Big Barrels and Big Performance!

Posted on February 4, 2013 by Megan P

One of the most common questions we receive at JustBats.com is, “what is the difference between Junior Big Barrel and Youth Big Barrel?” This is a great question and can be confusing to players or parents shopping for a new bat. Don’t worry, we’re here to help!

Junior Big Barrel bats most commonly have a 2 ¾” barrel diameter with length to weight ratios between -10 and -12. They are designed for use by players between the ages of 4-8. Junior Big Barrel bats are designed for use in Coach Pitch leagues only. The reason for this is that the barrel walls are extremely thin. If they are used in Kid Pitch or Machine Pitch leagues, they have a much higher likelihood of becoming defective (dents/cracks). The 2 ¾” barrel, combined with the light weight, make them perfect bats for kids just starting to develop their swing. Take a look at some of our most popular Junior Big Barrel bats.

Easton S1

Miken REV-EX

Louisville Slugger TPX Omaha

Youth Big Barrel bats most commonly have a 2 ⅝” barrel diameter with length to weight ratios between -5 and -10. They are designed for use by players between the ages of 8-13. Youth Big Barrel bats are often referred to as “Senior League” bats. These bats are used as a stepping stone to the Adult BBCOR bats used in high school and college that have a -3 length to weight ratio. There are more options in manufacturers, bat construction and bat types in the Youth Big Barrel category because they can be used in more leagues. Here are some of our hottest Youth Big Barrel bats.

DeMarini CF5

Marucci Black 2

COMbat B4 Portent

For more information, be sure to check out our Bat Resource Guide where you’ll find useful Bat Care tips as well as a Sizing Chart to see what size will best fit you. Also, be sure to click HERE for details on how to take advantage of our Free Shipping!

Composite Bat Customer Questions

Posted on January 31, 2013 by Derek H

As composite bats become more popular at all age and talent levels, we get all kinds of questions about proper care, break-in methods, etc. Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked composite questions that we receive at JustBats.com:

What is a composite bat made of?
Composite bats are made of carbon, glass or Kevlar fibers embedded in a plastic resin.

Do I need to break in a composite bat?
Yes, as a general rule of thumb, composite bats need to be broken in before they reach their full potential. However, there are a few bat manufacturers that are using a new composite technology that doesn’t require a break-in period. Be sure to ask a JustBats.com representative for full details about each composite bat.

How do I break in a composite bat?
Breaking in a composite bat is easy and fun. It takes anywhere between 150 and 200 swings for the composite material to break down and reach it’s full potential. Play soft toss with real baseballs or hit them off of a tee, rotating the barrel ¼” after each swing to ensure complete barrel coverage. Start your swing speed at 50% power and slowly work your way up to full power by the end of the process. Once this break-in process is complete, the composite bat will be game ready.

Can I roll or shave my composite bat to break it in?
While these are two methods of altering composite materials and making them livelier, they are not recommended by JustBats.com. Rolling, shaving or tampering with your bat in any way will automatically void a manufacturer’s warranty and will deem a bat illegal if detected by an umpire.

Can I use a composite bat in cold weather?
It is not recommended to use a composite bat in temperatures below 60 degrees. Lower temperatures will decrease the bats performance and increase the potential of cracking.

Why do composite bats cost more than alloy or wood bats?
The materials and labor involved in producing a composite bat drive the cost. It’s more expensive to produce a composite bat than an alloy or wood, hence the higher price.

These are just a few of the many composite bat questions that we receive on a daily basis. If you have a specific question that we missed, leave us a comment and we’ll be sure to get back to you with our expert analysis. If you have a picture or video of you breaking in your composite bat or using it in a game, click on the following link for details on how you can enter to win a $25 or $300 JustBats.com gift card.

Bat Duel: 2013 Louisville Slugger EXOGRID 3 vs. 2013 RIP-IT Prototype

Posted on January 24, 2013 by Derek H

In a clash between two titans, only one can survive. Who will it be; the 2013 Louisville Slugger EXOGRID 3 or the 2013 RIP-IT Prototype? That’s for you to decide! Welcome to the JustBats.com Bat Duel!

