I would be curious of anyone who has bought and used a BBCOR bat that was purchased new for less $100.00.
A few reviews on Justbats.com rank the Easton Reflex BX74 pretty good. I can pick this one up for under $60.00 on Fleabay.
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
If you’re wondering whether to pick one up, ask yourself this. Assuming a $100 bat will perform better, will it perform 40% better, or more likely 1-2% better? A 40% improvement would take a ball hit 250’ to 350’. A 2% improvement would take it to 255’.
Which is more likely and would give you the most bang for the buck?
Which is more likely and would give you the most bang for the buck?
Rawlings Plasma.
Check Ebay. Should be able to find it for @ $95 shipped.
Check Ebay. Should be able to find it for @ $95 shipped.
Bought Anderson Ingnite for sone for $90. Son liked it as the weight mirros the wood 243 models (thin handle-end weighted). Had nice pop, but dented within a week from fastball on the fists. I will now see how their warranty service is.
Rawlings Plasma is a really solid bat... Get one.
For an additional $50..Get the Rawlings 5150 BBCOR. Perfect Game may still have a promo. Check with Mr. PG Staff.
My son has not tried the rawlings. But he has used the Easton typhoon since last spring. He hits it with decent power and a buddy of his hit a 320' HR with it this summer (they are now both sophomores).
Son says he hasn't hit with anything better yet but has only tried a voodoo, cf5, and LS Omaha. The voodoo was his but he sold it since it wasn't better than the $60 typhoon.
Son says he hasn't hit with anything better yet but has only tried a voodoo, cf5, and LS Omaha. The voodoo was his but he sold it since it wasn't better than the $60 typhoon.
Interesting about the Easton Typhoon. There were positive reviews from users at justbats.com.
I did just pick up a Easton Reflex BBCOR for $60.00.
Like I said before I don't buy into more money buys a better bat hype.
As Ted Williams states "It's not the arrow but the Indian"
I did just pick up a Easton Reflex BBCOR for $60.00.
Like I said before I don't buy into more money buys a better bat hype.
As Ted Williams states "It's not the arrow but the Indian"
quote:
Like I said before I don't buy into more money buys a better bat hype.
True enough. But keep in mind that bats are different, just like hitters. Some kids like balanced bats and some like end loaded. Thing is, most of 'em don't know the difference, they just know what feels right for them.
quote:Originally posted by ctandc:
True enough. But keep in mind that bats are different, just like hitters. Some kids like balanced bats and some like end loaded. Thing is, most of 'em don't know the difference, they just know what feels right for them.
I think there’s a lot more importance in that than you might believe. There’s no way to prove this, but I’m guessing a lot of what people are perceiving as BBCOR bats getting “hotter”, is the kids beginning to understand that the “feel” of a bat will also make it perform differently, and they’re learning to pick bats on something other than how much ‘pop’ they have.
I say that because the standard hasn’t changed on bit, but there are a lot of people raving about the 2012’s being so much better than the 2011’s. I happen to believe its just a combination of more bats of different MOI’s, shapes, and sizes being available, combined with the customers(players) becoming a bit more enlightened.
quote:Originally posted by ctandc:quote:
Like I said before I don't buy into more money buys a better bat hype.
True enough. But keep in mind that bats are different, just like hitters. Some kids like balanced bats and some like end loaded. Thing is, most of 'em don't know the difference, they just know what feels right for them.
While recently selecting a new bat, my son spent quiet a bit of time swinging and hitting many bats until he found the one that he felt was the best fit for him. I made it a point to not show him any price tags and in the off chance he knew the prices, i did forwarn him to find a bat that he thought felt the best to him and let me worry about the rest. He didnt end up with the most expensive bat in the place but he came **** close
. The important part is, he likes it and is comfortable with it.
bballdad,
It's great you guys have a place where you can try out bats. We don't have anything like that close by. Off topic, but, when we were at east cobb, our hotel was near this place called Best Baseball (I think), what a great store. Everything you could ever want. I can't wait to go back in July
It's great you guys have a place where you can try out bats. We don't have anything like that close by. Off topic, but, when we were at east cobb, our hotel was near this place called Best Baseball (I think), what a great store. Everything you could ever want. I can't wait to go back in July
quote:t's great you guys have a place where you can try out bats. We don't have anything like that close by. Off topic, but, when we were at east cobb, our hotel was near this place called Best Baseball (I think), what a great store. Everything you could ever want. I can't wait to go back in July
The store is "Better Baseball." You can shop it on-line.
