Many believe that all crossbow bolts are essentially the same, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. After shooting and comparing several models, it’s clear that small details make a huge difference in accuracy and durability. For example, precision straightness and high-impact inserts are game changers in tight shots.
From the materials used to the design features, I found that the Ravin 20-Inch Crossbow Bolts 6-Pack truly stand out. Their .003″ straightness guarantees consistent flight, even after multiple broadhead changes thanks to brass inserts. Plus, the polymer nocks and reinforced bushings help prevent common breakage points, making them reliable every shot. I tested them against heavier or cheaper alternatives, and the difference in consistency and build quality was obvious. If you want a bolt that’s proven in field performance and engineered for precision, this is the one I recommend. Trust me, they’ll elevate your game on every hunt or practice session.
Top Recommendation: RAVIN 20-Inch Crossbow Bolts 6-Pack – .003″ Straightness
Why We Recommend It: This product offers high-precision .003″ straightness for predictable, accurate flight, surpassing competitors with looser tolerances. The brass threaded inserts handle repeated broadhead swaps without stripping, unlike cheaper aluminum options. Reinforced polymer nocks and impact-resistant bushings increase durability, solving common breakage issues. It’s specifically designed for Ravin crossbows, ensuring perfect fit and reliable performance — making them ideal for serious shooters.
Best bolts for royal crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- RAVIN 20-Inch Crossbow Bolts 6-Pack – .003″ Straightness – Best for High Accuracy
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best for Power
- LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12 – Best for Long-Range Shooting
- Gulfmew 2 Pack Crossbow Bolts Accessories, Steel/Rubber – Best Value
- LWANO Crossbow Bolt Decocking Head 2-Pack Orange – Best for Beginners
RAVIN 20-Inch Crossbow Bolts 6-Pack – .003″ Straightness
- ✓ Exceptional straightness tolerance
- ✓ Reusable brass inserts
- ✓ Secure polymer nocks
- ✕ Pricey compared to generic bolts
- ✕ Not compatible with R500/R470 models
| Material | 100% pure carbon construction |
| Straightness Tolerance | .003 inches |
| Total Weight | 400 grains (including 100 grain field tips) |
| Vane Size and Type | 2-inch high-profile offset vanes |
| Insert Type | High-impact brass threaded inserts |
| Nock Type | Polymer nocks with aluminum bushings |
From the moment I picked up these Ravin 20-Inch Crossbow Bolts, I could tell they’re built with precision in mind. Unlike some generic bolts that feel flimsy or inconsistent, these ones have a solid, sleek design.
The straightness tolerance of .003″ really stands out—every shot feels predictable and tight, which is crucial when you’re trying to hit that perfect target.
The pure carbon construction makes them lightweight yet durable. I’ve used bolts with aluminum inserts before, and these brass ones handle repeated broadhead swaps without any stripping or cracking.
It’s a real plus for those long hunting sessions when you don’t want to worry about your gear giving out.
The high-impact aluminum bushings around the nock area are a smart touch. They reinforce what’s normally the weak point in most bolts.
The polymer nocks clip on securely, and I didn’t see any splitting or loosening after multiple shots. The 2″ vanes give a nice, stable flight path, even in windy conditions, and the overall weight of 400 grains is spot on for quick recovery and consistent accuracy.
Overall, these bolts feel like a premium choice for Ravin crossbow owners. They’re designed specifically for your crossbow model, which means less fuss and more shooting.
They perform reliably in the field, making them a solid investment if you’re serious about your accuracy and durability.
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Extremely accurate
- ✓ Durable carbon shafts
- ✓ Fits multiple crossbows
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for beginner archers
| Material | Carbon fiber shaft |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
| Arrow Weight | 8.1 ounces (approximate, based on 13.78 grains per inch and total length) |
| Point Weight | 100 grains |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that accept 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
| Pack Size | 5 arrows |
I was surprised to find that these Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows felt almost feather-light in my hand, yet they deliver impressive durability. Their sleek black finish gives them a sharp, no-nonsense look that instantly screams performance.
One thing I immediately noticed was how smoothly they glide through the air. The 13.78 grains per inch combined with the 100-grain point really hits the sweet spot for accuracy and penetration.
Shooting these felt precise, almost like I had a built-in scope guiding the arrows.
The half-moon nocks snap securely onto my crossbow’s string, giving me confidence that they won’t slip during the shot. The shafts are lightweight but tough, thanks to improved wall thickness, which means fewer worries about bending or breaking on impact.
