Although baseball might seem like a simple game played by hitting a ball with a stick, it is actually a complex sport that relies a great deal on fine motor skills and physics. The game began with players using wooden bats, but as the sport evolved, metal bats became increasingly popular. Bat choice is a preference for baseball players, but which hits farther still is open to debate.
Wooden Bats
According to the U.S. Department of Energy's Ask a Scientist website, wooden bats are heavier. so a wooden bat moving at the same speed as a metal bat will hit the ball farther. In addition, a wooden bat does not vibrate as much, meaning less damage to the batter's hands.
Metal Bats
The problem with wooden bats is that because they are so much heavier, most people cannot swing a wooden bat as fast as they can swing a metal bat. In addition, according to ScienceBuddies.org, metal bats are hollow, creating more give when the batter makes contact with the ball. This creates a "trampoline effect," making the ball rebound differently than it does when it hits a solid wood bat. Because they are hollow, metal bats also can be made wider without increasing the weight. This means a larger sweet spot and a greater chance of hitting the ball.
Dangers
In addition to the fact that metal bats are easier to use with increased results for non-experienced players, younger players usually use metal bats for their cost efficiency and longevity. However, according to the Albany Little League, metal bats can be very dangerous. A ball that is hit by a wooden bat profoundly deforms, which lowers the overall energy transmission of impact. Because metal bats are easier to swing, batted ball speed also is increased, making hit balls a risk for players and fans.
Conclusion
The question of whether a wooden or metal bat hits a ball farther cannot be answered simply: It all depends on the batter. Disregarding all other variables, a wooden bat is capable of hitting a ball farther because it is heavier, but its weight also is hindrance because it's harder to swing. An average person will get more velocity swinging a lighter metal bat than a heavy wooden bat, so will most likely hit a ball farther with the aluminum bat simply because it is easier to use. If you have little or no experience, choose an aluminum bat. If you have honed your skills and are able to connect on a smaller sweet spot, a wooden bat is the way to go.
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