Why Are Crossbow Limbs Breaking?! - And What Can YOU Do?

It seems every time we get on Facebook, Instagram or a hunting forum we see the same old story: Broken crossbow limbs. And lots of crossbow hunters keep asking "Why are crossbow limbs breaking?" So, I thought I'd give you all my 2 cents on the topic and what I think YOU can do to extend the life of your limbs. Let me know what ya think!
Products shown:
Carbon Express Piledriver Bolts: amzn.to/2OSZjs4
Sirius Phoenix Bolts: www.siriusarchery.com/collect...
*If you have other bolt recommendations, please list them in the comments below! I'll add links to this description with your recommendations.*
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[@MichealBacon]

This is arguably the best piece of crossbow advice on the internet. Every single person considering buying a crossbow needs to see his. And anyone who has a crossbow and is bent on speed, needs to watch this too...especially the ladder. It's no different than someone who reloads ammunition. You wouldn't add 30% more powder to your .308 cartridge to gain more speed would you? Of course not, something would break (or blowup) Use heavier bolts and never worry about your limbs cracking. That's the simple answer

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thank you, glad ya liked it!

[@coltonetmanski2583]

The two dislikes are the crossbow manufacturers 😂

[@AnalogAssassin1]

This is great info as I have come across many people complaining about broken limbs...and noticed there was no sensible reason OTHER then shooting way too light of bolts.

[@fredmatthews1970]

This logic makes complete sense. As an archery coach, I have seen limb failures on conventional bows because of under-spined arrows. The frustrating thing is that I have yet to find a spine charts for crossbow bolts. This needs to change.

[@johnbarron4265]

Arrow flex practically a non-issue with crossbows. Crossbow arrow shafts are much shorter (2/3 the length of ordinary arrows) and have substantially thicker walls (30 to 40 thousandths and sometimes thicker) to resist the incredible launch forces produced by a crossbow. On the other hand, controlling arrow flex is critical to obtaining the optimum performance out of a vertical bow. Hence vertical archers concern themselves with the static spine if their arrows, while crossbow archers need not do so.

[@chrisruzsa2798]

A very good point yes they should have charts too.

[@TORREX-A.D.]

They don't need charts.

[@CarlosSanchez-dw2lr]

Tks best informative video about crossbows. After seeing it many limbs will survive.

[@tygappleberry5571]

I thank you so much for posting this video,, 5 months ago I had been saying the exact same thing and even put it in out on several of the crossbow groups that I am a member of and the backlash that I got was unbelievable,, the love that I got was remarkable,, but the backlash left a real bad taste in my mouth,, I have since posted your video about why crossbow limbs breaking to those sites,,, And again I thank you,,, you confirmed everything that I have already said as far as the speed,, as far as the weight of the bolts,, as far as Penetration and momentum,, EVERYTHING

[@pensnut08]

Yes you have!! You were nicer than myself... 3 of "me" got booted and blocked LMAO You always make vaild points. Now, go tell them momentum is more important than kinetic energy for me!

[@michaelgarner623]

I did same thing on killer instinct group and some agreed and the backlash was way more. Seems some ppl try to help others but can't get it in there heads. They want speed and it's someone else's fault and always a buddy's bow that blew up. Love the video

[@leveraction767]

About time someone figured this out. Try and tell people on Crossbow talk this and you will get a ton of backtalk.

[@TheWtfnonamez]

I just learned more about crossbows in this one video than I have in my entire life. Heavier bolt = same kinetic force lower velocity less shock force on the limbs If only the 9mm versus 45ACP debate was this easy to solve!

[@BillKisel]

As a one time traditional archer and now at 77 years old hunting with a crossbow I'm with you 100%. My 12 year old Excalibur Exocet 200 is shooting about 300 fps and still putting the whitetails down. Brass inserts and arrow weight tubes will bring up the weight of a carbon arrow/bolt - needn't invest in new arrows.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Inserts and weight tubes is definitely another way to do it! Keep slayin’ em, Bill!

[@reallife2849]

In my experience if the cams are out of timing a little I get vibration. Killer instinct has cam timing marks but my hypertac 420 don’t and 6 shots I’m a 1/8 to the right of the barrel at the knock point on the strings serving . My hypertac don’t have came position lines so I have no idea where the belong . 6- 12 shots seems the reach string and cable stretch and needs to be timed and tuned . I haven’t broke any limbs yet on my 400+ fps bows . Noticed rail lube keeps friction heat from frying the string and serving. I’m trying to find cam position specs for Barnett hypertac 420 , haven’t found any yet .

