2023 Easton Black Magic BBCOR Bat Review
A modern, budget-friendly revival of Easton's classic Black Magic name. The 2023 is a one-piece R5 alloy with a FlyWall ring-free barrel, an ultra-thin handle and a balanced swing at a friendly price.
Been 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: Value is the Black Magic's headline score - a capable one-piece alloy well under $200. Sweet spot, swing weight and durability are all solid for the price thanks to the FlyWall ring-free barrel and R5 alloy. Power and feel score a notch lower than premium bats, which is expected at this price point.
Our Review
The reborn Black Magic trades on a famous name but earns its keep as a genuinely good value alloy. The R5 alloy and FlyWall ring-free barrel give it a larger, smoother sweet spot than the modest price suggests, and the ultra-thin 29/32-inch handle with a Power Boost soft knob keeps the feel comfortable. It swings balanced and is hot from the first cut with no break-in. For a one-piece alloy at a sub-$200 retail, it is an easy recommendation for high schoolers and budget-minded buyers who want a dependable, lively bat.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong value - quality one-piece alloy at a budget price
- FlyWall ring-free barrel gives a forgiving sweet spot
- Hot out of the wrapper, no break-in needed
Cons
- Alloy power ceiling sits below premium composite bats
- Thin handle transmits more sting on mishits than a damped two-piece
Full Specifications
| Brand | Easton |
|---|---|
| Model | Black Magic |
| Model Year | 2023 |
| Certification | BBCOR |
| Sport | Baseball |
| Construction | One-piece R5 alloy (FlyWall ring-free barrel, ultra-thin 29/32 handle, Power Boost soft knob) |
| Model # | BB23BM |
| Drop | -3 |
| Barrel | 2 5/8" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced |
| MSRP | $199.95 |
Where to Buy
2023 Easton Black Magic BBCOR Bat — FAQ
Is the 2023 Easton Black Magic a good BBCOR bat?
We rate it 7.7/10 (Grade B). A modern, budget-friendly revival of Easton's classic Black Magic name. The 2023 is a one-piece R5 alloy with a FlyWall ring-free barrel, an ultra-thin handle and a balanced swing at a friendly price.
What drops does the Black Magic come in?
The 2023 Black Magic BBCOR comes in -3.
Is the Easton Black Magic 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 2023 Black Magic cost?
MSRP is $199.95. 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: Easton - 2023 Black Magic BBCOR (BB23BM) official · JustBats - Easton Black Magic BBCOR (BB23BM)