The Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. Made a Bold First Impression
The world of crossbow bolts can be a confusing one, filled with claims of speed, accuracy, and penetration. So, when I first laid eyes on the Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz., I was cautiously optimistic. These shafts, designed by Gold Tip for high-speed crossbows, promised to deliver the long-range accuracy I desperately needed for my upcoming elk hunt.
My primary motivation for seeking out these bolts stemmed from a frustrating experience last season. I’d wounded, but not downed, an elk with my crossbow, and I suspected my bolts were the culprit. They simply weren’t grouping tightly enough at longer distances. That experience drove me to seek out a bolt shaft designed for superior accuracy.
Unboxing the Superfly shafts, my initial impression was one of quality. The carbon fiber weave looked clean and consistent, a testament to Gold Tip’s manufacturing process. They felt remarkably stiff in hand, suggesting the “super-stiff spine” touted in the product description was no mere marketing ploy.
I considered several other options before settling on the Superfly. Carbon Express Maxima Hunter bolts were on my list, known for their dual-spine construction. I also looked at Easton FMJ crossbow bolts, valuing their added weight and kinetic energy. Ultimately, the Gold Tip Superfly’s emphasis on a stiff spine for accuracy, coupled with Gold Tip’s reputation, won me over.
My first impression was definitely excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. I’ve been burned before by lofty promises, but the build quality and reputation of Gold Tip gave me hope that these shafts could live up to the hype. Now, it was time to see if they delivered.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. took place at my local archery range. It was a relatively mild day, with a slight crosswind that would test the bolts’ stability. I was shooting from a bench rest at targets ranging from 20 to 60 yards, using my Barnett Whitetail Pro STR crossbow.
Right away, I noticed a marked improvement in grouping compared to my previous bolts. At 40 yards, my first three shots landed within a 2-inch circle – a significant upgrade. The stiffness of the shafts seemed to translate directly into more consistent flight and reduced wind drift.
There were no immediate issues, but I did find that the factory-installed nocks were a bit tight on my bowstring. This wasn’t a major problem, but something I noted for future adjustments or replacements. Overall, I was pleased with the initial performance and eager to push the Superfly shafts further.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent shooting, the Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. have continued to impress. I’ve put dozens of shots through them, practicing at various distances and under different weather conditions. They continue to group tightly, even in moderate winds.
Durability has also been excellent. Despite numerous impacts on targets and even a few accidental shots into the ground (we all do it!), the shafts show no signs of splintering or cracking. The carbon fiber construction seems remarkably resilient. The vanes are also holding up well, showing minimal wear and tear.
Maintaining the Superfly shafts is straightforward. After each shooting session, I simply wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. I also periodically check the fletchings for damage and replace them as needed. This simple routine keeps them in top condition.
In comparison to my previous experiences, the Gold Tip Superfly shafts are a clear winner. My previous bolts were inconsistent and prone to wind drift, making accurate long-range shots a challenge. The Superfly shafts have instilled a newfound confidence in my crossbow setup, giving me the edge I need for my upcoming hunt.
Breaking Down the Features of Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz.
Specifications
The Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. are designed for crossbows shooting over 350 fps, built with high modulus carbon for exceptional stiffness. They come in a 20-inch length, optimized for many modern crossbows. The weight varies depending on the components used, but the bare shaft itself is relatively light, prioritizing speed. The spine is incredibly rigid, designed to minimize flex during the shot, which is crucial for accuracy.
These specifications directly contribute to the Superfly’s performance. The high modulus carbon provides the necessary strength and stiffness to handle the forces generated by high-speed crossbows. The 20-inch length ensures compatibility with a wide range of crossbow models. The stiff spine is the key to accurate flight, preventing the bolt from oscillating excessively and causing it to veer off target.
