Imagine sending an arrow flying at a blistering 400 feet per second. That’s incredible speed! But to get that kind of power, you need the right bolts, also called arrows, for your crossbow. Picking the perfect bolt can feel like a puzzle, and the wrong choice can really slow you down or even damage your crossbow.
Many hunters and target shooters get frustrated because there are so many different types of bolts out there. They worry about things like how heavy the bolt is, how straight it flies, and if it will even fit their powerful 400 FPS crossbow. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what truly matters when you’re trying to get the best performance.
But don’t worry! By reading on, you’ll discover exactly what makes a bolt great for a 400 FPS crossbow. We’ll break down the important features and explain why they matter, so you can confidently choose bolts that will help you hit your targets with precision and power every single time. Let’s dive into what makes these bolts fly so fast and true!
Our Top 5 Crossbow Bolts For 400 Fps Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Crossbow Bolts For 400 Fps Detailed Reviews
1. TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows – 20″
Rating: 9.3/10
Unlock your crossbow’s full potential with the TenPoint Pro Elite 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows. These 20-inch arrows are built for serious hunters who demand top performance and accuracy. They come with a pack of six, so you’re ready for your next outing.
What We Like:
- These carbon arrows are built tough.
- They are inspected for straightness to ensure great accuracy.
- The Alpha-Nock HP holds the bowstring securely, preventing misfires.
- The design helps your string last longer by reducing wear.
- They have a good weight balance for better flight.
What Could Be Improved:
- The pack of six might not be enough for extended hunting trips.
- They are designed for TenPoint crossbows, limiting compatibility.
If you own a TenPoint crossbow, these arrows are a fantastic upgrade. They offer the precision and durability you need for a successful hunt.
2. Wicked Ridge by TenPoint – Match 400 – Pack of Six – 20” Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Rating: 8.8/10
Unleash your hunting potential with the Wicked Ridge by TenPoint Match 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows. This six-pack of 20-inch, 400-grain arrows is engineered for serious hunters who demand accuracy and power. Each arrow is crafted from durable carbon and features TenPoint’s innovative Alpha-Nock HP for superior performance.
What We Like:
- The 20-inch carbon shafts are fletched with 3.5″ Bohning X Vanes for stable flight.
- These arrows are inspected for straightness to within .004, ensuring consistent shots.
- A 46-grain aluminum insert boosts FOC by 14%, leading to up to 20% tighter groupings.
- The Alpha-Nock HP securely holds the bowstring, preventing “shoot-over” or “shoot-under” errors and minimizing string wear with its 28% increased string-to-nock engagement.
- At 400-grains, these arrows deliver excellent penetration and lethal accuracy for big game hunting.
What Could Be Improved:
- A pack of six might be limiting for extended hunting trips; a larger pack option could be beneficial.
- While the Alpha-Nock HP is strong, some users might prefer nocks that can be easily replaced in the field if damaged.
These Wicked Ridge Match 400 arrows are a fantastic upgrade for any crossbow hunter. They offer a noticeable improvement in accuracy and penetration, making them a reliable choice for your next hunt.
3. Ravin 20-Inch 400-Grain Carbon Crossbow Bolts 6-Pack – .003″ Straightness with Brass Inserts and Nocks – for Ravin Crossbows (Except R500/R470 Series)
Rating: 9.4/10
If you own a Ravin crossbow (but not the R500 or R470 series), these Ravin 20-Inch 400-Grain Carbon Crossbow Bolts are designed just for you. They are the most popular choice for Ravin users, and for good reason. These bolts are built for accuracy and durability, helping you hit your target every time. They’re made with pure carbon and have a super-straight design, which means your shots will be consistent. Plus, they can handle tough use, making them a reliable companion for your hunting trips.
What We Like:
- Made specifically for most Ravin crossbows, ensuring a perfect fit and performance.
- Very straight shafts (.003″ tolerance) for super accurate shots.
- Brass inserts are tough and won’t get damaged easily when you change broadheads.
- Aluminum nock bushings make the back of the bolt stronger, preventing it from breaking.