Hailing from the birthplace of the modern day baseball bat, Louisville, Kentucky, and featured in Adult BBCOR and -9 & -5 Senior League models, the 2013 Louisville Slugger EXOGRID 3.

Keys to Victory: The EXOGRID 3 is a one-piece alloy design with a balanced swing weight. By incorporating AC21 Scandium Alloy into the design, Louisville Slugger can outfit the EXOGRID 3 with a thinner barrel wall without sacrificing durability. With 1” Flex-Band technology inserts, the EXOGRID 3 has one of the lowest swing weights on the market. The LS-2X composite inserts in the handle create a stiff feel for enhanced control.

Weight Distribution: Balanced
Design: One-Piece Alloy
Handle: AC21 Scandium Alloy With LS-2X Composite Inserts
Barrel: AC21 Scandium Alloy

Hitting out of Orlando, FL and featured in Adult BBCOR and -10 & -8.5 Senior League models, the 2013 RIP-IT Prototype.

Keys to Victory: The new Prototype from RIP-IT comes ready to hit with its one-piece alloy design and balanced swing weight. The Prototype features a larger sweet spot than its predecessor, the Prototype II, and has been acoustically tuned to feel better and go farther than ever before. RIP-IT’s R1 Alloy creates a thinner wall design while still offering performance and durability. The Contact grip is designed to provide excellent grip with incredible vibration control and extreme durability.

The Prototype features RIP-IT’s 400-day manufacturer’s warranty as well as the unique 30-Day Love It or Return It policy. That means you have 30 days to use the Prototype and make sure its perfect for you. If you don’t absolutely love it, you can return for for a full refund.

Weight Distribution: Balanced
Design: One-Piece Alloy
Handle: R1 Alloy
Barrel: R1 Alloy

There you have it, the specs for two of the baddest one-piece bats currently on the market. So which one do you think is the best? Submit your own written review to blog@justbats.com for a chance to win a $25 JustBats.Com gift card. Are you a budding ESPN announcer in the making? If so, submit a video review and you could win a $300 JustBats.com gift card if we use it on our blog.

Wood Bat Series Part 3: Composite Wood Bats

Posted on January 21, 2013 by Tommy F

A common concern with any wood bat purchase is the issue of durability. In the past, it was impossible to know how long a bat would last because the options were limited to Maple, Birch or Ash. Times and technologies have changed, and now some of the most popular wood bats on the market are composite wood bats.

Composite wood bats were introduced to the market to increase the durability while maintaining the feel and performance of a classic wood bat.There are a few different styles in terms of construction, but the overall result is similar in all composite wood bats. Manufacturers use a mixture of composite fiber, fiberglass and wood materials to create a forgiving and durable wood bat.

There are many different construction methods for composite wood bats, but they all result in a more forgiving, durable and lightweight wood baseball bat. Some manufacturer’s restructure the actual wood itself and adhere the pieces back together. Other models fuse different types of wood to a bamboo core to make the bat lighter. Another very popular style is a bat with a composite handle and regular wood barrel for a more natural feel and sound. Here are some examples of different construction types of composite wood bats.

Restructured Wood
Mizuno Composite Wood Bat

Viper Bamboo Composite Wood Bat

Multiple Types of Wood
Rawlings Maple/Bamboo Composite Wood Bat

Pinnacle Energize II Bamboo/Maple Hybrid

Natural Barrel
DeMarini Pro Maple Composite Wood Bat

Easton Maple Composite Wood Bat

As far as rules and regulations are concerned, composite wood bats used in high school or college play are required to be BBCOR certified and feature the BBCOR stamp on the barrel. They are required to have the BBCOR certification because they are not created from one piece of wood like regular wood bats.

