Being diagnosed with Radar Gun Syndrome in softball can be a pitcher’s worst nightmare as it may affect their performance. Radar guns are commonly used to measure a pitcher’s pitch speed. There are various types of Radar Guns available in the market that can be used to track a softball pitcher’s speed. However, the accuracy of the readings can be affected by where the gun is positioned when measuring the pitch speed. As a pitching coach who frequently uses radar guns, I have found success by standing directly behind the catcher or right behind the pitcher, crouching down, and holding the gun at the height of the pitch. It’s recommended to hold down the button just before the pitcher releases the ball or set the gun to Constant mode. In this mode, the gun will automatically track each pitch.
Radar gun condition happens when a pitcher worries and attempts to toss the ball hard when she realizes her speed is being timed. The speed will be altogether slower on the pitches that are being followed by the radar gun. This is incredibly typical. Remind the pitcher that speed comes from accelerating the arm, getting into the legs, and driving toward the catcher to cut the pitching distance down. If a pitcher makes a decent attempt, she will not. Keep the pitcher quiet and advise her that speed can’t occur under pressure. Stay loose and let it rip.
It is significant for softball pitchers to realize their pitching speed. Most pitchers have no idea about how hard they are tossing and are simply presented to radar guns in tryouts where they aren’t told their speed. Realizing your pitching speed is significant for some reasons. First, it assists with the objective setting. Having a beginning stage is significant and defining an objective to toss more earnestly when the following season starts will push pitchers in the slow time of year months. Know the speed of pitches, particularly change-ups. The speed window for an incredible change up in softball will be 8 – 12 mph distinction from the fastball.
If you’re thinking about buying a radar gun, continue reading to learn more about these tools and how you can use them. We’ve included some of our favorite radar guns if you’re ready to buy.
Contents Inside
Best 5 Radar Gun For Softball Pitching
1. Pocket Radar Smart Coach
The Pocket Radar Smart Coach system is equipped with the Smart Coach App, which can automatically record videos and embed speed measurements, allowing you to continue working with your coaches remotely and participate in scouting activities. This fast video and speed feedback system, even while training alone at home, has been shown to result in accelerated skill development. The primary high-level speed radar can be used on its own or in conjunction with a companion app.
The Smart Coach Radar System permits you to record recordings with speeds straightforwardly installed inside. Offer these recordings with mentors and scouts and post them to web-based media for extra selecting permeability. As a head supplier of preparing devices, Pocket Radar is working with many top preparing programs, incorporating Driveline Baseball with their TRAQ framework, to assist competitors with preparing and creating at home.
Key Features
- Innovative stand-alone accurate radar gun that can also be used with an app on iOS and Android devices.
- Pitching Speeds, Shooting Speeds, Exit Velocities, Serving Speeds, and more can be displayed in bright red LED and announced via the speaker.
- Speed Display and Video at the same time
- Record auto-edited videos with speed embedded that can be shared via email, text message, or social media using the Free Pocket Radar App that pairs with the Smart Coach device via Bluetooth.
- Compatible with the Free Pocket Radar App on Apple and Android devices.
- Track data over time in your history and export it to a CSV file to monitor your progress.
- Durable
- Accurately measures the speed of Softball, Baseball, Hockey, Lacrosse, Tennis, Volleyball, Cricket, and Many More
Specifications
- Accuracy: ± 1 MPH (± 2 KPH)
- Measures: 25-130 MPH (40-209 KPH)
- Size: 2.3 x 4.7 x 0.8 inches (W x H x D)
- Measurement Modes: Manual, Constant-On or App Controlled
- Units of Measure: MPH, KPH
- Recall Memory: 25 internal to unlimited with App
- Memory Clear Function
- Works with Pocket Radar Smart Display
- Measurement Range: 120 feet on baseball or softball
- Power Options: 2 AAA batteries
- Battery Life in Manual Mode: >1,500 readings – Alkaline batteries, >3,000 readings – NiMH rechargeable batteries (not included)
- Battery Life in Constant-On Mode: >1 hour – High-Drain Alkaline batteries (included), >2 hours – NiMH rechargeable batteries (not included)
- 6-48 hours – USB Power Packs (not included)
- Weight (without batteries): 4 ounces
- Warranty: Two Year
Pros
- Lightweight & Portable
- Amazing accuracy
- Easy to use & great readings
Cons
- Costly
- Power runs out quickly
Learn More: Top 10 Best Softball Bat Grip Tape
2. Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun
The Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun is an essential tool for coaches who want to know how fast their players are pitching or running. With digital signal processing technology, the Velocity can accurately measure the speed of a baseball from up to 90 feet away or a moving vehicle from as far as 1,500 feet. This makes it ideal for measuring the speed of a tennis serve or timing a sprint. Its simple, one-handed grip design displays the fastest speed recorded as soon as the trigger is released. The large LCD display is easy to read, and the gun is easy to use. Just point the Velocity at the target and pull the trigger. To ensure accuracy, make sure to aim the gun directly at the target’s direction of movement.
