The Bat is a deep retracement pattern that, like the Gartley, completes inside the XA move — but even deeper, at the 88.6% level. Its appeal is a very tight stop: because D sits so close to X, the invalidation point is only a short distance away, giving excellent reward-to-risk.
Defining ratios
- B retraces 38.2% to 50% of the XA leg — shallower than a Gartley.
- BC retraces 38.2% to 88.6% of AB.
- CD extends 161.8% to 261.8% of BC.
- D completes at 88.6% of XA — a deep but contained retracement.
The Bat is distinguished from the Gartley by its shallower B-point (38.2%–50% rather than 61.8%) and its deeper 88.6% D-point. That deep completion so near to X is exactly what enables the pattern's characteristically tight stop.
Trading the Bat
Enter at D in the trend's direction once the 88.6% level reacts, and place the stop just beyond X. Because X is close, the risk is small relative to the target back toward A, which is why the Bat is prized for its geometry. As always, wait for confirmation — a deep pullback that keeps going becomes a failed pattern.
The Bat completes at 88.6% of XA with a shallow B-point — its closeness to X allows a tight stop and strong reward-to-risk.