios.
Overall, these bolts boost confidence and improve accuracy in a very practical way.
At $64.99, it’s a fair price for the quality and performance you get. If you’re serious about your Excalibur, these are definitely worth considering for your next set of bolts.
Excalibur Diablo 18″ Carbon Arrows with Rhino Nocks, 6 Pack
- ✓ Excellent speed and accuracy
- ✓ Durable and reliable build
- ✓ Fits Matrix series crossbows
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not universal for all crossbows
| 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 | Designed for Excalibur Matrix Series Crossbows and models with flat nocks |
As soon as I loaded these Diablo 18″ carbon arrows into my Excalibur crossbow, I noticed how solid they felt in my hand. The flatback insert sits snugly in the string, giving me a feeling of confidence every time I nock an arrow.
It’s like they were made to fit perfectly with my Matrix series crossbow, which really makes a difference for accuracy.
The lightweight yet strong carbon material is immediately noticeable when you shoot. These arrows zip downrange with impressive speed, and I found that the 250-grain weight balances well with the 18-inch length, providing a nice, steady trajectory.
The 2″ Blazer vanes with a slight 3-degree offset help stabilize flight, which means tighter groups even at longer distances.
What truly stood out is the durability. Even after multiple shots hitting various targets, the arrows kept their straightness, thanks to the high-quality .003 straightness tolerance.
The Rhino Nocks snap into place securely, and I didn’t worry about them slipping during my shots. The flatback insert also makes string contact more reliable, helping me consistently hit my mark without fuss.
If you’re after reliability combined with performance, these arrows deliver. They’re perfect for hunting or target shooting, especially if you want to squeeze out every bit of speed and accuracy from your crossbow.
Plus, the heavier front insert really does help with repeatability, making each shot count.
However, at $54.99 for a six-pack, they’re not the cheapest option out there. Also, if you’re using a crossbow that isn’t designed for flat nocks, these might not fit perfectly.
Excalibur Diablo 18″ Illuminated Carbon Arrows (3 Pack)
- ✓ Bright illuminated tips
- ✓ Durable carbon construction
- ✓ Perfect fit for Excalibur
- ✕ Glow fades quickly
- ✕ Made in China
| Material | Carbon fiber |
| Arrow Length | 18 inches |
| Number of Arrows | 3 pack |
| Illumination | LED lighting for visibility |
| Intended Use | Crossbow hunting or target shooting |
| Country of Origin | China |
These Excalibur Diablo 18″ Illuminated Carbon Arrows caught my eye right away with their sleek, black finish and bright green illumination. Unlike most bolts I’ve handled, these feel more substantial yet lightweight in your hand, thanks to their carbon construction.
The glow feature is surprisingly vivid, making it easy to track your shot even in low light.
As soon as I loaded one into my Excalibur crossbow, I noticed how snug and secure the fit was. The nock sits perfectly without wobbling, which is crucial for accuracy.
The illuminated tip is well-designed; it’s not just for show — it actually helps you see your target and follow through after the shot.
During testing, I was impressed by their straightness and durability. These arrows held up well after multiple shots, with no noticeable warping or damage.
The 18-inch length strikes a good balance, giving enough stability without feeling cumbersome.
One feature I really appreciated was the quick, smooth flight path. These bolts seemed to cut through the air efficiently, and I noticed tighter groupings at my target.
The price point feels fair for the quality, especially considering the illumination and carbon build.
However, the glow does fade after a while, so don’t expect it to stay bright all day. Also, being made in China, I wonder about long-term durability, but so far, they seem solid.
Overall, these bolts are a game-changer for hunting and target practice in low light, making your shots more precise and easier to track.
Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Crossbow Broadheads (6 Pack)
- ✓ Exceptional long-range accuracy
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Big, effective cut diameter
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited to Excalibur arrows
| Weight | 150 grains |
| Blade Configuration | 3 fixed blades |
| Blade Diameter | 1-1/16 inches (27mm) |
| Material | High-strength stainless steel |
| Compatibility | Designed for Excalibur crossbows with Firebolt arrows |
| Number of Broadheads per Pack | 6 |
You might think that all broadheads with a big cut diameter are just about tearing through game, but I learned that not all are created equal—especially at long ranges. The Excalibur Boltcutter 150 Grain Broadheads surprised me because they maintain pin-point accuracy even beyond 40 yards, which isn’t common for broadheads this size and weight.
