Imagine launching a bolt from your crossbow with incredible speed, hitting your target with amazing power! If you own a crossbow that shoots at a speedy 400 feet per second (fps), you know that not just any bolt will do. Picking the right bolt for such a powerful bow can be tricky. You want a bolt that flies true, hits hard, and works perfectly with your crossbow. But with so many choices out there, it’s easy to feel lost and unsure.
Choosing the wrong bolt can mean less accuracy, slower flight, or even damage to your bow. It’s a common problem for many crossbow hunters and enthusiasts. This guide is here to help! We’ll break down exactly what you need to look for in crossbow bolts for your 400 fps bow. You’ll learn about different materials, weights, and features that make a big difference. By the end of this post, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently choose the best bolts to unlock the full potential of your fast crossbow.
Our Top 5 Crossbow Bolts For 400 Fps Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Crossbow Bolts For 400 Fps Detailed Reviews
1. Pinals Archery Camo 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts 22 20 inch Carbon Hunting Arrows Crossbolt 12PCS Green 20″
Rating: 9.0/10
Unleash your hunting potential with the Pinals Archery Camo 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts. This 12-pack of 20-inch carbon arrows is designed for serious hunters, offering a perfect blend of power, accuracy, and durability. Their camouflage design helps you blend into your surroundings, giving you the edge you need for a successful hunt. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, these bolts are built to help you hit your mark.
What We Like:
- Exceptional accuracy with +/-0.003 straightness and +/- 1 grain shaft weight consistency.
- Built tough with pure precision carbon shafts that resist splitting, even on hard impacts.
- Lightweight design (10.0 GPI shaft) pairs perfectly with high-FPS crossbows for optimal performance.
- Comes with 100-grain points and 3-inch vanes for excellent flight stability.
- A great value, offering 12 durable and accurate bolts in one pack.
- Pinals Archery is a professional manufacturer that stands behind its products.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 20-inch shaft length might not be compatible with all crossbow models; always check your crossbow’s specifications.
- While durable, some users might prefer a slightly heavier arrow for extreme long-range hunting.
These Pinals Archery bolts are a fantastic choice for any hunter seeking reliable and accurate performance. They deliver consistent shots and are built to last through tough hunting conditions.
2. TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows – 20″
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your crossbow hunting experience with the TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows. These 20-inch arrows are built for serious accuracy and performance. They come in a pack of six and feature TenPoint’s innovative Alpha-Nock HP and a sturdy HP Aluminum Bushing. Get ready for more precise shots and reliable performance in the field.
What We Like:
- The carbon construction makes these arrows strong and lightweight.
- Each arrow is checked for straightness to within .003, ensuring they fly true.
- They are sorted by weight to be very close, just 2-grains per dozen difference. This helps with consistent shots.
- The 46-grain aluminum insert helps create a 13% Forward of Center (FOC) balance, which means better stability in flight.
- The Alpha-Nock HP has a special groove that securely holds the bowstring, preventing “shoot-over” or “shoot-under” issues.
- The HP Aluminum Bushing adds extra strength and accuracy to the nock system.
- TenPoint’s narrow crossbows get a 28% better connection with the string thanks to the Alpha-Nock. This means straighter travel and less wear on your bowstring.
- The 3.5″ Bohning X Vanes are fletched slightly offset, which helps the arrow spin and stabilize in the air.
What Could Be Improved:
- For some, the 20-inch length might be shorter than preferred for specific hunting needs.
- The premium features mean these arrows come at a higher price point.
These arrows are a top-tier choice for hunters who demand precision and reliability. They are engineered to deliver exceptional performance, shot after shot.
3. Wicked Ridge by TenPoint – Match 400 – Pack of Six – 20” Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to boost your crossbow’s performance? The Wicked Ridge by TenPoint Match 400 crossbow arrows are here to help. This six-pack of 20-inch carbon arrows is designed for serious hunters who demand accuracy and power. Each arrow weighs 400 grains and features TenPoint’s innovative Alpha-Nock HP for a secure and precise connection with your bowstring.
What We Like:
- These 20-inch carbon shafts have Bohning X Vanes that are slightly offset for better flight.
