2018 Easton Beast X USSSA Bat Review
The Beast X was Easton's 2018 one-piece alloy speed bat, pairing ATAC aluminum with Z-Core internal technology for a long barrel and a fast, balanced swing at a value 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: The Beast X scores best on swing weight, durability and value as a fast, dependable one-piece alloy. The Z-Core barrel earns a respectable sweet spot and power for its class, while feel is typical for a single-wall alloy. It is a smart budget travel bat, held back only by alloy-level pop and its now-dated status.
Our Review
The 2018 Beast X is the predecessor to the Beast Speed and serves the same role in Easton's USSSA lineup: a fast, affordable one-piece alloy for hitters who want speed without a break-in. It is built from ATAC aluminum and adds Easton's X-tended barrel design with Z-Core internal core technology, which stretches the barrel out and helps keep the sweet spot large for an alloy. The ultra-thin 29/32-inch handle with a 1.4mm Hyperskin grip keeps the swing light and the hands comfortable. In the -10 the bat is speed-balanced and easy to whip through the zone, making it a good fit for younger or contact-oriented travel hitters. As a single-wall alloy it won't out-hit premium composites, but it is durable, dependable and a strong value buy at clearance pricing.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- X-tended barrel with Z-Core keeps the sweet spot large for an alloy
- Light, balanced swing is easy for younger travel hitters to control
- Durable one-piece alloy at a value price
Cons
- Single-wall alloy pop trails premium composites
- Now a previous-generation model, replaced by the Beast Speed line
Full Specifications
| Brand | Easton |
|---|---|
| Model | Beast X |
| Model Year | 2018 |
| Certification | USSSA |
| Sport | Baseball |
| Construction | One-piece alloy (ATAC aluminum, Z-Core internal core) |
| Model # | SL18BX10 |
| Drop | -10 |
| Barrel | 2 3/4" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced |
| MSRP | $200 |
Where to Buy
2018 Easton Beast X USSSA Bat — FAQ
Is the 2018 Easton Beast X a good USSSA bat?
We rate it 7.5/10 (Grade B). The Beast X was Easton's 2018 one-piece alloy speed bat, pairing ATAC aluminum with Z-Core internal technology for a long barrel and a fast, balanced swing at a value price.
What drops does the Beast X come in?
The 2018 Beast X USSSA comes in -10.
Is the Easton Beast X USSSA-legal?
Yes — it's USSSA certified by the NTS lab. USSSA 1.15 BPF approved — the “hotter” travel-ball standard, legal for USSSA play.
How much does the 2018 Beast X cost?
MSRP is $200. 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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