Weight-drop tests on steel rods simulating the impact loading of mechanical bolts by rock blocks ejected during rockbursts were performed in the laboratory to study the dynamic response of these bolts. It is found that soft cushions placed between mesh and head plate can be employed to absorb wave energy and protect weak connections in a rockbolt-mesh support system, effective slip mechanisms must be designed for fully grouted bolts, and frictional bolts are ideal for excavation walls.