Isn't the topic title; Best BBCOR bat for under $100," an oxymoron?
quote:Originally posted by Prime9:quote:t's great you guys have a place where you can try out bats. We don't have anything like that close by. Off topic, but, when we were at east cobb, our hotel was near this place called Best Baseball (I think), what a great store. Everything you could ever want. I can't wait to go back in July
The store is "Better Baseball." You can shop it on-line.
Isn't the topic title; Best BBCOR bat for under $100," an oxymoron?
No, but overhyped, overpriced BBCOR bat for over $150 is not.
quote:No, but overhyped, overpriced BBCOR bat for over $150 is not
So, it sounds like you believe there is no difference in bat construction, or composition that relates to performance at varying temperatures, longevity etc. The only difference, as far as you are concerned, is price?
quote:Originally posted by Prime9:quote:No, but overhyped, overpriced BBCOR bat for over $150 is not
So, it sounds like you believe there is no difference in bat construction, or composition that relates to performance at varying temperatures, longevity etc. The only difference, as far as you are concerned, is price?
Since you asked...I'll answer for me. And this is my opinion.
If one BBCOR bat costs $100 and another cost $300 (Excuse me $299, or $399) is the more expensive bat hit $199, or $299 BETTER than the cheaper bat?
I haven't seen any evidence of this, and I've seen some good hitters use the Voodoo, the EXO, the Z1000, the 5150 etc etc.
quote:Originally posted by ctandc:quote:Originally posted by Prime9:quote:No, but overhyped, overpriced BBCOR bat for over $150 is not
So, it sounds like you believe there is no difference in bat construction, or composition that relates to performance at varying temperatures, longevity etc. The only difference, as far as you are concerned, is price?
Since you asked...I'll answer for me. And this is my opinion.
If one BBCOR bat costs $100 and another cost $300 (Excuse me $299, or $399) is the more expensive bat hit $199, or $299 BETTER than the cheaper bat?
I haven't seen any evidence of this, and I've seen some good hitters use the Voodoo, the EXO, the Z1000, the 5150 etc etc.
Ok, taking this line of thinking a little further and sticking to just baseball equipment for the time being. Would you say there is no substantial difference in a baseball glove other than price?
I'm not sure what level your sons play at; but let's say he's at the High school, or better yet the college level. Did you provide him with the least expensive glove you can purchase? If he's good enough he can field with any model, right? If it's college, is your team sending their players out there with $99.00 dollar gloves or a more expensive model? If so, why?
If you paid $100 for your "bargain" BBCOR cheap alloy bat, and had to spring for another after it dented or broke prematurely, was that really a smart purchase?
I'm not saying yea or nay, just asking as I already own my opinion.
Well now you're comparing apples to oranges.
The $100 bat has the same warranty as the $400 bat.
Both have to meet the BBCOR standards, so by DEFINITION neither bat can EXCEED these standards.
So in reality, durability isn't an issue. - Warranty
And performance isn't an issue, they are all held to a maximum standard.
And if we are talking "playing level" let's say college as you mentioned. I guess the bat choice would depend on what the team was using.
I have no problem with people paying $400 for a bat. It's not my money, why should I care? I do have an issue with people thinking because something is more expensive, it automatically performs better than something that costs less.
Actually...you know what...I don't have a problem with that.
I love how you basically "looked down" upon the cheaper bat though. To each his own.
It's the arrow not the Indian...always has been.
The $100 bat has the same warranty as the $400 bat.
Both have to meet the BBCOR standards, so by DEFINITION neither bat can EXCEED these standards.
So in reality, durability isn't an issue. - Warranty
And performance isn't an issue, they are all held to a maximum standard.
And if we are talking "playing level" let's say college as you mentioned. I guess the bat choice would depend on what the team was using.
I have no problem with people paying $400 for a bat. It's not my money, why should I care? I do have an issue with people thinking because something is more expensive, it automatically performs better than something that costs less.
Actually...you know what...I don't have a problem with that.
I love how you basically "looked down" upon the cheaper bat though. To each his own.
It's the arrow not the Indian...always has been.
My son has hit with both the z-1000 (Most expensive BBCOR bat I've seen), all the way down price-wise to the Easton Typhoon (Least expensive BBCOR bat I've seen), and quite a few in between...
