Custom Bats Cricket Forum
Forum News and Suggestions => Old Advertisers => Admin Board => It's Just Cricket => Topic started by: ItsJustCricket on April 01, 2016, 09:24:48 PM
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All,
Sadly I have to go the way of Paul and announce a hiatus on the forum, certainly under the business account. I may be back on it personally, but honestly, as Paul said, it's just impossible.
You put your heart and soul into something, with incredible effort, and get met by trolls who know nothing about the industry who only have negative comments, and borderline personal insults. I wouldn't mind, but most of it doesn't even make sense! It says something when two people from the company, who have fought through a lot tougher battles than this, honestly just cannot be bothered to have flak thrown our way every single day we open the forum. The IJC agenda (this might just be my persecution complex) is tiring and surprising. As a company we've only ever looked to stick to our morals and principles, not even to make the most money.
If the forum keeps going like this there'll only be ProDirect and Online Stockist left! (shudders at the thought!)
I used to look forward to coming on the forum and enjoying reading about new bats from people like Simon and Chad - that's what this forum used to be and I loved it. I, like others, have noticed a change, and it's not something I can support.
If anyone wants to get hold of us to look at some of the fantastic kit we have in, or for any other reason the email is sales@ItsJustCricket.co.uk.
I do hope this forum can take a look at itself and get back to the brilliant place it was (and 99% of time still is!) I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. I leave with no bitterness, just a tinge of sadness.
Peace.
CBD
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I will cease to comment my thoughts on the post alone, hope all goes well with IJC.
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I used to look forward to coming on the forum and enjoying reading about new bats from people like Simon and Chad - that's what this forum used to be and I loved it.
So you're telling me I've bought 70 odd bats, reviewed a lot of them and I don't even get a mention?
Why do i bother :(
In all seriousness it's a shame you feel you have to go. I for one will keep an eye on your youtube channel to see your reviews of new stock.
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No issues with IJC in general, but you have over the years put out some very questionable facts and strong opinions which many are bound to disagree with. This happened pretty regularly that many will purposely keep an eye out to catch you out. That probably comes across as a vendetta, but frankly - if you have a know it all type approach you're bound to have those wanting you to fall.
Either way, no issues from me and I appreciate and enjoy reading your thoughts, and wish you the best of luck with the business. Appreciate the forum can be hard work, although you could argue it's had a huge part in the growth of IJC. Forums need strong opinions, and you'll be missed on here.
Good luck Chris and Paul
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You put your heart and soul into something, with incredible effort, and get met by trolls who know nothing about the industry who only have negative comments, and borderline personal insults.
I am not sure what happened but you shouldn't quit the forum. Trolls are a fact of life, like bad weather. You shouldn't tuck tail and run because of the trolls. Stand up for what you stand up for.
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I beg to differ on anyone with differing opinions should be labeled as trolls. The very comment that the shops forum business isn't that much of a deal says a lot and frankly it's an open forum , with opinions, not a professional closed group. Your reaction borders on paranoia
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See ya
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@ItsJustCricket Peace out.
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How sad, all the best Chris and Paul. Hope you keep up the kit reviews!
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Just watched the video which seems to have caused all the aggro (didn't see it in a thread anywhere)
Agree 100% with what IJC were saying - sometimes custom isn't 100% the best option.
A good, informative video.
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This forum can be a difficult place to be at times that said based on posts and the video Seems like an over reaction by Ijc or maybe they wanted out anyway sorry to see them go but good luck Paul and Chris with the business hope you go from strengh to strength.
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Perhaps it was the tone of the video that got some people riled - what's the point in buying top grade bats then? ;) That being said, I agree with the statement of going to a retailer and picking up bats, it's a great way to gauge whether a bat will suit you. Custom won't go well for everyone, I have more 'off the shelf' bats that customs in my collection, and with off the shelf, what you pick and like the feel of is what you get. Custom, not always the case!
Anyways, always good to have a hiatus and think things through. Is it the forum's problem, perhaps your approach's problem, or a bit of both? Always like reading about IJC's opinions of things, even if I disagree! (What I feel the forum is meant to be for)
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^ Where is this video ? Anyone has a link to it? Merci beaucoup.
