When it comes to baseball bats, there are a variety of materials used to make them. Most players, however, prefer wood bats because they feel that they provide the best performance. If you’re in the market for a wood bat, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. In this guide, we will discuss the different types of wood bats and choose the right one for you. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, keep reading for tips on how to buy a wooden baseball bat.
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What to look for when buying a wood baseball bat?
When it comes to wood bats, there are several factors you have to take into consideration. These factors separate the excellent wood bats from the bad, so you need to know about them ahead of time.
- The weight:
Wood bats come in different weights, so this is one of the main things you should consider when shopping for a wooden bat. The average weight for wood bats is usually between 27 and 31 ounces. Most players are comfortable with this range, but you must experiment with weights before buying your own bat. To ensure that you’re not disappointed with the weight of your bat, test swings a few different ones before you make a decision. If you’re new to the sport and aren’t sure how to go about this, ask someone more experienced to help you out!
- Material:
The two terms you should be aware of when it comes to wood bats are “pure” and “composite.” Pure means that 100% of the bat is made of wood. On the other hand, a composite has some non-wood material molded into it. If you’re looking for an effective wooden baseball or softball bat, you’ll want to make sure it’s 100% wood. Composite bats are usually made of metal alloy or graphite, which can hurt how the bat performs. Wood is the most popular material used to make baseball and softball bats. It is known for being very responsive at impact, which can help you hit the ball better.
- Wood Types:
Take into consideration what kind of wood your baseball or softball bat should be made of, as well as its grain orientation. The three most popular styles of wood used for making wooden bats are ash, maple, and birch. Each of these woods is ideal for different purposes, so one type may be better than another, depending on what you need your bat for.
- The length:
The length of a baseball bat is measured from the top of the grip to the end of the barrel. Bat lengths are typically measured in inches but can be found in centimeters. Standard wood bat lengths are 34″ and 32″. The longer your bat is, the more surface area you have to hit the ball, so it’s essential to choose the one that is the best fit for you. To find out which length is right for you, first measure your height. Your bat should be around 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) taller than you are. So if you’re 5’5″ (165 cm), consider getting a 34″ (86 cm) wood bat.
Where to buy a wood baseball bat:
There are a lot of different online and offline stores to buy a good wood baseball bat from. It can be challenging to find a store that has high-quality bats, but you must take your time to make sure you get the right one for you. If you need help finding a store near you, Google is always an option! Typically, your best bet is to try out a couple of different types of wood bats at your local baseball equipment retailer. These days, the good thing is that you can also buy online from places like Amazon or eBay.
Just make sure the seller offers a money-back guarantee if you don’t like it. Once you purchase the right bat, start practicing with a pitching machine to upskill yourself. Consider checking different pitching machines before hitting on any popular name. The pitching machine reviews at https://thebatnerds.com/best-pitching-machine will help you find the best one.
Types of Wood Baseball Bats:
Before looking for a wood bat, it’s essential to understand various kinds of wood used to make them.
- Maple:
There are many types of wood bats, but the only ones approved by Major League Baseball for usage in games are ash, maple, and birch. These three types of wood baseball bats are used because they have “spring-like” properties – this means more incredible momentum when the ball hits the bat, resulting in more power!
- Birch:
When birch, baseball bats are often used by older players or those with slower swing speeds. They are heavier than ash bats and thus more difficult for younger players to use.
- Ash:
Though maple and birch are the only types of wood bats that Major League Baseball approved for use, ash is still used by a large number of players because there are many different varieties of ash to choose from. For example, an outfielder might prefer a slightly more flexible, lighter bat, while a first or third baseman who needs greater bat control might opt for a more flexible bat with a little less pop.
- Lumber:
A lumber bat is another name for a 2-3-year-old baseball bat. They are typically cheaper than most MLB maple bats, but they have a few dents and gouges from being used in actual games. Generally, a lumber bat is softer maple wood and won’t have nearly as much pop as a new, MLB-quality maple bat. Most players don’t use lumber bats unless they can get them for little or no cost.
The benefits of using a wood baseball bat:
They are easy to find and typically cheaper than aluminum or composite bats. They allow the player to get a good feel for the ball and easily make contact. Most manufacturers offer several different sizes and weights, so you can find one that fits your style. Maple bats have a lot of pop and provide you with the ability to hit a ball a long distance. Birch bats tend to be more flexible, making them better for those who need greater bat control to make contact with the ball.
- Pop:
Wooden bats are known for their pop. The use of one-piece solid wood makes the bat more durable and rigid, resulting in more power behind each hit.
- Durability:
Wood baseball bats are also very long-lasting. Unless they get destroyed or broken, they can last years if properly maintained. It is beneficial to players who want to save money and not constantly purchase new bats.
- Swing:
As opposed to aluminum or metal bats, wood bat weight can be changed. It means you can buy a bat that is lighter in weight and easier to swing or one that is heavier for increased power at the plate.
- Traditional Look:
Wood bats are also highly appealing to the eye. There is a crisp breaking sound with each hit that is uniquely satisfying.
Conclusion: When it comes to baseball bats, there are a variety of materials used to make them. Most players, however, prefer wood bats because they feel that they provide the best performance. If you’re in the market for a wooden bat, we hope this guide has helped you understand the different types of wood bats and how to choose the right one for you. Thanks for reading!
