Custom Bats Cricket Forum
Equipment => Bats => Topic started by: mlapse on March 19, 2013, 07:48:29 AM
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Hi All,
Wanted your opinions on the two bats. Which one should I go for? I don't have the luxury of picking up and testing the two. Having read the reviews on the site, both seem equally well liked. I have no idea how to distinguish between the two and pick one.
I am an opening bat, would like the pickup of my bat to be similar to the GM Icon but with a slightly more weighty feel to it and a slightly lower middle. Weight range approx. 2.9 or 2.10 would be ideal.
Thanks in advance for your opinions
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Can't go wrong with either mate! Both will be really good bats however if you've got scat money go for it mate ;)
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Maybe talk to both batmakers and see who can fulfil your needs best.. I have 3 Lavers and all are awesome and have used a couple of Scats and they are equally as awesome... You really can't go wrong with either.
I'm sure any sponsor on this forum could equally satisfy your needs.
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Thanks for your thoughts Number4. you are spot on - I have spoken to both Andy at L&W and JM at Scat. Either can easily meet my requirements - It seems to be a toss up between the Scat Series 1 and the L&W Reserve.
Number4 - Which L&W and which Scat do you have? Would you rate the L&W and Scat exactly the same when it comes to performance and pickup? Any pros and cons across the two? Which bat is your default go-to bat and why?
Price isn't as important a factor - I'm not a bat collector and need one good bat. So happy to spend extra if that's what it takes. There isn't that much difference in the price anyway - the L&W reserve is 600 AUD which is 50 AUD less than the Scat.
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I have a Laver Reserve, a Special Reserve and a Laver Bradman (designed from one of Bradmans original bats which James had done a copy of previously and still has the copy) but in my weight range and size.
I don't own a Scat but I have tried a couple of Series 1 professionals.
My go to bat this season was the Laver Bradman, a truly beautiful bat.
I think it should come down to personal preference because they are both world class batmakers.
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Thanks Number4 - 2 more questions please :)
The L&W reserve has very thin shoulders correct? I believe this is to beef up the middle. However the Scat seems to have thicker shoulders and a equally big middle. Is my observation correct? If so, would the Scat then have better ping/performance over its entire length as compared to the L&W reserve?
How heavy is your L&W reserve? I'm looking at 2.9 / 2.10 - Is the pickup good for this weight i.e. evenly distributed balance and doesn't feel too toe heavy? Was the pickup and balance the exact same for the Scats or did you notice differences?
Seems like performance wise the two are very similar
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I have used/own two custom SCATS and also a L&W Reserve custom. All three done in traditional shapes and weigh 2'10.
Laver is my current match bat but I really don't think you can go wrong with either of them. Both will sort you out with something awesome.
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Its like comparing Ronaldo and Messi, ive seen used 3 Lavers and have all been stunning bats, a few of the guys who have owned Scats on here rave about them so i doubt you can go wrong with either.
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It depends which profile you want... I think what you are talking about is the Laver Special profile which does have willow removed from the top part of the blade to concentrate more wood in the hitting zone.... They also do a traditional profile which gives you more wood distributed over the entire blade... Like my Bradman and also like Laver Heritage that Tim2000s had which was massive and I believe was a screamer of a bat.
My Bradman is 2lb9oz the Reserve is 2lb10oz (I think from memory) and both have excellent pick up although the Bradman is a little better... When I first received it I had to weigh it cause I thought they had sent something around 2lb6oz.
From memory the Scat picked up slightly heavier, but only slightly, but still very wll balanced.
I'm by know means an expert like some of the other guys on here.
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Thank you all for your feedback. I think I will go with the L&W for the following reasons:
1) Slightly better interaction on the phone - Andy has been great!
2) From the website it seems there are more customization options available to me with the L&W
Will post a review when I get the bat and have tested it a bit.
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I've owned both a Scat Series 3 Professional and a Laver & Wood Reserve Special Profile.
In my experience the Scat delivery time (to the UK) was much quicker, about 2 weeks and the Laver was longer (over 10). Obviously this turn around can be estimated at the time of your purchase from either supplier.
I loved the Scat and used it 2 or 3 times a week for about 3 seasons, until it died during a net session this year. Great bat and I still cant bring myself to get rid of it.
Unfortunately, the Laver had storm damaged and cracked after a few nets and 1 game. Laver replaced it (free of change), but its replacement has gone back (again free of change), because I couldn't get on with it. So, thumbs up for Laver's commitment to customer service.
NOTE: The cracked Laver was dowel by a friend who continued to use it for about half a season. He must have scored over 500 runs with it and still talks about it now! He also didn't get on with its replacement.
I think both bats are great and either will do you well.
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Thanks for your reply johnrockin. Very insightful. I have a few quick questions about your reasons for returning the L&W and its general performance.
Why were you not able to get on with the latest L&W? Was it weight, pickup, performance? Will Laver be replacing the next one as well?
