What is the weight of the Hack Attack and Junior broken down?  
Hack Attack: Without the Hack Attack legs – approx. 120 pounds, including the base. Without legs and base - 95 pounds.  (The base is the part with the rolling wheels that accepts the 3 legs.)
Junior: Without the Junior legs – approx. 75 pounds, including the base. Without legs and base - 65 pounds. 

What is the size of the Hack Attack and Junior broken down? 
Hack Attack: With the base – approx. 39” long x 30” wide x 25”tall 
Without the base – approx. 30” long x 30” wide x 25” tall
Junior: With the base – approx. 25” long x 20” wide x 26”tall 
Without the base – approx. 17” long x 20” wide x 26” tall

Which machine is best for younger players?
The Junior is perfect for young players up through high school and also for older players if used at a 50’ distance. The Junior is currently in use at even the major league level!

What type of assembly is necessary upon first receipt of my new Hack Attack or Junior and are there any special tools required?
Your new pitching machine will arrive fully assembled and ready for your immediate use.  No assembly or special tools are required.

How are the Hack Attack and Junior most commonly transported? 
Hack Attack: Most people transport the machine with the base, legs removed.  Two people can easily lift the Hack Attack into a truck, SUV, etc.  The base can be removed if the machine is too tall to fit in the vehicle.
Junior: One person can lift this compact unit.  It fits in any vehicle, even a Mini Cooper.

How are the Hack Attack and Junior moved around the baseball field? 
The Hack Attack and the Junior are provided with large rolling wheels for moving the machine on and off the field.  (Other machines are positioned on the throwing wheels to roll them on and off the field.  This can affect the surface of the throwing wheels and eventually affect the performance of the pitches.)  The Hack Attack and Junior throwing wheels come in contact with nothing other than a baseball!
 
What type of balls will the Hack Attack or Junior throw?
Both machines will throw any type of baseball or pitching machine ball, including leather, poly, foam and synthetic balls. (Do not mix ball types.)  

What is the height of the ball release point of the machines, will it fit the cut-out of a L-shaped protective screen?
The release point for the Hack Attack is 50”, fitting standard L-shaped screens.             
The Junior will fit most screens with a release point of 44”, but be sure to measure your screen height as some screens are somewhat higher. 

How accurate are these machines?
Because both machines have a unique three-wheel design, the ball is gripped in three locations (as opposed to 2 in other machines), providing tremendous control and accuracy.

What are the full load operating amps for the Hack Attack and the Junior?
Hack Attack: The Hack Attack draws 1.5 amps when running; however a 20-amp service is recommended for continuous operation. 
Junior:  The machine draws 1.5 amps when running; however a 20-amp service is recommended for continuous operation. 

What is an acceptable length for an extension cord and what type do I need?
For both machines, use a minimum of #14/3 grounded power cord up to 200ft in length.  A longer cord will require the opinion of a licensed electrician.

Why do you not offer a battery-powered pitching machine? 
Battery powered units have much longer recovery time between pitches which will slow the pace of practice considerably.  These units also slowly diminish in power which can result in constantly changing pitch locations.  The need to make sure the unit is always charged and ready to use is an issue.  Batteries are also very expensive to replace.  As a result of these and many other concerns, we recommend generators; please see the next question.

Can the machines be operated with a generator?
Yes, however the generator must generate “clean electricity”.  We recommend a minimum of 1000W up to 2000W Honda generator with inverter technology.  Weight of these generators is approximately 27 lbs, similar to the weight of a battery, and they are extremely portable.

What happens if the machines are used with a generator other than one that generates “clean electricity”?
Unless the generator provides “clean electricity”, the power surges from the generator will cause the Hack Attack or Junior to surge and become erratic, causing the machine to deliver inconsistent pitches.  (This phenomenon exists with all pitching machines currently on the market.)  See question above for recommended generator to be used with the Hack Attack and the Junior.

What is the range of ball speeds the machines can deliver?
Hack Attack: The Hack Attack can deliver a pitch at any speed from 35 to 100 mph.  As a point of reference, most major league hitters do not hit faster than 80 mph off a pitching machine.
Junior: The Hack Attack can deliver a pitch at any speed from 35 to 70 mph.     Most youth hitters hit at a speed of 50-55 mph.  

