There’s no secret to getting the best out of your crossbow. All you have to do is invest in the best hunting crossbow bolts. They’re generally made from solid materials, which allows you to get great degrees of strength, speed, and accuracy. In other words, all factors that make a significant improvement in your hunting performance.
This short guide will present you with some great alternatives to the best crossbow bolts for hunting. We’re gonna reveal some great products that you can get on the market right now. Some will provide great value for your money, while the rest will come with superior features. Apart from that, we also guide you on how to choose the best crossbow bolts for turkey hunting. Sounds great? Let’s get started right away!
How to Choose Best Hunting Crossbow Bolts
Finding the best hunting crossbow bolts that really match your gear is half the way to a successful hunting trip. As we mentioned earlier, a good crossbow bolt should provide speed, momentum, and accuracy. This is essential, especially if you’re planning to follow an agile prey or it is some distance away.
There are at least three crucial factors that you should consider before choosing the best crossbow bolts for hunting. Read everything carefully, so you’ll get the performance you expect when you do some bowhunting.
Weight
The total weight of best hunting crossbow bolts is calculated from the fletched shaft, insert, nock, and field point. For those relatively new to hunting, this is generally measured in grains. Heavier bolts will give you better overall penetration. But for best results, you can consult the bolt manufacturer or a more experienced hunter.
Length
Best crossbow arrows for deer hunting typically come in between 16 to 22 inches. Each one of them has its own characteristics. You need to know which one best suits your gear and style. For example, a shorter bolt may go faster. But on the downside, it might interfere with the rail when you release it. Remember, always consult the bolt manufacturer to find out which option works best for you.
Diameter
Diameter is a crucial factor that’ll have a big impact on penetration. If you’re looking for the best crossbow bolts for turkey hunting, go for a smaller diameter. They’ll give you less wind drag when released. Apart from that, they’ll also provide better durability and overall penetration. Especially when compared to bolts with conventional diameters.
Which is Better Aluminum or Carbon Crossbow Bolts?
Most hunters will recommend a carbon crossbow over aluminum. That’s because carbon is generally lighter. In addition, you’ll get a stiffer spine, minimizing the risk of bending. But on the downside, carbon crossbows tend to be more pricey and usually more difficult to repair.
How Far Will a Crossbow Shoot Accurately?
Actually, there’s no exact answer to this. But based on our experience, most crossbows can release bolts accurately up to 40 yards. So, make sure you’re in the right range to hit the target.
How Far Does a Crossbow Bolt Travel?
You can easily find a modern crossbow that can shoot up to 500 yards away. But if you’re planning to knock down some targets, look for something that’ll allow you to release the bolts within at least 60 yards. Meanwhile, for beginners, a 30-35 yards crossbow is recommended.
Parker Hunter Crossbow Arrows
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Whenever you need a reliable product, you can always rely on Parker Hunter Crossbow Arrows. This is one of the best crossbow bolts for hunting that come with sturdy construction. You’re guaranteed a steady trajectory, shot after shot. Try it for yourself and you’ll find out how these bolts are able to provide maximum penetration, until the last minute before hitting the target.
Each of the Parker Hunter Crossbow Arrows has durable capture nocks. Apart from that, they also feature amazingly lightweight shafts, measured at 15 grains. Unfortunately, you won’t find any points field. In other words, this product is specifically designed for hunting and is not at all ideal for target practice.
What We Love
Reliable and perform well
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Maximum penetration
- Great speed
- 15 grains shafts
Cons:
- Not good for target practice
TenPoint Pro Lite Bolts
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As quick as lightning. That’s probably the most fitting term to describe how great TenPoint Pro Lite Bolts are. If you crave some quick shots, this is one of the best crossbow arrows for deer hunting worth considering. Apart from that, they’re also able to maintain a decent level of accuracy. You’ll experience the better overall performance, both in penetration and agility.
Each of the TenPoint Pro Lite Bolts is equipped with a carbon shaft and bolts that are fitted with 25-grain aluminum inserts. On top of that, you’ll get 100-grain field tips, which should come in handy when you’re planning on hunting down multiple fast-moving targets. In short, if you need something consistent, accurate, and fast, don’t hesitate to go with this one.
What We Love
Great for those who love quick shots
Pros:
- 25-grain aluminum insert
- Omni nock
- Great consistency
- Includes 100-grain field tips
Cons:
- The nocks are hard to remove
Horton Carbon Bolts
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Any hunter who values toughness and precision will love Horton Carbon Bolts. Among all the best crossbow bolts for hunting on the market, this is the one that’s able to provide consistent accuracy, shot after shot. Coming in a 20-inch package, these bolts will have no problem providing optimal penetration. They’ll land exactly where you intended, immediately after leaving the bow.