How do you compare the pickup and balance of the Scat to the L&W? The special profile L&W has thinner shoulders with a thicker middle? Did that make a big difference? I;m concerned that if I go with the special profile I might lose the wood higher up on the bat and a mistimed pull won't go anywhere! What do you think?
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Thanks for your reply johnrockin. Very insightful. I have a few quick questions about your reasons for returning the L&W and its general performance.
Why were you not able to get on with the latest L&W? Was it weight, pickup, performance? Will Laver be replacing the next one as well?
How do you compare the pickup and balance of the Scat to the L&W? The special profile L&W has thinner shoulders with a thicker middle? Did that make a big difference? I;m concerned that if I go with the special profile I might lose the wood higher up on the bat and a mistimed pull won't go anywhere! What do you think?
Where would you like a miss timed hit off the shoulder to go?
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If you want feather light pickup then Laver&Wood would come closer as opposed to Screaming Cat. Former picks up lighter than latter, well for me it does.
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Given there's generally a lot of negative press on here for bats pressed in India, whats different with SC's, do they have a very high level of QC, does the Millichamp name sell the bats, or something else?
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Given there's generally a lot of negative press on here for bats pressed in India, whats different with SC's, do they have a very high level of QC, does the Millichamp name sell the bats, or something else?
He still shapes them.
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He still shapes them.
Yeah, but a lot of the negative mentions (from my memory) for bats made on the subcontinent is that their pressing was considered very inconsistent compared to UK made ones.
I've never even waved one around, so maybe the do live up to the hype, but I always wonder when I see the price tag.
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Both superb brands, and I still think the L&W have some of the best shapes, but the SCat quality control and consistency is like no one else in the business. No contest IMO
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Yeah, but a lot of the negative mentions (from my memory) for bats made on the subcontinent is that their pressing was considered very inconsistent compared to UK made ones.
I've never even waved one around, so maybe the do live up to the hype, but I always wonder when I see the price tag.
I wholly see where you're coming from and agree with your sentiments.
But personally I would discount the pressing and focus more on finish, shape and handle/glue.
Pressing on subcontinent bats seem to be fine in my experience.
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I wholly see where you're coming from and agree with your sentiments.
But personally I would discount the pressing and focus more on finish, shape and handle/glue.
Pressing on subcontinent bats seem to be fine in my experience.
But do we think finishing, shaping and the handle have a bigger effect on performance than pressing does, given bats pressed by say Matt at H4L, but finished and shaped by say me, still seem to fly.
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Does Julian not press the bats himself at the factory in India?
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Does Julian not press the bats himself at the factory in India?
On that i have no idea, as all to often there's a fair amount of mystery and intrigue around. Can't even remember where I read that they were pressed in India.
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On that i have no idea, as all to often there's a fair amount of mystery and intrigue around. Can't even remember where I read that they were pressed in India.
I have a feeling I read that he flies in to India and presses his own batch, again can't remember where I read it.
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Wouldn't that cost him more? Why not buy a pressing and keep it in Australia, sure that would be cheaper than spending a return ticket and paying carriage for clefts.
He is a mysterious man I guess.
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I have a feeling I read that he flies in to India and presses his own batch, again can't remember where I read it.
My understanding is he gets them pressed in India. I doubt he is present, but you never know.
The main reason for not doing the pressing himself in Aus is he is getting older and a load of pressing is a big workload for him.
Either way, it's not a cost issue thats the reason behind Indian pressing, it's a health issue.
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Wouldn't that cost him more? Why not buy a pressing and keep it in Australia, sure that would be cheaper than spending a return ticket and paying carriage for clefts.
He is a mysterious man I guess.
Lol even better - press, make and sell from india. :D
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IMO, both will serve you well. If you are going to use the bat for nets and games, I would go for the Laver, as they tend to play in over time, while I think that SCat play well from the start, but may not last as long. I could be very wrong though, as I have only had experience with Laver!
Great thing is that Laver also have slightly more customisation because of handle types they can offer!
Hope this helps!
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Thank you guys - I have ordered the L&W reserve - I value the pickup, the customization and the longevity (seems to be higher than SCat)
Question about my order - I mentioned to Andy that I didn't want too much concaving and preferred having a bow to the bat. Andy mentioned that scalloping is important to get the balance and pickup right so some is unavoidable. Also he mentioned that they don't recommend a bow because the best ones develop naturally.
Has anyone had a L&W reserve made up with very little concaving? Does it put the balance off? Also about the bow - why is it best to let the bow develop naturally and opposed to have it put in? Any experience you guys could share would be great!
Thanks in advance!
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More information about my order if needeD:
Sweetspot - Mid/low, extended,
Handle - Oval, large, C-Ten, single grip
Weight - 2.9 / 2.10
Balance and pickup - should be similar to a GM Icon
Knocked in
Toe Guard
Anything else I should mention to Andy/James that might be important?
