If you’ve shopped for a wood bat, you’ve likely come across the phrase “turning model” followed by a number. And the more bats you shop, the more turning models you discover. If you don’t know what it all means, no worries! We’re here to make it much easier to understand.
Why Are They Called Turning Models?
The word “turn” originates from the manufacturing process in which a billet (thick piece of wood) is transformed into a bat while being turned on a lathe. Turning is a machining process in which a billet is held in place and rotated as cutting tools that work on the billet are mounted and moved on various axes. Every wood bat turn model has specs for barrel diameter, handle thickness, transition style, and knob style. But since those details don’t tell the whole story, let’s go further in depth with some of the more popular turns so you’ll have a better idea which works best for your style of hitting! We’ve also selected examples of each turning model in case one catches your eye!
271 Turn:
Barrel Diameter: 2 1/2″ | Handle Thickness: 15/16″ | Feel: Slightly End-Loaded | Used By: All Hitters
The 271 turn model is easily the most popular turn model in baseball. The 271 features a medium-sized 2.5″ barrel, 15/16″ handle with a tapered knob, and a quick taper transition that defines the barrel more and gives it a slightly more end-loaded feel. This model is swung by both power hitters and contact hitters. Power hitters like the slightly end-loaded feel but it’s still balanced enough for many contact hitters. It’s one of the turns (along with the 318) that gives you the best of both worlds. The 271 profile also allows bat manufacturers to use the densest wood available, making it a harder, more durable bat model.
Marucci Exclusive Pro BOR Maple Wood Bat
Marucci Exclusive Pro Lindy12 Maple Wood Bat
243 Turn:
Barrel Diameter: 2 5/8″ | Handle Thickness: 29/32″ or 15/16″ | Feel: End-Loaded | Used By: Power Hitters
The 243 turn model has the most extreme dimensions with a quick taper that creates a large barrel and thin handle, resulting in a top heavy bat. This can make it difficult to control, so it should only be swung by stronger hitters who can handle the extra mass in the barrel. This model has the most end-loaded feel and is for hitters who have one thing on their minds: sending the ball over the fence.
Bamboo Bat Hybrid 243 Bamboo Bat
Marucci Pro Model GLEY25 Gleyber Torres Maple Wood Bat
110 Turn:
Barrel Diameter: 2 1/2″ | Handle Thickness: 1″ | Feel: Balanced | Used By: Contact Hitters
The most basic of turn models, the 110 has the most balanced swing weight and is lighter than most turns because most of the weight is distributed through a long, slow taper. The larger barrel diameter gives the bat a large contact surface, and the thicker handle adds durability. This is a great option for players who are new to wood bats and helps ease the transition from a BBCOR bat. While the 110 turn model can be used by any hitter with any hitting style, it’s best suited for contact hitters who are looking for more bat speed through the hitting zone.
MPowered Hard 2 The Core M110 Maple Wood Bat
Victus Pro Reserve V110 Maple Wood Bat
I-13 Turn:
Barrel Diameter: 2 1/2″ | Handle Thickness: 15/16″ | Feel: End-Loaded | Used By: Power Hitters
The I-13 turn model is similar to the 271 turn model, having the same size barrel and handle. The only real difference is that the I-13 features a sharper taper transition which puts even more mass into the barrel for an end-loaded feel, making it a favorite among power hitters.
MPowered Hard 2 The Core I13 Maple Wood Bat
318 Turn:
Barrel Diameter: 2 1/2″ | Handle Thickness: 15/16″ | Feel: Slightly End-Loaded | Used By: All Hitters
A great all-around bat, the 318 turn model features a medium barrel with a long sweet spot, medium handle, and a slightly end-loaded feel. It’s great for players who want both a solid hitting surface and complete bat control. Loved by both contact and power hitters, the 318 turn is another bat ideal for players transitioning from metal to wood.
Victus Pro Reserve EB12 Maple Wood Bat
Hopefully now you have a better idea which turning model is right for you! We carry a wide selection of wood bats in various turns right here at BaseballSavings, so make sure to check them out!
