How to Cork a Softball Bat
Corking a bat refers to filling a baseball or softball bat with a material that will change the weight and density of the bat and allow you to hit a ball farther. The corking material can be rubber, sawdust, or crushed cork, which is how the term originated. Since softball bats today are made from aluminum and hollow, it is advised that you use a material that will sit firmly in the bat. This will prevent dampening the impact with the ball and should have a positive effect on the bat's performance.
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Instructions
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1
Place the aluminum softball bat in the table vise and tighten the vise to prevent the bat from slipping. Do not over-tighten the vise as too much pressure may crush the bat.
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2
Pry off the end-cap of the bat with the flat-blade screwdriver. Near the end of the bat should be a seam in the metal where the edge of the screwdriver can be inserted. It may be necessary to insert the screwdriver into the seam and hit the handle of the screwdriver with a rubber mallet to pop the cap off. Remove the cap and set aside.
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3
Dump out any loose particles of dirt or dust that may be inside the bat. The bat should be completely hollow.
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4
Fill the softball bat with tennis balls, squeezing in as many as possible until there is no more room.
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5
Apply glue to the rim of the bat where the end-cap was removed. Position the end-cap back into place. Getting the end-cap back into place may require several firm blows with the rubber mallet.
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Allow several hours for the glue to dry before removing the aluminum softball bat from the vise and attempting to use it.
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Tips & Warnings
Corked bats are against the rules. Never use a corked or otherwise modified bat in any competitive sporting event.
Racquetballs may be used instead of tennis balls with equally positive results.
References
- Photo Credit girl up to bat in softball game image by pixelcarpenter from Fotolia.com
