2014 Easton XL1 BBCOR Bat Review
The power option in Easton's 2014 Power Brigade: an extra-long, end-loaded composite barrel that was a legitimate bomb-dropper for strong hitters and an award winner in its day.
The Score
How we score ↗How big and forgiving the barrel is — based on barrel length, construction (one- vs two-piece, alloy vs composite), and how it plays on balls hit off the center. A primary driver of the overall score.
Raw exit velocity and distance. We use measured numbers from freely available independent testing when they exist; otherwise construction and consensus, judged against the certification’s performance ceiling. A primary driver of the overall score.
Comfort and feedback on contact — vibration dampening from the knob/connection, the sting of a stiff one-piece vs a smooth two-piece, and the sound off the barrel. A primary driver of the overall score.
How well it holds up and how the company stands behind it — documented cracking/denting reports, cold-weather behavior, and the brand’s real warranty record. Good to know, but weighted lightly in the score.
Our take on price-for-performance — the overall package weighed against its cost and what comparable bats run. Shown for context; it is NOT factored into the overall score (price changes too often and is personal).
Why this score: The XL1 scores highest on sweet spot and power: an extended composite barrel with an end load made it a true power stick and an award winner. Swing weight drops because the end load slows it through the zone, and durability reflects its used-only status and composite break-in.
Our Review
Where the MAKO and S1 chased balance, the XL1 chased power. It uses the same IMX composite barrel and SIC Black Carbon handle with ConneXion, but stretches the barrel longer and adds an end load, giving it a big sweet spot and serious mass behind the ball. That end load rewards strong, experienced hitters who can keep the head through the zone; it is too much bat for contact-first swingers. It needs break-in like any composite, and today it is a used-only purchase, so inspect the barrel. For a power hitter who wants a balanced-brand feel with extra thump, the XL1 was one of the best of its generation.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extra-long composite barrel with a huge sweet spot
- End load delivers real power for strong hitters
- Smooth ConneXion two-piece feel limits sting
Cons
- End load is too much for contact and speed hitters
- Composite needs break-in and is now a used-only buy
Full Specifications
| Brand | Easton |
|---|---|
| Model | XL1 |
| Model Year | 2014 |
| Certification | BBCOR |
| Sport | Baseball |
| Construction | Two-piece composite (IMX composite barrel, SIC Black Carbon handle, ConneXion technology) |
| Model # | BB14X1 |
| Drop | -3 |
| Barrel | 2 5/8" |
| Swing Weight | End-loaded |
| MSRP | $399 |
Where to Buy
2014 Easton XL1 BBCOR Bat — FAQ
Is the 2014 Easton XL1 a good BBCOR bat?
We rate it 8.6/10 (Grade A). The power option in Easton's 2014 Power Brigade: an extra-long, end-loaded composite barrel that was a legitimate bomb-dropper for strong hitters and an award winner in its day.
What drops does the XL1 come in?
The 2014 XL1 BBCOR comes in -3.
Is the Easton XL1 BBCOR-legal?
Yes — it's BBCOR certified by the WSU Sports Science Lab. Certified to the BBCOR .50 standard — the barrel is regulated to perform like wood, so it’s legal for high school and college.
How much does the 2014 XL1 cost?
MSRP is $399. We list the lowest price across CheapBats and Amazon on this page.
New to buying bats? Read our bat sizing guide, certifications explained, or browse all guides.
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Sources: JustBats - Easton XL1 BBCOR (BB14X1)