We hit with the 2019 LXT from Slugger nearly 800 times before writing this review. During that time, we documented exit speeds, barrel sizes and the swing weight of the bat.
Models Overview
That data forms all of our fastpitch bat reviews. The LXT is a good fit for the fastpitch player who is serious about fastpitch, has the budget for it and is looking to find as much bat speed as possible. Our insights on the 2019 Slugger LXT follow.
Construction & Technology
The LXT measures out as Slugger's easiest swinging bat. We measured the swing weights of every top end bat on the market and found it to be well under the average. The 2019 LXT was 5% lighter than the Slugger Xeno and over 10% lighter than the PXT. (Note, this was in the drop 10 32/22 space). It is safe to say the LXT is the lightest swinging bat in the Slugger lineup of top end fast pitch bats.
Barrel size on the LXT looked good, too. It found itself right in the middle of the top end fastpitch bats. Right next to the XENO.
In turn, the bat comes in every size, nearly, imaginable. Expect a drop 8, 9, 10, 11 and, for 2019 a drop 12. (The drop is the numerical difference between the weight of a bat in ounces and the length of the bat in inches. So, a 32-inch bat that weighs 22 ounces is referred to as a drop 10).
Performance Comparison
Functionally, the 2019 and 2018 LXT are very similar. Both use the same type of composite in the barrel, have an ultra lite end cap (they call this the X-Cap) and use a synthetic grip on a 7/8 handle. (See our 2018 Slugger LXT Review).
They have "upgraded" the connection piece from the Tru3 to the VCX. Both techs claim to let the barrel and the handle move independently. We felt no difference between the newer VCS and the Tru3. But, we do know the Tru3 had a few durability issues so it is possible the VCX is breaking from that a bit.
We were fans of the Tru3 tech, especially in the baseball space. No connection piece, even the famed 3-fusion/D-fusion from Demarini compared to the Tru3. If the VCS is a better long term play, in terms of durability, then the Tru3 then we have no doubt we'll love it.
In other words, we don't see much change from the 2018 to the 2019 model. If you can find the LXT in a 2018 version new in wrapper and a discount we would suggest that one over the 2019 version (for price reasons only). But, when inventory levels settle down, expect both the 2019 or 2018 to be a really good choice.
Comparable Bats
Although built with a different barrel idea (the LXT uses some ring technology on the inside) the CF Zen swings and feels a lot like the Slugger LXT. Both bats have similar swing weights and use similarly constructed two piece connections that are smooth on hits and mishits alike. The price points are identical as is, roughly speaking, the demand for both bats.
The CF Zen and the Slugger LXT are, hands down, the two most popular light swinging fastpitch bats in the market today.
The only considerable difference between the two is that the Slugger LXT comes in more drop options. While the Zen comes in only a drop 10 and 11 while the LXT comes in a drop 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. Granted, if you need a bigger drop (like an 8 or 9) you can always look to the CF Insane line. But, if you want a drop 12 then you only have one option: The 2019 Slugger LXT.
Which one do we prefer? Claiming one is better than the other is nothing more than splitting hairs. The bats are fantastic and you really can't go wrong with either one. If you are stuck between the two--and can't find them priced any differently, then flip a coin.
Expert Recommendations
The LXT often sits atop our list of the 7 best fastpitch bats.
As a light swinging, big barreled fastpitch bat with a number of sizes and drops the LXT comes recommendable to a number of players. The fact it delivered well in our exit speed test was useful too and, at least in some cases, justifies its price point.
