Combat MFG Spec A1 vs Rawlings Icon
It's a close call. On our six-point scorecard the Combat MFG Spec A1 edges it, 8.8 to 8.8 — mostly on feel — but both are strong BBCOR bats. Here's how they stack up.
Scorecard, side by side
| Category | Spec A1 | Icon |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 8.8 | 8.8 |
| Sweet Spot | 9 | 9 |
| Pop / Power | 9 | 9 |
| Feel & Sound | 8.5 | 8.5 |
| Durability | 8 | 8 |
| Value | 8.5 | 7 |
| Drop | -3 | -3 |
| Swing | Balanced | Balanced |
| Construction | One-piece aluminum alloy (SFX barrel technology) | Two-piece composite (In/Tense Carbon barrel, Zero Loss Collar connection) |
| Price | $349.99 | $449 |
Pick the Spec A1 if…
- you want to spend less ($349.99 vs $449)
- value is your top priority
Pick the Icon if…
Spec A1
- Long SFX barrel with an oversized, forgiving sweet spot
- Balanced swing with a touch of whip for added pop
- Loud, lively feel and no break-in required
- Stiff one-piece gives feedback on poor mishits
- Smaller brand footprint than the major labels
Icon
- Balanced swing suits the widest range of hitters
- Large, forgiving In/Tense Carbon sweet spot with elite pop
- Zero Loss Collar keeps feel clean and quiet on mishits
- Premium $449.99 price is among the highest in BBCOR
- Needs a short break-in like all composites
Combat MFG Spec A1 vs Rawlings Icon — FAQ
Is the Combat MFG Spec A1 or Rawlings Icon better?
It's close. On our six-point scorecard the Combat MFG Spec A1 scores 8.8 and the Rawlings Icon 8.8 — either is a strong BBCOR bat, so it comes down to swing feel and budget.
What's the difference between the Combat MFG Spec A1 and Rawlings Icon?
Combat MFG Spec A1 is One-piece aluminum alloy (SFX barrel technology) (-3); Rawlings Icon is Two-piece composite (In/Tense Carbon barrel, Zero Loss Collar connection) (-3). The full side-by-side scorecard and specs are on this page.
Which should I buy?
Pick the Combat MFG Spec A1 if you want to spend less ($349.99 vs $449); pick the Rawlings Icon if its feel suits you. We list live prices for both so you can grab whichever is the better deal today.