Which Fastpitch Softball Bat Is Best for You?
Every fastpitch bat has a 2 1/4 inch barrel, so choosing one comes down to three things: the certification your league requires, the right length, and the right drop.
Our Fastpitch Bat
The Metal Pro Fastpitch comes in -10 and -11, in lengths from 27 to 33 inches. It's certified by USA Softball, USSSA, NSA, ISA and WBSC.
Which Certification Do I Need?
Each league accepts bats with certain stamps. Look for the stamp on the bat.
| League | What it needs |
|---|---|
| High school | A USA Softball mark, and not on the non-approved list |
| USA Softball | A USA Softball mark, and not on the non-approved list |
| USSSA | The USSSA 1.20 BPF stamp |
| NSA | The NSA stamp |
| International (WBSC) | On the WBSC certified bat list |
| College | On the NCAA approved bat list |
The Metal Pro Fastpitch is certified by USA Softball, USSSA, NSA, ISA and WBSC.
What Size Do I Need?
The drop is the bat's length in inches minus its weight in ounces. A 30-inch, 20-ounce bat is a -10. A bigger drop number means a lighter bat.
| Age | Common length | Common drop |
|---|---|---|
| 8–10 | 28–30 in | -11 to -13 |
| 11–13 | 30–32 in | -10 to -12 |
| 14 and up | 32–34 in | -8 to -10 |
These are common starting points, not rules. Three quick checks:
• Put the knob at the center of the chest and hold the bat out along the arm. The fingertips should reach the end of the barrel.
• Stand the bat next to the leg. The knob should reach the palm.
• Hold the bat straight out to the side for 30 seconds. If the player can't, it's too heavy.
Drop 11 (-11)
The lighter of our two drops, for more bat speed and control. A good fit for younger players and anyone still building strength. Common for ages 8 to 13.
Read our full drop 11 fastpitch bat guide.
| Length | Weight |
|---|---|
| 27 in | 16 oz |
| 28 in | 17 oz |
| 29 in | 18 oz |
| 30 in | 19 oz |
| 31 in | 20 oz |
| 32 in | 21 oz |
| 33 in | 22 oz |
Drop 10 (-10)
One ounce heavier than a -11 at the same length, for a little more weight behind the ball. A good fit for older and stronger players. Common from age 11 up through high school.
Read our full drop 10 fastpitch bat guide.
| Length | Weight |
|---|---|
| 27 in | 17 oz |
| 28 in | 18 oz |
| 29 in | 19 oz |
| 30 in | 20 oz |
| 31 in | 21 oz |
| 32 in | 22 oz |
| 33 in | 23 oz |
Swing Weight and Material
Balanced or end-loaded
A balanced bat is quicker through the zone and easier to control. An end-loaded bat carries more weight toward the end, for power hitters. The Metal Pro Fastpitch is balanced.
Alloy
Alloy bats are ready to swing out of the wrapper, with no break-in. Composite bats need a few hundred hits to break in.
Questions
Is the Metal Pro Fastpitch legal for high school?
High school softball uses bats with a USA Softball mark that aren't on its non-approved list. The Metal Pro Fastpitch is USA Softball certified. Check your state's rules.
Should I get -10 or -11?
Go with -11 for a lighter swing. Move to -10 as the player gets stronger.
Can I use a fastpitch bat for slowpitch?
No. Slowpitch uses heavier bats with their own certifications. See our slowpitch bat guide.
Is there a warranty?
Yes. The Metal Pro Fastpitch comes with a 1-year durability guarantee.
Find Your Bat
The Metal Pro Fastpitch comes with a 1-year durability guarantee.
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Updated October 2026