Key Features
- Large, clear LCD display.
- Batteries need to be installed appropriately for the item to turn on and function
- Displays the fastest speed once trigger is released
- An easy point-and-shoot speed gun with ± 1.0 MPH/ or ± 2.0 KPH accuracy
- Can track the speed of a ball from 10 feet up to 110 MPH
- Accurately measures the speed of Softball, Baseball, Tennis
Specifications
- Accuracy: ± 1 MPH (± 2 KPH)
- Size(W x H x D): 4.3 x 8.4 x 6 inches
- Weight: 19 oz
- Softball Range: 10 to 110 mph (90 feet away)
- Auto racing range: 10 to 200 mph (1,500 feet away)
- Units of Measure: MPH, KPH
- Manufacturer: Greys Distribution
- Warranty: Two Year
Pros
- Easy to read LCD display
- Easy to use
- Inexpensive
- Very accurate
Cons
- Lacks extra modes seen in pricier models
Learn More: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For Cold Weather
3. Pocket Radar Ball Coach
The Pocket Radar Ball Coach is a high-level speed estimation device planned explicitly to measure the speed of a ball in flight. It is a top-of-the-line radar weapon and speed preparing device for improving player execution through individual instructing or independent drills, with the added advantage of sans hands activity. With the capacity to rapidly and precisely convey fundamental outcomes, for example, pitching speeds, throwing speeds, hitting power, shot velocities, and serving rates, the Ball Coach radar is a brilliant method to improve abilities rapidly. It can quantify velocities from 25 mph to 130 mph, with a precision of ±1 MPH (± 2 KPH), and has a range of 120 feet on a baseball. The gadget additionally has a capacity limit of 25 profound memories.
Key Features
- Primary stand-alone radar gun
- It isn’t compatible with the pocket radar app
- New model
- Smart coach radar with app compatibility
- It can measure the fastest speed of a ball in flight
- Multiple modes include constant-on, clear memory, change units (MPH and KPH), and immediate shut-down
- Constant-on / personal training mode provides versatile hands-free use. Rechargeable AAA batteries are recommended if using this mode frequently.
- It can measure the accurate speed of softball, baseball, tennis, lacrosse, hockey, cricket, volleyball
Specifications
- Accuracy: ± 1 MPH (± 2 KPH)
- Measures: 25-130 MPH (40-209 KPH)
- Measurement Modes: Manual or Constant-On
- Units of Measure: MPH, KPH
- Recall Memory: 25
- Memory Clear Function
- Measurement Range: 120 feet on baseball or softball
- Power Options: 2 AAA batteries
- Battery Life in Manual Mode: >2,000 readings – High-Drain Alkaline batteries (included), >4,000 readings – NiMH rechargeable batteries (not included)
- Battery Life in Constant-On Mode: >1 hour – High-Drain Alkaline batteries (included), >2 hours – NiMH rechargeable batteries (not included)
- Weight (without batteries): 4 ounces
- Manufacturer: Pocket Radar
- Warranty: Two Year
Pros
- Flexible and easy to use
- Amazing accuracy
- Portable and discreet
Cons
- No Bluetooth connection
- Expensive
Learn More: Top 10 Best Bats For 52 300 Balls
4. Stalker Sport 2 Series Radar Gun
The Stalker Sport 2 Series Radar Gun is a state-of-the-art baseball solution that is both powerful and user-friendly. It offers dynamic speed windows that allow for quick and accurate measurement of pitching and running velocities. Its reliability is evidenced by the fact that all 30 Major League Baseball teams use Stalker Baseball guns. Unlike other “toy radar” guns, the Stalker Baseball guns offer superior performance with simple operation, guaranteed accuracy, greater range, real throw speeds, and consistent readings.