What type of pitches can the Hack Attack and Junior deliver?
Any pitch can be delivered, including, but not limited to fastballs, curve balls, sliders, sinkers, breaking pitches, etc.  (Note that all of these can be accomplished by simply changing the speed of the wheels unlike all two-wheel machines that need to tilt the throwing head to deliver a curve ball.)  

What adjustments need to be made to change speed and curves on the machines?
Simply adjust the relative speed of each of the throwing wheels.  A pitch selection chart is provided on both machines as a reference for setting various pitches. No tilting of the throwing head is ever required for curve balls, sliders, etc. 

What adjustment is required to change the elevation of a pitch on the machines? 
An elevation adjustment handle is provided that will raise or lower the pitch 4-6 inches (depending on ball speed) for each revolution of the handle.  (On other machines it may be necessary to release a locking mechanism, reposition the entire throwing head by tilting it manually and then re-locking the locking mechanism.  Given the variability of this method, several test pitches are often required to set the desired pitching height.)

What is the recovery time between pitches for the machines? 
The Hack Attack and Junior have a recovery time of 3-5 seconds; because of the three wheels, it is almost instant.

What is the advantage of a three-wheel machine as compared to other designs?
Vision/Timing:  The design of the Hack Attack and Junior, with three throwing wheels, insures that the batter never loses sight of the ball.  A batter will lose sight of the ball on a 2-wheel machine because of the location of the top throwing wheel.  The most common complaint from coaches and hitters of a 2-wheel machine is the fact that the loss of vision affects the batters timing.
Ball Control: The Hack Attack and Junior, with three throwing wheels, provide greater accuracy than any other pitching machine.
Wheel and Ball Wear:  Since less gripping is required, both wear on the throwing wheels and wear on the ball is greatly reduced.

What makes the Sports Attack pitching machine wheels higher in quality?
Careful testing of quality components builds a better product.  No air pressure considerations with our solid design. We have never replaced a throwing wheel due to wear, weather or melting!

What happens when a ball is hit back into the machine?
The Hack Attack and Junior are virtually indestructible.  Both machines have both front and rear guards that protect the throwing wheels. 

The Hack Attack is heavier than competitive machines, why is heavier better?
More mass absorbs recoil resulting in extreme accuracy.  Both machines are stable and do not move around from recoil.  All weight is centered over mid-point, no cantilevering like with other machines.  Regardless of weight, due to the unique design, both machines are more portable then other lighter units.

How long and complicated is the process to convert the baseball machine to a softball machine?
It is extremely uncomplicated.  To convert the Hack Attack it takes about 20-30 minutes.  The Junior takes much less, about 5-10 minutes.  For details see our manuals that are available online at the bottom of the baseball web page.

How is repair and service handled for the Hack Attack or Junior?
Components parts are designed to be easily replaced in the field, local assistance is not required.  Parts list is available in the manuals (available online at the bottom of the baseball web page), simply identify part needed, order part directly from Sports Attack and follow easy directions for repair. Only a few common tools are required to complete any repair.   

What is the warranty on the Hack Attack and Junior pitching machines? 
All sports training equipment manufactured by Sports Attack is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of five (5) years from the date of original purchase, with the following exceptions: throwing wheels are warranted for one (1) year; electronic controller is warranted for one (1) year; and, the throwing wheel motors are warranted for two (2) years.

How long has Sports Attack been in business producing pitching machines?
Sports Attack has been in business for over 12 years producing baseball, softball volleyball and tennis ball machines.  The founders and owners of Sports Attack have over 45 years experience designing, manufacturing, marketing and distributing pitching machines.  The lead design engineer for Sports Attack helped to develop some of the first pitching machines ever produced.  

How long does it take to receive a pitching machine?
Sports Attack, located in Reno, NV, can typically deliver a machine in the U.S. within 5-10 business days.

How many pitching machine has Sports Attack sold?
The Hack Attack is currently being used at all levels, major league, college, high school, youth league and backyard, by hundreds of teams across the country.  To see a listing of some of our customers by state, reference the map at the bottom of the baseball web page.    