[@whatchabruunhomestead737]

I am still researching crossbows information. I have never shot one, let alone a bow. I'm the guy that looks at the box and says the bigger the number, the better it must be! I know nothing about grain weight, but thought it must translate somewhere to rifle gains. I fealt like my knowledge of crossbows was as deep as a wet spot on the cement. This video probably saved me a tremendous amount of heartache and frustration. You did an amazing job explaining your point, that even I understood it! Thank you very much for taking the time to put this video together. I now feel like my depth of knowledge is up to a puddle. Lol. But understanding speed vs. weight and depth of impact. And the energy to send the bolt down range. This changes everything i was thinking! Thank you so much for the help.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Glad this helped you out!!

[@joel11230]

Thank you for explaining this. I just bought the ripper.

[@joeecarbonee6849]

Awesome... Now i know. This video helped out tremendously brother👍 Just gotta K I 405. Shot it 6 times. Then seen all the videoes of em cracking. Man you saved my bow now with your knowledge about the bolts. I so appreciate it brother👍🇺🇲 I'll get a biggen now here in Ky thanks to you. And hopefully itll stay together

[@milansekularac6196]

For me, the way to go is Gold Tip's Nitro Pro (+-0.001"), 13.9gpi. They come with 60grs brass inserts, flat and moon alum nocks, and with a 100grs tip and 2" HP Vanetec vanes you are looking at 512grs bolt. Bulletproof, thickwalled, undestructable and straight carbon shaft. 🙌🏼 From a Darton 380fps rated crossbow they clock 333fps and will support a very long bow lifetime.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Sounds like a solid setup! What Darton bow do you have? Like it?

[@tomgodzik8157]

I very much agree that the heavier bolts is the right way to go. Crossbow hunters need to buy a Crossbow with a speed dial scope on it. Mine came with a fixed lines. So I have to spend more money for the range scope. The Ranch Fairy is very helpful for us that want to shoot a crossbow. Thanks for your video.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Glad you liked it! 👍

[@chrisruzsa2798]

I am going to share this video in many crossbow groups I am in if you don’t mind. Because myself and many other crossbowmen have been saying and your video explains it really really well. Thank you.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

You’re welcome! Thanks for the comment. Share as much as you’d like.

[@ps2paulywalnutz439]

May I can a link or invite to this group im a crossbow hunter myself. I love talking xbow and hunting

[@jeffw1136]

Eleven years ago I got a Ten Point Shadow Ultralite, 350fps with the Easton Aluminum Arrows 100gr points that came with it. Used that setup for the first year. Thought about everything after the season, and used my compound as a reference which didn't add up. I bought new arrows from Easton with metal inserts, the Ten Points were plastic, and changed the broadhead to 125gr with no problems, just slowed the speed down to about 320fps. Well the crossbow is wearing out after the 11 years of use. but I never had a limb issue. Got a new 415fps crossbow this year, came with some 290gr carbon arrows and 100gr field tips, 390gr total weight did not add up for me. I actually upgraded to the Piledriver bolts with a 125gr broadhead, haven't chronographed the speed though. Only 3 weeks of bow season left in PA, but I do plan to make those bolts 500gr or maybe a little more for next years bow season. You may lose a little bit of speed, but you are correct about the mass of the arrow.

[@jamessprague6126]

Thanks for explaining this I'm about to buy the KI415 and I want to get the best recommended bolt grain together

[@glennl9630]

I remember the overdraws on Compound Bows where you were able to shorten the arrows which also did alot of damage to the limbs.

[@tarzansbigknife7217]

I like the Goldtip nitro bolts in my Tenpoint Turbo M1 380....440 grn w/ a100gr head. I use 125gr for an increase in f.o.c. Chrony verified 360 fps with the heavier broad heads but are insanely accurate AND the bonus...it quiets the bow with the heavier bolts. A win..win all around.

[@maxsiu6858]

Thank you for this great information. The piledriver bolts I am currently using, but will look into the Phoenix to try for my Killer Instinct.