In addition, Horton ensures that all of its products are of high durability. And Carbon Bolts are definitely not an exception. Each of them has a carbon shaft which provides great sturdiness. Apart from that, you’ll also get an aluminum insert, neon nock, and 3-inch fletching.
What We Love
Durable enough for repeated use
Pros:
- 20-inch size
- Carbon shaft
- Neon nock
- 3-inch fletching
Cons:
- Some people have complained about the quality of the nock
TenPoint Carbon Pro V22
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When it comes to durability and reliability, the TenPoint Carbon Pro V22 is one of the best crossbow arrows for deer hunting you can trust. Each one of them is designed to provide consistent accuracy, flying precisely towards the desired target. Even after repeated use, you’ll notice how these bolts don’t lose their precision.
Of course, this doesn’t mean there aren’t any flaws. At 22-inches in size, the TenPoint Carbon Pro V22 is less than ideal for those who love lightning-fast shots. But on the bright side, you’ll get Omni nocks with an exciting orange color. And for a more durable main construction, TenPoint added 24-grain aluminum inserts and offset fletching.
What We Love
Perfect for anyone who craves accuracy and consistency
Pros:
- 22-inch size
- Orange Omni nocks
- 24-grain aluminum inserts
- Offset fletching
Cons:
- Not good for quick shots
Easton XX75 Aluminum Bolts
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Easton XX75 Aluminum Bolts is a gear that has been recognized by many seasoned hunters as one of the most reliable. If you consider yourself a fan of hard-hitting bolts but don’t want to sacrifice accuracy, this product is your best crossbow bolts for hunting. At 20-inches in size, each of them features an aerodynamic aluminum shaft, carbon inserts, and Omni-nocks. And for some target practices, Easton also includes 100-grain field points in the package.
We found nothing but good reviews on their Amazon page. Most of the users mentioned how really well these bolts work. It says that you’ll get a straight trajectory and more than a decent penetration. Apart from that, they’re also said to be able to withstand heavy use.
What We Love
Good alternative to hard-hitting bolts
Pros:
- 20-inch size
- Omni-nocks
- Includes 100-grain field points
- Aluminum shaft
Cons:
- Nocks and inserts come pre-installed
Carbon Express PileDriver X-Bolts
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Carbon Express PileDriver X-Bolts is all about power and accuracy. They may even be one of the most accurate best crossbow arrows for deer hunting you can find at the moment. As a matter of technicality, each of these bolts comes in 20-inches and has a weight tipping of around 440 grains. And thanks to the heavy carbon shaft, you’ll get additional kinetic energy to hit all of your targets with an incredible amount of force.
Another thing we like about the Carbon Express PileDriver X-Bolts is its versatility. You can choose to use half-moon nocks or flat nocks since they’re both compatible. Unfortunately, Carbon Express decided not to include 100-grain field points in the package. But this shouldn’t be a massive deal-breaker. If you’re looking for a lot of power, this one is definitely worth considering.
What We Love
Lots of power and more than decent accuracy
Pros:
- Great penetration
- Advanced construction
- Real straightness
- Good accuracy
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with field points
Barnett Field Tip Carbon Bolts
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Barnett Field Tip Carbon Bolts are a remarkable choice for anyone looking for the best hunting crossbow bolts for some target practice. Apart from that, they’ll also work great when you’re planning on hunting down small games. But that doesn’t mean you can’t go after bigger targets, since these bolts are compatible with broadheads. However, if you desire optimal results, smaller targets are more advisable.
Each bolt in the package measure at 20 inches and feature moon nocks. As you may have guessed, 100-grain field points are included. For shafts, they weigh about 13 grains per inch and carry 4-inch fletchings. And in case you’re wondering about performance, these bolts are capable of straight and precise flight. They also remain strong after repeated use.
What We Love
A great choice for target practice and smaller games
Pros:
- 100-grain field points
- Moon nocks
- 13 grains per inch
- 4-inch fletching
Cons:
- Not recommended for bigger games
Excalibur Diablo
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Don’t blink, because the Excalibur Diablo can fly lightning fast in milliseconds! They come in a much shorter 18-inch pack, allowing you to get some speedy shots. Add in the impressive downrange accuracy and you get one of the best crossbow arrows for deer hunting around. Trust us, we’ve seen how these little demons are able to take down large targets from medium range without any trouble at all!
As for technicality, the Excalibur Diablo features 2-inch fletching and a carbon shaft to increase center weight. Say goodbye to nocks, since there are flat-back inserts. All of this will give you more steady contact when pulling or releasing the bolts.