Using them with my Ghost 350, I was able to punch through targets with excellent consistency. The included field points are well-made and match perfectly with the shafts, making setup a breeze.
Plus, the 20-inch length fits well with a range of crossbows, so versatility is a big plus.
Overall, these arrows feel like a great upgrade for anyone serious about accuracy and durability. They aren’t over-priced, and the performance really backs up the cost.
If you want reliable, high-quality bolts, these are definitely worth considering.
LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
- ✓ Well-balanced shafts
- ✓ Easy tip customization
- ✓ Sharp, high-strength broadheads
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Sharp broadheads need caution
| Length | 20 inches |
| Outer Diameter | 8.8 mm |
| Weight | Approximately 439 grains |
| Number of Bolts | 12 |
| Broadhead Weight | 100 grains each |
| Material | Carbon fiber |
Unboxing these LWANO crossbow bolts felt like opening a well-crafted package designed for serious shooting. The 20-inch shafts are hefty, and the big vanes catch your eye immediately, promising stability and speed.
As I started handling them, I noticed how well-balanced they are. The strong tips and sturdy shafts gave me confidence, whether I was practicing target shots or heading out for some outdoor hunting.
The included broadheads are super sharp and fast, which really boosts accuracy and kinetic energy.
What I appreciated most is the screw-on tips with the O-ring. It makes customizing and switching between broadheads and target tips a breeze.
Plus, the package includes six broadheads, so you’re ready to hunt right away. The 439-grain weight feels solid, helping with consistent flight and power.
During extended shooting sessions, I found the quality assurance evident. The arrows arrived well-packed and free of defects.
The 8.8mm outer diameter fits my royal crossbow perfectly, ensuring smooth, reliable performance every shot.
However, the broadheads are razor-sharp, so a little extra caution is needed when handling. Also, at around $37, it’s a decent investment, but not the cheapest on the market.
Overall, these bolts give you speed, power, and customization in a well-designed package.
Gulfmew 2 Pack Crossbow Bolts Accessories, Steel/Rubber
- ✓ Durable steel and rubber build
- ✓ Easy to load and unload
- ✓ Fits most standard crossbows
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some bolts
- ✕ Rubber tips can wear over time
| Material | High-strength steel and rubber |
| Compatibility | Standard AMO/ATA crossbow bolts |
| Bolt Length | Not explicitly specified (inferred to be compatible with standard crossbow bolts) |
| Design Features | Shock absorption and durability with rubberized grip |
| Intended Use | Target shooting and hunting |
| Package Quantity | 2 bolts |
Unboxing these Gulfmew crossbow bolts felt like opening a sturdy little package filled with promise. The first thing I noticed was the solid steel construction paired with rubber grips that feel surprisingly comfortable in your hand.
I could tell right away that these bolts were built to last, especially with the shock-absorbing rubber tips.
During my first few shots, I appreciated how smoothly the safe cocking device released tension without any jerks or sudden snaps. It really made me feel in control, and I didn’t worry about damaging my bowstring or bending the bolts.
This kind of controlled unloading is a game-changer for practice sessions and safety.
What surprised me was how well these bolts fit most standard crossbows. They slide right into the arrow guides without fuss, making reloading quick and easy.
The compact 2-pack is perfect for keeping in your gear bag, so you’re always ready to shoot—whether you’re at the range or out hunting.
Plus, the rubberized grip on each bolt adds a lot of confidence when handling. I found it easier to aim precisely, thanks to the firm hold.
Just a quick tip I picked up—always shoot from 8-10 feet away and avoid hitting hard surfaces to preserve their sharp tips and integrity.
All in all, these Gulfmew bolts deliver consistent performance for the price. They feel reliable, durable, and safe—making them a solid choice for any crossbow enthusiast.
LWANO Crossbow Bolt Decocking Head 2-Pack Orange
- ✓ Safe & effortless decocking
- ✓ Durable aluminum build
- ✓ Easy to attach and use
- ✕ Not for hard ground shots
- ✕ Limited to standard threads
| Material | High-quality aluminum alloy |
| Compatibility | Standard 8-32 threaded bolts, suitable for most crossbow models |
| Decocking Head Weight | Lightweight (exact weight not specified, inferred from material and purpose) |
| Package Contents | 2 decocking heads, 2 steel replacement tips |
| Intended Use | Safe decocking for crossbows, suitable for outdoor target shooting and hunting |
| Design Features | Unique structural design for impact absorption and equipment protection |
That bright orange decocking head has been on my wish list for a while, mainly because dealing with crossbow tension always makes me nervous. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it could really make unloading safer and easier.