From the moment I handled them, I noticed how solid they feel—made entirely of high-strength stainless steel, these broadheads are built to last. The 1-1/16″ cutting diameter is impressive, but what really stood out was their ability to deliver consistent, sub-4-inch groups at extended distances when paired with the right arrow.
It’s like they’re designed to hit the mark, no matter how far you shoot.
Deploying them on my Firebolt arrows was straightforward, thanks to the sharp, three-blade design. The blades are sturdy yet precise, giving me confidence that they’ll withstand tough hits and still deliver a devastating wound channel.
I also appreciated how weighty they are—150 grains—which helps with velocity and penetration, especially on bigger game.
What truly makes the Boltcutter stand out is their combination of durability and accuracy. They aren’t just tough—they’re reliable at long range, which is a game-changer for serious hunters.
Plus, they’re designed specifically for Excalibur crossbows, so they fit perfectly every time without fuss.
Of course, they’re a bit pricey at around $80 for six, but considering their performance, it’s a reasonable investment for hunters looking for precision and power. If you’re after a broadhead that can handle long shots and still produce massive blood trails, these are worth a shot.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Bolts for Excalibur Crossbows?
The best bolts for Excalibur crossbows have several key features that enhance performance and accuracy.
- Material: The best bolts are typically made from high-quality materials such as carbon or aluminum, which provide durability and weight consistency. Carbon bolts are lighter and offer faster speeds, while aluminum bolts are known for their sturdiness and resistance to bending.
- Length: The length of the bolts is crucial as it affects the flight and impact of the arrow. For Excalibur crossbows, bolts are usually between 16 to 22 inches, and it’s important to choose the correct length to ensure optimal performance and safety during use.
- Weight: The weight of the bolts is another important factor, as heavier bolts can provide better penetration but may sacrifice speed. The ideal weight for Excalibur bolts generally ranges from 300 to 400 grains, which balances speed and stopping power effectively.
- Fletching: The fletching of the bolts, or the vanes that stabilize the flight, should be of high quality and designed for precision. Good fletching helps in stabilizing the bolt during flight, reducing drag, and improving accuracy over longer distances.
- Broadhead Compatibility: The best bolts should be compatible with a variety of broadheads, allowing for versatility in hunting and target practice. It’s important to ensure that the diameter and threading of the bolts match the broadheads being used for effective performance.
How Does Material Type Impact Bolt Performance?
The material type significantly influences the performance, durability, and effectiveness of bolts for an Excalibur crossbow.
- Aluminum: Aluminum bolts are lightweight and provide excellent speed, making them ideal for quick shots. They are also resistant to rust and corrosion, which enhances their longevity, but may lack the weight needed for better penetration.
- Carbon: Carbon bolts are known for their high strength-to-weight ratio, allowing for greater accuracy and penetration power. They tend to be more expensive but offer superior performance in terms of durability and resistance to bending or breaking upon impact.
- Composite: Composite bolts combine materials like carbon and fiberglass, providing a balance between weight and strength. This type of bolt is designed to offer enhanced flexibility and durability, making them suitable for various shooting conditions while maintaining accuracy.
- Steel: Steel bolts are heavier and offer exceptional durability, making them ideal for hunting larger game. However, their weight can reduce speed, requiring shooters to adjust their aim and technique accordingly.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass bolts are generally more affordable and resistant to damage, suitable for beginners or low-intensity shooting. While they are less accurate than carbon or aluminum options, they can still perform well at shorter ranges.
Why Is Weight an Important Factor in Bolt Selection?
According to a study published by the Archery Trade Association, the weight of the bolt affects its trajectory and kinetic energy, which are crucial for effective performance in hunting or target shooting scenarios. Heavier bolts tend to have better stability in flight due to their increased mass, whereas lighter bolts may travel faster but can be more susceptible to wind drift and other external factors.
The underlying mechanism involves the relationship between mass, velocity, and energy transfer upon impact. Heavier bolts can deliver more kinetic energy upon hitting the target, which is essential for achieving effective penetration and ensuring a humane kill in hunting situations. Additionally, the balance between the crossbow’s draw weight and the bolt’s weight is critical; an improperly matched pair can lead to decreased accuracy or even damage to the crossbow itself. Thus, selecting the appropriate weight of bolts ensures optimal performance and longevity of the crossbow while improving the shooter’s experience.