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I have a screaming cat series 1. I've knocked it in and played for hours in the nets and in practice with it. I still find my Thruxton SPS - which is half the cost a MUCH MUCH better performing bat. To be honest I haven't been impressed with the performance from the Scat and in fact am debating on selling it.
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Thanks for your reply johnrockin. Very insightful. I have a few quick questions about your reasons for returning the L&W and its general performance.
Why were you not able to get on with the latest L&W? Was it weight, pickup, performance? Will Laver be replacing the next one as well?
How do you compare the pickup and balance of the Scat to the L&W? The special profile L&W has thinner shoulders with a thicker middle? Did that make a big difference? I;m concerned that if I go with the special profile I might lose the wood higher up on the bat and a mistimed pull won't go anywhere! What do you think?
Sorry it's a bit late now you're made the order. Its been a busy day!
The 2nd Laver performance was ok, but it was the general feel. I found that the bat turned in my hands and didn't like the hardness of the CarboCane handle, or the handles thickness.
Yes, Laver have offered to replace the bat free of change and I've gone with a more Scat profile and a thinner C-Ten handle.
Both bats we're 2lbs 10oz and had low middles. So, the pick up and balance was a bit bottom heavy, but still very good.
I found the Lavers profile made a small difference when playing off the hip (for a leg glance) and a mistimed pull. However, remember that I only used the good Laver a couple of times and the player who inherited the cracker Laver had great success with it (he is a predominantly front foot driving batsman). There are also many very good reviews of Laver's (on this site) and I'm really looking forward to the replacement.
I now use a 2lbs 8.5oz SAFBats Hades, which is very good and I would presently highly recommend one.
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From my personal experience, the special profile of laver does some times hinder playing pull shots or high full toss, specially on fast and bouncy pitches. Some reserves I have seen though have longer middle and less mass taken out from the top end.
Need to add that this profile performs really well for front foot shots and drives.
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No concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030412_zpsa971c67d.jpg)
Minimal concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030408_zps90d5d099.jpg)
Minimal-moderate concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030407_zps12003206.jpg)
Moderate concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030026.jpg)
Moderate-heavy concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030409_zps5e740c38.jpg)
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030410_zpsf7aab306.jpg)
Heavy concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030411_zps321a9126.jpg)
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030406_zps98045d56.jpg)
Take your pick. :D I don't know, but the Powerbow looks to have more concave in these pictures than it does in flesh... Pick which one of these you like the look of then tell Andy that you want it like that. 8)
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Wow That's great Chad! Appreciate this a lot! On the first and second bats (with nil and minimum concaving) - does the lack of concaving make the pickup worse? Do they feel heavier or unbalanced as a result ?
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If I'm honest with you mate, they all pick up well. If I had a worst pick up, it would be the Powerbow. Best pick up, toss up between the Hunts County (Green), L&W (no concave) and Bulldog (minimal concave). (Excluding the minimal-moderate concaving one as it is 2.7!) This could be for a number of reasons, but it shows concaving alone does not improve pick up. Here's the reasons for the good pick up on all the bats:
Bulldog - mid-high sweetspot
Hunts County - C-V profile and a lovely feeling handle
L&W - The counterbalancing properties of the C-ten handle
All of these have been crafted/finished by fine podshavers, and James will know what he is doing. Just say, can you try make it as concaved as this bat, but not anymore. :) If you want a particular picture, PM me which one you want along with your email, and I'll mail you the picture. 8)
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Thanks again Chad. I just sent the no, minimal and mod-minimal to Andy and asked him what they were thinking for mine.
I asked for expedited shipping (had to pay NZD 150 extra!) so want to make sure the order details are all fine before James begins to make the bat!
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Should also add that I don't have the moderately concaved bat anymore, but I think that would have picked up a little worse than the Powerbow. Still all good pick-ups though, as that bat was a Salix. :)
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:o Expedited shipping?! Are you crazy?! They are expensive, and worth the wait! :-[ That's like £75! Seems like you don't really mind how much it costs, as long as you get quality fast, eh? 8)
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3 lavers, 2 with no concaving one with
(http://i752.photobucket.com/albums/xx165/d7bow/be135977.jpg)(http://i752.photobucket.com/albums/xx165/d7bow/189943FB-8909-4825-BE14-247BD0F301DA-10942-00000C378E928CF7_zpsfb7c2235.jpg)
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Thanks d7bow. Are the weights of the 3 bats the same? Any difference in pickup and balance due to the concaving (or lack of)?
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:o Expedited shipping?! Are you crazy?! They are expensive, and worth the wait! :-[ That's like £75! Seems like you don't really mind how much it costs, as long as you get quality fast, eh? 8)
I know it is expensive. But have been lucky to land an expat job in the Middle East and there's not that much to spend on here (A large chunk of my paycheck used to go to rent in London which is taken care of by the firm) so I thought why the hell not. Also in another month or so it will get too hot to play until September/October and I really wanted the bat before!
