The 5-grains-per-pound minimum: which crossbows use it
Where the The 5-grains-per-pound minimum is used, its shape, and the compatibility rule that stops a dry-fire.
Dry-fire warning
Crossbow bolt data and archery arrow spine, nock and thread data are quoted from each manufacturer's published figures, owner documentation and industry standards, cited on every page. A nock, spine or grain-weight mismatch can cause a dry-fire that damages the bow and can injure the shooter. Confirm against your own owner's manual and the arrow maker's own chart before shooting, and never drop below the stated minimum total weight.
| Nock | minimum total arrow weight rule |
|---|---|
| Form | a weight floor, not a nock: total arrow grains must not drop below the bow's minimum |
| Fits | Every crossbow; the shared rule behind each maker's stated minimum |
| Compatibility rule | The long-standing guidance is at least 5 grains of total arrow weight per pound of draw weight, and never below the maker's stated minimum. A lighter arrow behaves like a dry-fire, dumping energy into the bow instead of the arrow. |
Field notes
Used on: Every crossbow; the shared rule behind each maker's stated minimum.
The long-standing guidance is at least 5 grains of total arrow weight per pound of draw weight, and never below the maker's stated minimum. A lighter arrow behaves like a dry-fire, dumping energy into the bow instead of the arrow.
Chasing speed with an ultralight arrow is the classic way to crack a limb or cam. Manufacturers void the warranty below their stated minimum total grain weight. Keep points heavy enough to stay above the floor.
Crossbows and comparisons
Sources: 5-grains-per-pound minimum arrow weight guidance (Crossbow Nation) · Crossbow nock types explained (Best Crossbow Source)