Composite baseball and softball bats have become extremely popular in recent years for their superior pop and performance over traditional aluminum models. Within the composite bat space, DeMarini stands out with their innovative CRBN bats.
The CRBN series comes in multiple sizes, including the popular 2X and 3X models preferred by power hitters. But what exactly sets these two heavyweight bats apart?
Specs | CRBN 2X | CRBN 3X |
Barrel Size | 2 1/4″ | 2 5/8″ |
Swing Weight | Balanced | End Loaded |
Power | Very Good | Maximum |
Sweet Spot | Average | Very Large |
Bat Control | Excellent | Average |
Durability | Very Durable | Durable |
Drawbacks | Less Power Than 3X | Long Break-in, Sting on Mishits |
Best For | Contact & Power Hitters | Elite Power Hitters |
CRBN stands for Carbon Composite, and represents DeMarini’s unique blend of various strengthened carbon fibers. The precisely tuned composite material allows the barrel walls to flex and “whip” more at contact for maximum trampoline effect and pop off the sweet spot.
Some key technologies across all CRBN models include:
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Now let’s dive deeper into the 2X and 3X variants:
Best For: All-around utility for both power and contact hitting
The CRBN 2X was introduced more recently in 2021 as an upgrade over the original model. With a standard 2 1/4″ barrel diameter, it provides a balanced blend of both power and bat control.
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Best For: Maximum power
As DeMarini’s heaviest swinging CRBN offering, the 3X is a true beast built for game-changing power. It features a huge 2 5/8″ barrel barrel to impart maximum trampoline effect on contact.
No, CRBN 3X bats feature hand-rolled composite barrels which are pressed and cured rather than thermoformed. This gives DeMarini more precision and control over the carbon fiber layers during construction.
The CRBN 3X has a barrel diameter of 2 5/8 inches, making it one of the largest composite bats on the market. It also features an end-loaded swing weight that continues to be popular with elite power hitters looking to do maximum damage.
No, CRBN bats are fully certified for all associations, including high school, college, and elite play. As long as the bat displays the required USSSA 1.15, USA Baseball, or BBCOR certification marks, it is legal across all rule sets.
The original CRBN 1 featured DeMarini’s debut Carbon Composite frame, while the 2X improved upon it with enhancements like half-and-half barrel construction and 3Fusion connection. As a result, the CRBN 2X performs better and shows less breaking in required out of the wrappers.
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While both the CRBN 2X and 3X deliver impressive power at the plate, the 3X is best suited for stronger players looking to maximize exit speeds. Its end-loaded swing weight and massive barrel can generate elite power levels not seen in most composite models.
However, contact hitters and those still developing will likely appreciate the more balanced CRBN 2X for its broader sweet spot and lower MOI feel. No matter your specific needs as a hitter, DeMarini’s CRBN series represents the cutting edge of composite bat technology ready to deliver this season and beyond.
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