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What is the weight of the Hack Attack and Junior broken down?  
Hack Attack: Without the Hack Attack legs – approx. 120 pounds, including the base. Without legs and base - 95 pounds.  (The base is the part with the rolling wheels that accepts the 3 legs.)
Junior: Without the Junior legs – approx. 75 pounds, including the base. Without legs and base - 65 pounds. 

What is the size of the Hack Attack and Junior broken down? 
Hack Attack: With the base – approx. 39” long x 30” wide x 25”tall 
Without the base – approx. 30” long x 30” wide x 25” tall
Junior: With the base – approx. 25” long x 20” wide x 26”tall 
Without the base – approx. 17” long x 20” wide x 26” tall

Which machine is best for younger players?
The Junior is perfect for young players up through high school and also for older players if used at a 50’ distance.

What type of assembly is necessary upon first receipt of my new Hack Attack or Junior and are there any special tools required?
Your new pitching machine will arrive fully assembled and ready for your immediate use.  No assembly or special tools are required.

How are the Hack Attack and Junior most commonly transported? 
Hack Attack: Most people transport the machine with the base, legs removed.  Two people can easily lift the Hack Attack into a truck, SUV, etc.  The base can be removed if the machine is too tall to fit in the vehicle.
Junior: One person can lift this compact unit.  It fits in any vehicle, even a Mini Cooper.

How are the Hack Attack and Junior moved around the softball field? 
The Hack Attack and the Junior are provided with large rolling wheels for moving the machine on and off the field.  (Other machines are positioned on the throwing wheels to roll them on and off the field.  This can affect the surface of the throwing wheels and eventually affect the performance of the pitches.)  The Hack Attack and Junior throwing wheels come in contact with nothing other than softball!
 
What type of balls will the Hack Attack or Junior throw?
Both machines will throw any type of softball or pitching machine ball, including leather, poly, foam and synthetic balls. (Do not mix ball types.)  

What is the height of the ball release point for the Softball Hack Attack and Junior?
The release point for the Softball Hack Attack is 23" and for the Junior it is 16"             

How accurate are these machines?
Because both machines have a unique three-wheel design, the ball is gripped in three locations (as opposed to 2 in other machines), providing tremendous control and accuracy.

What are the full load operating amps for the Hack Attack and the Junior?
Hack Attack: The Hack Attack draws 1.5 amps when running; however a 20-amp service is recommended for continuous operation. 
Junior:  The machine draws 1.5 amps when running; however a 20-amp service is recommended for continuous operation. 

What is an acceptable length for an extension cord and what type do I need?
For both machines, use a minimum of #14/3 grounded power cord up to 200ft in length.  A longer cord will require the opinion of a licensed electrician.

Why do you not offer a battery-powered pitching machine? 
Battery powered units have much longer recovery time between pitches which will slow the pace of practice considerably.  These units also slowly diminish in power which can result in constantly changing pitch locations.  The need to make sure the unit is always charged and ready to use is an issue.  Batteries are also very expensive to replace.  As a result of these and many other concerns, we recommend generators; please see the next question.

Can the machines be operated with a generator?
Yes, however the generator must generate “clean electricity”.  We recommend a minimum of 1000W up to 2000W Honda generator with inverter technology.  Weight of these generators is approximately 27 lbs, similar to the weight of a battery, and they are extremely portable.

What happens if the machines are used with a generator other than one that generates “clean electricity”?
Unless the generator provides “clean electricity”, the power surges from the generator will cause the Hack Attack or Junior to surge and become erratic, causing the machine to deliver inconsistent pitches.  (This phenomenon exists with all pitching machines currently on the market.)  See question above for recommended generator to be used with the Hack Attack and the Junior.

What is the range of ball speeds the machines can deliver?
Hack Attack: The Hack Attack can deliver a pitch at any speed from 30 to 80 mph. 

Junior: The Hack Attack can deliver a pitch at any speed from 30 to 60 mph.