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IMO a custom is only worth it if you are physically there while its made so little adjustments can be made. Otherwise to me it's not really a custom, just a 'top end' set shape.
Just my 1p's worth.. Easy to say 'custom' when really it's just a copy or a set generic shape (odd tweek isn't really custom)
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Your right always make a point of being there when my batsarebeing made only buy local though.
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I happen to really enjoy the videos posted by @ItsJustCricket . Do I agree with every word? No, I do not. But then again, why does that matter? And why do people have to jump on every word? Its not rocket science people - they are showcasing their stock online...if you like what you see, buy it. If not, move on and wait for the next video.
In the latest video re custom bats - he is spot on. Most "custom" shapes are available off the shelf. I have bought quite a few custom bats over the last 2 years, and for me, its the handle specs (extra thick, oval) that drove me to that option. And paul was 100% correct about the disadvantages - if you're not there physically, you may not get your specs spot on. This has happened to me, but I knew that going in. I knew it was an indulgence and was happy to learn what suits me along the way.
But even if I disagree, I would just ignore the video and wait for the next one, because they really are entertaining and enjoyable for an equipment nerd like myself. Maybe one thing Paul and CBD can do, is ignore the "bait" next time a troll appears. Just let people vent guys. If you respond, you'll encourage more.
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I do agree with the sentiment. I think John at Red Ink is the only person to make me a proper custom bat.
But, Paul - has your dog died? Cheer up :)
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Most batmakers define custom as a version of a bat that they don't make normally. Therefore, my long blade Dynadrive, Hunts Turbo Revolution and B3 1271 all classify as custom. They aren't made as the norm, they require modifications to the original shape to balance them and you cannot buy them off the shelf. Are they totally custom shapes? No. Are they made specially for me? Yes.
Do I bat better with the long blades? Yes. So while they might not be IJCs cup of tea, my discovery of customised normal shapes has made me very happy. Off the shelf doesn't work for everyone!
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Most batmakers define custom as a version of a bat that they don't make normally. Therefore, my long blade Dynadrive, Hunts Turbo Revolution and B3 1271 all classify as custom. They aren't made as the norm, they require modifications to the original shape to balance them and you cannot buy them off the shelf. Are they totally custom shapes? No. Are they made specially for me? Yes.
Do I bat better with the long blades? Yes. So while they might not be IJCs cup of tea, my discovery of customised normal shapes has made me very happy. Off the shelf doesn't work for everyone!
By this definition you could argue outside their Series range all B3 bats are customs (which was my understanding of how they work anyway).
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Doesn't matter what the definition is. Paul gave his view - that for MOST people, the wide array of off the shelf bats would provide the "perfect" bat, and that IF you do go the custom route, you should try and be there in person (this is on my bucket list for sure - as all my customs so far have been blind buys).
Nothing controversial in my view. The videos of his that I don't like, I just skip and move on to the next one. Even if you STRONGLY DISAGREE about custom bats vs off the shelf bats, why bother logging on to the forum and making it a point to start a war? That video was not even posted here!!! It was not forced down anyone's throat.
Think people should just relax - if this is the reaction to such minor differences of opinion, what will you guys do if there is a serious argument, about something really serious??
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On many Internet forums, there is always a bit of school yard behaviour. While it doesn't happen very often here, it does happen. Unfortunately most of it has been directed at IJC while others have been immune from it... And I guess they've had enough.
All the best Chris and Paul.
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^ Agreed. They seem like very decent people who choose not to get into squabbles with posters here.
When I joined the forum, I saw some posts by proprietor of a cricket business in the US. He knew or had experienced this behavior before and was equally "feisty" to his detractors. I haven't seen him post here since but can see why.
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If you stick it out there and wave it about, someone will take a bite at it.
You need to accept this will happen and be prepared to deal with it.
All part of the sales and promotion game.
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I was thinking the other day, out the innumerable retailers I have bought kit from, why IJC was not one of them. I know, for example, if I were to buy a bat from them that it would look and perform great and that the customer service I would receive- during that purchase-would no doubt be excellent. I think it is that while I applaud their ethos in some instances-particularly their decision not to stock M&H-I dislike it in others. I am uneasy with the notion of handpicking-skimming the best stock-before it has reaches other retailers. In this sense, I fully understand why IJC and GM went their separate ways and think GM made a good decision in doing that. Perhaps, I am missing the point or misunderstood how they handpicking works but I cannot help feeling a little sorry for your average bat-buying bloke on the street.
