The 2016 Combat Maxum introduced the massive barrel concept that would define the series. This one-piece composite delivered the largest sweet spot in baseball with an impossibly light swing weight.
Models Overview
The original Maxum featured Combat's Precision Molding Technology across the entire barrel length. The seamless construction eliminated dead spots while maintaining balance despite the oversized diameter.
Construction & Technology
It will NOT be hard to love Combat's flagship baseball bat. The barrels are gigantic. The one piece design can ring your hands but the power that comes with the seamless construction is a thing of beauty. The continuation of the premium lizard skin grips are a great touch. We also love the numerous sizing options. We are hopeful the drop 5 Maxum will become as good a bat you can find. The color coding is well thought out. The 500 day warranty is the best the industry has ever seen.
Performance wise we have no reason to suspect the bat will be anything other than its predecessors---which was fantastic. The drop 5 will be a player favorite and the all big barrel versions should have the most plate coverage per swing weight any one can purchase for any price in 2016. The low swing weight will feel right at home for many players at the plate.
Do we wish it wasn't as pricey out of the gates? Of course. But we are sure this won't be the last time our asthma inhaler is on overdrive due to the price points of 2016 baseball bats.
Comparable Bats
In the comparable bat world of 2016 the only thing close to this bat is the a Dirty South Swag. Both are big barreled single piece composite bats. Both also have massive followings.
You can also look at something like a 2016 Louisville Slugger Catalyst. Those bats don't have as big a barrel but they are made of a single piece of composite.
Overall grade: B+
Overall grade: C-
Overall grade: D+
