If you're looking for a simple softball bat to have on hand for those summer pickpitch softball bats to choose from. Bats also come in various lengths and widths, which you should purchase depending on your height, armspan, and desired bat speed. And don't forget to test out your bat to find its sweet spot.
The Bat Taper
Another thing to consider about your bat is the degree to which the neck of the bat is tapered. This can also affect your bat speed and power. While a tapered neck can decrease the weight of your bat, it also decreases the size of the round shaft (the meat of the bat, so to speak). Meaning you'll have less of range for that sweet spot. Trust me, if you hit the ball with the tapered part of the bat, you'll get a weak grounder... at best. At the same time, a strongly tapered bat can be great for bunting because you're positioning hand will be able to easily pinch the bat's neck for control.