What type of pitches can the Hack Attack and Junior deliver?
Any pitch can be delivered, including, but not limited to fastballs, risers, drops, both right and left hand screwballs, etc.  (Note that all of these can be accomplished by simply changing the speed of the wheels unlike all two-wheel machines that need to tilt the throwing head to deliver a curve ball.)  

What adjustments need to be made to change speed and curves on the machines?
Simply adjust the relative speed of each of the throwing wheels.  A pitch selection chart is provided on both machines as a reference for setting various pitches. No tilting of the throwing head is ever required for any breaking pitches. 

What adjustment is required to change the elevation of a pitch on the machines? 
An elevation adjustment handle is provided that will raise or lower the pitch 4-6 inches (depending on ball speed) for each revolution of the handle.  (On other machines it may be necessary to release a locking mechanism, reposition the entire throwing head by tilting it manually and then re-locking the locking mechanism.  Given the variability of this method, several test pitches are often required to set the desired pitching height.)

What is the recovery time between pitches for the machines? 
The Hack Attack and Junior have a recovery time of 3-5 seconds; because of the three wheels, it is almost instant.

What is the advantage of a three-wheel machine as compared to other designs?
Vision/Timing:  The design of the Hack Attack and Junior, with three throwing wheels, insures that the batter never loses sight of the ball.  A batter will lose sight of the ball on a 2-wheel machine because of the location of the top throwing wheel.  The most common complaint from coaches and hitters of a 2-wheel machine is the fact that the loss of vision affects the batters timing.
Ball Control: The Hack Attack and Junior, with three throwing wheels, provide greater accuracy than any other pitching machine.
Wheel and Ball Wear:  Since less gripping is required, both wear on the throwing wheels and wear on the ball is greatly reduced.

What makes the Sports Attack pitching machine wheels higher in quality?
Careful testing of quality components builds a better product.  No air pressure considerations with our solid design. We have never replaced a throwing wheel due to wear, weather or melting!

What happens when a ball is hit back into the machine?
The Hack Attack and Junior are virtually indestructible.  Both machines have both front and rear guards that protect the throwing wheels. 

The Hack Attack is heavier than competitive machines, why is heavier better?
More mass absorbs recoil resulting in extreme accuracy.  Both machines are stable and do not move around from recoil.  All weight is centered over mid-point, no cantilevering like with other machines.  Regardless of weight, due to the unique design, both machines are more portable then other lighter units.

How long and complicated is the process to convert the softball machine to a baseball machine?
It is extremely uncomplicated.  To convert the Hack Attack it takes about 20-30 minutes.  The Junior takes much less, about 5-10 minutes.  For details see our manuals that are available online at the bottom of the softball web page.

How is repair and service handled for the Hack Attack or Junior?
Components parts are designed to be easily replaced in the field, local assistance is not required.  Parts list is available in the manuals (available online at the bottom of the softball web page), simply identify part needed, order part directly from Sports Attack and follow easy directions for repair. Only a few common tools are required to complete any repair.   

What is the warranty on the Hack Attack and Junior pitching machines? 
All sports training equipment manufactured by Sports Attack is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of five (5) years from the date of original purchase, with the following exceptions: throwing wheels are warranted for one (1) year; electronic controller is warranted for one (1) year; and, the throwing wheel motors are warranted for two (2) years.

How long has Sports Attack been in business producing pitching machines?
Sports Attack has been in business for over 12 years producing baseball, softball volleyball and tennis ball machines.  The founders and owners of Sports Attack have over 45 years experience designing, manufacturing, marketing and distributing pitching machines.  The lead design engineer for Sports Attack helped to develop some of the first pitching machines ever produced.  

How long does it take to receive a pitching machine?
Sports Attack, located in Reno, NV, can typically deliver a machine in the U.S. within 5-10 business days.

How many pitching machine has Sports Attack sold?
The Hack Attack is currently being used at all levels, international, college, high school, youth league, travel ball and backyard, by hundreds of teams across the country. To see a listing of some of our customers by state, reference the map at the bottom of the softball web page.  

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How fast does the machine serve?
The Ace Attack will serve with any spin to any court location up to a speed of 110 MPH. The machine can simulate speed of up to 130 MPH by moving it a few feet into the court, reducing the player's reaction time.