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Interesting but wouldn't have thought hand picking from GN etc would have had much effect due to the small numbers invovled on what's available of the shelf.
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If you stick it out there and wave it about, someone will take a bite at it.
You need to accept this will happen and be prepared to deal with it.
All part of the sales and promotion game.
I agree with you Bruce. Posting opinions and thoughts online is always going to attract a response from people ranging from those that just have a slightly different opinion up to those who want to wind the poster up and start an argument. The tallest daisy is often cut down first!
That's why lots of actors don't read critics reviews of their performances or they develop a thick skin to shrug it off for what it is - someone else's point of view.
I have watched a number of the IJC clips, I generally enjoy them but some I take with a pinch of salt, much like the postings of other cricket experts.
It would be a pity if IJC ducked out completely as this forum is better for a range of views and opinions.
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I was thinking the other day, out the innumerable retailers I have bought kit from, why IJC was not one of them. I know, for example, if I were to buy a bat from them that it would look and perform great and that the customer service I would receive- during that purchase-would no doubt be excellent. I think it is that while I applaud their ethos in some instances-particularly their decision not to stock M&H-I dislike it in others. I am uneasy with the notion of handpicking-skimming the best stock-before it has reaches other retailers. In this sense, I fully understand why IJC and GM went their separate ways and think GM made a good decision in doing that. Perhaps, I am missing the point or misunderstood how they handpicking works but I cannot help feeling a little sorry for your average bat-buying bloke on the street.
That really doesn't make any sense, the hand picking is FOR the average bat buyer so he has a much higher chance of getting a decent stick by just walking into a shop and pulling a few off the shelves. It's no different to what other sponsors on here do like Uzi or vitas. IJC have just made a song and dance of it more than the others. I'm totally puzzled by the controversy this video has caused, sounded pretty reasonable to me. Customs, good. Off the shelf from a shop that has quality stock, also good. Just make sure you're doing whatever you're doing for the right reasons. Hardly the most provocative statement!!
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agree with @brokenbat
If you don't like the video just move on....its a opinion of a person who has good experience ..who deals with lot of customers and basically trying to state that if you need a standard length/size bat..there are tons of off the shelf options (including the ones from boutique bat makers like BB/salix etc ) and its good to try those first than ordering or getting creative with bat shapes
regarding custom bats, even though we say custom but most of us are buying standard shapes from bat makers here....like warbird from H4L ..it is there standard shape and does seem to suit a lot of people
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I was thinking the other day, out the innumerable retailers I have bought kit from, why IJC was not one of them. I know, for example, if I were to buy a bat from them that it would look and perform great and that the customer service I would receive- during that purchase-would no doubt be excellent. I think it is that while I applaud their ethos in some instances-particularly their decision not to stock M&H-I dislike it in others. I am uneasy with the notion of handpicking-skimming the best stock-before it has reaches other retailers. In this sense, I fully understand why IJC and GM went their separate ways and think GM made a good decision in doing that. Perhaps, I am missing the point or misunderstood how they handpicking works but I cannot help feeling a little sorry for your average bat-buying bloke on the street.
Don't really get your point tbh
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Isn't this like the 5th time they have left and come back? All these morals and Philiosphies and the IJC code of life has confused me.
I like the videos IJC does, no doubt. However, don't think I'd ever buy a bat from IJC. When a customer is buying a handpicked bat, the actual cricket knowledge of the person whose picking the bat is an equally important component. (I. E do they know how to pick up a bat)
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Why are you guys still replying as if IJC are gonna read and reply
They have gone (for now) so won't see what you're writing
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Why are you guys still replying as if IJC are gonna read and reply
They have gone (for now) so won't see what you're writing
You really think they'll never ever read the forum again?
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You really think they'll never ever read the forum again?
No
That's why I said they're gone for now
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Then they'll likely see it at some point then.