Key Features
- Two transmit modes – Pull-to-transmit; pull-on, pull-off.
- Displays speed in either units or tenths.
- Reduced size and weight improve comfort.
- Concurrent Radar and Stopwatch Operation.
- Battery Handle Cap quickly Snaps ON/OFF.
- 2 Active Speed Windows – Both Peak Speed and Plate Speed.
- Simultaneously measures pitches and times runners.
- Default settings are optimized for measuring pitch speeds
- The user presses the MENU key to customize the settings.
- Direct from the manufacturer at the lowest available price.
- Captures release speed and plate speed simultaneously.
Specifications
- Accuracy: ± 1 MPH
- Measures: 5-150 MPH
- Units of Measure: MPH, KPH
- Measurement Range: 300 feet
- Recall Previous: 5 readings.
- Size(W x H x D): 6.5 x 3 x 8 inches
- Batteries : 8 AA batteries required
- Manufacturer: Stalker Radar
- Warranty: One Year
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Extremely accurate
- Lightweight
- Large LCD display
Cons
- Rechargeable Batteries
- AC adapter sold separately
5. Jugs Gun Sports Radar Gun
The Jugs Gun Sports Radar Gun is a valuable tool for pitchers to improve their skills, just like the Jugs baseball and softball pitching machines have helped players of all ages enhance their hitting abilities. Major League Baseball teams’ top scouts rely on the Jugs Gun to identify promising pitching prospects.
The Jugs weapon can furnish mentors with the speed estimations they need to further develop preparation and execution. The “fast” work lets you measure the delivery point of each pitch. The “last” mode can pinpoint the speed as it arrives at the plate. Different modes allow you to gauge and show both, alongside a Five Pitch Speed Recall work. The Data Port permits you to associate the Jugs with a presentation board or PC.
Key Features
- The Jugs Radar Gun is a friendly, high-tech coaching tool yet easy to use and maintain.
- A soft heavy-duty carry case protects the unit on the field.
- A battery charger keeps this unit fully charged and ready to go.
- A manual offers you easy-to-read instructions, to help you get the most out of your Jugs Radar Gun all of which are included in your purchase.
- FAST & LAST Functions: FAST captures readings at the release point & LAST captures readings at the Plate
- Data port for transmitting data to a display or computer.
Specifications
- Accuracy: ± 0.5 MPH
- Measures: 5-140 MPH (8-224 KPH)
- Units of Measure: MPH, KPH
- Measurement Range: 300 feet
- Size(W x H x D): 6 x 12 x 17 inches
- Batteries : 6 NIMH rechargeable batteries
- Manufacturer: JUGS Sports
- Warranty: Two Year
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Very accurate
- Clear LCD display
Cons
- Costly
Learn More: Best Bat Swing Analyzers
Guidelines for Buying Best Radar Gun
If the primary thing you contemplate when you hear the expression “radar gun” is speeding tickets, reconsider. Police positively use them routinely for traffic signals and observing, yet radar guns additionally have been utilized in regions that are a bit more fun.
Radar guns can measure the speed of different items, not simply vehicles. Competitors and mentors use radar guns to measure the speed of a tossed ball, a struck ball, a racket, or a club head. Estimating these rates can assist competitors with sorting out in case they’re utilizing the appropriate method. Misfortune in the speed of a ball or club can give an early indication of injury, as well.
If you’re in the market for a radar gun to measure speed in sports, here are some guidelines to consider:
- Accuracy: Look for a radar gun that has a high level of accuracy, preferably within +/- 1 mph.
- Range: Make sure the radar gun has a range that is suitable for the sport you want to measure. For example, if you’re measuring the speed of a baseball pitch, you’ll want a radar gun with a range of at least 90 feet.
- Ease of use: Choose a radar gun that is easy to operate and read. The display should be large and easy to read, and the controls should be simple and intuitive.
- Durability: Look for a radar gun that is built to last, with sturdy construction and materials that can withstand frequent use.
- Battery life: Make sure the radar gun has a long battery life, especially if you’ll be using it frequently.
- Price: Radar guns can vary in price, so consider your budget and the features you need before making a purchase.
