Bat Pattern
The bat is a harmonic pattern identified by Scott Carney, using an 88.6% XA retracement at point D to define a precise potential reversal zone.
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How to Identify
Identify the XA leg as the initial impulse move
The AB leg retraces 38.2% to 50% of XA
The BC leg retraces 38.2% to 88.6% of AB
The CD leg extends 161.8% to 261.8% of BC
Point D retraces to the 88.6% level of XA, the defining ratio
Trading Rules
Entry Rules
- Enter at point D when price reaches the 88.6% XA retracement
- Confirm with a reversal candlestick at the D point zone
- Use limit orders at the 88.6% level for precise entry
- Verify the AB retracement is between 38.2% and 50%
Exit Rules
- Place stop-loss beyond the X point level
- Target the 38.2% retracement of AD as the first target
- Target the 61.8% retracement of AD as the second target
First target: 38.2% retracement of AD. Second target: 61.8% retracement of AD. Extended target: the A point level.
Place stop-loss just beyond the X point. Because D retraces 88.6% of XA, the stop beyond X is relatively tight, offering a good risk-reward ratio.
Journaling Tips
Record the precision of the 88.6% retracement at D, as this is the key ratio
Note the AB retracement depth and whether it was closer to 38.2% or 50%
Track your risk-reward ratios, the bat often provides excellent ratios due to the tight stop
The bat pattern, identified by Scott Carney in 2001, is a harmonic pattern known for producing excellent risk-reward ratios. Its defining characteristic is the 88.6% XA retracement at point D, which places the entry close to the stop level (X), creating a tight risk with substantial upside potential.
Why Traders Love the Bat
The bat pattern’s appeal comes down to one thing: risk-reward. Because point D is at the 88.6% retracement of XA, it is very close to point X. This means:
- The stop-loss (beyond X) is tight
- The targets (38.2% and 61.8% of AD) are relatively far away
- Risk-reward ratios of 3:1 to 5:1 are common
This mathematical advantage makes the bat one of the most popular harmonic patterns among experienced traders.
Pattern Identification
The bat differs from the Gartley in two important ways:
- Shallower AB retracement: The bat’s AB leg retraces only 38.2-50% of XA, compared to 61.8% for the Gartley
- Deeper D completion: The bat completes at 88.6% of XA, compared to 78.6% for the Gartley
These differences create a different shape. The bat appears more elongated and compressed, with a deeper completion point.
The 88.6% Level
The 88.6% Fibonacci level is the square root of 0.786 (which equals 0.886). In harmonic trading theory, this level represents the last area of support or resistance before a complete retracement. Price reaching this level without breaking beyond X suggests the trend is intact but needs one final test.
Trading Execution
Pre-entry: Identify the potential bat pattern when the AB and BC legs are forming. Calculate where D should complete (88.6% of XA).
Entry: Place a limit order at the calculated D level or wait for price to reach D and show a reversal signal.
Management: Once in the trade, move the stop to breakeven after price reaches the 38.2% AD target. Let the remaining position run toward the 61.8% AD target.
Journal Best Practices
The bat pattern requires precise ratio measurement. Record every Fibonacci level and compare actual ratios to ideal ones. Over time, you will develop a tolerance range that works for your trading. Track whether you achieve the theoretical risk-reward ratios and adjust your approach accordingly.
Common Mistakes
Confusing the bat with the Gartley because both complete within the XA range
Not recognizing that the shallow AB retracement (38.2-50%) differentiates the bat
Ignoring the confirmation candle at D and entering blindly at the 88.6% level
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the key difference between a bat and a Gartley?
The bat uses an 88.6% XA retracement at D (vs. 78.6% for Gartley) and has a shallower AB retracement of 38.2-50% (vs. 61.8% for Gartley). The bat reaches deeper before reversing, which can provide tighter stops.
Why is the bat considered a good risk-reward pattern?
Because D is at the 88.6% level of XA, the stop (beyond X) is very close, creating a tight risk. The targets at 38.2% and 61.8% of AD are relatively far from the entry, producing risk-reward ratios of 3:1 or better.
Who discovered the bat pattern?
Scott Carney identified and named the bat pattern in 2001 as part of his harmonic trading methodology. He distinguished it from the Gartley based on the different Fibonacci ratios involved.
Start Tracking Your Patterns
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