[@iHustleLXXXI]

I have an Excalibur MAG340 and the Bulldog 440. I use the Dragon Claw from Wyverns creations with a 100GN field point at 413GN’s or the stock 16.5” Proflight bolts weighing in at 250GN with a 150GN field point for a 413GN with lumenok. I haven’t had any issues with the MAG340 but I’ve had the Bulldog 440 limbs splinter on me once using a 350GN Proflight bolt. I prefer the Dragon Claws for both crossbow’s.

[@scottgorman7166]

Good insight....speed is not always the best and viable option....shot placement is most important. I have seen compound bows push superlight arrows and damn if they dont bend and wiggle off the rest. One does not want to break a limb on a cross or compound bow when its charged. Give up some speed add weight and thump your target with added energy. Safe shooting.

[@ammoiscurrency5706]

Just bought a wicked ridge raider 400 decock and set up a 500gr bolt for it. Thank you for telling me I made the right call!

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Good luck this season!!

[@gemeni69]

I love and use the Pile Drivers and a 125 grain tip in mine. I also use Carbon Express arrows in my vertical bow and personally think they are the best with Easton being a close second. Great video!

[@HudaToob]

Excellent message. Well done.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks!!

[@flench1901]

Good to know . I got a new crossbow coming in and been doing my research on this subject , Thanks for posting .

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Good luck this season 👍👍

[@flench1901]

@@draggindeeroutdoors , Thank you . You also .

[@jasondavis48108]

Excellent video! A couple years ago I bought a Killer Instinct ripper 415 and it blew up on me three shots into sighting it in. Scariest damn thing I've ever had happen to me with a bow, crossbow, or rifle. I ended up returning what was left of it and buying an Excalibur 308 Short. Speed doesn't kill, practice, dedication to scouting, and time in the field does. I'll never buy a "bargain" priced bow again and I'll continue to run my heavier bolts just like I run heavy high FOC arrows with my recurve bow.

[@markburke390]

Ki crossbow had a lot of issue exploding,I was on their fb page.seemed like everybody having issues with limbs

[@jeffreyhall838]

Excellent video! I agree with your opinion on bolt weight 👍

[@williamemilceleiro9857]

Thank you I watched with great interest. I was also keen to know 22 inch bolts can be shot out of bows that can shoot 20 inch bolts. Thanks again and cheers!

[@tomdibenedetto1645]

Thanks for putting this video out with the info! Haven’t personally encountered limbs breaking yet but my friends and family who use them have this conversation a lot. I also have a heavy bolt maker that hits a real sweet spot - Wyvern Creations out of NH. They sell custom (but very reasonably priced!) bolts including ones usable with TenPoint/WickedRidge bows and their ridiculous proprietary nock system. They can also do nice touches like adding illuminated nocks straight from the shop. A pack of 6 heavy bolts (500gr w/ 100gr tip I believe) start at $70-$80ish.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

You're welcome! Good luck in the field!

[@benjamincastillon2568]

Thank you, Great video, I'm shooting a KI 415, using 400grain setup, still doing well but think im gonna change the tips to 150 to gain up to 450

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Good luck! Don’t be afraid to go a bit higher too. The ripper we shoot likes just over 500 grains.

[@atomicdmt8763]

EXCELLENT info! thanks

[@floridatrucker929]

My KI limbs broke and they replaced them with no questions asked or concerns. I highly recommend them.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

👍👍

[@douglasstraight3648]

Great info. Many thanks.

[@rustinpeace7466]

This is a great video. Even at 330 fps you're still faster than the best compounds and you don't have to worry about your form when you shoot, I don't see a downside.

[@mikerotch6733]

And heavy arrows maintain energy down range and arent as affected by wind, and have better penetration i could go on lol

[@NoName-bg2om]

I shoot an #80 Hoyt compound bow using 550grain arrows (200 grain field points). I chronod the velocity 288 fps, when I shot out to 100 yards at archery targets sometimes I hit a softer spot and arrow almost stops on fletchings. I can't imagine how crazy 330 fps would be on same arrow I'm using.

[@TexasTorpedo]

I concur with this. It would also be interesting to see hard data on bolt weights and failures. One could isolate brands as not become a marketing ploy. Thanks for the vid.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks for watching!

[@scottchesher5296]

Wow that is probably the best explanation I heard yet and it is 100% true Natalie that faster arrow do you stabilizes quicker and longer distances the heavier arrow penetrates better and flies better and does quiet down the boat and it removes a considerable amount of vibration I have noticed it I’ve been playing with those now for about 15 years playing with them not taking it serious and in the last few years I’ve come to realize they heavier the arrow or the heavier the book the better the flight the better the accuracy

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks!!!