I would also like to add that everyone on this forum has been super helpful and quick in responding. I really appreciate it and hope to return the favor sometime. Cheers!
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Thanks d7bow. Are the weights of the 3 bats the same? Any difference in pickup and balance due to the concaving (or lack of)?
2 together were 2-12, bottom 2-9. No difference in pick up, one thing James Laver is a master at is the pick up and balance of a bat. Have a look at threads on laver ultras, the pick up defies logic.
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2 together were 2-12, bottom 2-9. No difference in pick up, one thing James Laver is a master at is the pick up and balance of a bat. Have a look at threads on laver ultras, the pick up defies logic.
Any difference in performance between the concaved one and the ones without?
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I know it is expensive. But have been lucky to land an expat job in the Middle East and there's not that much to spend on here (A large chunk of my paycheck used to go to rent in London which is taken care of by the firm) so I thought why the hell not. Also in another month or so it will get too hot to play until September/October and I really wanted the bat before!
I would also like to add that everyone on this forum has been super helpful and quick in responding. I really appreciate it and hope to return the favor sometime. Cheers!
No problem man, just make sure you share the pictures when you get the bat. 8) Nice to see someone treating themselves to great kit! :D
With regards to concaving, as long as the concaving is only moderate, then it shouldn't affect performance much. You get the widest sweetspot with convex bats, but you can still get wide sweetspots with minimal concaving. :)
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Any difference in performance between the concaved one and the ones without?
Mate the biggest difference between concaved vs non-concaved would be that a concaved bat would be less forgiving for shots that are not middled, concaving is used to make the edges look big/keep weight down or in distinction's case the spine look big...
p.s apologies for the shameless offer earlier ;)
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Mate the biggest difference between concaved vs non-concaved would be that a concaved bat would be less forgiving for shots that are not middled, concaving is used to make the edges look big/keep weight down or in distinction's case the spine look big...
p.s apologies for the shameless offer earlier ;)
Hahaha Tushar, you offer him your SCat? ;)
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Hahaha Tushar, you offer him your SCat? ;)
Yup, i can't get myself to want to keep it...don't know if that makes sense.
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Andy from SAFbats wrote a great paper on concaving v traditional with a diagram showing the size of the middle, it's worth a read.
In fact a SAFbat could be included as another option, I have a Laver and a SAF and they are both amazing bats.
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Hi All,
My L&W is ready and will ship today!
I received some pictures from Andy - I'd like to share on the forum but I don't seem to have the feature to post images. Can someone help me?
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This should help
http://custombats.co.uk/cbforum/index.php?topic=7712.0 (http://custombats.co.uk/cbforum/index.php?topic=7712.0)
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I figured how to post images . However, While trying I get an error stating cannot access file path?
Anybody know what this is about?
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ok will try. Looks like it doesn't upload from the computer directly
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(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l612/mlapse/laver/DSCN7966Medium.jpg)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l612/mlapse/laver/DSCN7965Medium.jpg)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l612/mlapse/laver/DSCN7964Medium.jpg)
Here she is. I asked for an extended, mid/low mid sweetspot, weight 2.9/2.10, and an oval, C-ten handle.
Comments welcome!
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Looks a very nice stick mate, however a little to traditional for my liking....im in to big concaved bats haha!
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look at those grains ...enjoi your bat :)
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Nice profile
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Looks like you're getting a stunning bat there. I've just received the replacement I mentioned earlier in the thread. Got to love a laver! http://custombats.co.uk/cbforum/index.php?topic=23425.0 (http://custombats.co.uk/cbforum/index.php?topic=23425.0)
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I got a Laver Reserve from Andy and also purchased a Private Bin while he was out in chicago a few summers ago both bats were absolutely fantastic. I still have the reserve they make awesome bats.
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Hi All,
Had a few (3) nets with the Laver and below are my thoughts. Would appreciate people telling me what they think:
1) Nice pickup bit bottom heavy but seems good enough. Very similar to my GM Argon (had mentioned to Andy that I use a GM Argon and also like the Icon)
2) Performance seems ok at this time - the bat was knocked in and I did some more and took it to nets - the ball seems to come off decently from the face of the bat
3) The bat feels quite stiff and hard at this time - I believe (and Andy also agrees) this might be due to the pressing and the C-Ten handle - I like a softer and more springy bat but Andy said as I get used to this one I will really enjoy it.
4) The sound is different from other high performing bats I've used - It's a high pitched crack rather than a dull thwock I'm used to - Again, Andy mentioned its due to the handle and pressing but will soften as the bat is used.
Can people tell me if this is their experience with L&W ? Will the bat get softer and more springy? How long does it typically take? Can I expedite the process in any way?