We hope you enjoyed our blog series on Wood Bats. If you have other suggestions for Wood Bat articles we would love to hear them. Until next time, continue to submit your awesome pictures for a chance to win a $25 or $300 JustBats.com Gift Card!

Marucci Elite BBCOR & Senior League Bat

Posted on January 17, 2013 by Derek H

The Black, and subsequently the Black 2, were Marucci’s first attempts at designing a hybrid baseball bat that combined great pop and durability. Those attempts were extremely fruitful, as the Black was almost as popular as its one-piece counterpart, the CAT 5. Building on their experience and the Black’s success, Marucci introduces their new multimaterial bat, the Elite

The Elite features a unique, multimaterial design which seamlessly combines a composite handle and AZ3000 alloy barrel with 3” to 4” of composite material at the end of the barrel. This new design redistributes weight from the end of the barrel to the taper and handle which creates improved balance, faster swing speeds and a larger sweet spot than the Black 2. The patented Unequal® aramid-reinforced grip helps eliminate the sting from off-center hits.

The Elite is now available through JustBats.com in BBCOR and -10 Senior League models. Send us your opinions on the Elite and pictures or video for a chance to win a $25 or $300 gift card.

Wood Bat Series Part 2: Turn Models

Posted on January 14, 2013 by Tommy F

Have you ever wondered what “turn” means in reference to wood bats? Have you thought about swinging a wood bat but wasn’t sure which turn model was right for you? These are questions frequently asked by players when they are first introduced to wood baseball bats. Knowing the differences between turn models is critical when selecting the correct wood bat. But have no fear, we’re here to help. Wood bat turn models vary based on a number of factors such as handle diameter, barrel diameter, barrel length and balance. The most popular wood bat turn models are 110s, 271s, and 243s. Lets take a look at the characteristics of each turn model and go over which type of hitters prefer them.

110 Turn
Wood bats with a 110 turn are ideal for players transitioning from metal bats to wood. This is because they have a similar balance and feel to metal bats. The 110 model has a similar barrel diameter to most wood bats, but a thicker handle and longer barrel. This gives the 110 model a balanced feel which is preferred by contact hitters.

Handle Diameter: 1.00”
Barrel Diameter: 2 ½”
Taper (Barrel Length): Long

271 Turn
Wood bats with a 271 turn are similar to the 110s. The main difference is that they have a thinner handle and are slightly more end loaded. Although they are more end loaded than a 110, the 271 maintains an overall balanced feel. The 271 is a great fit for any hitting style, but because it is balanced, it is typically preferred by contact hitters.

Handle Diameter: 15/16” (.938”)
Barrel Diameter: 2 ½”
Taper (Barrel Length): Long

243 Turn
Wood bats with a 243 turn have a thinner handle and larger barrel diameter than most wood bats. This gives the 243s an end loaded feel and a lot of pop. Wood bats with a 243 turn are not suggested for first timers because they are top heavy and not as easy to swing. They are arguably the most popular model among experienced, power hitters because of the larger barrel and end loaded swing weight.

Handle Diameter: Approximately 29/32” (.906”)
Barrel Diameter: Approximately 2 ⅝”
Taper (Barrel Length): Medium

We’ve now covered the different types of wood used to make bats and the different turn models. Check back with us next week for the 3rd installment of our wood bat series, “Composite Wood Bats.” Until then, tell us all about your favorite wood bat turn models at blog@justbats.com and keep posting your photos and videos for a chance to win $25 or $300 in our weekly JustBats.com Gift Card Give Away!

Wood Baseball Bat Series: Part 1

Posted on January 7, 2013 by Tommy F

Some of the biggest mysteries in the baseball bat industry involve wood bats. Which type of wood bat is highest performing? Which type of wood is the most durable? Which type of wood feels the lightest? Although there are no clear-cut answers, JustBats.com will provide details for each type of wood so you can determine which wood bat is right for you. There are four main types of wooden baseball bats: Ash, Maple, Bamboo and Birch. Lets take a look at what makes each type of wood unique.

