Set Of 5 Antique Crossbow Bolts, 19th Century

Prize Shooting & Military-Type | 19th Century | Horn, Bone, and Iron Construction

A rare and highly collectible set of five antique European crossbow bolts, comprising four guild-style prize shooting bolts and one heavy iron-tipped bolt, likely of military or fortress defense origin.

This unique grouping represents both ceremonial craftsmanship and martial utility, showcasing the diversity of bolt types used in 18th–19th century European crossbow traditions.

Included in the set:

• Constructed with hardwood shafts, expertly tapered and decorated.

• Fitted with horn tips, polished and smoothly shaped for target impact.

• Each shaft features fine inlaid bone dots within painted black and red bands, typical of crossbow guild decoration in Belgium, the Netherlands, or Northern France.

• Colorful dyed feather fletchings (orange, red, purple) and bone-capped nocks for identification and reinforcement.

• Length: approx. 38 cm

These bolts were used in prize shooting competitions (prijsschieten / tir de prix) and ceremonial events organized by European crossbow guilds (schutterijen), often representing individual shooters or teams.

• Robust shaft with plain, utilitarian finish, suitable for high-tension war crossbows or wall-mounted arbalests.

• Tipped with a forged iron conical head, designed for armor penetration or structural damage.

• Fletched with natural barred feathers (possibly turkey or goose), indicating practical, battlefield-ready construction.

• Rear nock carved square for secure seating in military-style crossbow mechanisms.

• Length: approx. 48 cm

This bolt may have served in militia armories, fortress defense, or reenactment-style heavy target shooting later in the 19th century.

• Excellent overall; all bolts are structurally intact, with original materials, well-preserved inlays, and stable points.

• Fletchings show light wear consistent with age.

• Natural patina and minor surface marks enhance authenticity.

• Believed to originate from a historical guild or private collection in Western Europe (Flanders, Brabant, or Rhineland regions).

• A rare opportunity to acquire a matched set that illustrates both ceremonial art and practical crossbow warfare.