When it comes to selecting the right baseball bat for your needs, it can be difficult to know which type of bat is best suited for you. One of the main differences between bats is whether they are shaved or rolled. Understanding the difference between the two and how to tell if a bat is shaved or rolled can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a bat.
What is a Shaved Bat?
A shaved bat is a bat that has been altered to give the hitter an advantage. This is done by removing material from the inner walls of the bat and reducing the weight of the bat. This process not only reduces the weight but also increases the trampoline effect of the bat, giving the hitter more power.
What is a Rolled Bat?
A rolled bat is a bat that is compressed by an industrial roller. This process compresses the bat’s fibers, resulting in increased performance. Unlike a shaved bat, the process of rolling a bat does not involve removing any material from the bat. The process is designed to increase the performance of the bat without reducing the weight.
How to Tell if a Bat is Shaved or Rolled
When selecting a bat, it is important to know whether it is shaved or rolled. Fortunately, there are a few tell-tale signs that can help you determine if a bat is shaved or rolled.
Weight
One of the easiest ways to tell if a bat is shaved or rolled is by looking at the weight. A shaved bat will typically be lighter than a rolled bat due to the material being removed from the walls of the bat. If the bat feels unusually light for its size, it is likely shaved.
Sound
Another way to tell if a bat is shaved or rolled is to listen to the sound it makes when it is hit. A rolled bat will typically make a dull thud sound when it is hit, while a shaved bat will make a higher pitched sound.
Appearance
The appearance of the bat can also be an indication of whether it is shaved or rolled. A shaved bat will often have marks on the walls of the bat that indicate where material has been removed. In contrast, a rolled bat will have a smooth surface.
Performance
The performance of the bat is another indication of whether it is shaved or rolled. As previously mentioned, a shaved bat will have a trampoline effect when it is hit, resulting in increased performance. A rolled bat will also have increased performance, but it will not be as significant as that of a shaved bat.
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between shaved and rolled bats and how to tell if a bat is shaved or rolled can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a bat. Shaved bats offer a greater performance boost than rolled bats, but they can also be more dangerous if not used properly. Ultimately, the choice between a shaved and rolled bat will depend on your personal preference and skill level.