How to Buy a Fast Pitch Softball Bat

A fast pitch softball bat will be one of your most important pieces of equipment throughout the season. A wide variety of bats exist in a range of price categories. Buying a fast pitch softball bat doesn't have to be difficult if you keep a few things in mind.

Instructions

    • 1

      Decide on your budget for your softball equipment. If all you're buying is a softball bat, you may have more money to spend on one. Bats can be relatively inexpensive for a simple aluminum one to several hundred dollars for a more high tech model. Remember that you can often find bats at secondhand sporting goods stores.

    • 2

      Know the rules for the league that you play in. Most leagues have rules on the types of fast pitch softball bats that can be used during play. Generally, softball bats cannot exceed 1.20 BPF or bat performance factor. If you don't know the particular rules for your league, check with officials before you spend the money.

    • 3

      Think about bats marketed toward fast pitch games. Although there are no technical distinctions between slow and fast pitch, some bats are marketed as fast pitch bats. Generally, these bats are lighter and shorter than bats marketed for slow pitch. In most cases, you can use the bats in either game and many people use "slow pitch" bats in fast pitch games.

    • 4

      Talk to other players to see what they like. Your teammates and coaches may have recommendations for you or you can find reviews online for most models of bats.

    • 5

      Try out some different bats. You may already be familiar with some models that your teammates have. Regardless, it's always a good idea to get the feel of a bat in person to make sure that the weight and size feel comfortable for you.

    • 6

      Buy the fast pitch softball bat that feels most comfortable for you and fits within your price range. You can purchase your bat locally or online once you know which model you like best. Although you can often find great prices online, your local store may have specials or discounts that will make them competitive in price.