How To Size A Baseball Bat

Choosing a baseball bat of the right size means you'll have the best possible balance between swing speed, bat control and the extra power that can come from a heavier bat. Most players will be happy with a bat length and weight correlated from a height, weight and age chart, but you should always swing the bat a few times before buying it to make sure you have proper control, and be prepared to try a few different sizes on the finer bat details--taper and barrel size in particular--to see if one feels better than the other.

Step 1

Choose bat length based on age or height and weight. Height and weight is usually the best method for choosing a bat.

Step 2

Choose a bat weight that is no more than 3 oz. below the bat's length in inches; this complies with NCAA and NFHS regulations. In other words, if the bat is 32 inches long, it can weigh no less than 29 oz. This amount is sometimes expressed as a weight to length ratio of -3.

Step 3

Adjust the bat weight upward from the -3 ratio if you're a big, strong player that wants a heavier bat for more heft and power. Younger players and lighter, smaller players will usually want the lightest bat possible to enhance their speed and control.

Step 4

Swing the bat a few times before purchasing it. You're looking for the fastest swing possible, which usually means the lightest bat possible, and the best control. Also, keep in mind the bat must be long enough to cover all of the 17-inch wide home plate. If you opt for a shorter bat to save weight, you may need to be prepared to stand closer to the plate.

Tips and Warnings

The finer aspects of sizing a baseball bat, such as taper (the handle diameter) and barrel size--the diameter of the top part of the bat--are usually based on personal preference. The standard barrel diameter is 2 1/2 inches, but sizing down makes for a lighter bat and a faster swing. The standard taper is 31/32 inch but can be adjusted down to help the player rotate his wrists faster, while some prefer a bigger bat taper for less sting when you hit the ball poorly. Be aware that the youngest may want the heaviest bat possible; watch them carefully as they take practice swings to make sure they are in full control of the bat.