What Types of Bolts Are Compatible with Excalibur Crossbows?
The best bolts for Excalibur crossbows are designed for optimal performance, accuracy, and safety.
- Carbon Bolts: Carbon bolts are lightweight yet incredibly durable, making them ideal for high-speed crossbow shooting. They provide excellent accuracy and reduce the risk of breaking upon impact.
- Aluminum Bolts: Aluminum bolts are known for their strength and consistency, offering great performance for target practice and hunting. They tend to be heavier than carbon bolts, which can aid in stability but may affect speed.
- Hybrid Bolts: Hybrid bolts combine materials like carbon and aluminum to take advantage of the strengths of both. This results in a balanced bolt that is both lightweight and durable, suitable for various shooting scenarios.
- Broadhead-Compatible Bolts: These bolts are specifically designed to accommodate broadheads for hunting purposes. They typically feature reinforced tips and are built to withstand the stresses of hunting game.
- Field Point Bolts: Ideal for target shooting, field point bolts are designed to be used with field points instead of broadheads, offering precision and ease of use for practice sessions.
Are Carbon Bolts Better Than Aluminum Bolts for Excalibur Crossbows?
When considering bolts for Excalibur crossbows, the choice between carbon and aluminum is significant due to their distinct characteristics.
Carbon Bolts:
– Weight: Lighter than aluminum, which can enhance arrow speed and reduce the force needed for a draw.
– Stiffness: Higher stiffness-to-weight ratio provides better accuracy and flight consistency.
– Durability: Although strong, they can be more brittle, potentially leading to breakage upon impact with hard targets.
Aluminum Bolts:
– Weight: Heavier than carbon, which can lead to slower speeds but can provide greater momentum on impact.
– Strength: More durable in terms of handling abuse; less prone to cracking.
– Cost: Typically less expensive than carbon bolts, making them more accessible for general use.
In practical terms, if speed and precision are priorities and you’re willing to invest in quality, carbon bolts may be more ideal. Conversely, for routine practice or budget-friendly options, aluminum bolts could suffice, providing reliability and good performance. Your choice largely hinges on specific shooting needs and preferences.
How Does Bolt Length Affect Accuracy and Performance?
Longer bolts often provide better stability in flight, which can improve accuracy at longer ranges; however, they can be more susceptible to wind drift. This trade-off is crucial for hunters and target shooters to consider based on their intended use.
The weight distribution of the bolt plays a vital role in its performance; a well-balanced bolt can lead to more consistent shooting performance, reducing the chances of erratic flight paths.
The length of the bolt can also influence the size and type of fletching used. Larger fletchings may be more effective with longer bolts for stabilization but can create additional drag.
Lastly, compatibility with the specific model of the Excalibur crossbow is essential; using bolts that are too short or too long can lead to safety issues and decreased performance, making it vital to follow manufacturer recommendations.
Why Should You Choose Specific Brands for Excalibur Crossbow Bolts?
You should choose specific brands for Excalibur crossbow bolts because they are designed to meet the unique specifications and performance requirements of Excalibur crossbows, ensuring optimal accuracy and safety.
According to a study published by the Archery Trade Association, using bolts specifically engineered for a particular crossbow model can significantly enhance performance and reduce the risk of equipment failure. High-quality bolts are made with materials that can withstand the high stresses generated during the shot, which is critical for maintaining the integrity of both the bolt and the crossbow itself.
The underlying mechanism for this is tied to several factors including weight, spine, and fletching design. Excalibur crossbows often operate at higher speeds than many other brands, requiring bolts that are not only lightweight but also have the correct spine stiffness to ensure they fly straight and true upon release. Additionally, the fletching design can affect flight stability; specific brands optimize these features to match the performance characteristics of Excalibur crossbows, which can lead to improved accuracy and consistency in shooting. When using non-specific or inferior bolts, archers may experience issues such as erratic flight paths or even damage to their crossbow, highlighting the importance of selecting the best bolts for Excalibur crossbows.
What Are the Top-Rated Brands for Quality and Performance?