Most Ash bats are made from White Ash trees. It’s the lightest of the four main types of wood because of its porous wood grain. The lightweight nature of Ash helps a hitter increase bat speed. Ash wood bats are softer than other wood bats, which provides a more comfortable feel on contact.The downside of Ash is its lack of durability. For this reason, Ash has a tendency to flake quicker than other types of wood.

The majority of Maple bats are made from Sugar or Rock Maple trees. Maple has very few pores which makes it harder than other woods. Because Maple is so hard, the bats tend to have more pop which makes them popular among professional players. The downside to Maple is it retains moisture, making it very dense and heavier than other types of wood.

Unlike traditional wood bats, bamboo bats are strips of bamboo pressed together to create billets of wood which are then used to create the bats. Bamboo bats are the most durable bats on the market and extremely lightweight. Because bamboo bats are so durable and lightweight, they are popular with younger players and players who are using wood bats for the first time. Since they are not created from a single piece of wood, they do require BBCOR certification for players who are in high school or college.

Most Birch bats are created from Yellow Birch trees. Birch bats are increasing in popularity because of their durability and hardness. Birch is more flexible than other types of wood which helps create a whip-like action. That whip action makes Birch easier to swing and less likely to break. Birch is lighter than Maple with similar pop and performance.

Stay tuned next week for the second installment in this wood bat blog series. In the meantime, let us know which type of wood bat you think is the best and be sure to keep submitting your pictures and videos in our weekly Gift Card Give Away for chances to win a $25 or $300 JustBats.com gift cards.

Bat Duel: DeMarini Voodoo vs. Easton S2

Posted on December 17, 2012 by Tommy F

Two-piece hybrid bats (composite handle/aluminum barrel) were first introduced to the game more than 10 years ago and are now one of the most popular bat designs on the market. Two-piece hybrids don’t need to be broken in and offer the player the best of both materials: the strength of a composite handle and responsiveness of an aluminum barrel. Lets take a look at two of the more popular two-piece hybrid bats. Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to this blog’s main event, the 2013 DeMarini Voodoo vs. the 2013 Easton S2.

Hitting out of Hillsboro, Oregon and featured in Adult, Senior League and Youth models, the 2013 DeMarini Voodoo.

Keys to Victory: The 2013 Voodoo is the highest performing Voodoo to date. The new TR3 F.L.O. composite provides a stiff feel which helps to harness your power at contact and causes the ball to explode off the responsive X10 alloy barrel. This year’s model has the largest sweetspot of any Voodoo before it.

Weight Distribution: Slight End Load
Design: Two-Piece Hybrid
Handle: TR3 F.L.O. Composite
Barrel: X10 Alloy

Hitting out of Van Nuys, California and featured in Adult, Senior League and Youth models, the 2013 Easton S2.

Keys to Victory: The 2013 Easton S2 features the new SIC Black Carbon handle, which is stiffer than the 2012 model, resulting in an increase in durability and pop. It is one of the most balanced two-piece hybrids around which results in maximum bat speed. The more bat speed you have, the more power you have.

Weight Distribution: Balanced
Design: Two-Piece Hybrid
Handle: SIC Black Carbon Composite
Barrel: THT100 Scandium Alloy

One thing’s for sure, both the DeMarini Voodoo and Easton S2 are top of the line when is comes to performance and comfort at the plate, but there can only be one winner. And the winner is…? That’s for you to decide. Give us your feedback and let us know which bat you prefer.

Check out Easton and DeMarini’s full line of high-performing bats at JustBats.com and submit your photos or videos using either of these awesome hybrid bats for a chance to win a $25 or $300 gift card in our JustBats.com Gift Card Giveaway!

2013 DeMarini Slow Pitch Bats

Posted on December 13, 2012 by Derek H

What are some qualities that you look for in a slow pitch softball bat? Pop? Durability? A game-ready feel? The confidence that you have the right weapon in your hands when you step into the box can make all the difference between track power and circling the bases. Gain that confidence with one of these new bats from DeMarini’s 2013 slow pitch lineup.

