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Forum News and Suggestions => Old Advertisers => Admin Board => Aldred Cricket Bats => Topic started by: Krs on October 03, 2013, 11:47:17 AM

Title: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 03, 2013, 11:47:17 AM
Okay here goes....

After a few conversations with Paul and an extra long one yesterday, my Supreme Bat production has commenced this morning. Shaped up ready for sanding and a couple of days of oiling.

The bat I requested of Paul was a 2.10/2.11 with a light pick up, low to mid and long middle. The light pick up was going to be due to the type of cleft that Paul was going to choose. My other requirements were a 10 ish Grain bat for cosmetics and that I wanted it to be a GUN!!

Paul was kind enough to send some pics of it in mid production and thought it would be a cool idea to show it on the forum.

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_429/gallery_25695_429_62690.jpeg)

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_429/gallery_25695_429_46165.jpeg)

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_429/gallery_25695_429_53454.jpeg)

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_429/gallery_25695_429_90403.jpeg)

Let me know your thoughts.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Number4 on October 03, 2013, 12:03:15 PM
A little Laverish to me... Looks nice
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Alvaro on October 03, 2013, 12:05:17 PM
A little Laverish to me... Looks nice

I think there is a definite Laver influence in the Aldred bats.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 03, 2013, 12:09:06 PM
So do I, Laverish is good with a bit of Aldred twist.

Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Byo on October 03, 2013, 12:20:16 PM
A bit too Laverish for my tastes - I may be in the minority but I am not a fan of Laver shapes....
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Blazer on October 03, 2013, 12:34:17 PM
Looks a lot like the Spartan MC shape. Awesome !. Hopefully you will have a season like he had last season without the back strain.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Number4 on October 03, 2013, 12:38:44 PM
Whatever shape it is I don't think I have seen a bad one or heard a bad review on an Aldred yet
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 03, 2013, 12:40:37 PM
These are quite away off the lavers now a days I have to say. I was influenced by what James did when I started as he did help me with advice but over the years it's evolved to my own shape. I think the reason people think the shape is similar from the photos is the height of the spine. Photos never quite do it justice I don't think but I try and keep as much wood in the hitting area as possible as a preference over huge edges. This has a long middle and will look totally different when stickered up, its funny how the logos change the whole look of a bat. Its a goody though
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 03, 2013, 12:55:45 PM
These are quite away off the lavers now a days I have to say. I was influenced by what James did when I started as he did help me with advice but over the years it's evolved to my own shape. I think the reason people think the shape is similar from the photos is the height of the spine. Photos never quite do it justice I don't think but I try and keep as much wood in the hitting area as possible as a preference over huge edges. This has a long middle and will look totally different when stickered up, its funny how the logos change the whole look of a bat. Its a goody though

I have to agree completely. One of the many reason why I chose to go through you. The ability to make small tweeks to your shape to accommodate the needs of the customer.

I have never wanted to go to a bat maker and say can you make me a copy of another company's bat. That for me defeats the point, I want to go for a design that is a trademark of the bat maker and something that can be altered ever so slightly to fit my needs.

When I first spoke to Paul, I told him that I had taken a 16 year break from cricket and started to play baseball. The baseball swing is something that I am trying to get out of my system and Paul suggest various small changes he could do to help out. Which is great to hear.

 

Cannot wait.

Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Alvaro on October 03, 2013, 01:03:57 PM
Sorry Paul, I didn't mean to infer that they were Laver copies.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 03, 2013, 01:10:53 PM
Didn't think you did Alvaro as I have said before things evolve and when it works I am a big believer in the old saying " if it ain't broke , don't fix it" it's taken a lot of time and investment to get the bats where I want them now and it's just a case of continuing to evolve the business and keep the quality of the product at its best.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: TangoWhiskey on October 03, 2013, 01:31:06 PM

The bat I requested of Paul was a 2.10/2.11 with a light pick up, low to mid and long middle. The light pick up was going to be due to the type of cleft that Paul was going to choose. My other requirements were a 10 ish Grain bat for cosmetics and that I wanted it to be a GUN!!


This is probably more of a question for Paul or any other bat maker, does anyone ever ask for a bat with a heavy pick up?
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 03, 2013, 01:41:34 PM
This is probably more of a question for Paul or any other bat maker, does anyone ever ask for a bat with a heavy pick up?

