The battle debate over wooden versus metal bats has been going since the latter appeared in the 1920s. Wooden bats, on the other hand, have been around since Louisville Slugger started crafting ash bats in the 19th century. While professional baseball players use wooden bats, most non-professional baseball leagues use metal bats.
Types
Ash and maple bats are the most popular wooden bats. Metal bats are made of aluminum, aluminum alloys or a composite of materials. Composite bats can include a mixture of carbon, fiberglass, graphite and Kevlar. Alloys are made of a combination of different types of aluminum . Unlike metal bats, wooden ones are not hollow.
Power
Metal bats increase the speed of the hit ball by up to 10 miles an hour. This increased speed increases the power of the ball, whether it be to hit a home run or to hit the ball into the outfield. Metal bats are lighter than wooden bats so batters can swing more quickly.
Price
Wooden bats typically cost between $50 to $150. Metal bats can range in price between $100 to $400. Wooden bats are less durable and break more frequently. So while a wooden bat may cost less, you may be going through more wooden bats, which will increase the overall cost.
Weight
Wooden bats typically range between 20 and 35 oz. while an aluminum bat weighs 28 or 29 ounces. That's a significant difference for players looking to increase their bat speed. However, with an aluminum bat, you will feel more distinct reverberations in your hands because wood absorbs the impact of a pitch more thoroughly.
Benefits
Wood bats are used in professional baseball, so by practicing with wood you will be able to tailor your game to the professional level. They are also cheaper. Metal bats, however, are more exciting. They're stronger, flashier, more durable and make a loud "ding" when you hit the ball.
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