Tips for Using Radar Gun
Use of a Radar Gun for Softball or Baseball
Pitchers require an idea of the extreme speed of a pitched ball. Numerous radar guns are made for baseball and softball consequently show the maximum velocity and a few units can quantify both the speed as it crosses the plate and the speed of the ball at the mark of delivery. Additionally, most softball and baseball radar guns can measure the tossing rate of fielders and the leave speed of the ball off the bat.
Use of a Radar Gun for Tennis
People can utilize a radar gun to measure the speed of a served ball. It’s like estimating the speed of the ball out of a pitcher’s hand in softball or baseball. For both games, people can regularly utilize a similar kind of radar gun.
Use of a Radar Gun for Hockey or Golf
Estimating the speed of a hockey stick or a golf club head tries to give mentors information about the effectiveness of out. Having a radar gun that can save 25 to 50 readings is especially lovely for the present circumstance since you don’t have to stop a preparation meeting to record each perusing.
Use of a Radar Gun with Motor Sports
Search for a radar gun that ceaselessly gauges velocity that will disclose to you when the car dials back out of the blue. Or then again you may need a type of radar gun that mainly shows the maximum velocity. For example, for an immediate or for racing. The gun should have a speed estimation range that can coordinate with your car. Some radar guns can reach out at 150 miles each hour, while other guns can reach 200 or 250 miles each hour.
Conclusion
One final thing to note is that pitching speed doesn’t characterize a pitcher. Pitchers come in every single diverse shape and size. The ones who find out the most achievements in our game are the ones who can move the ball around the plate hitting areas and the people who have an overwhelming change up. There are just a small bunch of “flame throwing” pitchers in our game and if those pitchers can’t hit spots they give up hits. With bat innovations today, hitters are taught to shorten up and connect. The speed from the hard tossing pitcher will deal with the rest. If you discover yourself a victim of radar gun disorder, practice with someone gunning your pitches repeatedly. The best way to get over a dread is to handle it head on and beat it yourself.
FAQ’s
Q1. Are Pitching radar guns accurate?
Pitching radar guns are generally accurate in measuring the speed of a pitch. However, there are some factors that can affect their accuracy, such as the angle and distance of the radar gun from the ball, the calibration of the device, and external factors like wind and temperature. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and calibration of the radar gun to ensure accurate readings. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to cross-check readings with another device or have a trained observer confirm the speed for important measurements.
Q2. Can you use Pocket Radar by yourself?
Each Pocket Radar configuration incorporates uncommon execution and innovation that fits in the palm of your hand. Pocket Radar items are helpful and tough enough for regular use by everybody from professionals to beginners, to National Championship-winning mentors and anybody keen on speed.
Q3. Does Pocket Radar round up or down?
We have done it on numerous occasions and the main contrast is this would in general adjust down. For instance, if the Striker timed 76.7 the pocket radar enrolled 76. We have partaken in this without question using it all as an opportunity to look at speeds.
Q4. Can I turn my phone into a radar gun?
We have done it on various occasions and the main distinction is this would in general adjust down. For instance, if the Striker timed 76.7 the pocket radar enrolled 76. We have partaken in this without a doubt, and use it all as an opportunity to think about speeds.
Q5. Is there an app that detects police radar?
While there are apps that claim to detect police radar, it is important to note that using them may be illegal and could result in fines or other legal consequences. Additionally, the accuracy and effectiveness of such apps are questionable and can vary depending on a variety of factors. It is recommended that drivers obey traffic laws and drive responsibly to avoid the need for radar detection devices.
Reference:
- Lavery, M. P. J., Speirits, F. C., Barnett, S. M., & Padgett, M. J. (2013). Detection of a Spinning Object Using Light’s Orbital Angular Momentum. Science, 341(6145), 537–540. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1239936
- Pedegana, L. R., Elsner, R., Roberts, D., Lang, J., & Farewell, V. T. (1982). The relationship of upper extremity strength to throwing speed. American Journal of Sports Medicine, 10(6), 352–354. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/036354658201000606
- Volkers, N. (1992). Speed Kills–But What About Radar Guns? Journal of the National Cancer Institute. https://academic.oup.com/jnci/article-abstract/84/17/1310/894723?redirectedFrom=fulltext
