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2013 Demarini CF5 Review

This review is for the 2013 Demarini CF5 baseball bat that is available in youth, senior and BBCOR models. It is a 100% composite, double wall, flex handle bat utilizing their half and half technology and a low swing weight (MOI). The design is the same since it was launched as the CF3.

The 2012 model claims it has their lowest swing weight ever. It always was low, and it’s interesting that their making this claim for a few reasons. First Louisville now claims the 2013 Exogrid has the lowest swing weight of any BBCOR 2 5/8″ bat, so someone is not telling the truth. Second, many college players stay away from the CF5 because of the low swing weight among other reasons. The new model is made with their new TR3 F.L.O. (fused layer optimized) composite that claims to make it stronger and lighter. This after the introduction of “Tri Strut TR3″ material last year which claimed to “imitate the structure of crystals which are one of the strongest and most stable compounds on Earth”. So I’m skeptical to say the least.

So why has the CF5 never caught on in college baseball?  As stated, the low swing weight is a problem. College players are experienced and prefer balanced or end-loaded bats. Next many players at most levels prefer single wall bats. They feel that double wall designs deaden the exit speed of the ball. Plus they’re not crazy about flex handles. Put them all together and you’ll see why college players stay away from the CF5. Take a look at any team swinging Louisville (Tennessee, LSU, Arizona State) and the vast majority are using the Voodoo. Now if experienced baseball players are staying away from a free CF5 why would you pay up to $400 for it? There are much better 100% composite options available. If you love the half and half technology go with the Voodoo!

The BBCOR model retails for $399.99, the Senior League for $299.99 and the Youth for $249.00

Here’s their CF5 video:

 

 

2012 Demarini Bats

The 2012 Demarini BBCOR baseball bats have a similar look to 2011, with the addition of a lower tier alloy model (Versus) and exclusion of a lower tier composite model (Vendetta). While they are sticking to their bread and butter, a two-piece baseball bats with a flex handle and their “half and half” technology, they have started expanding their reach into the alloy market and exploring different technology.

Demarini has been a major player in the baseball bat industry for years and makes quality bats. The only thing I don’t like about their bats is the overlapping seam connecting the handle and barrel. I much prefer a seamless connection on a baseball bat. I believe 2012 is going to be a make or break year for Demarini as there are some new, highly competitive, manufacturers looking to gain share. Demarini on the other hand doesn’t have much that is new or exciting.

Take a look at my recommendations by category and cost, and here’s a look at the 2012 Demarini bats:


2012 CF5
The change to make the CF5 BBCOR compliant is Demarini’s new “Tri Strut TR3 composite material”; otherwise it’s the same design as the CF4 & CF3. They’re pushing the limits of believability with the Tri Strut claiming it “imitates the structure of crystals which are one of the strongest and most stable compounds on Earth”.  It’s a double wall, 100% composite two-piece bat with a flex handle and light swing weight (MOI). Most college players (who’s team swings Demarini) stayed away from the CF5 due to its light (or too light) swing weight. Also, many prefer a single wall bat. It is not my choice in the top tier 100% composite category. The Adult -3 model retails for $399.99

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