Want to improve your skill in pitching or throwing? All you need is practice and a radar gun. If you are a newbie and practicing hard for a better throwing speed, a radar gun can help you compare your progression by determining your pitch velocity. Even if you are not a player but a coach, manager, or even a spectator, you should have a radar gun to measure the throwing speed of any player.
But what’s the best baseball radar gun? Is this what you are thinking? Well, Among all the available options, the Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun and Stalker Pro IIs Sports Radar are the best options. They are also very well-known for their satisfying accuracy and smart functions.
As you are reading this, I can assume that you are planning to buy a radar gun, right? If yes, please continue to glance over this article till the end. Here, you will get all the essential information about this device and will learn how to choose the right one with 5 best recommendations. So, before investing money in the wrong product, invest a few minutes here to learn to choose the right one.
What Is A Baseball Radar Gun?
A radar gun is a very familiar device widely used in sports grounds like Baseball, softball, tennis, and frisbee. But, it is more popular on the baseball ground especially. Apparently, this device works to determine the speed of a moving object. It simply uses the mechanism of a Doppler radar that helps it measure the speed of a moving object like a baseball.
Generally, people also call this device a speed gun and it is called a gun because of its shape which is similar to a small pistol. However, this device comes with a small size screen when it exposes the speed of the object. This same mechanism is also used to determine the speed of a car on the road by the traffic policies.
Now, you might question why people use this device on the baseball field. Well, the only reason for using a radar gun in baseball is to measure the speed of pitches. Players and coaches use it to check the pitch velocity so that they can compare the performance and track the track progress of the player. Besides, there is a baseball rule that limits the throwing speed of the players and to check the speed people need a radar gun too.
Who Needs a Radar Gun?
Though road traffic policies are the people mostly seen with a speed gun, this device has widespread use in sports like baseball, softball, tennis, and even in racing sports. As we are talking about the baseball radar gun, some of you might be confused about who people usually need this device on the baseball grounds. Well, for them, the following information will help.
Coaches and Managers
Baseball and softball coaches, managers, and scouts use radar guns to check pitchers’ throwing speeds. It simply helps them assess the effectiveness of pitches, monitor players’ progress, and identify potential prospects.
Players
Pitchers and players themselves can utilize radar guns to measure and improve their throwing velocity. It lets them gauge their performance, track their progress, and make necessary adjustments to enhance their pitching skills.
Umpires
In many baseball leagues or tournaments, umpires also use radar guns to determine if a pitcher is throwing within the allowed speed limits. With the help of the speed gun, they can ensure regulations and maintain fair play.
Broadcasters and Commentators
Radar guns provide essential data for broadcasters and commentators while televising matches. They can share real-time information about pitch speeds to help viewers understand the match.
Fans and Spectators
Sometimes fans also use this device to check their favorite player’s pitch velocity. It simply adds extra excitement to the match and spectators can compare different players’ skills using this device.
Researchers and Sports Scientists
Finally, researchers and sports scientists also use a radar gun to get information for their study on biomechanics, pitching techniques, and the effects of various factors on pitch velocity.
As you’ve seen, whether the person is a player, coach, or even a fan, anyone can use a radar gun on the baseball field. It not only helps the sports associates check the players’ progress but also helps them to enjoy the match of their favorite players.
5 Best Baseball Radar Guns for the Most Accurate Data
I’m sure you have understood why and who needs a radar gun. Now, if you find yourself on the list of people who actually need it, you should choose one to make a purchase. But if you have no idea which one to try, I can help. Here is the list of the 5 best baseball radar guns with all the necessary details. Check them properly and then you can choose the right one you should buy.
1. Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun
Let’s start the list with a classy gun combining smart technology and compact design. Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun is an affordable option if you are looking for a baseball radar gun with the highest accuracy. This device is perfect for examining the ball speed of sports like baseball and softball.
Besides, this radar gun is very lightweight and is not more than 1.1 pounds, so users can carry them wherever they want. A large screen on this speed gun lets you check the speed properly with the highest accuracy. Additionally, this velocity meter has a rigid build quality that ensures topmost durability and ease of carry.
Features
- Speed Range for Baseball: 10-110 MPH
- The speed range for vehicles: 10-200 MPH
- Distance for Baseball: up to 90 ft
- Distance for Vehicle: up to 1500 ft
- Accuracy: +/- 1 mph
- Manufactured in: China
2. Bushnell 101911 Velocity Speed Gun
Undoubtedly, Bushnell is one of the best radar gun manufacturers and we can’t just leave the Bushnell 101911 Velocity Speed Gun while forming the list. With its classic appearance, this top-notch device also provides satisfying accuracy when it’s about the velocity of a baseball.
Besides, the screen size is moderated and it provides results very quickly. This device uses the digital signal processor to produce the fastest yet accurate result. Also, it can show the results in both MPH and KPH speed modes. Besides, it is easy to carry as it’s not more than 1.4 pounds in weight. You will need a pair of 1 C batteries to use this device.