- They are checked for straightness to within .004, making them very straight.
- A 46-grain aluminum insert adds weight at the front, improving balance and leading to tighter groups, sometimes up to 20% tighter.
- The Alpha-Nock HP has a deep groove that holds the bowstring firmly, preventing the arrow from going too high or too low.
- This design also increases string-to-nock engagement by 28%, which means straighter arrow travel and better accuracy.
- The arrows are 400 grains and 20 inches long, giving them good penetration for hunting big game.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the Alpha-Nock HP is strong, some archers might prefer a different nock style.
- The price point might be a consideration for casual shooters.
These arrows are a solid choice for hunters seeking improved accuracy and penetration. They deliver reliable performance when you need it most.
4. Wicked Ridge by TenPoint Match 400 – Lighted 20” Carbon Crossbow Arrows (Pack of 3) – 400-Grains
Rating: 9.4/10
The Wicked Ridge by TenPoint Match 400 – Lighted 20” Carbon Crossbow Arrows are a game-changer for any serious crossbow hunter. These arrows are designed to give you an edge in the field, offering superior visibility and accuracy. They are built tough and pack a punch when it counts.
What We Like:
- The Alpha-Blaze lighted nock lights up when you shoot. This makes it super easy to track your arrow’s flight and see where it hits.
- Turning off the light is simple. You just pull the nock straight out. No tools are needed.
- The carbon shafts are strong and 20 inches long. They have special Q2i Fusion X-II 3.0 Vanes for a steady flight.
- These arrows are very straight, with a .004” straightness. They also have a 60-grain aluminum insert. This helps make your shots tighter and more accurate.
- They weigh 400 grains, which is good for deep penetration. This means they can take down big game effectively.
- The Alpha-Nock HP grips the bowstring well. It stops the arrow from sliding off, which improves accuracy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The LED light in the nock lasts about eight hours. For very long hunting trips, you might need to be mindful of battery life.
- While the pack of three is good, serious hunters might want to consider buying them in larger quantities to ensure they always have enough.
These arrows from Wicked Ridge by TenPoint are a solid investment for hunters who demand accuracy and reliability. They are built to perform when it matters most.
5. Pinals Archery Camo 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts 22 20 inch Carbon Hunting Arrows Crossbolt 12PCS Yellow 20″
Rating: 8.8/10
Gear up for your next hunt with the Pinals Archery Camo 400 Grain Crossbow Bolts. These 20-inch carbon arrows are built for accuracy and durability, making them a reliable choice for any archer. The pack comes with 12 yellow bolts, each designed to help you hit your target with confidence.
What We Like:
- Excellent Straightness: Each bolt has a straightness of +/-0.003, meaning they fly true.
- Consistent Weight: The shaft weight is kept within +/-1 grain, ensuring predictable performance.
- Durable Construction: Made from pure precision carbon, these shafts are strong and resist splitting.
- Lightweight Design: At 400 grains for a 20-inch bolt, they are light enough for high-FPS crossbows.
- Ready for Hunting: The package includes 100-grain points and 3-inch vanes, making them ready for the field.
- Great for All Skill Levels: Pinals Archery aims to make hitting your goal easier, whether you’re a beginner or an expert.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: Currently only available in yellow.
- Shaft Length Flexibility: While 20 and 22 inches are offered, more length options could be beneficial.
These Pinals Archery bolts offer a solid combination of accuracy and toughness for hunters. They provide consistent flight and are built to last through tough conditions.
Choosing the Right Crossbow Bolts for Your 400 FPS Crossbow
When you own a powerful crossbow that shoots at 400 feet per second (FPS), you need bolts that can keep up. The right bolts make your shots accurate and powerful. This guide will help you pick the best ones.
Key Features to Look For
1. Weight
Weight is super important. Heavier bolts fly slower but hit harder. Lighter bolts fly faster but might not have as much stopping power. For a 400 FPS crossbow, you want a balance. Most good bolts for this speed weigh between 370 and 425 grains. Grains are a small unit of weight. Check the bolt’s weight to make sure it’s right for your crossbow’s power.
