What To Look For
Although new to the game of baseball, softball players have used composite bats for years. Often made of aluminum and graphite, the materials used in composite bats vary depending on the manufacturer, although all are built to similar external designs. Look for a bat that is the proper size for the batter. Weight drop is a standard where the a negative number indicates the difference between the length of the bat in inches and the weight of the bat in ounces. The higher this negative number, the lighter the bat in relationship to its length. Also confirm the barrel size meets league regulations. This is particularly important for youth bats. Top manufacturers include Louisville Slugger and Easton. Each company offers multiple models.
Common Pitfalls
Composite baseball bats require a break-in period. Several long sessions of batting practice are advised. The website Baseball Corner suggests 100 to 200 hits of a leather-covered ball thrown at a speed of at least 40 miles per hour. Rotate the bat 1/8 of a turn at each hit. In addition to breaking in, composite bats require some additional care. Do not use the bat at temperatures under 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, do not store the bat for any prolonged period of time in cold conditions. Baseball Corner suggests keeping the receipt and returning the bat if it breaks during the warranty period. Some manufacturers will even replace bats that simply don't give the player the performance they expect.
Where To Buy
Composite baseball bats are available online and at any sporting goods stores. Brick and mortar stores often offer the player an opportunity to swing the bat to get the feel for bat. Some teams may have preferred outlets that offer discounts as well. All of the common online retailers including justbats.com, baseballrampage.com and baseballcorner.com carry composite bats. The selection at local sporting goods will vary depending on how popular composite bats are in the area.
Cost
Composite baseball bats ranged in price from about $30 to about $400 according to website JustBats.com in Augus, 2010. Youth bats were at the lower end of the price range, while high-end Easton baseball bats topped the range.
Comparison Shopping
Check the warranty when considering bats. Easton, for example, offers a 400-day warranty on some of its bats. A properly timed purchase provides a warranty for all of one season and part of another. DeMarini Sports warrants its bats for one year. Louisville Slugger offers also offers a one-year warranty. No matter what the warranty, maintain purchase documentation in order to make a warranty claim if the bat fails.
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