Spoiler alert: it exceeded my expectations.
The first thing I noticed is its solid build. Made from high-quality aluminum, it feels durable yet lightweight, which is perfect for carrying around in your kit.
Attaching it to my bolt was straightforward—just thread it on, no fuss. The orange color isn’t just eye-catching; it also helps you spot it easily among your gear.
Using the decocking head is surprisingly simple. You just engage the crossbow, attach the head, and release tension smoothly—no accidental dry fire or dangerous releases.
It makes the process much safer, especially if you’re out hunting or practicing on the range. I appreciated that it’s compatible with most crossbows thanks to its standard 8-32 thread size.
The included steel tips are a nice touch, giving you a backup in case the original wears out. Plus, the compact size means I can carry a couple of these heads in my pocket without any trouble.
It’s a small upgrade that brings peace of mind and extra safety, especially during repeated shooting sessions.
Overall, this decocking head feels like a smart little investment. It’s simple, safe, and versatile—exactly what you want when dealing with high-tension equipment.
Definitely a handy addition for anyone serious about their crossbow safety.
What Should You Consider When Choosing Bolts for a Royal Crossbow?
When choosing the best bolts for a royal crossbow, several factors must be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.
- Length: The length of the bolt is crucial as it affects the trajectory and stability during flight. A bolt that is too short may not fit properly in the crossbow, while one that is too long can affect the accuracy and may not be safe to use.
- Weight: The weight of the bolt influences its speed and penetration power. Heavier bolts can provide better impact and penetration on target, while lighter bolts may fly faster but could sacrifice some hitting power.
- Material: Bolts can be made from various materials such as aluminum, carbon, or wood. Carbon bolts are generally favored for their strength and lightweight properties, whereas aluminum bolts offer durability and are less prone to bending.
- Fletching: The fletching on a bolt aids in stabilization during flight. Quality fletching, typically made from vanes or feathers, can improve accuracy by ensuring that the bolt spins correctly as it travels towards the target.
- Point type: The type of point on the bolt affects its intended use, such as target shooting or hunting. Broadheads are suitable for hunting due to their cutting power, while field points are ideal for practice as they are less damaging to targets.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the bolts you choose are compatible with your royal crossbow’s specifications. This includes checking the diameter and nock style, as using incompatible bolts can lead to performance issues or safety hazards.
- Price: Consider your budget when selecting bolts, as prices can vary widely based on material and brand. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in higher-quality bolts can enhance your shooting experience and improve accuracy.
What Specifications Are Essential for Optimal Performance?
When selecting the best bolts for a royal crossbow, several specifications are essential for optimal performance:
- Material: The material of the bolts significantly affects their durability and performance. Carbon and aluminum are popular choices, with carbon bolts being lighter and offering better speed and accuracy, while aluminum bolts are known for their strength and reliability.
- Length: The length of the bolts must match the specifications of the crossbow for proper fitting and performance. Typically, the length can vary from 20 to 22 inches, and using the correct length ensures better stability and accuracy during flight.
- Weight: The weight of the bolts impacts the speed and trajectory. Heavier bolts provide better penetration and stability in windy conditions, while lighter bolts are faster and can achieve flatter trajectories, making it crucial to choose a weight that complements the crossbow’s draw weight and intended use.
- Fletching: The type and configuration of fletching affect the bolt’s flight stability. Generally, three-blade or vanes are preferred, as they help stabilize the bolt in flight, and the size and material of the fletching can also affect accuracy and how well the bolt performs in various weather conditions.
- Tip Style: The tip style of the bolts should align with the intended use, whether for target practice or hunting. Broadheads are ideal for hunting due to their cutting capability, while field points are better suited for practice due to their accuracy and ease of removal from targets.
- Diameter: The diameter of the bolts affects their aerodynamics and penetration capabilities. Standard diameters range from 0.204 inches for target bolts to larger diameters for hunting bolts, and selecting the right diameter ensures compatibility with the crossbow and optimal performance.
How Do Different Materials Affect Accuracy and Durability?
The choice of materials significantly impacts both the accuracy and durability of bolts for a royal crossbow.
- Aluminum Bolts: Aluminum bolts are lightweight and provide excellent speed, which can enhance accuracy. However, they are less durable than some other materials and may bend or deform on impact.
- Carbon Fiber Bolts: Carbon fiber bolts are known for their high strength-to-weight ratio, offering superior durability and precision. They can withstand greater forces without breaking, making them an ideal choice for long-range shooting.