What We Love
Shots lightning fast, comes in smaller packages
Pros:
- Flatback insert
- Improved accuracy
- Reliable contact
- Great speed
Cons:
- Some of you might think these are too expensive for the quality
EVO-X CenterPunch
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The EVO-X CenterPunch is mostly known for its consistency. If you focus on accuracy, this is one of the best hunting crossbow bolts that won’t disappoint at all. To ensure consistent precision, TenPoint embeds the fantastic Lazer-Tech carbon fiber technology. This addition is claimed to be able to minimize spine variation by up to 80 percent and increase shaft strength significantly. Compared to carbon bolts in general, CenterPunch is clearly superior in durability and accuracy.
Fragility is definitely not something you would associate with EVO-X CenterPunch. Every single one of them uses carbon fiber, Omni-nocks, and 3.5-inch fletching. They’ll withstand heavy and repeated use, perfect for any frequent hunter.
What We Love
Superior in precision and durability
Pros:
- 84-grain lead-free brass insert
- Lazer-Tech carbon weave
- Aluminum Alpha-Nocks
- Consistent accuracy
Cons:
- They tend to sell out quickly
BloodSport Crossbow Bolts
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BloodSport Crossbow Bolts is a name that will come to mind right away, as soon as you think about quality carbon fiber arrows. Yes, we know, they’re much more pricey than the other best hunting crossbow bolts on this list. But if you don’t have any budget restrictions, these bolts will be an exemplary option. You’ll love their slim diameter, awesome blazer vanes, and handy Blood Ring.
Speaking of which, it is basically a ring of white compounds. According to BloodSport, this tiny little component is capable of picking up anything in its path. In other words, it’s effective in subverting the target. So, if you need something that can have a big impact and is of high quality, this one is worth considering.
What We Love
One of the best carbon fiber arrows around
Pros:
- .003 straightness
- 20-inch length
- Brass inserts
- Moon nocks
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with field points
Easton Full Metal Jacket
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Hybrid construction is one thing that sets Easton Full Metal Jacket apart from other best crossbow bolts for turkey hunting. It provides an excellent combination of carbon fiber and aluminum. As a result, you’ll end up with bolts that are thin, yet durable. They’ll do really well, especially when you’re in a windy area and have to shoot from difficult angles.
Most hunters tend to avoid these bolts because they’ll force you to reach deep into the pocket. However, if you value reliability and high quality, you won’t regret getting the Easton Full Metal Jacket. If anything might stop you, it’s probably the fact that these bolts require some proprietary inserts.
More hunting gear recommendations you say? Well, consider yourself lucky that you’re in the right place. For some reliable communication solutions, check out our article on the 13 best walkie-talkies for hunting. And for those planning to go somewhere though, make sure you get one of our 13 best rubber hunting boots.
What We Love
Great bolts for windy areas
Pros:
- Carbon core
- HIT inserts
- Blazer vanes
- Guaranteed straightness
Cons:
- Field points sold separately
Carbon Express Maxima Red
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A little tight on budget? Then Carbon Express Maxima Red is the best hunting crossbow bolts for you. This is a hunting product that won’t cost you an arm and a leg while being high quality at the same time. Seriously, these bolts are really affordable, but they have everything you need to get the job done.
Carbon Express Maxima Red comes with a full carbon fiber construction. In addition, there’s dual weight forward to provide a steady trajectory and maximum penetration. Apart from that, you can choose between two different sizes. Each of them features standard inserts and blazer vanes.
What We Love
Affordable bolts that get the job done
Pros:
- Dynamic spine control
- Real straightness
- Launchpad precision nock
- Carbon construction
Cons:
- The fletching could be better
Reegox Crossbow Bolts
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While these aren’t really the best crossbow bolts for turkey hunting, Reegox Crossbow Bolts would be a great alternative. They’re not designed for hunting or knocking out some games. But if you plan on doing some target practice or are relatively new to bowhunting, these bolts will be the way to go. They feature screwed-in target points, but you can always replace them with broadheads if you want.
Apart from that, Reegox Crossbow Bolts come in a 20-inch package and carry half-moon nocks. In other words, these bolts will definitely fit most crossbows. If there’s anything we have to complain about with this product, it’s the vanes. You can fix this in a few minutes with a hairdryer, but it’s definitely a bit of a hassle.
Planning to go on a hunting trip in the near future? Well, you might need a nice spot to spend the night. In this case, you may want to check out our list of the 13 best hunting tents.
What We Love
Suitable for novice hunters
Pros:
- Target points included
- Moon nock
- Fixed insert
- Great durability
Cons:
- Unsuitable for serious hunting
