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What length crossbow bolt do I need

Bolt length is set by your crossbow, not by preference, and running one that is too short can foul the rail and the shot.

The common lengths

Most modern crossbows are built around a 20 inch bolt, measured as the shaft length. Some models take 22 inch bolts, and compact bows such as certain Ravin and TenPoint micro systems use shorter arrows in the 16 to 16.5 inch range.

The length that matters is the one the crossbow maker specifies for your model, because it is set by the rail length and the power stroke of that bow.

Why too short is a problem

A bolt that is shorter than the bow needs can sit so that the field point or broadhead falls behind the rail or the retention system when loaded. That can foul the arrow rest, catch on release, and give erratic or unsafe flight.

Length also interacts with where the point sits relative to the rail and string, which is why the maker's figure is the safe number rather than a rounded guess.

Measuring correctly

Crossbow bolt length is normally quoted as the shaft length without the point, but some brands measure over the whole bolt, so check which convention a listing uses. When in doubt, compare against the maker's own arrows for your model.

If you are replacing bolts you already trust, measure an existing bolt the same way the new listing describes so you are comparing like with like.

Micro-diameter systems are their own thing

Ravin and TenPoint micro-diameter arrows come in their own lengths and are not cross-compatible with standard bolts. On those bows you cannot simply cut a standard 20 inch bolt down; you buy the maker's arrow in the specified length.

So the safe process is: identify your crossbow, read its specified bolt length and arrow list, and buy to that. The finder tool does this match for you.

Related

Sources: TenPoint · Ravin · Excalibur