Baseball, known as "America's pastime," started with players using simple equipment made from leather and wood. As time went by, baseball equipment manufacturers introduced lightweight materials, such as aluminum for baseball bats. Aluminum bats provide several advantages over wooden baseball bats and are available in a wide range of sizes, styles and models. The best aluminum baseball bats are made from durable material that provides a big sweet spot.
Types
Baseball bats can be made from a variety of aluminum alloys, and each type contains specific properties for weight and durability. Common alloys used include zinc, copper, magnesium and aluminum. Aluminum bats made from C555 contain small amounts of scandium, which increases strength. A combination of graphite and titanium are used in the best aluminum baseball bats because these materials are stronger and lighter than standard aluminum alloys.
Benefits
Aluminum is naturally lighter and stronger than wood, but the best aluminum bats resist cracks or breaks better than standard aluminum bats. By combining graphite and titanium, the best aluminum baseball bats provide more recoil to the baseball after contact. This is commonly measured as the "Bat Performance Factor," listed on the bat by the manufacturer. The BPF refers to the liveliness of the ball, and the best aluminum baseball bats will typically have a BPF rating of 1.20. Some leagues may have a maximum BPF allowed for legal play.
Features
Common features used to compare aluminum baseball bats include the barrel, sweet spot and grip. The best aluminum baseball bats have a large barrel that extends to the taper and handle. This allows the bat to have a large sweet spot that maximizes the ability to make solid contact with the pitch. The sweet spot on the best bats are made from single-layer or double-layer alloys and can be cryogenically treated to reduce vibration and increase distance on the ball. Rubber grips reduce vibration and increase comfort to improve overall batting performance.
Considerations
The top consideration for choosing an aluminum bat is the length and weight. Even a bat with all the top features won't perform if it doesn't fit or match your swing. Choose a bat that is light enough to execute a quick swing with proper mechanics. Another consideration for the best bats is the warranty. Most of the top bat companies offer a one-year limited warranty protecting against defects.
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