Thanks in advance
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Hi All,
Had a few (3) nets with the Laver and below are my thoughts. Would appreciate people telling me what they think:
1) Nice pickup bit bottom heavy but seems good enough. Very similar to my GM Argon (had mentioned to Andy that I use a GM Argon and also like the Icon)
2) Performance seems ok at this time - the bat was knocked in and I did some more and took it to nets - the ball seems to come off decently from the face of the bat
3) The bat feels quite stiff and hard at this time - I believe (and Andy also agrees) this might be due to the pressing and the C-Ten handle - I like a softer and more springy bat but Andy said as I get used to this one I will really enjoy it.
4) The sound is different from other high performing bats I've used - It's a high pitched crack rather than a dull thwock I'm used to - Again, Andy mentioned its due to the handle and pressing but will soften as the bat is used.
Can people tell me if this is their experience with L&W ? Will the bat get softer and more springy? How long does it typically take? Can I expedite the process in any way?
Thanks in advance
Yes, yes, depends on the willow and how much you play with it, and you can speed up the process by spending a few hours smacking it with a mallet! Mine goes really nicely now, with a very long middle, and is definitely much nicer pitched now. :)
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Thanks Chad for the quick response.
what do you mean "depends on the willow" - you mean the individual piece used to make my bat or the general grading - I bought a reserve so I guess its G1.
I'm hesitant to use the mallet too because I've read that it compresses the wood more and has the effect of pressing - I'm afraid it might make the bat even harder? If this isn't correct, please let me know why knocking in an already knocked in bat would improve the performance and sound?
Also, does the willow and bat really become softer and springier or is it just that one gets used to it? I've always used my bats for 5+ years (had just 3 in 30 years of playing) and once a bat is knocked it, it doesn't seem very different in year 1 vs. year 5.
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Well, the individual piece of willow used to make your bat, as all clefts are different. I know it is a G1, but we all know that a G3 bat can play as well, if not better than a G1 bat. Thing is, knocking in the bat helps create a trampoline effect, so actually hardens the surface, but it gives off a nicer sound. My Laver sounds a lot nicer than it used to, and that's because I used it quite a bit and also have given it a few hours with the mallet. I still don't think it is at its best, as Laver bats are meant to take a full season to open up fully apparently.
I know that the C-Ten handle takes a little while to get used to, but after you get used to it, it feels fairly normal, just packs that little extra punch! It definitely does vibrate at the start, but I hardly feel it now, it is a really nice handle. :)
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Lavers do take some time to open up, as anyone who has had one will attest. All the ones that I've had have also had a higher pitch than equivalent UK made bats, so it us definitely something in the pressing and if you have a C-Ten handle, this will also affect pitch due to creating a stiffer handle.
Having said that, they have all gone well,especially after playing in. I have to admit to not being entirely sure why. It may simply be that you get used to them!
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Thanks for your reply tim2000s. Your experience sounds a lot like mine.
This should be easy enough to test - If I take a mallet to the bat for 20 hours and then have my teammates play with it for a few days, and it still feels stiff and high pitched, then it's probably a question of getting used to it. If on the other hand, the feel is much better than it is today, then there might be something to the whole playing in and knocking in further bit.
I'll update the thread with results but in the meanwhile, I'd like to hear the opinion of other Laver owners too!
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Thanks for your reply tim2000s. Your experience sounds a lot like mine.
This should be easy enough to test - If I take a mallet to the bat for 20 hours and then have my teammates play with it for a few days, and it still feels stiff and high pitched, then it's probably a question of getting used to it. If on the other hand, the feel is much better than it is today, then there might be something to the whole playing in and knocking in further bit.
I'll update the thread with results but in the meanwhile, I'd like to hear the opinion of other Laver owners too!
Don't waste 20 hours with the mallet! :P You don't need to spend that much time at all, I would say probably 3 hours, then just play with it in the nets all the time. :) Just play it in, mine certainly does sound much nicer than it used to. 8)
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The first net i had with my prepared laver was good, but not great. So, I gave it about 5hrs with the mallet. The second net (last week) was much better and I'm now looking forward to this weeks session.
I'm ok with the c-ten handle and it's just the difference in sound/response that will take sometime to get used to i.e. I'm finding it difficult to know how well I've hit the ball.
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Thanks for your reply tim2000s. Your experience sounds a lot like mine.
This should be easy enough to test - If I take a mallet to the bat for 20 hours and then have my teammates play with it for a few days, and it still feels stiff and high pitched, then it's probably a question of getting used to it. If on the other hand, the feel is much better than it is today, then there might be something to the whole playing in and knocking in further bit.
I'll update the thread with results but in the meanwhile, I'd like to hear the opinion of other Laver owners too!
Laver takes ages to open up, my signature was not opened up fully even after 6 or 7 net sessions, finally i gave up and it is now resting in my showcase !!!
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i recently purchased a L&W Ultra Reserve (fully prepared by them) & have to admit on my first use the bat was horrible! Apart from the middle where it went off like a rocket everywhere else on the bat felt dead/sort of hollow sound :S
Did speak to Andy though and he recommended some throwdowns then take it back into the nets, i'll give it some knocking in as well. Hoping that it does eventually open up though, would be a real shame if it didn't because the bat looks lovely
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Laver takes ages to open up, my signature was not opened up fully even after 6 or 7 net sessions, finally i gave up and it is now resting in my showcase !!!
