Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Thu Dec 2 12:59:35 2004

>>> Jack,
Based on the THT technique have you ever experimented with the top hand bat grip. Have you tried using the same grip as in your 7 iron demo on your video. In other words a top hand grip that creates greater early bat speed?????? <<<

Hi Mb

The grip used for the “7 iron drill” is a great aid in teaching students the principles of applying THT. However, the way we teach the drill, the top hand leaves the handle before the bat reaches the contact zone. This means there is no torque (BHT) being applied in the contact zone because the bottom-hand alone brings the bat to contact. We find that this grip produces about 15 to 20 percent less bat speed (31-oz. bat, 24 inch CHP) than the regular grip (loose top-hand) which allows both THT and BHT to be applied.

Note: It may be possible to use the “7 iron grip” and keep the top hand in contact with the handle through the zone, but I have not attempted to do so.

Jack Mankin