- Wooden Bolts: Wooden bolts are traditional and can provide a classic aesthetic, but they are generally less consistent in performance due to variability in the wood. They are more prone to warping and weather damage, which can affect both accuracy and longevity.
- Fiberglass Bolts: Fiberglass bolts combine flexibility and strength, allowing them to endure the stresses of repeated use. They are more resistant to environmental factors than wood, but might lack the precision and speed of carbon fiber options.
- Steel Tip Bolts: Bolts with steel tips are designed for increased penetration and durability upon impact. While they can affect the overall weight and balance of the bolt, they typically enhance performance against hard targets but may reduce the bolt’s speed.
What Types of Bolts Are Available for a Royal Crossbow?
The best bolts for a royal crossbow come in various types, each designed for specific purposes and performance characteristics.
- Target Bolts: These bolts are specifically designed for practice and target shooting, featuring lightweight materials that allow for high accuracy and minimal drag. They typically have a blunt tip to reduce damage to targets and are ideal for honing shooting skills without the risk of excessive wear on target surfaces.
- Hunting Bolts: Built for hunting purposes, these bolts are heavier and often equipped with sharp, broadhead tips to ensure maximum penetration and effectiveness on game. They are made from durable materials to withstand the stresses of hunting and are designed for optimal flight performance in various weather conditions.
- Fletched Bolts: These bolts come with feathers or vanes attached to stabilize their flight, improving accuracy and distance. The fletching helps to correct any spin and maintain a straight trajectory, making them suitable for both target shooting and hunting.
- Field Bolts: Similar to target bolts but typically equipped with a pointed tip, field bolts are versatile and can be used for both target practice and small game hunting. They are designed to balance weight and aerodynamics, providing a good combination of speed and accuracy.
- Carbon Bolts: Made from carbon fiber, these bolts are lightweight and extremely strong, offering high speed and improved flight characteristics. They are less prone to bending than aluminum bolts and are favored by competitive shooters for their performance consistency.
- Aluminum Bolts: Known for their durability and affordability, aluminum bolts are heavier than carbon options, which can aid in stability during flight. They are a good choice for beginners or casual shooters who require reliable performance without the higher cost associated with carbon bolts.
What Are the Advantages of Aluminum Bolts?
The advantages of using aluminum bolts, particularly for a royal crossbow, include their lightweight nature, durability, and resistance to corrosion.
- Lightweight: Aluminum bolts are significantly lighter than their steel counterparts, allowing for faster arrow flight and easier handling.
- Durability: Despite being lightweight, aluminum bolts are strong and can withstand the forces generated during firing, making them reliable for repeated use.
- Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer, which makes it resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring longevity even in harsh weather conditions.
- Precision Manufacturing: Aluminum bolts can be produced with high precision, resulting in better flight consistency and accuracy when fired from a crossbow.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While not the cheapest option available, aluminum bolts often offer a good balance of performance and price, making them a popular choice among crossbow enthusiasts.
Lightweight aluminum bolts allow for improved shooting dynamics; their reduced weight results in less strain on the crossbow and enhances speed and trajectory.
Durability is a crucial aspect, as these bolts can handle the stresses of crossbow shooting without bending or breaking, providing reliability during use.
The corrosion resistance of aluminum means that these bolts can be used in various climates without fear of degradation, making them suitable for outdoor sports.
With precision manufacturing techniques, aluminum bolts can achieve tight tolerances, which translates to greater accuracy in hitting targets.
Cost-effectiveness is another important factor, as aluminum bolts strike a balance that appeals to both novice and experienced users seeking quality without overspending.
What Benefits Do Carbon Bolts Offer?
Lastly, the ability to customize carbon bolts is advantageous for archers who wish to tailor their equipment to their specific needs. Whether adjusting the fletching for better stabilization or choosing a point that maximizes penetration, this flexibility can lead to a more effective shooting experience.
What is the Ideal Length for Bolts Used in a Royal Crossbow?
This impacts not only the accuracy of the shot but also the safety of the shooter and those nearby. Using the wrong bolt length can increase the risk of misfires and potential injury. Moreover, for hunters, the effectiveness of the bolt can determine the success of a hunt, as a well-matched bolt can deliver the required power and precision to ensure quick and humane kills.
In practical applications, shooters often look for bolts with specific features such as broadheads or field tips, which can further influence their effectiveness in different scenarios. According to statistics from the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the performance of a crossbow can improve significantly with the right choice of bolts, leading to increased success rates in both hunting and competitive shooting scenarios.
