Next is the tapering of the blank.
This is done with a 300-tonne weight which inserts a shaping tool into the tunnel to stretch and taper the blank into a more familiar, bat-like shape.
After being cleaned, the blank is stretched again, this time using a 400-tonne weight.
This machine is the one that gives the bat its full shape and length.
Once the blank has its lengthier shape, it needs to be tested for alignment. This is done using a number of gauging tools.
Any imperfections can be adjusted to ensure the bat is straight.
From here, the bat enters another lathe.
This one is designed to cut the bat to its final length and thread the inner edge of the tip for attaching the bat’s cap. Similarly, the handle is trimmed to size with a saw.