When can I expect delivery of a machine once an order is placed?
Typically Sports Attack can deliver an Ace Attack machine within two weeks of receiving the order. However, during peak season, you can expect up to a four week lead time. Order early!

How many balls does the machine hold?
The ball hopper for the Ace Attack will hold approximately 200+ balls. A true benefit of the clear hopper design is that you can visually identify from across the court, the number of balls in the hopper at any given time.

Is the Ace Attack programmable ?
In the true sense of the word, the Ace Attack is known for its simplicity and does not require detailed "programming" to deliver up to a four-line drill. Simply set a few switches, dial in your speed and desired width and begin the drill.

What is the power source for the Ace Attack?
You will need a 120 volt, 15 amp service. This is typically supplied through a 14/3 gauge extension cord up to 200 ft. We strongly recommend the use of GFCI. A longer cord will require the opinion of a licensed electrician.

What is the machine made out of?
The Ace Attack machine is made out of powder-coated tubular steel, designed to withstand outside elements, including blowing sand and salt air.

What makes the Ace Attack different from the competitive units?
The main difference between the Ace Attack and other units is its ability to provide serve receipt from a realistic release point (9ft). The machine can transition from a groundstroke to serving heights at the push of a button, without the use of expensive external lifts or other cumbersome lifting mechanisms. Also, our unique three-wheel design delivers any type of spin, including first and second serves, right or left handed, without the awkward adjustments necessary with other units.

What happens if a part fails?
Sports Attack has been manufacturing sports training equipment for almost a decade, with thousands of volleyball, baseball and softball machines in use today. Our machines have a solid repetition of quality and dependability and Sports Attack's level of customer service is unmatched in the industry. While our Ace Attack is relatively new to tennis, the machine is designed for quick and easy part replacement if a problem were ever to occur. Simply call our 800 number and we will walk you through the problem or send you a new, easily replaceable part immediately.

How do I identify the parts that might need replacement?
The machine is provided with a manual that clearly identifies all of the replacement parts available. Our in-house customer service reps are skilled at trouble shooting all of our machines and working through any issues that might arise.

Is field service available to repair my machine onsite?
At present time, field service is not available. Due to the simplicity of our machine, we did not find it necessary to establish a service network. All of our parts are readily accessible and are available for shipment within 24 hours.

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What levels of programs purchase the Sports Attack volleyball machines?
International teams to college programs, including the top women's teams in the nation, and well over 1,000 high schools across the country, currently use our training equipment. The Attack machines are clearly the number one volleyball machines in the world!

Can the Attack and Attack II do a full range of drills?
Yes, both machines can do digging, serving and team coordination drills. Be sure to take a look at the drills available for download on the bottom of our Volleyball product page.
Serving drills: Consistent repetition of a full range of speeds and spins including jump serves, breaking top spins, and floaters.
Digging drills: Ball released from above the net provides a true downward trajectory at high speeds and unmatched spike simulation for digging. Delivery from the opposite side of the court and above the net provides a realistic reaction time during drills.
Team coordination drills: Throwing head pivots instantly to any point on the court, at any speed or spin, from any height. This provides a realistic game simulation involving serves, sets, tosses, passes, hits, or spikes.

How are the volleyball machines moved around the court?
All three of the volleyball machines have locking casters that provide instant mobility on the court.

What is the range of ball speeds the machines can deliver and how do you change the speed?
The Attack will deliver a serve at professional level speeds, over 70 MPH. The Attack II has a serving speed of over 60 MPH and the Skill Attack serves up to 40 MPH. The speed is quickly adjusted using the speed dials.

What adjustment is required on the machines to change placement of the ball on the court?
This can be done simply by loosening the horizontal and vertical locking handles, allowing the throwing head to freely pivot side-to-side or up-and-down to instantly target any location on the court.

What is the recovery time between throws for the machines?
There is no recovery time necessary. Sports Attack volleyball machines can deliver rapid repetition for any drill. (Some competitive units require a recharging every 8- 10 balls.)