[@catherinewhitehead8270]

Yes, both my limbs were cracked today after replacing the cable..did we notice..one was splintering and the other honestly cracked..3 yrs old..it wasn't an expensive crossbow..but got the job done..

[@barkingspider2007]

I picked up a Centerpoint CP400 this year. It puts bolts all the way to the fetching on my upgraded target. I am going to order a spyderweb target. Do you have a recommendation? Looking at the ST 24 Archery Target-400 FPS on sale for $179 or would the "No speed limit target be a better pick" The High-Density ST 18 XL Archery Target-No Speed Limit is $159.00 DO THE BOLTS SURVIVE REAL PRACTICE? The field points are breaking off in the target. If inside 30 yards is the best practices distance for hunting whitetail deer, why move up in speed at all? My Excalibur shoots 305 fps and you can practice with it. 100% pass-through rate for deer. I upgraded to get the narrow limb profile.

[@frankbrowning328]

Absolutely agree. Arrow weight improves energy, reduces sound and increases penetration. If you watch high speed footage of a 375 fps (at the chronograph not at the deer)crossbow arrow contacting a deer that is 40 yards from the hunter you will see the deer is able to drop down a few inches before the arrow connects with the deer. Even with the highest speed crossbows of at or near 500 fps the deer will still be able to drop a few inches at 50 yards. Until we can get our arrows to go much much faster we have to be ethical when we pull that trigger and be realistic about how far we should shoot at an animal. My Scorpyd (With low amount of crosswind) is very fast and rifle accurate to 100 yards but I would never shoot at a deer this far away. My max imposed range if all conditions are perfect with a calm deer is 60 yards. Most of my shots are 45 yards or less

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Spot on, Frank! Hope that Scorpyd helps ya bring home the groceries this season!

[@f.chrisliuzzo7889]

What can I use for a hyper tac 430? They recommend the hyper flight 300 grain bolts?

[@M1keG23]

Love my killer instinct hero 380 glad it’s not over 400 FPS honestly. I shot 2 doe with it and had a clean pass through both times.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Good work, congrats!

[@joshuaspaeth4570]

Ok. I need your opinion. I have a center point patriot 415. I've been shooting gold tip swifts with a 125 grain broadhead and custom fletching. They are 424 grains I have had no trouble with my limbs knock on wood. Will my limbs be ok? Or should I go to the 22" swift at 413 grains plus my 125 grain broadheads?

[@jp9395]

Any thoughts on the 22 inch pile drivers? I’m also shooting a Ripper 415. Really enjoy your habitat work videos. Thanks

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

I’ve only shot the 20” Piledriver but it performed very well. No reason the 22” wouldn’t do the same 👍

[@johnschmit9903]

Can't agree more that lighter bolts are breaking limbs!! Don't forget though that some people use those decocking bolts that are light weight also. So be aware of what you are using 😉

[@wilsonrawlin8547]

GREAT POINT!!!

[@tmorrison1983]

The first thing I did when I got my KI Fierce 405 was purchase 100 grain inserts and built my own bolts. It made a huge difference from stock bolts. The penetration doubled and it actually quieted everything down too!

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Excellent! Sounds like you’ve got a good setup! 👍

[@TORREX-A.D.]

That's how you do it.

[@peyotepete4903]

IMO alot of people don't even understand what a dry fire can do to their first Xbow. I'm not an expert but after dry fire, string, serving and rail maintenance is the king of Xbow hunting.

[@normancopeland8506]

Just bought a Wicked Ridge Invader 400 rated at 400fps last month The Easton bolts that came with it are xx75 aluminum 435 grain just weighed my hunting setup with a muzzy 100 broadhead weight 455 with an indexing washer installed to get proper vane to broadhead blade alignment my bow chronographs at 365 fps with this setup. Got a big doe and a 12 point wall hanger so far this year well pleased with my setup...that said never found the two kill bolts Lord only know how far they went after pass though maybe after the leaves fall this winter..

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Fantastic 🤘 congrats on your deer!