Features
- Speed Range for Baseball: 6-110 MPH
- The speed range for vehicles: 10-200 MPH
- Distance for Baseball: up to 90 ft
- Distance for Vehicle: up to 1300 ft
- Accuracy: +/- 1 mph
- Manufactured in: China
3. Stalker Pro IIs Sports Radar Gun
Are you expecting a better functional radar gun? If yes, try the Stalker Pro IIs Sports Radar gun. This one not only measures the ball velocity but also determines the ball spin rate accurately. Eventually, it doesn’t make any delay or just shows estimations. You can also set it with a tripod and control it remotely.
However, this one is relatively heavier and it is especially recommended for professional purposes. Besides, it is not battery-powered like the previous two options. This rechargeable radar gun has around 12 degrees of radar beam and 10ms of acquisition time.
Features
- Speed Range: 1 – 150 MPH
- Speed measuring distance: up to 500 feet
- Spin Measuring distance: Up to 150 feet
- Accuracy: +/- 3% of reading
- Battery life: 5 hours per charge
4. Stalker Sport 2 Radar Gun
We have another professional-grade radar gun from Stalker to recommend. Stalker Sport 2 Radar Gun is widely used in professional matches like in the MLB and College League. It can measure the pitch speed and running speed accurately to help collect real-time data.
There are five different buttons to let you change different functions. You can check the details in both MPH and KPH speed modes. Additionally, it can be easily attached to a tripod to get the speed ranges of different throws from the same spot. You can also check the previous reading using 2 different recall functions.
Features
- Speed Range: 5-150 MPH
- Distance: up to 300 ft
- Accuracy: +/- 3% of reading
- Battery Details: 6 AA NiMH rechargeable
5. Pocket Radar Ball Speed Training Tool
This one is not actually a full-form radar gun but a radar tool. Pocket Radar Ball Speed Training Tool is a combo of an all-in-one radar tool bundle. The machine comes with a tripod, a battery set, a tripod mount, and a cleaning cloth. You can not only use it while holding it but also set it in a place to get the results from the same spots.
You can not only use this pro-level velocity tool for measuring the baseball players’ throwing speed but also the speed of the racing cars. Besides, it provides almost the accurate answer and it takes a few seconds to provide the result. In addition, it is cheaper and pretty much durable too.
Features
- Speed Range: 25-130 MPH
- Distance: up to 120 feet
- Tripod Height: 59 inches
- Accuracy: +/- 1 mph
How to Choose the Right Baseball Radar Gun?
Undoubtedly, all the five options mentioned above have competitive functions and accuracy rates. And that can make you confused while choosing one to purchase. Also, if you visit a shop to buy a velocity gun, they can show you a lot of options to make you even more confused. So, it is essential for you to learn how to choose the right one. Make sure to check the following criteria to find out the most perfect radar gun for you.
Designed for Baseball Velicity
Not all radar guns are designed to measure baseball velocity. And if it is not, you will definitely find issues in measuring baseball velocity with that gun. So, the first thing you should check is if the device is designed for baseball especially.
Accuracy
Next, you need to ensure that the gun can offer exact velocity and the accuracy rate is higher. Don’t blindly believe in what is written on the pack. You should check the users’ reviews and if you are buying it from a shop, you can check it personally. Make sure to choose a gun with +/- 1 MPH accuracy.
Speed Range
You should also determine the speed range you need for your specific requirements. Consider whether you need a radar gun that can measure the speeds of young players or if you require a model with a higher range for professional-level games.
User-friendly Function
Ensure that the radar gun you choose is user-friendly and easy to operate. It should have criteria like a clear display screen, intuitive controls, and explicit calibration processes.
Durability
Also, don’t forget to check the build quality of the radar gun to ensure it can withstand regular use in various weather conditions. You should choose a rugged and durable model from a reliable brand.
Also, you need to check the battery life, screen size, price, and brand. Never ever go for a nameless device that doesn’t provide any warranty. When it is an electronic device, you better invest in one from a trustworthy brand, so that you can replace them if they stop working so soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Baseball radar gun?
Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun and Stalker Pro IIs Sports Radar are the best radar guns to use for baseball. These two offer comparative more accurate results. Also, they are affordable and pretty much durable as well.
How accurate a good quality baseball radar gun can be?
A baseball radar gun can provide results that have more or less +/- 1 MPH accuracy. But not all the radar guns are equally accurate. To get the most accurate answers, you need to get the best radar guns like Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun.
How far can radar detect a baseball’s speed?
Usually, a radar gun can detect the speed of a vehicle from 1000 to 1,500 feet away. But when it’s a small object like a baseball, it can work accurately only from 10 to 100 feet away.
Wrapping Up
No matter, if you are a newbie, professional player, coach, or manager, you should have a radar gun in your bag if you are somehow professional or emotionally attached to this sport. Having a good quality radar gun is a must-have for you, especially if you have to use it to determine your progression. Hopefully, you have now learned everything you need to check to choose the right baseball radar gun.
Still, if you have any more confusion left reading the baseball velocity gun concept, please let us know. Thank you for your time and have a nice day.