- The 400-grain weight with 2-inch vanes helps the bolt fly straight and true.
- Ravin-engineered polymer nocks stay on securely without damaging the bolt.
What Could Be Improved:
- These bolts are only for specific Ravin crossbow models, so they won’t work for everyone.
- Field tips are not included, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
These bolts are a fantastic upgrade for your Ravin crossbow. They offer the precision and toughness you need for successful hunts.
4. TenPoint Lighted Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
Rating: 9.1/10
Hunting big game requires the best gear, and the TenPoint Lighted Pro Elite 400-20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows deliver. These arrows are designed to help you track your shots and ensure lethal accuracy. With their bright lighted nocks, you can easily see where your arrow hits, even in low light. They also feature special nocks for a secure fit on your crossbow string.
What We Like:
- The Alpha-Blaze lighted nock makes it super easy to see your arrow’s flight and where it hits.
- Turning off the lighted nock is simple – just pull it straight out.
- These carbon arrows are built for accuracy, checked for straightness and sorted by weight.
- The 400-grain weight and 20-inch length help the arrows punch through and take down big game.
- The Alpha-Nock HP and its aluminum bushing make the arrow stronger and more accurate.
What Could Be Improved:
- The pack only comes with three arrows, which might not be enough for a full hunting trip.
- While the lighted nocks are great, the LED light only lasts about 24 hours, so you might need replacements for longer hunts.
These TenPoint arrows are a fantastic upgrade for any crossbow hunter. They combine advanced features with solid construction for a reliable performance in the field.
5. TenPoint Wicked Ridge Match 400 – Lighted 20” Carbon Crossbow Arrows (Pack of 3) – 400-Grains
Rating: 8.8/10
Take your crossbow hunting to the next level with the TenPoint Wicked Ridge Match 400 Lighted Carbon Crossbow Arrows. This pack of three 20-inch arrows is designed for serious hunters. They weigh 400 grains and are incredibly straight, with a straightness tolerance of .004. These arrows are essential for big game hunting, offering both penetration and accuracy.
What We Like:
- The Alpha-Blaze lighted nock lights up when you shoot, making it easy to track your arrow’s flight and see your point of impact.
- You can turn the lighted nock off easily by pulling the nock straight out. No tools are needed.
- These carbon arrows are built for accuracy. They have a 60-grain aluminum insert that helps them fly straighter and group tighter.
- The Alpha-Nock HP has a special groove to hold the bowstring securely, preventing misfires.
- The arrows are 20 inches long and weigh 400 grains, providing good penetration for larger game.
What Could Be Improved:
- The LED light in the nock lasts about eight hours. More battery life would be beneficial for long hunts.
These TenPoint Wicked Ridge Match 400 arrows are a solid choice for hunters who demand precision and visibility. They deliver the performance you need for a successful hunt.
Choosing the Best Crossbow Bolts for Your 400 FPS Crossbow
A powerful crossbow is only as good as the bolts you shoot from it. For a 400 FPS crossbow, you need bolts that can handle the speed and deliver accuracy. This guide will help you pick the perfect bolts for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for crossbow bolts, several features make a big difference.
- Weight: Bolts come in different weights. Heavier bolts fly slower but hit harder. Lighter bolts fly faster but can be less forgiving if your shot isn’t perfect. For a 400 FPS crossbow, you’ll want to find a good balance.
- Straightness: Straight bolts fly truer. Look for bolts that are rated for very little wobble or deviation. This directly impacts your accuracy.
- Spine: Spine refers to how stiff the bolt is. A bolt needs to be stiff enough to handle the force of the crossbow’s draw. Your crossbow manufacturer will usually recommend a specific spine range.
- Fletching: This is the fancy word for the vanes or feathers on the back of the bolt. They help guide the bolt through the air. Different shapes and sizes affect stability and flight.
- Inserts and Nocks: These are the small parts at the back of the bolt. The nock attaches to the string, and the insert holds the broadhead or field point. Make sure they are durable and fit your bolts well.
Important Materials
Crossbow bolts are usually made from strong materials.
