What to Know About Baseball Bat Turn Models

Be a cut above the rest this baseball season by understanding which turn model is right for your swing.

Swinging a wood bat is a feeling like no other in baseball. The feel of the ball meeting the barrel, the iconic “crack” upon contact. It’s a sensation many athletes adore.

When choosing the best wood bat for your swing, you need to understand the options available. Not only can wood bats differ by wood material, they can also differ by bat model. Understanding how your bat is cut and manufactured can help you get the most out of your lumber. Use these Pro Tips and learn how taking hacks with the perfect turn model can help your swing this season.

WHAT IS A TURN MODEL?

Like metal baseball bats, wood bats begin as a blank of raw material. This piece of lumber is then cut and lathed into the finished product. Wood bat turn models are the blueprints for this process. Manufacturers follow the turn models when producing these baseball necessities.

Each bat model features specific measurements for barrel thickness, handle thickness and taper style. These differences can help line drive and power hitters alike find a bat perfect for their swing.

WHAT ARE SOME POPULAR WOOD BAT TURN MODELS?

There are plenty of wood bat models available that cater to all batting styles. You don’t need to know your precise measurements, however, to find the perfect fit. Here are a few popular turn models often available from bat manufacturers:

271

Wood bats cut to a 271 turn are popular among all athletes and are commonly used at the plate. The taper between the 271’s ¹⁵/₁₆-inch handle and 2 ½-inch barrel is quick, giving the bat a slightly end-loaded feel.

110

Batters using a 110 model can expect an extremely balanced bat. The 110 turn can be a great starting point for players new to wood bats. The 2 ½-inch barrel and 1-inch handle evenly distribute the bat weight through a slow taper. The 110 turn is a basic model and can be useful toward success for any hitting style.

243

The 243 turn is a model built for power hitters. The ²⁹/₃₂-inch handle and 2 ⁵/₈-inch barrel pair nicely with a quick taper. This results in a top-heavy feel, great for power hitters looking for that whip effect through the zone.

I-13

The I-13 turn features the same dimensions as the 271 turn model. The difference between the two is the I-13’s sharp, quick taper. This places more of the bat’s mass in the barrel itself, making this bat model a favorite among power hitters.

BONUS PRO TIP: Turn models can be cut from a variety of materials. Find out which wood is right for you with these Pro Tips on how to buy wood baseball bats.

WHAT ABOUT THE BAT’S KNOB?

In addition to the barrel, taper and handle, a bat’s knob can also vary by design. Knobs can come in multiple styles, each with a distinct look and feel

STANDARD BAT KNOBS

Standard bat knobs closely resemble the knobs found on metal baseball bats. The knob transitions straight into the handle. This can be a good option for newcomers to wood bats.

TAPERED BAT KNOBS

Tapered knobs are a popular option when choosing wood bats. Rather than a straight transition, this style features a smooth transition from knob to handle.

BELL BAT KNOBS

Bell knobs feature a larger knob than other options. The intent of this is to serve as a counterweight for batters. This can help create more whip and swing speed through the zone.

CONE BAT KNOBS

This style of bat knob can be helpful for athletes coming off injuries. Cone knobs feature a slow, gradual transition from handle to knob. This design can make for an ergonomic, comfortable feel. Players who tend to dangle their fingers from the end of the bat might also find the cone knob appealing.

Swinging a wood bat can be a fun experience on the diamond. Use these Pro Tips to help you understand wood bat turn models and stay a cut above your competition.

A perfect turn model still needs care and attention. Learn how to get the most out of your wood bat before stepping into the batter’s box with these Pro Tips.