Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ Review

First Thoughts on the Carbon Express Mayhem 20″

The Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ crossbow bolts promise a potent blend of speed, accuracy, and penetration, all at a price point that raises eyebrows. As someone who’s spent years guiding hunters and advising tactical teams, I’m always skeptical of budget options, but I’m also open to being surprised. These bolts claim to deliver high-end performance without the high-end price tag, a claim that demands serious scrutiny.

I was seeking a reliable, cost-effective bolt option for crossbow hunters entering the sport. The goal was to find something accurate and powerful enough for ethical kills on whitetail deer and similar game, without breaking the bank.

Unboxing the Carbon Express Mayhem 20″, my initial impression was…underwhelming. The packaging was basic, and the bolts themselves felt lighter than some premium options I’ve handled. Compared to something like the Easton FMJ, or the Black Eagle Executioner, the Mayhem lacked that initial feeling of robust quality. But, the price difference is significant, so this is expected.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price is certainly appealing, but I’m eager to see if the performance matches the marketing hype. The low cost makes me wonder what compromises have been made in materials or construction.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ at my local archery range, focusing on accuracy at 20, 30, and 40 yards. The weather was slightly breezy, with temperatures hovering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit – typical fall hunting conditions.

Accuracy was surprisingly good, initially. At 20 yards, I was grouping within an inch, but that opened up to around 2-3 inches at 40 yards. I did notice that some bolts seemed to fly slightly differently than others, hinting at inconsistencies in spine or weight. After a few shots, one of the provided universal flat nocks cracked.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use (roughly 100 shots per week), the Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ bolts showed some signs of wear, but remained usable. The fletchings started to loosen on a few of the bolts, and the nocks on others began to show stress cracks.

Durability isn’t a strong point. The finish scratches easily, and the fletchings are prone to damage. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. However, replacing fletchings or nocks will likely be necessary after extended use. Compared to my experience with Easton or Black Eagle bolts, the Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ requires more frequent maintenance and shows wear more quickly.

Breaking Down the Features of Carbon Express Mayhem 20″

Specifications

The Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ bolts are designed for versatility and compatibility with a wide range of crossbows. Their key specifications include:

• Length: 20 inches. This is a common and widely compatible length for many modern crossbows.
• Construction: Advanced carbon materials provide the core structure. This helps to achieve a balance of speed and penetration.
• Diameter: Optimized size for high-powered crossbows. This is designed to maximize downrange accuracy with broadheads.
• Straightness: Precision sorted for straightness. This is aimed at improving consistency shot after shot.
• Nocks: Universal flat nocks are included in the six-pack. These are designed for broad compatibility.

These specifications aim to deliver a balance of performance and value. The carbon construction offers reasonable speed and kinetic energy, while the precision sorting seeks to ensure consistent flight. The universal nocks are a cost-saving measure, but may not be ideal for all crossbow setups.

Performance & Functionality

The Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ performs adequately for its price point. Accuracy is acceptable for hunting within reasonable ranges (out to 40 yards), but don’t expect tack-driving precision.

Strengths include their decent speed and penetration, particularly when paired with a sharp broadhead. The weakness is the consistency. Some bolts fly noticeably differently from others, which can affect shot placement. The Mayhem 20″ meets the basic expectations for a budget-friendly crossbow bolt, but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ is adequate, but not exceptional. The carbon shaft feels reasonably sturdy, but the fletchings and nocks appear to be made from less durable materials.

The bolts are easy to load and handle, with no significant learning curve. However, the universal flat nocks may not be the optimal choice for all crossbow string designs.

Durability & Maintenance

The lifespan of the Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ is shorter compared to premium bolts. Expect to replace fletchings and nocks more frequently, and the shaft itself may be susceptible to damage from hard impacts.

Maintenance involves cleaning the shaft and inspecting the fletchings and nocks for damage. Replacing damaged components is relatively straightforward, but adds to the overall cost of ownership.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ comes with universal flat nocks. No other accessories are included.

Customization options are limited. The fletchings can be replaced with higher-quality vanes, and the nocks can be swapped out for moon nocks or capture nocks if preferred. Compatibility with aftermarket broadheads is excellent, as the bolts are designed to accept standard broadhead threads.

Pros and Cons of Carbon Express Mayhem 20″

Who Should Buy Carbon Express Mayhem 20″?

The Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ is perfect for budget-conscious crossbow hunters, beginner crossbow users, and recreational target shooters. They are suitable for those who prioritize affordability over ultimate precision and durability.

Those who demand pinpoint accuracy, require extreme durability for demanding hunting conditions, or use high-end, high-performance crossbows should skip this product. You will want to invest in higher-quality bolts with tighter tolerances and more robust construction.

Must-have accessories or modifications include higher-quality fletchings (e.g., VaneTec or Bohning) and nocks (e.g., Easton or Firenock) for improved consistency and durability.

Conclusion on Carbon Express Mayhem 20″

The Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ crossbow bolts offer a compelling value proposition for budget-minded crossbow enthusiasts. They provide acceptable accuracy and penetration for hunting at reasonable ranges, but their inconsistent flight and less durable components are drawbacks to consider.

The low price is definitely justified for what you get. However, understand that compromises have been made in materials and manufacturing quality.

I would recommend the Carbon Express Mayhem 20″ to beginner crossbow hunters or recreational shooters looking for an affordable option. Just be prepared to potentially replace some components and accept slightly less consistent performance than you would get from a more expensive bolt. If you’re new to crossbow hunting and want to get started without breaking the bank, these are worth a shot.