Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon Review

Let’s Review the Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon

For years, I’ve relied on a consistent arsenal of gear to see me through everything from delicate workshop calibrations to rugged outdoor expeditions. When it comes to archery, precision and reliability are paramount, and that’s precisely what led me to seek out a dependable replacement for my dwindling supply of crossbow bolts. The Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon presented themselves as a pragmatic solution for keeping my Cheap Shot 130 crossbow ready for action without breaking the bank. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-frills utility; they felt sturdy, with a matte carbon finish that exuded functional purpose rather than flashy aesthetics. I briefly considered a few other generic bolt options, but the Cold Steel name, coupled with the attractive price point for a dozen, made these a compelling choice. There was an immediate sense of readiness, a quiet confidence that my crossbow would soon be properly equipped again.

Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds were straightforward: a familiar outdoor range where I typically sight in my archery equipment. The setting was clear skies, moderate temperatures, and a consistent backdrop for observing flight characteristics. These bolts immediately demonstrated their capability; they flew remarkably straight, a critical factor for any projectile. The Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon integrated seamlessly into my crossbow, requiring no fiddling or adjustment beyond standard nocking.

Even after a full afternoon of firing, cycling through the pack of a dozen, I noticed no discernible degradation in performance. The ease of use was immediately apparent; they behaved exactly as a quality bolt should, allowing me to focus on my shot rather than the equipment. A minor surprise was just how securely the field points were seated, yet they also proved quite easy to remove from my dense foam target, which isn’t always the case with some bolts.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the following weeks, these bolts became my go-to for both target practice and some informal hunting scenarios. They’ve endured being dropped on gravel, packed into a quiver alongside other gear, and subjected to repeated impacts with various targets. Despite this regular use, there are no visible signs of cracking, fraying, or structural compromise on the carbon shafts. The fletching has remained firmly attached, showing only minor signs of compression where it contacts the rest.

Maintaining these bolts is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dust or debris. For field points, standard threading means they can be easily removed, cleaned, and re-secured, or swapped out for broadheads should the need arise. Compared to some other bolts I’ve used, which tended to develop slight wobbles in the nock or loosen their points over time, these have shown impressive resilience. They certainly hold their own against more expensive, boutique options, often outperforming them in sheer durability for their price bracket.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon

Specifications

The Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon are presented in a convenient 12-pack quantity, ensuring that you have a substantial supply for extended practice or replacement needs. Each bolt measures an overall length of 16.25 inches, a standard dimension that ensures compatibility with a wide range of crossbows designed for such configurations. The material is explicitly stated as Carbon, which contributes to their strength, lightness, and aerodynamic properties crucial for accurate flight.

Each bolt weighs in at a mere 0.6 oz, an incredibly light specification that minimizes drag and allows the crossbow’s power to be fully translated into projectile velocity. The Blade Material for the included field points is listed as Aluminum, a common and effective choice that offers a good balance of durability and weight. The Handle Material for the synthetic components, such as the nock, is also specified. These specifications collectively point towards a bolt designed for performance and practicality in a hunting or target shooting application.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core function, these bolts perform exceptionally well for their intended purpose. They consistently deliver straight flight paths, which translates directly into predictable and accurate shooting, whether at a stationary target or on the hunt. The removable tips are a standout feature; they fit all standard threaded broadheads and field tips, offering excellent versatility. This means you aren’t locked into a single type of point and can easily adapt your setup.

The primary strength of these bolts lies in their straight flight and solid penetration, as noted in user feedback. This indicates a well-balanced construction and sufficient weight for effective energy transfer. While they performed admirably in my testing, it’s important to note that their archery application is primarily listed as hunting, suggesting they are optimized for that context. They exceed expectations for basic target shooting and are more than capable for taking down medium-sized game, providing a good balance of performance and affordability.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon is fundamentally functional. The carbon shaft provides a rigid yet lightweight structure, essential for maintaining straightness during launch and flight. The matte finish offers a subtle grip, reducing the chance of them slipping when handling them, especially with gloved hands or in damp conditions. The nock is a standard design, seating firmly onto a crossbow string without excessive tightness or looseness, ensuring a clean release.

Ergonomically, there’s little to criticize here; they are designed to be shot, not held for extended periods. The simplicity of the design means there’s virtually no learning curve. They fit, they load, and they shoot, fulfilling their role without fuss. The included accessories, referred to as “Standard,” likely include the pre-installed nocks and the removable field points, which are the essentials for getting started immediately.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the materials used, these bolts appear to be built for durability within their intended use cases. The carbon fiber construction is inherently strong and resistant to the stresses of being fired and impacting targets. The aluminum field points are robust enough for repeated impacts on foam or bag targets. I have not experienced any premature failure points, such as shaft fractures or fletching detachment, even after numerous shots.

Maintenance is straightforward: keeping them clean and ensuring the points are securely threaded is key. If you plan on using broadheads, it’s always good practice to check their alignment and security before each hunting session. For a pack of 12, they represent a cost-effective way to maintain a consistent supply of reliable bolts, implying a decent lifespan for both target and hunting applications before replacement becomes necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary “accessory” included with the Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon is the removable tips. This is a crucial element that allows for significant customization. The standard thread inserts mean you can effortlessly swap out the included aluminum field points for a variety of broadheads – fixed-blade, mechanical, or hybrid – depending on your hunting needs. This adaptability is a significant advantage, turning a basic bolt into a versatile hunting projectile.

Beyond the tips, the bolts themselves are straightforward. There are no complex electronic components or specialized add-ons. Their compatibility lies in their adherence to industry-standard thread sizes for the tips, making them work seamlessly with a wide array of commercially available archery points. This focus on a core, adaptable feature is a hallmark of practical gear design.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon

Who Should Buy Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon?

These bolts are an ideal choice for owners of the Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 crossbow who are looking for reliable and cost-effective replacement or supplementary ammunition. They are perfect for recreational shooters and beginner hunters who need dependable bolts for target practice and are starting out in hunting scenarios. Anyone prioritizing value and consistent performance without needing ultra-premium features will find these bolts to be a solid investment.

Individuals who require highly specialized or extremely heavy bolts for very high-poundage crossbows, or those needing bolts certified for extreme clinical sterility, should look elsewhere. For most users of the Cheap Shot 130, a good set of broadheads would be a wise complementary purchase to maximize the hunting potential of these carbon bolts. Having a basic cleaning cloth for the shafts and ensuring your field/broadheads are properly seated would be the only “maintenance” required.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon

The Cold Steel Cheap Shot 130 Bolts, 12 Pack, Carbon deliver precisely what they promise: reliable, straight-flying ammunition at an accessible price point. My testing confirmed their efficacy as straight flyers with good penetration, making them a practical choice for target shooting and capable for medium-game hunting. The 12-pack quantity makes them an excellent value, ensuring you remain well-stocked.

For their price, the performance and durability are certainly justified. I would readily recommend these bolts to any owner of the Cheap Shot 130 crossbow. They offer a no-nonsense solution that allows you to spend more time shooting and less time worrying about your equipment’s reliability. If you’re looking for functional, affordable bolts that get the job done, these are a strong contender.