[@arthurdirindinjr1792]

Excellent video FINALLY someone spesking the truth about crossbows Next I am expressing strictly MY OPINION but I also think the fact that many possibly most crossbow owners are not educated tge FACTS that it is absolutely mandatory and as to the how and why at set intervals of time and several times for every singke year they own any crossbow they must inspect thier crossbows and determine the brace hight is correct the cams are correctly timed and thier cam lean is as slight as can be achieved and A well tuned crossbow with absolute minimal cam lean and perfectly timed cams and correct brace hight combined with using arrows the total weight weight of which minimizes excessive linb fatigue will go a long way in maximizing the life expectancy of your crossbows limbs Additionally I believe most crossbow owners do not understand that crossbows because of thier inherently short power stroke are horribly inefficient in transmitting the stored power of the limbs and cams to the arrow Example is if your crossbow has an efficiency of say 55% and a DW of 280lbs the majority of the stored energy of a cocked crossbows limbs and cams will be re-directed back into the crossbow when released in an extreamly brief very violent expenditure of energy. The more out if tune your crossbow is and the lighter yiur arrows are the more magnified and detrimental this affect is to your crossbow I was completely oblivious to these facts until I decided to research crossbows because I was thinking of buying one and felt I absolutely must become as knowledgeable about maintaining them, how to change thier strings and cables and if necessary repairing them just lije I did with my compound vertical bows and firearms I own Quite frankly I was shocked on just how severely the forces exerted by firing a crossbow were on the crossbow itself. Made me realize I must become very well educated on how to constantly maintain any crossbow I buy to keep it in tune and in as clse to perfect working order by learning how to correctly inspect it and what to inspect to prevent a minor issue from escalating into a catastrophic failure Lastly I am absolutely sick beyond measure by bow hunters who dislike crossbows saying its the same as using a rifle this statement in of itself proves just how ignorant such people are about crossbows.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks, Arthur! 👍

[@thomasreece3903]

Great video. Good to hear some common sense for a change.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks for tuning in!

[@thehungergames8918]

Very interesting, thank you 😀✌️

[@matthewsylva8958]

Good information! Thank you

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Glad it was helpful!

[@benzlevolz6322]

Great job thank you for the info

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks for the comment! Glad you liked the video.

[@davidstonkus3288]

Well said.

[@patrickvang2608]

I'm using the 20" piledriver with a 125 grain broadhead will that be ok for the KI boss 405?

[@yaboilayshay8944]

Thanks bud for this knowledge drop

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Glad you liked it!

[@andyjones3934]

“The bolts are too light”!! Amen!! I shoot a bolt that total weight is 525gr. Cuts like a hot knife thru butter. Way quieter. Deer don’t know what just passed they them!!🤣😂

[@nosoyono1081]

I’m happy with my PSE fang it shoots 390 feet per second I use 20 inch bolts with 100 grain broadheads. The problem I see with these strings snapping is the knock the moon knock is the safest because the string can not slip over it. thees newer style knocks don’t keep the arrow in line and allow the string to jump over the bolt causing the string to brake. They need to make them crossbows shot moon knocks only.

[@amarjitjohnson2308]

Thanks for the video! Just bought a Wicked Ridge 360 (AFTER watching your video)... only used the bolts the package came with at 435 grain. Thought I was good to go using the bolts the manufacturer included.... apparently not, the limb already splintered after 40 shots. Scheels replaced it on spot since it's only been 22 days since buying from them. I've just purchased the pile drivers after watching your video again (should have done in the first place). Hoping that helps this next crossbow survive a bit longer. Thanks again for posting your knowledge!

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks, Amarjit! Happy hunting/shooting!

[@flapthecrapster]

Make sure ya get the alpha knocks brother. My wicked ridge 360 has to use them according to the manufacturer. I ordered a bunch of bolts when I ordered my bow then had to send them back when I read the instructions. BEST bow for the money. Solid choice bro!

[@matthewwichtner2935]

Just got done new crossbow. Rated at 405. Won't shoot the light arrows it came with it. Ordered 410 grain bolts at 20", with 125 grain field trip / broadheads. 2.5 light it noks. Which makes it 537.5 g. You are saying that's okay? Or, much better than what to factory gives you. Or did all what you said go right over my head? The segment was very good. Thank you😊

[@archerontario]

This guys bang on , I’ve said this all along ,

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks, Brian!

[@chrisruzsa2798]

For those using Excalibur’s that are using older models that are the wide limbs the proflights are amazing. But you are at 2x the draw weight and the 400 grains is perfect for those models. They are not okay to use on the modern line crossbows you have to get them to 2x the draw weight.