I think 6-7 net sessions isn't really enough for the bat to open up fully to be honest! You gotta give it a good few more, mine started feeling noticeably better after around the 5th session, and I feel is still getting better. 8)
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I believe it takes about half a season to really hit their peak
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johnrockin --> I felt the same - good but not great. Hopefully this changes.
PaceKing29 --> Was your Laver pre-knocked? I don't get why additional knocking is needed when its already pre-knocked and ready to play
Shoab68 and Chad --> I really am starting to believe that it's all about getting used to the bat and not really about opening up or knocking.
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I have both a Signature and a Private Bin, for only 1 season so far. The Signature is taking its time to play in, Its feeling better and better every time I use It though. However, I haven't been using it as much as I would like because the Private Bin has been hard to put down! It has been a cracking bat right from the first net session.
I cant compare the 2 having never used a SC, but you definitely cant go wrong with a Laver.
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I purchased 2 or 3 a few years ago and they got better and better as time went by
Mine had carbo handles so at the time I found them harder to get used to!
But they are a bat for the patent player and will get better and better as you use one!
I would stick with it - they are superb quality!
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Used my Heritage again last night after it came back home. Now it's had a bit of use, it definitely feels better than it did, however it was pretty good in the first place.
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Used my Heritage again last night after it came back home. Now it's had a bit of use, it definitely feels better than it did, however it was pretty good in the first place.
It should do now I've knocked the middle in for you ;)
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Scruffy, Pete and Tim,
You've all said that your bats felt better after a bit of use - can you describe better? Was it the feel of the ball coming off the bat, the sound, the pickup etc. or all of them? Secondly, have you tried playing with the bat you preferred before the Laver to see whether you like it as much now as you did before the Laver "opened up"?
I'm hoping that the bat really gets better rather than the user getting accustomed to it. Because if its only about getting used to it, the other bats will feel better as soon as I switch back - and in such case I didn't really need to get a Laver but could have used any bat and gotten used to it!
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Scruffy, Pete and Tim,
You've all said that your bats felt better after a bit of use - can you describe better? Was it the feel of the ball coming off the bat, the sound, the pickup etc. or all of them? Secondly, have you tried playing with the bat you preferred before the Laver to see whether you like it as much now as you did before the Laver "opened up"?
I'm hoping that the bat really gets better rather than the user getting accustomed to it. Because if its only about getting used to it, the other bats will feel better as soon as I switch back - and in such case I didn't really need to get a Laver but could have used any bat and gotten used to it!
The way I'd describe it is that the other bats felt softer, perhaps more forgiving than the Laver did at first. After it was played in, it felt more like the other bats.
Have you ever used a bat that's well used but still goes? It feels soft but rebounds really well? That's how I like my bats to feel and that's what the Lavers I've used have become after some use in nets with real balls.
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Tim,
That's exactly what I'm looking for too in my bat! Hopefully it will also turn softer with use - though I don't understand why - if anything the ball compresses the willow so it should become harder ?
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I find that they lavers need to hit cricket balls, mine went pretty good from the off against bola balls but was much better against cricket balls. Personally I find that they feel softer with use as in the sense that the bat has kind of cushioned the ball and cannoned back off it
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I find that they lavers need to hit cricket balls, mine went pretty good from the off against bola balls but was much better against cricket balls. Personally I find that they feel softer with use as in the sense that the bat has kind of cushioned the ball and cannoned back off it
That's exactly it.
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Lavers are a very different breed to almost any other bat
The 8 I have had have all had the same quality when they are fully ready there is not much to touch them in terms of performance in the market for sure but the iron metallic feel of crunching a ball is unforgettable and a great feeling or lack as the ball just goes.
There not for everybody including me currently due to a few factors they take time not the middle mind but the rest and 3 out of the 8 never got any better than there original state.
I not going to knock laver because my best ever bat was a laver I understand they where making flatter faces before most and I like the carbo core technology infact I miss the feel of the none feel through the shot.
They do make good bats but I feel the most re sale on here is due to the fact hey are different for sure to any other bat but not every ugly ducklin turns into a swan.
I would suggest anybody after buying one try one first my 5 year old pb still goes well and is still as hard as metal but I think the crust is pressed to it optimum but some do not get softer as you play with them.
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I think both Laver and Screaming Cat give a sharp crisp metallic voice while a TK bat in my experience gives more of a dull thud voice. The feeling also is much softer as compared to a laver or a sreaming cat.
All these bats go really well so it is interesting to know the differences in pressing techniques which makes them sound so different. I don't think Laver or Screaming cats are pressed hard just different.
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I think both Laver and Screaming Cat give a sharp crisp metallic voice while a TK bat in my experience gives more of a dull thud voice. The feeling also is much softer as compared to a laver or a sreaming cat.