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I have to say that I think it quite sad that its come to IJC taking leave of the forum for a while and probably,although no one has said this, the forum losing a sponsor. I haven't always agreed with their views, but then people don't always agree with mine, but I firmly believe that this is an open forum and people should be able to express their views freely, as long as they are not offensive!
There is a tendency on forums, and Custom Bats is no exception, for people to say things that they wouldn't dream of saying if they were face to face with the person, there are also things that are said on the forum that should really be addressed out of the public eye.
On here I believe that we all have a common love of cricket (and bats!); perhaps we should some times ask ourselves if we should really be posting our latest missive or should we rephrase it or delete it alltogether if its likely to cause offensive, add little value or is just plain argumentative. But then again it might make the place more boring as I am sure (I haven't checked) that threads relating to disputes, complaints or supplier issues are some of the most popular!
No doubt someone will now tell me I should have taken my own advice and not pressed the post button with this post :)
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Isn't this like the 5th time they have left and come back? All these morals and Philiosphies and the IJC code of life has confused me.
I like the videos IJC does, no doubt. However, don't think I'd ever buy a bat from IJC. When a customer is buying a handpicked bat, the actual cricket knowledge of the person whose picking the bat is an equally important component. (I. E do they know how to pick up a bat)
I've bought a lot of bats from IJC and can guarantee you @ca_gold that they know how to pick a bat
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I've bought a lot of bats from IJC and can guarantee you @ca_gold that they know how to pick a bat
also, its not rocket science !! you see a bat you like, its the correct weight range, taps up ok, and it feels ok in the hands....you pick it! this is why I'm surprised that people here have decided they won't buy a bat picked by XYZ because they don't trust their "ability"... come on guys!!
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On here I believe that we all have a common love of cricket (and bats!); perhaps we should some times ask ourselves if we should really be posting our latest missive or should we rephrase it or delete it alltogether if its likely to cause offensive, add little value or is just plain argumentative.
And by your very definition, this should apply to both poster and the people that reply to it.
It should be the same approach for everyone - sponsor, member, admin, the lot.
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Nail on head sir
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A shame, but not a surprise. The debate has been interesting/fierce of late but always got the impression Paul/Chris never expected to hear anything back in reply to their posts. Put strong opinions out there, particularly contradictory ones or about 'morals' and you'll get plenty in reply, got to be ready for that.
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And by your very definition, this should apply to both poster and the people that reply to it.
It should be the same approach for everyone - sponsor, member, admin, the lot.
Absolutely!
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A shame, but not a surprise. The debate has been interesting/fierce of late but always got the impression Paul/Chris never expected to hear anything back in reply to their posts. Put strong opinions out there, particularly contradictory ones or about 'morals' and you'll get plenty in reply, got to be ready for that.
Extremely well said. Just because someone has an opinion, doesn't make it right...
For me they've consistently been by far the most abrasive of the sponsors. An opinion is absolutely fine and honesty has to be admired, but you also have to remember you're running a business and having such strong opinions, while commendable that they stand by their beliefs, can affect sales and can negatively impact on people's perception of your brand.
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the most recent posts on here have got this absolutely right.
There are positives and negatives from any forum and the use of social media to promote products or sales/create discussion whichever term you use,and you have to accept the rough with the smooth.Some retailers i'm sure do see ANY discussion as good for promotion, that's my experience of how sales works.Some may not want any adverse comments and therefore avoid the internet of any for of media where people can express an opinion.
I think myself the retailers and manufacturers know this and there is a way of dealing with it to come out the other end still with good feedback or customers who still want to buy whatever they are selling.
I would say a combination of good customer service and a great relationship is key to sales, we've already seen it happen on this forum with others.As a middle man dealing with the public is not easy sometimes but if you put the customer first and your supplier is king that's surely the way forward.
I wish IJC all the best but as they have said many times, it's their business and their opinions, so equally with others who disagree with them that's just their opinion/
And I don't see trolling or whatever it's referred to, a few comments are a bit over the top yes, but not on a scale different to anywhere else.
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Sorry to hear you feel this way - I for one enjoy the videos on the YouTube channel so I hope you continue to make them - like many I don't agree with everything you say however I felt the video in question did raise some interesting points and certainly some that made me think
All the best guys!