Frequently Asked Questions
What certification do I need for fastpitch?
What certification do I need for fastpitch?
Most fastpitch bats are certified to both the USA Softball 98 mph exit speed standard and the 1.20 BPF standard used by NSA and USSSA, which makes fastpitch simpler than slowpitch in practice. USA Softball is the most widely required stamp in youth and high school fastpitch. Confirm your association's requirement before buying. Full certification guide.
How do I size a fastpitch bat?
How do I size a fastpitch bat?
Drop weight is length in inches minus weight in ounces. Fastpitch bats commonly run -8 to -13, with lighter drops favoring younger and developing hitters who need bat speed to get the barrel through the zone on time. Size by height and weight rather than age, then take the lightest legal drop the player can control.
Why does the Axe Handle matter in fastpitch?
Why does the Axe Handle matter in fastpitch?
Fastpitch hitters see high velocity from a short distance, which puts a premium on getting the barrel to the ball quickly and on a good path. The Axe Handle is asymmetrical and oriented to the hand, with a flat face seating against the heel of the bottom hand. Because the handle fixes the bat's orientation, Axe barrels are engineered with a defined hitting zone on one side — keep the marked zone facing the pitcher.
What balls should I practice with?
What balls should I practice with?
Fastpitch play uses .47 COR / 375 lb compression balls. Axe offers USA and NSA certified leather fastpitch softballs along with waterproof Ballistic training softballs built for machine and cage work.
Which models are in this lineup?
Which models are in this lineup?
The Danielle Lawrie Fastpitch bat comes in a -12, developed with the Canadian Olympian and NCAA champion. Axe also partners with The Art of Coaching Softball and works with softball athletes including Ali Aguilar on product development.