2025 Combat MFG Spec CR1 Sandstorm Balanced Slowpitch Bat Review
The 2025 Combat Spec CR1 Sandstorm is a balanced USSSA slowpitch bat with a 13-inch triple-barrel composite construction meeting the 240 compression standard.
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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: The balanced swing and long barrel earn high swing-weight and sweet-spot scores for contact hitters. Power trails loaded options, and durability sits mid-pack pending break-in.
Our Review
Combat MFG has rebuilt its slowpitch presence around the Spec CR1 platform, and the Sandstorm is its balanced 13-inch USSSA option. It uses Combat's SPEC CR1 Triple Barrel Composite in a one-piece build, with an even swing weight that makes it a fit for contact hitters and players who prioritize bat speed and barrel control. The 13-inch barrel delivers a large sweet spot, and the balanced load keeps the bat quick through the zone. Combat builds the Spec CR1 to the newer 240 compression standard and certifies it for USSSA, NSA and ISA, so it should remain tournament-legal as associations enforce tighter testing. The one-piece composite gives a stiff, connected feel rather than a dampened two-piece feel, and like most composites it wants a short break-in. It is a solid balanced choice for hitters who want a long barrel without an end load.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Long 13-inch barrel with a balanced, controllable swing weight
- Triple-barrel composite built to the 240 compression standard
- Triple certified for USSSA, NSA and ISA play
Cons
- Balanced build gives up end-load power for distance hitters
- One-piece composite needs break-in to reach peak pop
Full Specifications
| Brand | Combat MFG |
|---|---|
| Model | Spec CR1 Sandstorm Balanced |
| Model Year | 2025 |
| Certification | Slowpitch |
| Sport | Softball |
| Construction | One-piece composite (SPEC CR1 Triple Barrel Composite) |
| Model # | CSU4SL1B |
| Drop | — |
| Barrel | 13" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced |
| MSRP | $299 |
Where to Buy
2025 Combat MFG Spec CR1 Sandstorm Balanced Slowpitch Bat — FAQ
Is the 2025 Combat MFG Spec CR1 Sandstorm Balanced a good Slowpitch bat?
We rate it 8.0/10 (Grade A). The 2025 Combat Spec CR1 Sandstorm is a balanced USSSA slowpitch bat with a 13-inch triple-barrel composite construction meeting the 240 compression standard.
Is the Combat MFG Spec CR1 Sandstorm Balanced Slowpitch-legal?
Yes — it's Slowpitch certified by the certifying labs. Certified for USSSA / NSA / ISA slowpitch play.
How much does the 2025 Spec CR1 Sandstorm Balanced cost?
MSRP is $299. 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 — 2025 Combat MFG Spec CR1 Sandstorm 13" Balanced USSSA CSU4SL1B · LongballBats — 2025 Combat Spec CR1 Sandstorm Balanced USSSA CSU4SL1B