He chose the Rawlings Plasma because it was balanced, felt the best, looked cool and he liked it...
My wallet thanked him.
He chose the Rawlings Plasma because it was balanced, felt the best, looked cool and he liked it...
My wallet thanked him.
[QUOTE]have no problem with people paying $400 for a bat. It's not my money, why should I care? I do have an issue with people thinking because something is more expensive, it automatically performs better than something that costs less.
Actually...you know what...I don't have a problem with that.
I love how you basically "looked down" upon the cheaper bat though. To each his own.
ctandc: Sure, I understand your position although I'm not sure that it is apples and oranges we are discussing. Yes, the warranty is the same and the BBCOR testing should suggest equal performance. However, equal warranty doesn't mean equal products. Just look at the automobile industry.
Cheaper alloys lose peak performance capability FASTER than a better alloy. Lower grade alloys dent easier. Thus both performance and longevity is compromised. They can perform differently at lower temperatures when high school and college baseball is being played (early spring).
I agree that more spent doesn't always mean a better product or better performance. However, rarely in my experience with products or services, does "cheapest" equate to BETTER. Perhaps a great value, but not necessarily an equal product.
I don't have a problem with how people approach buying equipment for their sons to compete with. I merely wonder this?
If you, as a father or Coach are an athlete, and call yourself competitive at your sporting endeavor. Let's say it's tennis or golf. What racket do you use? Is it your Wilson wood model from the 70's or is is today Pro Staff composite? What clubs are in your bag? You are going to tell me they play the same? Not all alloys and or composites are equal either.
Now if you don't play, or you play and don't compete, I understand the cheapest available route that you may choose. Is that the approach you take outfitting your athlete son?
So the arrow, really doesn't matter? Have you shot a bow?
P.S. I'm not looking down my nose at cheaper products. I do understand the psychology of the buying public.
Actually...you know what...I don't have a problem with that.
I love how you basically "looked down" upon the cheaper bat though. To each his own.
ctandc: Sure, I understand your position although I'm not sure that it is apples and oranges we are discussing. Yes, the warranty is the same and the BBCOR testing should suggest equal performance. However, equal warranty doesn't mean equal products. Just look at the automobile industry.
Cheaper alloys lose peak performance capability FASTER than a better alloy. Lower grade alloys dent easier. Thus both performance and longevity is compromised. They can perform differently at lower temperatures when high school and college baseball is being played (early spring).
I agree that more spent doesn't always mean a better product or better performance. However, rarely in my experience with products or services, does "cheapest" equate to BETTER. Perhaps a great value, but not necessarily an equal product.
I don't have a problem with how people approach buying equipment for their sons to compete with. I merely wonder this?
If you, as a father or Coach are an athlete, and call yourself competitive at your sporting endeavor. Let's say it's tennis or golf. What racket do you use? Is it your Wilson wood model from the 70's or is is today Pro Staff composite? What clubs are in your bag? You are going to tell me they play the same? Not all alloys and or composites are equal either.
Now if you don't play, or you play and don't compete, I understand the cheapest available route that you may choose. Is that the approach you take outfitting your athlete son?
So the arrow, really doesn't matter? Have you shot a bow?
P.S. I'm not looking down my nose at cheaper products. I do understand the psychology of the buying public.
quote:He chose the Rawlings Plasma because it was balanced, felt the best, looked cool and he liked it...
Exactly! There is a huge psychological benefit to the athlete when he is comfortable with what he is using. That comfort level can come just about anywhere in the pricing structure depending upon the individual swinging the bat! And that, does matter hence everyone's advice to have their kid try a bat before buying! glove too!!!
Again...we're comparing bats...BBCOR bats. And the comparison is different.
And how would comparing using a 70's Wood tennis racquet vs a newer (composite I'm guessing I don't play tennis) high tech racquet be the same as comparing a NEW release bat with another bat?
I do know that hitting some the other day, two of the kids on my team told their Dad they liked the Plasma better than their bat. One has a Z1000 and one has a Voodoo.
Does it mean one is better than the other? No. It's a subjective. Each hitter is different, and so is their swing.
But since you've mentioned playing temps several times, as it relates to bats, I would go with the Plasma or another 1 piece metal bat over a composite.
Why? I've seen some more than a few composite bats fold up in colder weather. Google "Composite BBCOR bats and cold weather"
Or google "BBCOR bats break"
Funny..the most expensive bats are composites or "half and halfs" and they are the ones breaking. Not the alloy bats.
