I've never had hands on a BDM bat... how would you describe the handle shape and thickness? Was the balance fairly similar to the typical SS (fairly neutral) or slightly different?
SS bats have lower middle but BDM have an inch and half upper middle(Middle Middle). Balance wise BDM were better and stroke wise SS. SS feels bottom heavy and same as their weight. Thickness is similar. Handle is mostly round on BDM and semi oval in SS. However both can provide different handles on demand but they are not for retail. Ratewise BDM were cheaper and discount was also good on BDM. Factory wise SS has big factory as its dedicated for Bats mostly and softs are prepared somewhere else. BDM has all at one place. I would hopefully try to get SG or SF bats next time if got chance