Bat Designs

Portmann 42

 

 

 

 

The typical bat is 32-33″ long, with a maximum barrel diameter of 2-5/8″, and a handle diameter of 15/16 to 1″. The taper varies depending on the model, and personal preference.

Weight

As a general rule, bigger, stronger players usually prefer a heavier bat for maximum power. Smaller players usually benefit from a lighter bat that allows greater bat speed. To determine the weight that’s right for you, swing a variety of bats and see how much weight you’re comfortable with.

Length

Length and weight combine for peak performance. A longer bat gives you greater reach, allowing you to hit balls on the other side of the plate. But remember that a longer bat may be heavier, and the extra weight could slow you down. Like checking the weight, you need to swing bats of different lengths to decide what length best suits you.
Buzzard Bats can customize the length to your needs.

Barrel Diameter

Most players 12 and under should use a 2 1/4” barrel. This is the standard barrel size for Dixie Youth and Little League baseball, although some leagues and travel teams are using larger 2 3/4” barrels. High school and college players are restricted to a maximum barrel diameter of 2 5/8”.

Bat Model Numbering

Many years ago Louisville Slugger implemented a system to easily identify the bat models they produced. The first letter in the scheme denotes the last initial of the player requesting the model.  The number that follows represents the player’s individual Louisville Slugger code.

For example, the popular “C 271″ bat design became the personal turning model of José Cardenal, and he was the 271st player with a last name starting with “C” to request a bat from Louisville Slugger.

Today, most bat companies use the same numbers for the same turning models.

 

BUZZARD BATS MODELS

There are many more model numbers for bats than those listed below.  If you would like a different bat design than one listed here, please send us and e-mail.  We can probably make the model you are looking for.

C 271

Description: Patterned after the most popular bat design of all-time. A well balanced bat and tapered knob with a large barrel and thin handle. An classic pattern for America’s Pastime that has never gone out of style.

Barrel Diameter: 2.50″
Barrel Length: 6.00″
Transition: Slightly Negative
Handle: 0.97″
Knob: Medium, Taper

I 13

Description: The I-13 features very similar dimensions to the 271. The big difference is that the taper of the bat is more extreme, so it will have more of an end loaded swing feel than the 271 turn. The I-13 is a popular choice among power hitters who are looking for more mass in the barrel.

Barrel Diameter: 2.61″
Barrel Length: 9.00″
Transition: Quick negative
Handle: 0.95″
Knob: Small, Slight Taper

M 110

Description:  History tells us the 110 was designed for Mickey Mantle in the 1960’s.  It has stood the test of time and is patterned with a large barrel and near 1″ handle. This model is for players who desire exceptional balance.  A top choice for gap/line drive hitters.

Barrel Diameter: 2.52″
Barrel Length: 6.00″
Transition: Long Negative
Handle: 0.93″
Knob: Slight Taper

T 141

Description:  Patterned with an extra-long barrel with a slow transition to a thin handle; a very versatile model used by various types of ball players. Quick bat through the zone with smaller barrel and gradual taper to a standard knob.

Barrel Diameter: 2.48″
Barrel Length: 4.00″
Transition: Straight Taper
Handle: 0.96″
Knob: Standard

C 243

Description:  A classically shaped, top-heavy bat with an extra large barrel and thin handle.  The standard choice of power hitters who prefer the whippy feel.

Barrel Diameter: 2.62″
Barrel Length: 7.00″
Transition: Quick negative
Handle: 0.95″
Knob: Standard

Model 73

Description:  Patterned with a tapered medium sized 15/16″ handle flaring to a very large cone knob with a full power hitter’s 2 5/8″ barrel. The large knob serves as a counter weight making the bat feel very light and balanced.  Preferred by pull hitting power hitters.

Barrel Diameter: 2.62″
Barrel Length: 7.00″
Transition: Quick negative
Handle: 0.95″
Knob: Large, Flaired

 

Model 76

Description: The model 76 is a medium-small barrel bat. The parallel walls of the barrel extend for 2-1/2″ then go into a long straight taper to the handle. It is a very dense bat due to its size. This translates to an increase in hitting power and durability. The flared knob is not as extreme as the model 73 made famous by Barry Bonds. It is a comfortable bat to swing, has excellent controllability, and is a great entry level bat, but will make the most experienced hitter happy with its surprising power.

Barrel Diameter: 2-1/2″
Handle: 15/16″
Knob: 2-1/4″ Flaired