2019 Easton ADV 3 Review

There have been atleast a few complaints about the bat's long term performance. We don't think it too concerning, but the bat isn't getting the rave some other more proven models are. As of March 2019 the ADV (and every Easton BBCOR bat) came off of minimum pricing. It is the earliest we have seen any premier bats come down. As far as we can tell, one of two things. First, the bat's sales have been flat or lackluster and Easton is looking to drive some inventory before other flagship bats drop their price. Second, it's possible Easton is looking to launch a few things earlier this year to get the ball rolling and a jump on the 2020 line.

There are several features worth noting on the 2019 Project 3 ADV. Compared to the last year Easton top end two piece composite (the Ghost X) there are considerable changes. Here are a few:

• Easton won the Lizard Skin contract. If you want a pre-installed Lizard skin on the stock bat than the Project ADV 3 will be your choice.
• They changed the composite in the barrel. The idea is a longer barrel with a more consistent sweet spot. Granted, this has been the claim of every composite bat company since the dawn of time. But, nonetheless, they are claiming an improvement.
• The Handle is stiffer than previous version. This means less flex at contact and, in theory at least, more power to the ball.
• They upgraded the connective piece and added some inner foam to help with sting dampening.
• The new knob is legit. It's a rubber outer shell that makes it feel better to swing. And it does feel smoother.
• They also upgraded the end cap.

You can see more details in our bat construction section on this review. Easton's top end bat for 2018 is the Easton Ghost X. That bat was the new version of the famed Easton MAKO. These bats have dominated much of the two piece composite market. They've used a big barrel, light swing and real good feel on hits and mishits to become one of the preferred two piece composite bats in the market. The 2019 Project 3 ADV significantly upgrades on the Ghost X. Insomuch that a new name and line is warranted. Here are a few of the bats new features:

• Power Knob: The new knob uses a softer edge that allows for greater wrist movement.
• The connective piece (formerly known and CXN) adds foam material inside the bat. This helps dampen sting and improve feel.
• A new barrel layer design Easton is referring to as Launch Comp.
• A lighter end cap now called the Speed Cap.

Although the Easton Ghost/MAKO rated out as one of our favorite BBCOR bats, the changes to the new Project 3 ADV are legit. We are not able to determine if the price difference is worth it on your budget. Our general recommendation is that last year's models bats are great buys when they price out well (August through October). But, in terms of a side by side (assuming price is equal) we'd buy the Project 3 ADV.