I'd rather they go all wood anyway. of course that is another debate.
And yes I have shot a bow.
But your logic on baseball gloves and bats is way off. My last baseball glove was a Nokona. They were not mainstream at all then. And it was considered VERY expensive. It lasted me through my SO year of HS, to college, gathering dust in my closet after I was injured, then still worked great when I picked the game back up before my son was born.
Do you expect a $400 BBCOR bat to last a player through his HS career?
And how would comparing using a 70's Wood tennis racquet vs a newer (composite I'm guessing I don't play tennis) high tech racquet be the same as comparing a NEW release bat with another bat?
I do know that hitting some the other day, two of the kids on my team told their Dad they liked the Plasma better than their bat. One has a Z1000 and one has a Voodoo.
Does it mean one is better than the other? No. It's a subjective. Each hitter is different, and so is their swing.
But since you've mentioned playing temps several times, as it relates to bats, I would go with the Plasma or another 1 piece metal bat over a composite.
Why? I've seen some more than a few composite bats fold up in colder weather. Google "Composite BBCOR bats and cold weather"
Or google "BBCOR bats break"
Funny..the most expensive bats are composites or "half and halfs" and they are the ones breaking. Not the alloy bats.
I'd rather they go all wood anyway. of course that is another debate.
And yes I have shot a bow.
But your logic on baseball gloves and bats is way off. My last baseball glove was a Nokona. They were not mainstream at all then. And it was considered VERY expensive. It lasted me through my SO year of HS, to college, gathering dust in my closet after I was injured, then still worked great when I picked the game back up before my son was born.
Do you expect a $400 BBCOR bat to last a player through his HS career?
quote:Originally posted by Prime9:quote:He chose the Rawlings Plasma because it was balanced, felt the best, looked cool and he liked it...
Exactly! There is a huge psychological benefit to the athlete when he is comfortable with what he is using. That comfort level can come just about anywhere in the pricing structure depending upon the individual swinging the bat! And that, does matter hence everyone's advice to have their kid try a bat before buying! glove too!!!
I agree. But a lot of kids want certain bats because someone else has them, or they think they will hit better because it's more expensive.
Marketing plays a BIG part in most all of our lives whether we want to admit it or not.
As for golf clubs, I need to go tell my buddy he can't possibly be a scratch golfer with his 20 year old set of blades he uses.
quote:Do you expect a $400 BBCOR bat to last a player through his HS career?
My son is out of high school, but either wore out or out grew his bat annually irregardless of cost.
I'm not saying an athlete isn't an athlete and can't perform without the very best, or most expensive weapons. If you are competing, however, are you willing to gamble and use the cheapest available to prove your point?
I think the Omaha is a great value. It's $200 and my kid and others on his team love it. LS was great. I sent them my son's used (10 months) besr Omaha and they exchanged it for a brand new BBCOR. Props to them. Thanks LS! 
quote:Originally posted by Prime9:quote:No, but overhyped, overpriced BBCOR bat for over $150 is not
So, it sounds like you believe there is no difference in bat construction, or composition that relates to performance at varying temperatures, longevity etc. The only difference, as far as you are concerned, is price?
I'm saying that if you gave a $60 bat or a $200 bat to a great hitter they will still use the same technique that made them a great hitter. Maybe the $200.00 bat gives them a bit further distance, maybe not.
But don't all BBCOR bats have to meet specific standards to be certified a BBCOR bat?
quote:Originally posted by Prime9:
I'm not saying an athlete isn't an athlete and can't perform without the very best, or most expensive weapons. If you are competing, however, are you willing to gamble and use the cheapest available to prove your point?
Not gambling at all. If my son not having a $400 bat would keep him from playing at the next level, truth is he didn't belong at the next level.
Now as for gambling, I'd wager that $300 I saved on each bat would be better spent with college and living expenses. But that's just me.
quote:Originally posted by Shelby:
http://www.justbats.com/bat-re...pproved%20for~bbcor/
Reviews / Ratings / Pricing / Purchace option
I bought the Easton BX74 bat on Justbats.
It came in yesterday so time will tell if my son feels comfortable with it. Since he is 13 he is swinging an Easton 31/22.5 so the 33/30 BBCOR is a big jump. But for practice the 33/30 should quicken his rotation.