2017 DeMarini CF Zen BBCOR Bat Review
One of the most talked-about composites of its era. The 2017 CF Zen was a balanced, no-break-in two-piece that hit so hot it triggered certification controversy in its youth versions; the BBCOR remained a top performer.
There's a newer version available. See the 2020 CF Zen — the current model → 8.2/10Been on the market a while — keep an eye out for in-season price drops.
Check today's price →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: On performance the CF Zen scores well: a balanced, no-break-in composite with a smooth D-Fusion feel and a big sweet spot that made it one of the most popular bats of its year. Durability and value drop because of DeMarini's documented composite breakage history and slow warranty support.
Our Review
The 2017 CF Zen is legendary in bat circles, both for performance and for the certification drama that surrounded its youth models. The BBCOR is a balanced, full Paraflex composite bat with a D-Fusion 2.0 connection that redirects energy into the barrel and dampens sting, and it plays hot essentially out of the wrapper with minimal break-in. Hitters loved the smooth feel and big, forgiving barrel. The reservation here is the same one that follows the brand: DeMarini composites have a documented tendency to crack and the warranty support is slow. A hitter who wants this balanced, no-break-in composite feel is better served by a Marucci CATX2 Composite, which offers similar performance with a stronger durability and service record.
Also worth a look: Marucci CATX2 Composite — A balanced, no-break-in BBCOR composite with a big sweet spot and smooth feel, backed by Marucci's far stronger documented durability and warranty record..
Insider Note
On a visit to DeMarini's factory in Oregon, I saw 4-5 pallets of broken bats waiting on warranty returns - and was told that's a normal day. Durability has always been the knock on DeMarini, and it's a big reason we steer hitters to brands that stand behind their product.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Balanced, no-break-in Paraflex composite barrel
- D-Fusion 2.0 connection delivers a smooth, sting-free feel
- Big, forgiving sweet spot that hitters consistently praised
Cons
- DeMarini composites have a documented cracking history
- Warranty support trails the field
Full Specifications
| Brand | DeMarini |
|---|---|
| Model | CF Zen |
| Model Year | 2017 |
| Certification | BBCOR |
| Sport | Baseball |
| Construction | Two-piece composite (Paraflex composite barrel and handle, D-Fusion 2.0 connection, Low Pro end cap) |
| Model # | WTDXCBC17 |
| Drop | -3 |
| Barrel | 2 5/8" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced |
| MSRP | $349 |
Where to Buy
2017 DeMarini CF Zen BBCOR Bat — FAQ
Is the 2017 DeMarini CF Zen a good BBCOR bat?
We rate it 8.0/10 (Grade A). One of the most talked-about composites of its era. The 2017 CF Zen was a balanced, no-break-in two-piece that hit so hot it triggered certification controversy in its youth versions; the BBCOR remained a top performer.
What drops does the CF Zen come in?
The 2017 CF Zen BBCOR comes in -3.
Is the DeMarini CF Zen 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 2017 CF Zen cost?
MSRP is $349. 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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