This paper investigates the explicit use of rock reinforcement in a discontinuous stress analysis model. A series of numerical experiments was undertaken to evaluate the performance of local and global reinforcement models implemented in universal distinct element code (UDEC). This was made possible by calibrating the reinforcement models to the laboratory behavior of a fully-grouted rebar bolt tested under pure pull and pure shear loading conditions. The model calibration focuses on matching different loading stages of the force–displacement curve including the initial elastic response, the hardening behavior and the bolt rupture. The paper concludes with a discussion on the suitability of the different reinforcement models in UDEC including their advantages and limitations. Finally, it addresses the choice of input parameters required for a realistic simulation of fully-grouted rebar bolts.