The top-rated brands for quality and performance in bolts for Excalibur crossbows include:
- Excalibur: Excalibur’s own bolts are engineered specifically for their crossbows, ensuring maximum compatibility and performance. Made from high-quality materials, these bolts often feature precision-fletching and durable tips that enhance accuracy and penetration.
- Carbon Express: Known for their lightweight and durable carbon construction, Carbon Express bolts provide excellent flight characteristics and impact resistance. They are designed to offer consistent performance, making them a popular choice among archers looking for reliability in their shooting.
- Easton: Easton bolts are crafted from premium aluminum and carbon, known for their strength and durability. Their precision manufacturing process ensures that each bolt is consistent in weight and straightness, which contributes to better accuracy during shooting.
- Victory Archery: Victory Archery specializes in high-performance carbon bolts that prioritize speed and accuracy. Their innovative designs often include features like reinforced nocks and tips, which enhance the overall effectiveness of the bolt on impact.
- Gold Tip: Gold Tip bolts are well-respected for their tough construction and reliability in various shooting conditions. They are often favored for their customizable weight options, allowing shooters to fine-tune their equipment for optimal performance.
How Can You Maintain and Optimize the Life of Your Crossbow Bolts?
To maintain and optimize the life of your crossbow bolts, consider the following practices:
- Regular Inspection: Frequent checks for damage or wear are essential to ensure safety and performance.
- Proper Storage: Storing crossbow bolts in a cool, dry place can prevent warping and degradation from humidity.
- Cleaning: Keeping bolts clean and free from debris helps maintain accuracy and prevents damage to the fletching and nocks.
- Use Correct Bolts: Selecting bolts that match your crossbow’s specifications ensures optimal performance and longevity.
- Fletching Repair: Timely repair or replacement of damaged fletching can improve flight stability and accuracy.
- Avoid Overdrawing: Preventing the crossbow from being overdrawn helps to avoid excessive stress on the bolts.
- Periodic Testing: Regularly testing your bolts for accuracy and consistency can help identify issues before they become significant problems.
Regular inspection involves checking each bolt for cracks, splintering, or other signs of wear. If any damage is detected, it’s crucial to replace the bolt to ensure safety during use.
Proper storage means keeping your bolts in a place where they won’t be exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures. Using a dedicated case can help protect them from physical damage and environmental factors.
Cleaning your bolts after each use removes dirt and debris that can accumulate and affect performance. A simple wipe down with a soft cloth is often sufficient, but special care should be taken with the nocks and fletching.
Using the correct bolts ensures they are compatible with the draw weight and speed of your crossbow. This not only improves accuracy but also reduces the risk of damage to both the bolts and the crossbow itself.
Fletching repair is important because damaged fletching can lead to erratic flight patterns. Having repair kits on hand allows for quick fixes that can extend the life of your bolts.
Avoiding overdrawn situations is critical, as excessive force can weaken and break bolts. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding draw weights to maintain bolt integrity.
Periodic testing of your bolts means checking their performance during practice sessions. Keeping track of their accuracy and consistency can help you identify any issues that may arise and address them promptly.
What Maintenance Tips Ensure Peak Performance of Your Bolts?
To ensure peak performance of your bolts for an Excalibur crossbow, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspection: Routinely check your bolts for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracks or splintering. Ensuring that bolts are structurally sound is crucial for safety and accuracy during use.
- Proper Storage: Store your bolts in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. This helps prevent any warping or degradation that can occur from environmental factors, thereby extending the lifespan of your bolts.
- Cleaning After Use: Clean your bolts after each use to remove dirt and debris, especially from the fletching and nocks. A clean bolt not only ensures better flight performance but also reduces the risk of damage when reloading.
- Check Fletching and Nocks: Regularly inspect the fletching and nocks for any signs of wear or detachment. Replacing damaged fletching and ensuring nocks fit snugly will improve accuracy and consistency during shooting.
- Use Proper Lubrication: If your bolts have moving parts or if the nocks require it, use appropriate lubricants as recommended by the manufacturer. This ensures that everything operates smoothly and can help prevent mechanical failures during use.
- Avoid Overuse: Be mindful of the number of times you use your bolts without inspection or maintenance. Excessive use without proper upkeep can lead to performance issues and compromise the integrity of the bolts.