- Carbon Fiber: This is the most common and popular material. Carbon fiber is lightweight, incredibly strong, and very stiff. It’s perfect for high-speed crossbows.
- Aluminum: You might find some older or cheaper bolts made from aluminum. While strong, aluminum is heavier and can bend more easily than carbon. It’s generally not the best choice for 400 FPS crossbows.
- Composite: Some bolts might use a mix of materials. These can offer good performance, but carbon fiber is usually the top pick for speed and durability.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a bolt great or not so great?
- Quality Control: Brands that have good quality control check their bolts carefully. This means fewer defects and more consistent performance. Bolts that are perfectly straight and have well-attached components are higher quality.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often invest more in research and development. They also tend to use better materials and have stricter manufacturing processes.
- Price: While not always true, more expensive bolts are often made with better materials and tighter tolerances. This leads to better accuracy and durability. Cheap bolts might be made with less care, causing them to break or fly poorly.
- Consistency: A batch of bolts should all be very similar. If you get bolts that vary a lot in weight or straightness, your accuracy will suffer.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do these bolts perform in the real world?
- Hunting: For hunting, you want bolts that are accurate and deliver a powerful impact. Heavier bolts with sharp broadheads are often preferred for maximum stopping power. A good bolt will fly straight and true to hit your target precisely.
- Target Practice: When you’re just practicing at the range, you might use field points instead of broadheads. Accuracy is still key, so straightness and good fletching are important. You can also experiment with different bolt weights to see what your crossbow handles best.
- Durability: Good bolts will last through many shots. Cheaper bolts might splinter or break, especially when shot from a powerful crossbow. A durable bolt means you won’t have to replace them as often.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Crossbow Bolts for 400 FPS
Q: What is the best weight for crossbow bolts for a 400 FPS crossbow?
A: For a 400 FPS crossbow, a good starting point for bolt weight is between 400 and 450 grains. This range offers a nice balance between speed and kinetic energy (hitting power).
Q: Does the straightness of a bolt really matter that much?
A: Yes, the straightness of a bolt is very important. Even a tiny bend can make your bolt fly off course, hurting your accuracy. Look for bolts with a straightness tolerance of .001 inches or less.
Q: What spine should I look for in crossbow bolts for my 400 FPS bow?
A: Always check your crossbow’s manual for the recommended spine. For 400 FPS bows, you’ll typically need stiffer (lower spine number) carbon bolts, often in the 300 to 340 spine range.
Q: What’s the difference between vanes and feathers on bolts?
A: Vanes are usually made of plastic and are more durable. Feathers are natural and can offer better flight in some conditions, but they are more delicate. For 400 FPS bows, plastic vanes are more common.
Q: Can I use the same bolts for hunting and target practice?
A: You can, but it’s often best to use specific bolts for each. For hunting, you’ll use broadheads, which are sharp hunting tips. For target practice, you’ll use field points, which are blunt tips. Using field points for practice can save your hunting broadheads from damage.
Q: How do I know if my bolts are durable enough?
A: Look for bolts made from high-quality carbon fiber. Brands that offer warranties or have good customer reviews often indicate durable products. They should withstand repeated shots without cracking or splintering.
Q: Will a lighter bolt make my crossbow shoot faster?
A: Yes, lighter bolts generally fly faster. However, they also carry less kinetic energy, meaning they might not hit as hard. For a 400 FPS crossbow, it’s about finding the right speed-to-power balance.
Q: What are crossbow bolt inserts for?
A: Inserts are small threaded pieces that go into the front of the bolt. They allow you to screw in different tips, like broadheads or field points, and they help connect the tip securely to the bolt shaft.
Q: How important is the nock on a crossbow bolt?
A: The nock is crucial. It’s the part that clips onto the crossbow string. A good nock ensures the bolt is held securely and released cleanly. It needs to fit your crossbow’s string properly and be durable.
Q: Can I mix and match different brands of bolts for my crossbow?
A: While you can physically do it, it’s not recommended for accuracy. Different brands can have slight variations in weight, straightness, and spine. Using bolts from the same manufacturer and batch ensures the most consistent performance.
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.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!