2019 DeMarini CF Insane BBCOR Bat Review
The end-loaded version of the CF Zen, the 2019 CF Insane delivers the same great pop with a dramatically heavier barrel feel and virtually no vibration.
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 pure performance the CF Insane delivers: the two-piece Paraflex composite barrel produces excellent pop and the heavy end-load drives real mass into the ball, all with virtually no sting on contact. The catch is the CF line's long-documented composite durability problem — cracking and paint splitting are common complaints — backed only by DeMarini's one-year limited warranty, so a mid-season failure can leave you scrambling. It hits, but a power hitter who wants the same pop with fewer reliability worries can do better elsewhere.
Our Review
The CF Insane is simply the end-loaded CF Zen, identical aside from weight distribution. Holding a 33/30 side by side with the Zen, the Insane felt like a 34/31, that's how dramatic the end-load is. Pop is great and vibration is virtually non-existent, so if you like a composite barrel with a heavy end-load, this is the way to go.
Also worth a look: Axe Avenge Pro 3 Hybrid — A BBCOR -3 hybrid with a big, dampened barrel and available end-load for power hitters who liked the Insane's heavy feel — from a brand with a steadier durability and warranty reputation..
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
- Great pop, performing about the same as the balanced CF Zen
- Dramatic end-loaded feel that drives mass into the swing
- Virtually non-existent vibration
- 3Fusion connection redirects energy back into the barrel
Cons
- Heavy end-load feels like a full size up, so it's not for everyone
- Shares the CF lineup's composite durability concerns
Full Specifications
| Brand | DeMarini |
|---|---|
| Model | CF Insane |
| Model Year | 2019 |
| Certification | BBCOR |
| Sport | Baseball |
| Construction | Two-piece composite |
| Model # | WTDXCIC-19 |
| Drop | -3 |
| Barrel | 2 5/8" |
| Swing Weight | End-loaded |
| MSRP | — |
Where to Buy
2019 DeMarini CF Insane BBCOR Bat — FAQ
Is the 2019 DeMarini CF Insane a good BBCOR bat?
We rate it 7.9/10 (Grade B). The end-loaded version of the CF Zen, the 2019 CF Insane delivers the same great pop with a dramatically heavier barrel feel and virtually no vibration.
What drops does the CF Insane come in?
The 2019 CF Insane BBCOR comes in -3.
Is the DeMarini CF Insane 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.
New to buying bats? Read our bat sizing guide, certifications explained, or browse all guides.
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