How to Remove the Weight Rod in a Softball Bat

Metal softball bats are made out of lightweight materials such as graphite and aluminum. In order to add sufficient weight to these bats so that they permit hitters to replicate standard swinging speeds, bat manufacturers place heavier metallic weighted rods in the cores of the bats. Removing the weight rod from a softball bat allows you to swing the bat faster, resulting in longer hits. This project requires minimal tools and mechanical know-how.

Things You'll Need

  • Razor blade or utility knife
  • Rubber mallet
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Safety globes
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Cut along the edge of the top of the bat where the hard rubber stopper plugs into the top of the metal bat. Use a razor blade or utility knife and take care not to trim too much of the plug as you work the blade around the barrel of the bat.

    • 2

      Press a flathead screwdriver into the space created between the plug and the barrel by the razor blade. You may need to use a rubber mallet to tap the tip of the flathead screwdriver into the space firmly.

    • 3

      Work the tip of the flathead around the top of the barrel of the bat, so the plug slowly eases out of the core of the barrel of the bat. You may need to use the rubber mallet to coax the tip around the barrel.

    • 4

      Pry the plug out of the core of the barrel of the bat with the flathead screwdriver. Hammer down on the handle of the screwdriver to add force to your prying.

    • 5

      Thump the top of the unplugged bat against the ground until the weight rod dislodges and falls from the barrel of the bat.

    • 6

      Replace the hard rubber plug and hammer it into place with the mallet.