2013 DeMarini Flipper

The Flipper is new from DeMarini for 2013 and only approved for ASA play. It’s a two-piece hybrid design with Divergence barrel technology, which is two layers of composite with an air gap sandwiched in between. This creates an incredibly responsive sweet spot specifically designed to crush the new ASA .52/300 balls. The Flipper’s SC4 alloy handle provides an incredibly stiff feel, almost like you’re swinging a one-piece bat. The Flipper is catching the attention of power and contact hitters alike, but don’t just take our word for it. Check out this review from Patrick:

2013 DeMarini The ONE FU-Dawg

The ONE, or Sunday Swagger, has been one of DeMarini’s hottest slow pitch bats in recent years, and the FU-Dawg is no different. This two-piece hybrid design features a SC4 alloy handle, for an extra stiff feel, and a 4.ONE composite, end loaded barrel. The ONE is hot right out of the wrapper and ready to add some swagger to your game! ASA and ISF approved.

2013 DeMarini J3 ASA & USSSA

The J3 is the third edition of DeMarini’s popular Juggernaut line, and available in both a USSSA and ASA approved model. The J3 has a two-piece design that uses DeMarini’s patented TR3 F.L.O. composite material. The naturally chaotic and random fusing of the TR3’s composite fibers creates a more compact material that is stronger and lighter than ever before. Check out these customer reviews and see how the J3 is changing their game!

DeMarini J3 ASA

DeMarini J3 USSSA

Have you hit these DeMarini’s? If so, we’d love to hear your opinion. Do you think you can hit better than our resident slow pitch expert Hobbs? If so, send us your pictures or videos for a chance to win a $25 or $300 JustBats.com gift card!

Bat Dual: Rawlings 5150 & 5150 VELO

Posted on December 6, 2012 by Derek H

Ever since the Rawlings 5150 arrived on the scene it has been one of the hottest selling bat series on the market. With its balanced swing weight and incredible pop, the 5150 quickly caught the attention of ballplayers looking for a hot bat that gave them an advantage at the plate. That includes the South Carolina Gamecocks who used the 5150 during their 2010 NCAA World Series Championship season.

When Rawlings unveiled the 5150 VELO in early 2012, there was some confusion amongst 5150 enthusiasts as to which bat would be best suited for their game. JustBats.com would like to break down the differences between these two incredible bats and help you decide which bat fits your hitting style.

5150 Key Features:

One-piece alloy design
Constructed from 5150® alloy which is formulated for higher strength and increased flex.
Precision-Optimized Performance™ (pOp™) barrel technology – this isolates the added weight to a smaller region on the barrel, translating into increased bat speed
Decreased M.O.I. (Moment Of Inertia) increases bat speed
BBCOR & USSSA certified
BBCOR available in ½” and ½ oz. increments for a more customizable fit

5150 VELO Key Features:

One-piece alloy design
Constructed from 5150® alloy which is formulated for higher strength and increased flex.
Precision-Optimized Performance™ (pOp™) barrel technology – this isolates the added weight to a smaller region on the barrel, translating into increased bat speed
Comp-Lite (composite) end cap
Bifusion™ technology securely joins the Comp-Lite end cap to the alloy barrel.
Decreased M.O.I. (Moment Of Inertia) increases bat speed
BBCOR & USSSA certified

After breaking down the specs of each bat, you see that they are very similar in design except for the Comp-Lite end cap on the 5150 VELO. The composite end cap gives the 5150 VELO a lighter feel which improves bat speed through the zone. Overall, both bats are excellent options for the player who likes the feel of a balanced, one-piece bat with the 5150 VELO having a slightly lighter swing weight for increased bat speed.

Are you a fan of the 5150 or 5150 VELO? If so, share your comments and let us know what you like about your bat. Do you have pictures or video of you hitting? Submit them to our Gift Card Giveaway for a chance to win a $25 or $300 gift card from JustBats.com!

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