How to Rate Composite Bats

In the world of baseball, the bat and glove are the tools of the trade. A baseball bat when used by a skilled player can send a baseball flying well over 400 feet. Bats used in Major League baseball are made from wood, while aluminum bats are used predominantly by college teams and in youth sports. Composite bats are relatively new in baseball, and have come under scrutiny by many players and coaches due to their fickle nature. When rating composite bats, you should compare them using reliable reviews and reports.

Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a consumer review of composite bats. Player and coach reviews such as from Baseball Corner.com or KellysUltimateReports.com provide detailed comparisons and ratings for the performance of composite bats.

    • 2

      Find out the manufacturer's temperature rating for the composite bat. Most manufacturers recommend not using these bats at temperatures lower than 70 degrees. If the recommended temperature use is higher than 70 degrees, then its probably not a high-quality composite bat.

    • 3

      Determine the average number of hits it takes for the composite bat to be appropriately broken in. According to BaseballCorner.com, it typically takes 100 to 200 hits with the bat to appropriately break it in, but all bats will vary. If the manufacturer recommends a longer break-in period, then chances are the bat will be less durable than most composite bats. A break-in period consists of repeatedly hitting a regular baseball thrown at least 40 miles per hour. Rotate the bat 1/8 of a turn between good contact swings (foul balls don't count) to ensure the bat will break in evenly. At first, the sound of a ball coming off a composite bat will sound like the impact of a baseball on a wooden bat. After a proper break in, the impact will sound like a rifle shot.

    • 4

      Determine whether the bat is full or half composite. Some bats have composite handles only, and are subject to breaking at the handle more readily than traditional wooden bats, especially in colder weather.

    • 5

      Find out if the manufacturer has a guarantee or warranty for the bat. If the bat comes with a performance guarantee or warranty, then you'll be safe using the bat for a long period of time and can have it replaced. If the bat comes without a guarantee or warranty, this is a good indication that the bat is poorly made, and could have numerous factory flaws that may be invisible to the untrained eye.