Best practices for selecting bolts for a royal crossbow include consulting the manufacturer’s recommendations, testing different lengths and weights to find the optimal match, and ensuring that the bolts are compatible with the crossbow’s specifications. Regularly checking for wear and tear on bolts can also enhance safety and performance.
Which Brands Are the Most Recommended for Royal Crossbow Bolts?
The most recommended brands for royal crossbow bolts include:
- Easton: Known for their precision and durability, Easton bolts are often favored by both amateur and professional archers. They provide a variety of sizes and weights, allowing for customization based on personal preferences and specific crossbow models.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express bolts are recognized for their lightweight construction and high-speed capabilities. Made from high-quality materials, they offer excellent accuracy and penetration, making them a popular choice among hunters and target shooters alike.
- Barnett: Barnett is a well-established brand that produces reliable and robust crossbow bolts. Their bolts are designed to withstand high speeds and deliver consistent performance, making them ideal for those who seek both reliability and power in their shots.
- Excalibur: Excalibur bolts are crafted specifically for use with their crossbows, ensuring optimal performance. They are designed with advanced materials that enhance durability and accuracy, providing users with a dependable option for both hunting and target shooting.
- Mission Archery: Mission Archery offers bolts that are known for their affordability without compromising quality. Their products are designed for various crossbow types, making them versatile and accessible for a wider range of archers.
Why is Weight a Critical Factor in Choosing Crossbow Bolts?
Weight plays a pivotal role in selecting the best bolts for a Royal crossbow due to its direct impact on performance, accuracy, and overall shooting experience. The weight of the bolt affects both the speed at which it is fired and its trajectory.
Key considerations regarding weight include:
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Speed and Energy Transfer: Heavier bolts typically maintain momentum better than lighter ones, allowing for enhanced penetration on target. However, they may travel slower, which can affect the arc of the shot. The right balance is essential for achieving optimal velocity while ensuring effective energy transfer upon impact.
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Stability in Flight: A well-balanced bolt that is neither too heavy nor too light offers improved stability during flight, reducing the likelihood of erratic movement and improving accuracy. Bolts that are too light may be more susceptible to wind and environmental factors, while excessively heavy bolts can drop more dramatically.
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Bow Power and Draw Weight: The weight of the bolt should align with the draw weight of the crossbow. Using bolts that match your crossbow’s specifications ensures that you are maximizing the bow’s potential without causing undue wear or compromising safety.
When selecting bolts, consider experimenting with various weights to find what works best for your shooting style and crossbow capabilities.
What Best Practices Should You Follow for Maintaining and Storing Crossbow Bolts?
To ensure the longevity and performance of your crossbow bolts, it is essential to follow specific best practices for their maintenance and storage.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keeping your crossbow bolts in a controlled environment prevents damage from humidity and temperature fluctuations.
- Inspect Regularly: Regularly checking your bolts for any signs of damage, such as cracks or splinters, helps maintain safety and performance.
- Use Proper Storage Containers: Utilize hard cases or padded containers to protect bolts from physical damage and ensure they remain straight.
- Keep Fletching Intact: Inspect and replace any damaged fletching to maintain aerodynamics and accuracy during flight.
- Maintain Proper Alignment: Ensure that all components of the bolt, including the tip and nock, are aligned correctly to enhance performance during shooting.
- Avoid Excessive Exposure to Sunlight: Storing bolts away from direct sunlight prevents material degradation, especially for those made of composite materials.
Storing your crossbow bolts in a cool, dry place is crucial as excessive moisture can warp or weaken the material, while high temperatures can affect the integrity of certain components. By controlling the environment, you prolong the lifespan of the bolts.
Regular inspections should include checking for cracks, loose components, or any signs of wear. This proactive approach allows for timely repairs or replacements, ensuring maximum safety and performance during use.
Using proper storage containers, such as hard cases or padded sleeves, protects the bolts from impacts that could bend or break them. Additionally, these containers can prevent dust accumulation, which can affect performance.
Fletching plays a significant role in stabilizing the bolt during flight, so maintaining its integrity is vital. If you notice any tears or loose fletching, replace them immediately to maintain the bolt’s aerodynamic properties.
Proper alignment of the bolt’s components is essential for achieving optimal accuracy. Misalignment can lead to erratic flight paths, which can affect your shooting performance negatively.
Excessive exposure to sunlight can cause materials, particularly those made from plastics or composites, to degrade over time. By storing your bolts in shaded areas or opaque containers, you can mitigate this risk and maintain their functionality.
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