How does the Attack and Attack II Volleyball Machines compare to the AirCAT machine in performance?
The Attack and Attack II have a throwing head that easily pivots (no need to move entire machine), delivering balls to any location on the court. Spin, speed and tempo can be adjusted instantly between throws. Comparatively, with the AirCAT the entire machine (on wheels) must be moved to introduce variation. The AirCAT is limited by a release point that is lower than the net, speed is limited by arch of the ball, and it can not impart a spin as the ball is propelled by air.

How about the comparison of the Attack and Attack II Volleyball Machines and the AirCAT relative to the ball release point?
Women's net height is 7'- 4 1/4", men's is 7'- 11 5/8". The Attack and Attack II have a very realistic release point, elevating from 5' to well above the men's net at over 8' 6". The AirCAT pivots up to only 6ft.

How well does the AirCAT's simulate game situations?
AirCAT is not capable of delivering a true linear spike over a regulation net. With the AirCAT, spike drills must be performed from the same side of the net, below net height, limiting ball travel distance and players reaction time. The AirCAT also has no spin capabilities, which limits a serve to a simple floater. With a lower (than the Attack or Attack II) release point, the AirCAT requires an arc to clear the net and slower speeds to keep the ball in the court.

When using the Attack or Attack II, is there tearing or cutting of the ball or excessive ball wear?
There is no tearing or cutting of balls. The machine wheels can make superficial marks on balls with harder exteriors. Leather or softer exteriors are only slightly worn with extended use, no marking from wheels on softer balls. As with other sports like baseball or tennis, coaches will typically use the prior season's game balls in their machine.

If you would like to know how volleyballs are affected after seasons of use with our machines, call us and we can provide names of hundreds of coaches who can describe how insignificant ball wear has been for them.

How are the Attack or Attack II most commonly transported?
These machines can easily fit through a gym door and can be transported in a standard SUV or pick-up truck.

How is the Skill Attack most commonly transported?
The Skill Attack completely breaks down and will fit in the truck of any car.

What is an acceptable length for an extension cord and what type do I need?
The machines use a minimum of #14/3 grounded power cord up to 200 ft. in length. A longer cord will require the opinion of a licensed electrician.

What are the full load operating amps for the volleyball machines?
The volleyball machines draw 1.5 amps when running; however a 20-amp service is recommended for continuous operation.

Can the machines be operated with a generator?
Yes, however the generator must generate "clean electricity". We recommend a minimum of 1000W up to 2000W Honda generator with inverter technology. Weight of these generators is approximately 27 lbs, similar to the weight of a battery, and they are extremely portable.

How long does it take to receive a volleyball machine?
Sports Attack, located in Reno, NV, can typically deliver a machine in the U.S. within 5-10 business days.

What type of assembly is necessary upon first receipt of my new Attack or Attack II and are there any special tools required?
Our volleyball machines can be assembled in less than one hour. Easy-to-follow instructions are included in our manual; all you will need are two standard wrenches, (1/2" and 7/16").

What is the warranty on the Hack Attack and Junior pitching machines?
All sports training equipment manufactured by Sports Attack is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of five (5) years from the date of original purchase, with the following exceptions: throwing wheels are warranted for one (1) year; electronic controller is warranted for one (1) year; and, the throwing wheel motors are warranted for two (2) years.

How is repair and service handled for the volleyball machines?
Components parts are designed to be easily replaced in the field, local assistance is not required. Parts list is available in the manuals (manuals are available online at the bottom of the volleyball web page), simply identify part needed, order part directly from Sports Attack and follow easy directions for repair. Only a few common tools are required to complete any repair.

How long has Sports Attack been in business producing volleyball machines?
Sports Attack has been in business for over 12 years producing baseball, softball volleyball and tennis ball machines. The founders and owners of Sports Attack have over 45 years experience designing, manufacturing, marketing, and distributing professional sports training equipment.

How many volleyball machines has Sports Attack sold?
Our line of volleyball machines are currently being used at all levels- international, college, high school and Jr. High level - by hundreds of teams across the country. To see a listing of some of our customers by state, reference the map at the bottom of the volleyball web page.

(Example of ball wear after a season of use.)

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