2. Straightness
Bolts need to be super straight. Even a tiny bend makes your shot go off course. Look for bolts with a straightness tolerance of .001 inches or better. This means they are very, very straight. Manufacturers usually list this on the package.
3. Durability
You want bolts that won’t break easily. Good bolts can handle hitting targets many times. They should be made of strong materials that don’t crack or splinter. Strong bolts save you money in the long run.
4. Fletching
Fletching are the small fins on the back of the bolt. They help the bolt fly straight. You’ll see two main types: vanes and feathers. Vanes are plastic and last longer. Feathers are natural and can be quieter. For a 400 FPS crossbow, vanes are usually a good choice because they are tough.
5. Nocks
Nocks are the little plastic pieces at the very back of the bolt. They attach the bolt to the crossbow string. Make sure the nocks fit your crossbow string well. Some nocks light up, which is cool for hunting at dusk.
Important Materials
1. Carbon Fiber
Most high-quality crossbow bolts use carbon fiber. This material is very strong and light. It makes the bolts durable and helps them fly fast and straight. Carbon fiber is the best choice for powerful crossbows.
2. Aluminum (Less Common for 400 FPS)
Some older or cheaper bolts might be made of aluminum. Aluminum is lighter than carbon but not as strong. For a 400 FPS crossbow, carbon fiber is much better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
1. Manufacturing Precision
How well the bolts are made matters a lot. When companies use good machines and check their work carefully, the bolts are better. This means they are straighter and stronger.
2. Spine (Stiffness)
Spine is how stiff a bolt is. A bolt needs to be the right stiffness for your crossbow. A bolt that’s too weak can break. A bolt that’s too stiff might not fly right. The manufacturer of your crossbow usually tells you what spine you need.
3. Inserts and Points
The inserts are where you screw on the arrowheads (points). Good inserts are strong and fit tightly. The points themselves also matter for accuracy and impact. Broadheads are for hunting and field points are for practice.
User Experience and Use Cases
1. Target Practice
For practice, you want durable and accurate bolts. You’ll shoot these a lot, so they need to hold up. They should also be affordable. Lighter bolts with field points are good for target practice.
2. Hunting
Hunting requires powerful and accurate bolts. You need bolts with good weight for deep penetration. Broadheads are used for hunting. Make sure your bolts are strong enough to handle the impact and the broadhead.
3. Archery Competitions
In competitions, every shot counts. You need the straightest and most consistent bolts you can find. Precision is key. Bolts with very tight straightness tolerances are best.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
Q: What is the best weight for a bolt for a 400 FPS crossbow?
A: For a 400 FPS crossbow, bolts weighing between 370 and 425 grains are usually best. This gives you a good mix of speed and power.
Q: Should I use carbon or aluminum bolts?
A: Carbon fiber bolts are much better for a 400 FPS crossbow. They are stronger, straighter, and more durable than aluminum.
Q: What does straightness tolerance mean?
A: Straightness tolerance tells you how straight a bolt is. A lower number, like .001 inches, means the bolt is very straight, which is important for accuracy.
Q: How do I know what spine I need?
A: Check the manual for your crossbow. It will tell you the recommended spine stiffness for the bolts you should use.
Q: What’s the difference between vanes and feathers?
A: Vanes are plastic and are more durable. Feathers are natural and can be quieter. For high-speed crossbows, vanes are often preferred.
Q: Can I use the same bolts for hunting and target practice?
A: You can, but it’s often better to have different bolts. Use field points for practice and broadheads for hunting. Some hunters use heavier bolts for hunting.
Q: How important is the nock?
A: The nock is very important. It needs to fit your crossbow’s string securely to ensure a clean release and accurate shot.
Q: Will heavier bolts slow down my 400 FPS crossbow?
A: Yes, heavier bolts will fly a little slower. However, they also have more kinetic energy, meaning they hit harder.
Q: How often should I replace my crossbow bolts?
A: Replace bolts if you see any cracks, splinters, or bends. Even small damage can affect accuracy and safety.
Q: Where can I buy good bolts for my 400 FPS crossbow?
A: You can buy them at archery shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers that specialize in archery equipment. Always buy from reputable brands.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
William has over three years of experience in building gazebos. He started AskGazebo.com to assist his clients.