All these bats go really well so it is interesting to know the differences in pressing techniques which makes them sound so different. I don't think Laver or Screaming cats are pressed hard just different.
Maybe it's because Julian taught James, so their pressing techniques are similar? ??? Although both Julian and Tim were taught by the same, so maybe it's just a batmaker's preference... :-[ I like both TK and Laver bats, I have gotten on pretty well with TKs, which seem to open up quicker than Lavers. :)
That was my thinking, maybe slightly harder than TK. Thing is, the Lavers I had dented, so they definitely aren't overpressed. They do get better with time, or at least my experience with one has. My PB went pretty nicely from the start, but just keeps getting better. I did nickname it 'Planky' though, as it does have that metallic sound that most people are describing it as, but I can't really complain after about 8 net sessions of use. 8)
Don't worry too much about your Laver sounding like that to start off with, just keep using it, and as Tim and Rob said, they take time to feel right, and mine is slowly getting there. Compared my PB with my brother's SR, which hasn't been used much, and the pitch on the SR was actually initially nicer IMO than the PB, but now it is the opposite. I would say give it another 6 net sessions, and it should feel much better then. :)
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I think both Laver and Screaming Cat give a sharp crisp metallic voice while a TK bat in my experience gives more of a dull thud voice. The feeling also is much softer as compared to a laver or a sreaming cat.
All these bats go really well so it is interesting to know the differences in pressing techniques which makes them sound so different. I don't think Laver or Screaming cats are pressed hard just different.
The TK I borrowed from Tai sounded like a firecracker going off. Beautiful sound.
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I am pretty sure there are certain trade secrets with regards to pressing. If I could think objectively an optimum pressing can be found by pressing the willow starting from a very low pressure applied on the cleft and after each press check the rebound of the willow and then continue on to increase the pressure bit by bit and repeat it till one gets optimum pressing. This can be performed on different types of willow (narrow grains, wide grains, heartwood etc etc) to get optimum readings for each kind of willow. Seems tire some and time taking but certainly not tricky. But in that case every other bat maker should have been able to press like a TK which is not the case. Along with pressing there are certain things which probably makes it so special?
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i have a laver here 5 years old around 4000 runs through it only damage or dent to the blade is a slight surface crack..
Yes it has had 2 new shoulders and a busted toe but the face has not cracked at all
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johnrockin --> I felt the same - good but not great. Hopefully this changes.
PaceKing29 --> Was your Laver pre-knocked? I don't get why additional knocking is needed when its already pre-knocked and ready to play
Shoab68 and Chad --> I really am starting to believe that it's all about getting used to the bat and not really about opening up or knocking.
Yes was fully prepared before it left NZ, so i assumed it would play from day one, however, as many have said on here perhaps it will take time for it to open up before it starts to really perform. The reason i wanted to knock it in some more is just to speed up that process.
I guess also a part of it is that each bat will perform differently. At the end of the day no two pieces of wood will perform exactly the same.
Talking about SCAT, i have a series 3 and that went like an absolute train from day 1.
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No concave:
([url]http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030412_zpsa971c67d.jpg[/url])
Minimal concave:
([url]http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030408_zps90d5d099.jpg[/url])
Minimal-moderate concave:
([url]http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030407_zps12003206.jpg[/url])
Moderate concave:
([url]http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030026.jpg[/url])
Moderate-heavy concave:
([url]http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030409_zps5e740c38.jpg[/url])
([url]http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030410_zpsf7aab306.jpg[/url])
Heavy concave:
([url]http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030411_zps321a9126.jpg[/url])
([url]http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030406_zps98045d56.jpg[/url])
Take your pick. :D I don't know, but the Powerbow looks to have more concave in these pictures than it does in flesh... Pick which one of these you like the look of then tell Andy that you want it like that. 8)
All varying degrees of concave any idea of radius size on each of these?
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All varying degrees of concave any idea of radius size on each of these?
Convex:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030482_zps35078744.jpg) (http://s1066.photobucket.com/user/Chaddy_117/media/P1030482_zps35078744.jpg.html)
I'm guessing (CNC) a convex spokeshave or something like that
No concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030412_zpsa971c67d.jpg)
I'd guess no need for a travisher.
Minimal concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030408_zps90d5d099.jpg)
My guess is Number 1
Minimal-moderate concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030407_zps12003206.jpg)
Number 2
Moderate concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030026.jpg)
Number 3
Moderate-heavy concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030409_zps5e740c38.jpg)
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030410_zpsf7aab306.jpg)
Number 4
Heavy concave:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030411_zps321a9126.jpg)
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030406_zps98045d56.jpg)
Number 4-5
Concaved within an inch of life:
(http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u419/Chaddy_117/P1030481_zps67d55eaa.jpg) (http://s1066.photobucket.com/user/Chaddy_117/media/P1030481_zps67d55eaa.jpg.html)
A shovel.
