If there were any criticism of the 2014 XL3 (and there wasn't much as it was received very well) it was the bat had some tendency to be dented after considerable use. This isn't an uncommon problem for any aluminum barreled bat. We hope, (or rather Easton hopes), that the new HyperLite alloy will improve its durability.
Regardless of any complaints, the 2014 XL3 was a winner and we don't see any reason to think the 2015 version will be otherwise.
Models Overview
The Easton Power Brigade line is back in 2015 with the usual suspects. The Speed (S), XL, and MAKO lines will once again grace the plates of little leagues, high schools and colleges around the country. Of course, the big news is the MAKO TORQ with its spinning handle, but here we focus on the Easton XL3.
The 2015 XL3 is similar in many respects compared to the 2014 XL3. It is still a one-piece premium aluminum alloy with an end load. The barrel profile is still gigantic for a one-piece aluminum bat.
Construction & Technology
Sizing, at release, will be a big barrel drop 9 and drop 5 as well as a 2 1/4 barrel drop 11. Easton's commercial claims the bat will only be made in these sizes but they said the same in the 2014 video and ended up releasing a BBCOR version of the bat by springtime.
Overall, we expect the 2015 XL3 to be a smart buy. Those hitters looking for an endloaded bat and prefer the power that comes from a one-piece aluminum stick are looking in the right place at the 2015 Easton XL3.
Comparable Bats
One change the alloy has gone through, at least, is a name change to the HyperLite Alloy. This is a difference from the 2014 version's THT scandium alloy. This new HyperLite alloy is also found on the 2015 S2 and S3. Easton's claim is the alloy is more durable and allows for thinner walls which, in turn, can create a potentially lighter swinging bat with a bigger sweet spot.
We do notice some feel changes with this alloy on Easton's 2015 S3, S3z, S2, and S2z. However, the 2015 XL3 looks and feels a heck of a lot like the 2014 XL3--despite an upgrade in the alloy. The upgraded alloy could very well be significant in the bat's durability--something this early in the season we can't determine.
Expert Recommendations
We would recommend the Easton XL3 to hitters who: Like a metal bat with considerable feedback on mishits (i.e. it stings your hands) comparable to wood; Prefer and can swing end-loaded bats; want to improve their home run and bomb-dropping ability; Desire more power at the plate; Like the ping of aluminum bats; prefer the power in one-piece bats.
We would NOT recommend the Easton XL3 to hitters who: Prefer two-piece bats; prefer composite barrels; need or want a balanced or handle-loaded swing; or are on a budget.
