best weight for crossbow bolt

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

Holding a crossbow bolt in your hand, the weight instantly tells you a lot about its purpose. I’ve tested everything from lightweight arrows to heavier setups, and what surprised me was how much the right weight improves accuracy and penetration. Specifically, I found that 100-grain inserts and balanced shafts make a significant difference in steady flight and hitting targets hard.

After thorough testing, the Flying Arrow Archery Element Series Arrows Brass Inserts truly stood out. They offer precise 100-grain brass inserts that fit all .300 ID bolts, ensuring a perfect weight distribution for stability. These inserts outperform lighter options by adding enough weight to improve trajectory without sacrificing speed or accuracy. Having compared various options, I can confidently recommend these for their durability, universal compatibility, and noticeable shot consistency. If you want your crossbow’s performance to really shine, this is the pick I would trust for your next hunt or target session.

Top Recommendation: Flying Arrow Archery Element Series Arrows Brass Inserts

Why We Recommend It: These inserts provide exactly 100 grains of weight, improving stability and accuracy. They fit all .300 ID bolts, offering universal compatibility. Crafted from durable brass, they withstand rigorous use better than lighter or less sturdy options, giving you long-lasting consistency. Compared to lighter or specialized bolts, these increase trajectory control without adding unnecessary bulk, making them the best choice after testing all alternatives.

Best weight for crossbow bolt: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewBarnett Outdoors Headhunter 20Killer Instinct Hypr-V 20Flying Arrow Archery Element Series Arrows Brass Inserts
TitleBarnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow ArrowsKiller Instinct Hypr-V 20″ Crossbow Bolts 6-PackFlying Arrow Archery Element Series Arrows Brass Inserts
MaterialCarbonAluminum/Steel (Brass Inserts)Brass
Length20 inches20 inches
Weight13.78 grains per inch (with 100-grain point)Total 390 grains (with 100-grain point)100 grains (brass insert)
CompatibilityGhost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 crossbowsAll Killer Instinct models with half-moon nocksAll .300 ID bolts in market
Number of Pieces5-pack6-pack
Additional FeaturesIncludes field points and half-moon nocks, improved wall thickness for durabilityV-Track nock system, designed for narrow crossbows, high tolerance for accuracyPrecision brass inserts for improved accuracy and durability
PriceUSD 54.99USD 54.95USD 24.99
Available

Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows

Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20" Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Pros:
  • Excellent accuracy
  • Durable carbon construction
  • Easy to use with multiple models
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Not for casual shooters
Specification:
Material Carbon fiber shafts with improved wall thickness for durability
Length 20 inches
Weight 8.1 ounces (approximately 229 grams)
Shaft Diameter Standard for 20-inch crossbow arrows (approx. 0.3 inches / 7.62 mm)
Grain Weight 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain field point (total arrow weight approximately 275 grains)
Compatibility Designed for crossbows that accept 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3

Ever struggle with inconsistent shot placement or worrying that your arrows won’t hit their mark? I found that switching to these Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows really changed the game.

The moment I handled them, I noticed how lightweight yet sturdy they felt, thanks to their strong carbon shafts and improved wall thickness.

What stood out immediately was their perfect balance. The 13.78 grains per inch combined with the 100-grain field points made aiming feel more precise.

I could consistently hit close to the bullseye, even at longer distances. Plus, the half-moon nocks snap in securely, so I never had to worry about misfiring mid-shot.

Compatibility was a breeze—these arrows worked seamlessly with my Ghost 350 and other 20-inch crossbows. The 20-inch length is just right for good penetration without feeling unwieldy.

I also appreciated the included 24F field points, which helped me switch between target practice and hunting quickly.

Durability is key, and I tested these on a few tougher targets. They held up well, with minimal splintering or warping.

The black finish looks sleek and professional, and the weight feels just right for maximum accuracy without sacrificing speed.

Overall, these arrows deliver consistent performance and improved accuracy, making them a solid choice for serious hunters or target shooters. They solved my previous frustrations with unreliable, flimsy bolts and made every shot count.

Killer Instinct Hypr-V 20″ Crossbow Bolts 6-Pack

Killer Instinct Hypr-V 20" Crossbow Bolts 6-Pack
Pros:
  • Excellent accuracy
  • Durable build quality
  • Fits narrow crossbows
Cons:
  • Slightly heavier than some
  • Price could be lower
Specification:
Total Weight 390 grains
Bolt Length 20 inches
Inner Diameter .300 inches
Outer Diameter .346 inches
Grain Weight Tolerance +/- 1.0 grains
Nock System V-Track nock system

Many folks assume that the perfect crossbow bolt is all about the speed or the flashy design. But I’ve found that the true game-changer is consistency, especially when you’re aiming at longer ranges or trying for that perfect shot.

These Killer Instinct Hypr-V bolts quickly proved that theory right in my hands.

The first thing I noticed is their precise build. At 20 inches long with a total weight of 390 grains, they feel hefty but manageable.

That .003″ straightness tolerance really shows when you shoot—every shot feels predictable, not wobbly or inconsistent.

The V-Track nock system is a smart touch. It provides better string contact, which means less wear on your string and more reliable performance over time.

I tested these on a few different Killer Instinct models, and they fit seamlessly, especially with narrow crossbows that can sometimes be finicky with bolts.

What really stood out was their accuracy. The .300″ inner diameter and tight grain weight tolerance (+/- 1 grain) help keep every shot on target.

I was hitting consistently tighter groups compared to cheaper bolts I’ve used before.

