How to Shave Composite Softball Bats
Shaving a composite softball bat will allow you to hit the ball 30 to 50 feet farther on average. The shaving process thins the walls of the bat on the inside, creating a trampoline effect between ball and bat. Shaving a composite bat creates a bigger sweet spot, decreasing the severity of missed hits. Shaved bats are illegal in most softball leagues and tournaments. Before using a shaved composite softball bat in play, check to make sure it is legal.
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Instructions
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Remove the cap of the composite bat. With a flat-head screwdriver, carefully pry the cap off of the end of the bat. Be careful not to damage the cap as it must be reused. Wedge the screwdriver into the area between the cap and the bat and begin to gently move the screwdriver along where the cap and bat meet. This should separate the cap from the bat. Caps on newer bats are more difficult to remove because of restrictions on manufacturers regarding the ease of cap removal.
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Move the bat onto the bar of a professional computer numerical control lathe. Turn the lathe on and gently move the bat so that the bar works against the inside of the bat. Move the bar evenly across the inner surface. Be careful not to shave too much off in one spot; doing so will create a thin spot in the wall and make it vulnerable to cracking or denting. The total amount of wall removed should be no more than 2 oz.
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Carefully replace the cap on the end of the bat. Apply a layer of heavy duty glue to the underside of the cap and slide it back into its resting place at the end of the bat. Be sure to get the cap on straight and flush against the bat. Wipe away any excess glue that has been pushed out from the area between the cap and the bat.
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Tips & Warnings
Shaving a composite bat will reduce its durability by 25 percent.
References
Resources
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