[@markburke390]

My barnett only shot 320 when I bought it.i went with aluminum easton raider bolts and muzzy 125 grain fix broadheads.it put every line on my scope dead nuts out to 50yrds.i can't find them bolts anymore.they were alot heavier than the headhunters and 100 grain rips that it called for

[@raymondcava4669]

Great video thank you very much. I am using 20” pile driver bolt with the 150 bolt cutter broadhead by Excalibur. I’m looking to replace my front insert to a heavier hundred grain brass. I am not able to fine hundred grain inserts, is there such a thing? For this bolt.

[@puregameplay7916]

the 20" piledriver with 150gr broadheads is already over 500 grains and doesnt need any inserts.

[@sonofthunder.]

nice,i like the heavier schwakers ,i have 4 barnets,430 predator, whitetail pro str,ts370,and older raptor fx,...i agree with you for heavier bolts at higher speed ,front of center ,greater penetration,and appropriate nocks,carbon express not allowed by barnett,too shallow of a v nock,easy to swap to a deep v or lighted nock,like luminoc, or clean shot

[@roberthicks655]

Thank you for this knowledge

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks, Robert. Glad you liked the video!

[@shawnwavra4210]

Great 2 cents video. My crossbow blew up. Turns out. shooting to light of bolt.

[@toninig]

What do you recommend for Excalibur rev x

[@ccook3125]

Great video man! Well said info that many don't consider! My Assassin 400 shoots at 355FPS with the added weight of brass inserts and shock absorption measures. Still a tack driver and I don't shoot over 40 yards.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Excellent setup 👍

[@leogarcia-kp3mp]

I have two crossbow that I use for hunting and right now they both have broken limbs and in the shop and on both of them the limbs snap when sitting next to me in my deer blind and when shooting .any ldea why ?

[@Voxguitarsrock]

My son bought a KI 405. Limbs broke 20 some shots into his owning it. They replaced them under warranty . He went and bought some heavier " pile driver" arrows and good 2 go ever since. But it is noticeably slower.

[@evilevilrick]

What bolt would you recommend for one of the "micro" bows? Looking at the Excalibur 360TD micro. Recommended bolt length is 16 1/2 inches. I have the Carbon Express Piledriver crossbow with Piledriver and Mayhem bolts. The bolts are different weights, but the bow only came with a few and the Mayhem's were available locally. The crossbow has all the silencer's on it so it's not shooting 390 fps. I'm thinking because of the shorter size of the micro bow, the 20 in. bolts will stick out too far and get in the way, hang up on stuff. Would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks.

[@randyries]

I USE 18 in long bolts

[@puregameplay7916]

think ill be fine with some carbon express piledrivers with 125gr tips? total weight is 485gr

[@walterbargersr3402]

Awesome show awesome information question I have a Bruin 370 crossbow that shoots 370 feet per second what would you recommend in bolt weight and what weight tips would you recommend. Thank you God bless

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

I recommend the heaviest setup that shoots perfect bullet holes through paper. Every bow, every shaft is different so you may be to play around a bit to find the combo that works best for you. With that said... the setup that continues to perform really well in many different bows is the Sirius Phoenix - 110 gr insert - 150 grain point. Depending on the bolt length and nock...you'll be in the 510-540 gr ball park.

[@Racer57]

What length bolts were you running in your Ripper 415? I'm looking at a Ripper 425, I'll check the bolts out you suggested.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

The pile drivers we shot were 20”. Sirius Phoenix bolt we ended up all hunting with is 22”.

[@Deanvandam]

Hi, I came across this video, I’m wanting to get my 1st crossbow, but won’t to spend more than $500. And you’re right about broken limbs, no matter what brand I looked at, someone had trouble with broken limbs, when I looked at reviews. Making it hard to decide on what to get. Is there a particular crossbow you can recommend. I’m leaning toward the PSE coalition

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Hey Dean! Shoot me an email, [e-mail], I’d be happy to walk through some recommendations!

