He is talking about the rubber cover. Its really not for anything but looks and to cover up the connection.
If you see it starting to tear, I would epoxy it myself to keep it from ripping anymore. I wouldnt waste a return on the bat unless the thing is completely torn off.
If you see it starting to tear, I would epoxy it myself to keep it from ripping anymore. I wouldnt waste a return on the bat unless the thing is completely torn off.