I don't think people ask for a heavy pick up, but when I mentioned light pick up i basically wanted a 2.10/2.11 bat that picked up a lot lighter (I wanted more wood). Some people might want a 2.10/2.11 bat that picks up even.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 03, 2013, 02:14:20 PM
Not particularly heavy pick up but I have people ask for a very low middle which really tells you a story straight away as to how it's going to pick up. Bit tricky making a 2-10 that picks up like a 2-8 with a very low middle  :)
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: TangoWhiskey on October 03, 2013, 02:15:40 PM
Not particularly heavy pick up but I have people ask for a very low middle which really tells you a story straight away as to how it's going to pick up. Bit tricky making a 2-10 that picks up like a 2-8 with a very low middle  :)

I'll have one of those please  ;)
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 03, 2013, 02:17:58 PM
Bit tricky making a 2-10 that picks up like a 2-8 with a very low middle  :)

I thought I would give you a challenge  :)
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: johnrockin on October 03, 2013, 04:28:23 PM
So you went with a Aldred in the end then. A bit surprising. But looks like it will be a great looking bat.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 03, 2013, 05:49:16 PM
We like to keep people updated as far as their bat is going a couple more of krs' bat having had its first sanding and oil and then it will have another coat of oil before final sanding and polishing. Its a beauty that's for sure. Nearly lost it to myself I must say  :D
(http://i1061.photobucket.com/albums/t472/Aldredcricket/1041bd02c3e189c94f55d18b07584811_zpsa6da8eab.jpg)
(http://i1061.photobucket.com/albums/t472/Aldredcricket/9f38d93a4f605fd82d3c654c6e1f5a1f_zpsf9b04d27.jpg)
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Chad on October 03, 2013, 05:51:26 PM
We like to keep people updated as far as their bat is going a couple more of krs' bat having had its first sanding and oil and then it will have another coat of oil before final sanding and polishing. Its a beauty that's for sure. Nearly lost it to myself I must say  :D
([url]http://i1061.photobucket.com/albums/t472/Aldredcricket/1041bd02c3e189c94f55d18b07584811_zpsa6da8eab.jpg[/url])
([url]http://i1061.photobucket.com/albums/t472/Aldredcricket/9f38d93a4f605fd82d3c654c6e1f5a1f_zpsf9b04d27.jpg[/url])


Looks lovely, is that the Vintage profile? I remember mine picking up really well for a bat with that low a middle! :)
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 03, 2013, 05:54:00 PM
No it's not a vintage profile it's just got a very long middle. Just supreme modified to what was talked about and requested
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Chad on October 03, 2013, 06:01:30 PM
No it's not a vintage profile it's just got a very long middle. Just supreme modified to what was talked about and requested

Ah right, fair enough. Looks lovely, any plans to release a different profile?
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 03, 2013, 06:04:17 PM
Possibilities we are working on a few different projects for one or two people at the moment
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: SOULMAN1012 on October 03, 2013, 07:10:34 PM
Would it be possible to make a bat with a spine that runs all the way to the toe? I am not a fan of the duck bill toe. I would be interested if it was possible to make one to a very similar shape to my GN X181. Thanks
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 03, 2013, 08:55:34 PM
Yes we can do that for you
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 14, 2013, 11:31:51 AM
Well here it is!!!

Paul just sent me the pictures of my Supreme.

All that has to be done is a coat of PGA on the toe to just give it a touch of protection from any moisture it may pick up in use.

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_430/gallery_25695_430_208140.jpeg)

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_430/gallery_25695_430_74428.jpeg)

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_430/gallery_25695_430_34539.jpeg)

Super excited now!! I cannot wait to get my hands on it.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Alvaro on October 14, 2013, 11:45:16 AM
That toe looks a real quacker.

Lovely bat.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Rowan on October 14, 2013, 11:52:26 AM
I think this look's like a cracking bat mate, Aldred has definately delivered the goods on this one. being able to specify what cleft you want is definately a big reason to go custom. If i was choosing a cleft i'd want a butterfly stain, but thats personal preference ;).
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 14, 2013, 12:48:40 PM
The whole experience has been great.

Watching the bat being made from every step has been a joy! I cannot wait to test this out.

The edges are a nice 38mm to which is a nice little bonus :)
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Number 11 on October 14, 2013, 03:26:24 PM
A work of art  :D
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: ProWannabe88 on October 14, 2013, 04:53:28 PM
Yes yes yes! That looks lovely mate. Bet you can't wait to get that beauty in the nets
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 14, 2013, 07:28:04 PM
Yes yes yes! That looks lovely mate. Bet you can't wait to get that beauty in the nets

Super eager buddy!

The only problem is that I have an operation on my foot this Wednesday, so will get to the net mid Nov the latest :(
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 14, 2013, 08:03:44 PM
Will give you time to knock it in
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 21, 2013, 12:16:50 PM
Well well well, my Aldred Supreme arrived today and by golly gosh it looks absolutely LUSH-TASTIC!

Here are some pictures to start off, the Aldred is next to a blank bat that I got sent over from Pakistan.

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_430/gallery_25695_430_10839.jpeg)

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_430/gallery_25695_430_26271.jpeg)

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_430/gallery_25695_430_449.jpeg)

My camera is a bit cack, so I thought I would add some of the photos that Paul sent me

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_430/gallery_25695_430_208140.jpeg)

(http://www.talkaudio.co.uk/ipb/uploads/gallery/album_430/gallery_25695_430_34539.jpeg)

The bat weighs in at just over 2.11, but the pick up is nothing like a 2.11 which is obviously a plus. The mallet test was absolutely crazy, it just flys!! I asked for a GUN and I got a Howitzer!! I cannot wait to try this out in the nets.