[@cheachyang3502]

Hi expert why my homemade reverse crossbow powerstoke is 14inches but draw weight only 75 lb so less ???????😪😪😪😪😪😪 thks boss

[@markshreve2612]

I’ve been a long time now hunter and I’m now transferring to a cross bow do to shoulder issues I’m down to shooting a heavier arrow versus a lite arrow it always has better penetration so what about just addicting a heavier arrow hunting point

[@adampfeffer4722]

PileDriver also comes in a 22" bolt that come in at 479 gr. with 100 gr tip 579 is a great weight.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Piledrivers are great bolts. However, just know weight listed for piledrivers INCLUDE a 100 grain tip. This is straight from their product description: “Weight: 442 grains. Diameter: 0.348". Straightness Tolerance: +/- 0.004 MAX. 6 pack. Note: Weight includes 100 grain field points. So if you’re shooting the 22” version with a 100 grain point, your total bolt weight is 479.

[@jamesthornton9508]

OK ! What about 405 gr. Bolts am l going to have a problem shooting 405 Gr. bolts out of my crossbow ? I have a center point cross bow that shoot 425 fps. And have a BearX Saga crossbow that shoot 405 fps. !! I bought a pack of rage 100 gr. Broad heads and I bought two dozens of bolts that are 405 gr. !!!

[@cg_justin_5327]

I have a Killer Instinct Bone Collector 370 and use the PileDrivers with 100gr heads. They hit like a mallet and are still plenty fast. Adding a lighted nock will get you just a little more momentum too. PileDrivers all the way!

[@joeecarbonee6849]

Just bought the 405. Shot it 6 times. So far so good👍 I see all these limb cracking videos. Freaks me out. Then your video just made my day... Someone else said the same thing. You saved the day brother. Im definitely getting what you suggested 👍👍👍 Kentucky 💙👍

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Thanks, Joee! Glad you liked it!

[@rikacoetzer8135]

All you said is true👌👌

[@GrizzlyCountry]

I'm looking at Carbon Express Piledriver bolts on Amazon, and they are listed on there as 227 grains? Also they are 20" and the nock is different from the Excalibur flat nock?

[@GrizzlyCountry]

I found a source for Piledrivers, gonna call them tomorrow. I just purchased an Excalibur Bulldog 400, and I want to shoot these heavy bolts.

[@TheProfessor1991]

I got the victory bolts with a brass insert and 125 grain anhilator they are 463 grains with lighted nock for my wife rf is the best out of my compound I shoot 552 grain arrows

[@timothywining8094]

I use a 460 grain bolt that's with a 100 Grain tip, my ki fierce 405 Bone collector and my barn at 3:50 XP shoot them just fine no problems, the bolt I'm using is 22"Easton 9 mm carbon BTV

[@ant3341]

Ordered and used the carbon express 20' 442grain. within 3-4 shots of each arrow one of the feathers/ wings fell off on 4/4 bolts I used. cant find the sirius in stock

[@ant3341]

shooting out of a 405fps killer instinct.

[@zzzzzzzzz7567]

Bought a killer instinct ripper 425 a week ago today I found hair line crack. Found this video today I'm New to archery , any suggestions would be great. Trading in or upgrading tomorrow. Not sure to trade bow for same and upgrade bolts , or upgrade to a better quality crossbow.

[@nickmiller5479]

You should call customer service and tell them and they should ship you new limbs. Before you do tho take a damp Qtip and run it over the hair line crack and it stuff is on the Qtip then it's deff cracked, sometimes a limb can look like a hairline crack but turns out to be where they dipped it in the paint.

[@tomthomas4666]

Do you think arrows (bolts) with broadheqds weighting 400 grains is to light for a crossbow shooting 340 feet per sec. ? Just wondering

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Hey Tom! It's hard to say, I've honestly never owned a crossbow in the FPS range (I've had some lower and some higher than that). 340 FPS, you're probably fine shooting a 400 grain bolt, but if you're filling to play around with weight I think you'll find the sweet spot for your bow (and my guess would be its a little higher than 400 grains). The slowest bow we've messed with is my old PSE Invictus which shoots 370 FPS and it shoots really well with a 530 grain setup, if you're looking for a reference point. Play around during the off season and see what your bow likes!

[@eg5944]

My bear constrictor has exploded in my tree stand twice, bear fixed it both times but its bad. the rep from bear told me i had to uncock the bow every couple hours to prevent it. the rep also said these new faster bow limbs wont handle the force put on them. my question is why produce the bow if its not going to work

[@drawstraw4483]

Thank you much. I was worried that, and believe me I don't know much yet! Totally learning..But I was worried that this was a major problem one would be in constant fear that, okay 🤞😮 this could be it's last shot!? I mean that just sounded absolutely heartbreaking 😔 but you guys and your enthusiasm for such an awesome tool has led to a fix! Totally makes sense the companies would love to boast the fastest bow for your buck💪, and leave out the part about how the release of powerful potential to kinetic energy must have some resistance before coming to a complete stop or there will be a something's gotta give somewhere scenario which transfer into stress on components that just cannot handle it and still maintain an overall weight of under 10 pounds which is also important to the overall package. I liked your picture this! It's not a rifle 😂 it's still a stick, string, bent stick analogy and always close quarters. I was actually under the impression that it did expand ones range well over a compound, and certainly a trad bow.. Well it seems it's not just a right out of box and go play kind of a game here, and for me, probably not most people that just makes it all the more fun😉 good video, necessary video 👍

[@juniorb931]

I was shooting the centerpoint 405 gladiator with pile drivers with 125 grain broadheads for two years no dryfires or anything an my limbs broke this year

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Dang man, sorry to hear. Hopefully Centerpoint made things right for ya.

[@tomrobison4274]

I’ve been thinking about this subject I just purchased a wicked Ridge M370 so it’s just below the mark but I plan to go to a heavier shaft for tuning purposes and better penetration. One question, are most of these limbs cracking during the shot or do some break while sitting static cocked? Great video and changes will be made. Thank You. Tom R.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

I’ve heard of limbs breaking while cocking, static cocked and when shooting. Heck I’m starting to hear of a few limbs cracking while sitting uncocked. Follow up videos coming soon.

[@chrisruzsa2798]

Interesting question and points, i would have to say this when you shoot under weight bolts you are making damages to the limbs depending on the materials and everything else combined you will get breakages at any possible way. Now some crossbows cant be cocked for longer than a couple hours if you do leave them longer you can either fatigue the limb or limbs or break them. That is user error and not defect of product or bolt weight. Many people view the crossbow as a gun where you load and shoot nothing else. Compounds need to be treated like special equipment cams and timing can get out of tune which can and will damage a crossbow as well. Recurves also have to be maintained improper brace height shooting can and will damage the limbs too. So a weakened limb is unpredictable as to when and how it will break bit it will one day break. Spare limbs and or spare weapon while out hunting or whatever should always be with you.

[@constantinsabin3193]

if I wanna keep my crossbow unused for 6 months, should i remove the string to prolong limbs life?

[@chrisruzsa2798]

@@constantinsabin3193 this depends if it’s in are that has high heat yes. I like removing the string during off season but its not necessary unless you store it where there is excessive heat.

[@jandblawncare8570]

Very interesting and makes sense. I just got a Ten Point Turbo S1 which is a 390fps and it came with Pro Elite 400gr bolts but wish the place I bought it from would have mentioned this. I ended up buying a total of 24 of the same bolts because my luck there will be a shortage if I didn't and my new bow will be just a piece of art hanging on the wall.

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Sirius Phoenix bolts are a great addition to any bow! Glad you liked the video, happy hunting!

[@timharmon4414]

Question. I have PSE Warhammer. Shooting two different bolts out of it. 550gr. FMJ bolts at 335fps. 450gr. PSE Thunder bolts at 375fps. Bolt you recommend shooting?

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

Shoot ‘em through paper and pick the one that flys the best. If they both fly true I’d pick the 550.

[@joshuaspaeth4570]

The stock arrows they sent with my crossbow when I bought it with my 125 grain heads are only 385 grains and I do not shoot those. So I should be ok with 424 grain arrows right. What do you think? I mean I've killed several deer last year with them and had no problems. Thoughts?

[@draggindeeroutdoors]

You should shoot the heaviest bolt you can that still maintains perfect flight.

[@raymondvaughn9723]

Are there injuries?

[@sirwilliam7988]

Have you shot the Pile Driver in a 22” bolt? And just so I completely understand and I’m probably gonna get pumped for asking but, I’m asking anyway. You say the 20” Pule Driver is a 442 grain bolt and your using a 100 grain broad head. You said that puts you around the 450 range. My math says, 442+100=542. What am I missing?

[@hollypatton2059]

I have a killer instincts lethal 405. What grain should I use for my bolts?

[@kristinhammit9058]

Hope you get an answer. Im looking at buying the same CB

[@timsmith9578]

I agree lighter bolts more vibration is where the limb destruction is occurring