It is time. Time to stop the bickering and childish rhetoric over a simple piece of equipment in the deer-hunting world.
I’m specifically talking about the term “bolt” when referring to a crossbow projectile. The term was cute — and technically accurate — when it was coined generations ago. But it has long outlived its usefulness.
It is time to call this piece of equipment what it actually is. It’s an arrow. Plain and simple.
Many modern manufacturers and hunters already use the terms “bolt” and “arrow” interchangeably. There is a good reason for that. Today’s crossbow projectiles share far more characteristics with modern compound-bow arrows than they do with the short, heavy projectiles historically associated with the word “bolt.” Consider the evolution of the equipment. Traditional crossbow projectiles commonly featured flat or half-moon nocks that rested against the crossbow string. Many modern crossbow manufacturers, however, have moved toward nock designs that more closely resemble those used with conventional arrows, including styles that clip onto the string.
The similarities don’t end there.
Today’s crossbow arrows commonly feature plastic vanes that look and function much like the fletching found on arrows shot from compound bows. The shafts also have evolved. Decades ago, crossbow projectiles were commonly made from thick aluminum. Today, lightweight carbon construction is commonplace — again mirroring the materials used in modern compound-bow arrows. Then there are broadheads.
Crossbow hunters routinely shoot the same screw-in broadheads used by compound-bow hunters. For most setups, 100- or 125-grain broadheads are common. Yes, exceptions exist. Some crossbow setups use heavier broadheads, including versions weighing 150 grains or more. Some expandable broadheads also are designed specifically for the higher speeds and impact forces generated by modern crossbows. But those exceptions don’t change the bigger picture.
Look at the form and function of the modern projectile, and the answer is obvious: It is an arrow. So why does the argument continue? Unfortunately, “bolt” sometimes is used today as a way to create a distinction that no longer needs to exist — and, in some cases, to belittle crossbow hunters and their equipment. That serves no useful purpose.
Crossbow hunting has become an important part of modern bowhunting. In fact, crossbow hunters now make up more than 60% of bowhunters in North America. Whatever your preferred method, these hunters are pursuing the same game, spending time outdoors and participating in the same conservation system that supports the sport we all enjoy.
There is nothing wrong with acknowledging the differences between a compound bow and a crossbow. They are different tools, and each requires skill, practice and responsible use. But we don’t need to manufacture differences where they no longer meaningfully exist.
The modern crossbow projectile is an arrow. It’s time to say so, drop the unnecessary argument and stop using terminology as a wedge between hunters. Bowhunters have enough challenges without fighting among themselves. We share the same passion, the same wildlife and the same woods. It’s time to embrace that common ground — and simply call the arrow an arrow.