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Is that a legget and coe legacy in the bottom picture chad? How very Scottish of you! ;)
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Is that a legget and coe legacy in the bottom picture chad? How very Scottish of you! ;)
Yeah haha, knocking it in for somebody. 8) It's probably the most concaved bat I have seen in a while. Made in England apparently, so not too Scottish hahaha. :D
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Haha well the Legget brothers are Scottish so lets say its 50% Scottish! What's it tap up like? do you think its TK made? I saw one of my club mates prophecy and it seemed Indian made
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Haha well the Legget brothers are Scottish so lets say its 50% Scottish! What's it tap up like? do you think its TK made? I saw one of my club mates prophecy and it seemed Indian made
Hahaha what happens if I start up a brand? Would it be a third Chinese, Scottish and English? ??? I'm 100% certain it isn't TK made, He doesn't use that much concaving at all! :-[ It taps up alright, nothing special. Pretty thick edges and high spine, but far too much concaving for my liking. I had a mate's Prophecy in for a refurb, and it seemed English made. Regardless of where it was made, that had a special rebound. 8)
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Haha probably! Yeah the conaving has gone out of control
On the legacy. Why do you think this is english made though, is it the handle that makes you think that?
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If he is still at the club, I am playing against one of the Leggett's tomorrow in a friendly. I saw some of the softs when we played the same friendly last year, but didn't look too closely at the bats.
I was pretty impressed by the pads to be honest. I'll quiz him on the bats tomorrow.
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I was told that it was English made haha. I couldn't really tell otherwise though... It does look very Asian profiled, I've been told they are made in Sunderland, and there's only 1 batmaker there. I think the Prophecy are made in Kent. This is based on what the buyers were told by the way! :)
http://custombats.co.uk/cbforum/index.php?topic=21913.msg352509#msg352509 (http://custombats.co.uk/cbforum/index.php?topic=21913.msg352509#msg352509)
That's the Prophecy I refurbed!
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I was told that it was English made haha. I couldn't really tell otherwise though... It does look very Asian profiled, I've been told they are made in Sunderland, and there's only 1 batmaker there. I think the Prophecy are made in Kent. This is based on what the buyers were told by the way! :)
[url]http://custombats.co.uk/cbforum/index.php?topic=21913.msg352509#msg352509[/url] ([url]http://custombats.co.uk/cbforum/index.php?topic=21913.msg352509#msg352509[/url])
That's the Prophecy I refurbed!
I live in sunderland mate and I've never heard of legget been made there, however there is only crown sports that hand make bats....and very good ones too!
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I have recently seen some Legget bats made in South Africa prior to being stickered up with Legget stickers, and they were great bats with a great rebound!!!
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Hi All,
Just thought I would post an update on my L&W.
Used in nets 3-4 times. As I mentioned earlier felt pretty good but was a bit unconvinced with the sound and feel. Anyway I payed a 25 over game last weekend and scored a very rapid 40 odd in about 25 balls.
The stand out feature was that I wasn't over hitting the deliveries at all. As far as I remember I was just timing them and they were racing to the fence! The feel of the bat and the sound was still a bit weird but result was excellent!!
Since then I've hung a ball from a rope in my room and spend 30-60 mins hitting it everyday. Now I find that the sound and feel of the laver feels more natural than my other bats :-)
Quick question - do other brands also use cTen equivalent handles? If not, I think I'll always get a laver since I'm getting used to them now.
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Oh and if I wanted another bat similar to the laver (spare just in case) are there cheaper alternatives (with the CTen handles etc) - coud one of the other custom manufacturer make me one?
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Oh and if I wanted another bat similar to the laver (spare just in case) are there cheaper alternatives (with the CTen handles etc) - coud one of the other custom manufacturer make me one?
I don't think any brand has the C-ten equivalent, the closest you could get is probably a C6 handled bat, and you could get BB or Bulldog to get it made for you. I don't think it would be quite the same though, as the C6 handle is a good few ounces lighter, so actually picks up a little heavier, while the C-ten handle is slightly top heavy, so acts as a counterbalance. Also, I think the C-ten handle also allows for a little bit of flex, which absorbs the shock, while I'm not too sure about the C6 handles. You're probably better off asking someone who has used both! I really like the C-ten handle, it just took a while to get used to due to how Laver bats are pressed, but once they start playing in, they get better with each net session. :)
If you want, you could buy a Puma Ballistic 6000 from Aswani, which has a C6 handle, and will probably cost you somewhere between 70-120 less than a C6 custom! :) (Around £180 I think)
Hope this helps!
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Thanks . Who is aswani?
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Sorry and what is a c6 handle vs c6 custom?
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Thanks . Who is aswani?
Sponsor on here, Aswani Sports.
Sorry and what is a c6 handle vs c6 custom?
C6 custom is a custom made bat with a C6 handle...
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Owned both and SCAT's are a fair way in front in my book they absolutely ping!!!