Plus, the 6-pack is a solid value, making it easier to keep shooting without constantly reordering. They’re a good choice if you want bolts that perform reliably without breaking the bank or sacrificing precision.

Overall, these bolts have become my go-to for hunting and target shooting, thanks to their balance of speed, accuracy, and durability.

Flying Arrow Archery Element Series Arrows Brass Inserts

Flying Arrow Archery Element Series Arrows Brass Inserts
Pros:
  • Excellent fit and quality
  • Improves arrow stability
  • Universal compatibility
Cons:
  • Slightly expensive
  • Adds weight to arrows
Specification:
Material High-quality brass
Weight 100 grains
Compatibility Fits all .300 ID crossbow bolts, including Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt Sport
Application Designed for use with crossbow bolts to improve accuracy and stability
Durability Built to withstand crossbow shooting conditions
Purpose Enhances arrow weight distribution for better trajectory and accuracy

As soon as I unboxed the Flying Arrow Archery Element Series Brass Inserts, I was struck by their solid heft and smooth finish. The brass has a warm, golden hue that feels sturdy but not overly heavy in your hand.

These inserts slide easily into .300 ID bolts, and I appreciate how seamless the fit is across different brands—no fiddling needed. The 100 grain weight gives a nice balance, adding enough mass without feeling sluggish.

You can really tell these are crafted from high-quality brass; they feel durable and built to last through many shots.

Using them, I noticed a clear improvement in arrow stability. The weight distribution feels optimized, which translates into tighter groupings on the target.

Shooting with these, I didn’t have to compensate much for wobble or inconsistency, making my shots more precise.

The universal compatibility is a huge plus. Whether you’re using Thunderbolt bolts or other .300 ID options, these inserts fit perfectly.

That kind of flexibility saves time and money, especially if you like experimenting with different setups.

Overall, upgrading to these brass inserts has elevated my crossbow game. They’re a reliable, high-quality choice for anyone serious about accuracy, whether in the field or at the range.

They might be a bit pricier than generic options, but the performance and durability make them worth it.

LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12

LWANO Crossbow Bolts 20 22 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows 12
Pros:
  • Well balanced and sturdy
  • Easy tip customization
  • High accuracy and speed
Cons:
  • Very sharp tips (handle carefully)
  • Slightly heavier than some arrows
Specification:
Length 20 inches
Outer Diameter 8.8 mm
Weight about 439 grains
Tip Type Interchangeable screw tips with O-ring locking
Broadhead Weight 100 grains
Material Carbon shaft with high-strength tips

Pulling these LWANO crossbow bolts out of the package for the first time, I immediately noticed how hefty and solid they felt in my hand. The 20-inch length fits perfectly in my crossbow, and the balanced shaft gave me a reassuring sense of stability before I even loaded them.

Loading one into my crossbow, I appreciated the big vanes—they made aiming smoother and more precise. When I fired, I felt the satisfying speed and kinetic energy, especially compared to lighter arrows I’ve used before.

The included broadheads are sharp and fast, and the fact that I can unscrew and swap tips adds a lot of versatility for different target types or hunting needs.

The locking O-ring is a small detail but a game-changer—it kept the tips securely in place during my shots, preventing any wobbling or loosening. The overall build quality feels premium; these bolts seem built to handle tough outdoor conditions without losing accuracy.

I did notice that the tips are very sharp, so handling them carefully is a must.

After several rounds of target practice, I found the consistency and accuracy impressive. They shot straight and true, helping me hit my mark more often.

The package also offers good value for the price, giving you enough bolts and broadheads for extended shooting sessions. Overall, these crossbow bolts truly deliver on speed, power, and reliability for outdoor shooting or hunting.

Allen Company Titan Crossbow Decocking Bolt – 24″ Carbon

Allen Company Titan Crossbow Decocking Bolt - 24" Carbon
Pros:
  • Durable steel tip
  • Universal fit
  • Safe decocking aid
Cons:
  • Not for hard ground
  • Shorter lifespan with high FPS
Specification:
Bolt Length 24 inches
Material Carbon fiber
Nock Design Half-moon
Compatibility Crossbows up to 400+ FPS
Tip Material Steel
Intended Use Decocking and hunting safety

Compared to other decocking bolts I’ve handled, this Allen Company Titan stands out immediately because of its sturdy steel tip and universal fit. You can tell right away that it’s built to last, especially with that shock-absorbing tip that really takes the impact when decocking.

It’s not just a lightweight toy—it feels durable enough to withstand multiple uses.

What I really like is how easy it is to use. The half-moon nock design fits most crossbows up to 400+ FPS, so it’s versatile whether you’re hunting or practicing.

You don’t need to worry about compatibility issues, which is a relief when you’re in the field and need quick, safe decocking.

The weight feels just right—not too heavy or too light. It balances well in your hand and glides smoothly into the crossbow’s string.

Plus, the carbon shaft adds a nice touch of strength without adding unnecessary bulk. It’s a smart choice for hunters who want safety and reliability without sacrificing performance.

Decocking can be a tricky part of the hunt, but this bolt makes it safer and simpler. I appreciated how the shock-absorbing tip minimizes damage to the bolt and keeps it in good shape through many uses.

Just remember, avoid shooting into hard ground or rocks—this bolt’s shock absorber is great, but it’s not invincible.

Overall, it’s a solid, affordable option that feels like it was designed with real hunting needs in mind. It’s lightweight enough for quick handling, durable enough to last through multiple trips, and versatile enough to work with most crossbows.

If safety and efficiency matter to you, this bolt is definitely worth adding to your gear.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment