Posted By:
Matt HartCarlton,
Out of all of the bat collectors that I know, I don't think anyone of them focuses on one particular thing. I think we all have certain things that we prefer, but aren't as narrowly focused as some other areas of the hobby. Personally, I only try to buy pre 1950 bats, but when a Mantle gamer or a late career Williams comes along, I'll certainly try to get it and add it to the collection. There are many collectors who try to focus on 19th century bats, but with the limited availability of them, they tend to collect the early decal bats and pre 1915 bats such as mushroom knobs.
Same thing goes for the gamers. I have them, but my main focus has always been store model bats of mainly Hall of Famers.
It seems like a lot of collectors do have a favorite team that they focus on and that helps some collectors stay focused. Also, many collectors won't buy a bat less then 34 inches.
In general though, if it had to be broken down, I think breaking bat collectors up into Game used bats, store model bats and pre 1915 is probably the easiest way. I can't stay focused because so many bats have a great look to them, that I don't care when it was made or who it was endorsed by, I just want it.
Those are some great bats in those pictures.
Matt