Thank you Paul for everything! It was a pleasure dealing with you and I highly recommend you to everyone!!!

I am one happy bat owner!!!
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 21, 2013, 12:34:21 PM
Glad yo like
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: trypewriter on October 21, 2013, 02:21:44 PM
looks a beauty
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 21, 2013, 02:40:44 PM
looks a beauty

It is absolutely gorgeous. I went to my local hardware shop in Croydon and the bat weighed 2.12. Scales at home weighs in at 2.13. Paul's scale show it at 2.11.

However regardless of weight, the pick up feels right. Just need my foot to heel up so I can actually stand and play some pretend shots.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: trypewriter on October 21, 2013, 03:05:55 PM
I'm in Croydon - who do you play for?
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: trypewriter on October 21, 2013, 03:07:11 PM
BTW I take all scale readings with a pinch of salt - if it feels right it's the right weight
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 21, 2013, 03:30:10 PM
BTW I take all scale readings with a pinch of salt - if it feels right it's the right weight

Totally agree!

Well I played half a season for a team Kent, this got me addicted again. 15 years ago I used to play for a team just down the road from me called Addiscombe. I am looking to join up this upcoming season and take advantage of their awesome facilities.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 21, 2013, 03:45:52 PM
The scale weights a big issue with people. I have two sets of scales one electronic and an old fashioned counter balance set from an old shop they are as spot on as I can be. I use both and if they are within an ounce Of each other I will generally be happy.A lot of people get hung up on dead weight but having played a lot of cricket with different players of all ability I am a big believer that if it feels right it is. As a manufacturer I have to go to the weight specified obviously but if someone else's scales read differently there's not much I can do but if it feels right that's all you need. I can pretty much guess the weight in hand to within a ounce or two making them everyday but you can't beat the feeling when you pick it up and you know that piece of wood is at its best feel in its making process. I feel like crying sometimes knowing that I need to take more wood out the cleft when it feels perfect at a specific point. Hope you go well with it I tried to pack as many runs into it as I could just hope they leak out generously for you.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 21, 2013, 03:52:55 PM
The scale weights a big issue with people. I have two sets of scales one electronic and an old fashioned counter balance set from an old shop they are as spot on as I can be. I use both and if they are within an ounce Of each other I will generally be happy.A lot of people get hung up on dead weight but having played a lot of cricket with different players of all ability I am a big believer that if it feels right it is. As a manufacturer I have to go to the weight specified obviously but if someone else's scales read differently there's not much I can do but if it feels right that's all you need. I can pretty much guess the weight in hand to within a ounce or two making them everyday but you can't beat the feeling when you pick it up and you know that piece of wood is at its best feel in its making process. I feel like crying sometimes knowing that I need to take more wood out the cleft when it feels perfect at a specific point. Hope you go well with it I tried to pack as many runs into it as I could just hope they leak out generously for you.

Paul I have not put it down since I called you this morning!

The weight is not an issue. I just wanted to point out that 3 different scales showed 3 different weights, but at the end of the day it is all up to me and if I am comfortable with it. And I am!!
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 21, 2013, 03:57:56 PM
Yes its interesting that you got two different weight from your scales and the shop scales. As I said to you they weighed in on mine at just a tad over 2-11 so looks like my scales are close to your shop ones. Well hope you grow a successful partnership  ;)
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Aldred Cricket Bats on October 21, 2013, 03:59:08 PM
Meant to say hope you get to know each other before you sleep with it. I try and make them with old fashioned values you know :)
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 21, 2013, 04:06:26 PM
Hahaha! Just the way I like them!!  :)
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: FattusCattus on October 21, 2013, 06:55:39 PM
Addiscombe eh Krs?

Might come up against you in the Surrey Championship next year, I think we are in the same league.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 21, 2013, 07:10:16 PM
Addiscombe eh Krs?

Might come up against you in the Surrey Championship next year, I think we are in the same league.

That is if I make the team lol! I better do with all the money I spent hahaha
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: coolcucumber_1 on October 22, 2013, 03:40:42 AM
That does look like a serious belter....did you ask for much concaving ?
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: Krs on October 22, 2013, 07:16:04 AM
That does look like a serious belter....did you ask for much concaving ?

Thanks buddy

Technically no. All I asked for was a long low middle.

I guess due to the weight not much concaving had to me done.
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: trypewriter on October 22, 2013, 08:31:57 AM
Addiscombe eh Krs?

Might come up against you in the Surrey Championship next year, I think we are in the same league.

what a small world!
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: FattusCattus on October 22, 2013, 08:55:24 AM
Not you too Trypeus?
Title: Re: Aldred Bat Take 2...
Post by: trypewriter on October 22, 2013, 09:46:59 AM
Not in the rarefied atmosphere of the Championship league. I might be playing the odd Sunday or two for Selsdon CC - I think their Saturday team is in the Surrey County league?