Performance & Functionality
The Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. excels at its primary job: delivering accurate and consistent shots at long ranges. The stiff spine minimizes flex, resulting in flatter trajectories and tighter groupings. They are exceptionally reliable, with no signs of inconsistent performance or premature failure. Usability is straightforward; they are easy to nock, load, and shoot. Comfort is not a major factor with bolt shafts, but the smooth finish and consistent dimensions make them pleasant to handle.
The main strength of the Superfly is its exceptional accuracy at longer distances. They consistently group tighter than other bolts I’ve tested, making them ideal for hunting or target shooting where precision is paramount. One area for potential improvement is the factory-installed nocks, which, as I mentioned earlier, can be a bit tight on some bowstrings. An optional upgrade to higher-quality nocks could further enhance performance.
Overall, the Gold Tip Superfly shafts meet and exceed my expectations. They deliver on their promise of long-range accuracy and provide a level of consistency that I haven’t experienced with other bolts.
Design & Ergonomics
The Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. boasts a clean and functional design. The high modulus carbon fiber construction gives them a sleek, modern look. The shafts are lightweight, but still feel substantial and well-built. The smooth finish and consistent dimensions contribute to a comfortable handling experience.
There’s minimal learning curve involved in using these shafts. They are compatible with standard crossbow accessories and require no special tools or techniques for installation. The user-friendly design makes them accessible to both novice and experienced crossbow shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. are built to last. The high modulus carbon fiber is incredibly strong and resistant to damage. With proper care, they should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. As mentioned earlier, a quick wipe-down after each shooting session is usually sufficient. Periodically checking and replacing the fletchings will further extend their lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. are compatible with a wide range of crossbow accessories. You can customize them with different nocks, fletchings, and broadheads to suit your specific needs. They are designed to work with standard crossbow inserts, allowing you to easily adjust the front-of-center (FOC) balance point.
Gold Tip offers a variety of compatible accessories, including different vane styles and nock colors. The shafts are also compatible with aftermarket accessories from other brands, such as Lumenok lighted nocks. The ability to customize the Superfly shafts allows you to fine-tune your crossbow setup for optimal performance.
Pros and Cons of Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz.
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: The stiff spine and high modulus carbon construction result in tighter groupings at longer distances.
- Excellent Durability: The carbon fiber shafts are resistant to splintering and cracking, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Consistent Performance: The Superfly shafts deliver reliable and predictable flight characteristics, shot after shot.
- Lightweight Design: The lightweight construction contributes to faster arrow speeds and flatter trajectories.
- Customization Options: Compatible with a wide range of crossbow accessories, allowing for personalized tuning.
Cons
- Factory Nocks: The factory-installed nocks can be a bit tight on some bowstrings, requiring potential replacement.
- Price: At $67.49 per dozen, they are more expensive than some other bolt options on the market, though the performance justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz.?
The Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. are perfect for serious crossbow hunters who demand the highest level of accuracy and reliability. They are also well-suited for target shooters who want to achieve consistent groupings at longer distances. Anyone using a crossbow that shoots over 350 fps will benefit from the stiff spine design.
These shafts may not be necessary for casual crossbow users who primarily shoot at close range. If you are only shooting at distances of 20 yards or less, you can likely get by with less expensive bolt options.
A must-have accessory for the Superfly shafts is a high-quality broadhead that is properly matched to your crossbow and hunting conditions. Lumenok lighted nocks can also be a valuable addition for low-light hunting situations.
Conclusion on Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz.
The Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. are a premium option for crossbow shooters who prioritize accuracy and performance. The stiff spine design and high modulus carbon construction deliver exceptional results, making them a worthwhile investment for serious hunters and target shooters.
At $67.49 per dozen, the price is justified by the superior quality and performance. While the factory nocks may require replacement for some, the overall benefits far outweigh this minor drawback.
I would highly recommend the Gold Tip Superfly Bolt Shafts 20 in. 1 doz. to anyone looking to upgrade their crossbow setup. They are a game-changer for long-range accuracy and will undoubtedly improve your success in the field. So, if you’re ready to take your crossbow shooting to the next level, give the Superfly shafts a try. You won’t be disappointed!