Custom Bats Cricket Forum
Equipment => Bats => Topic started by: ljriley90 on June 20, 2017, 11:20:41 AM
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Hello chaps - just looking for a couple of opinions regarding an upcoming bat purchase.
With the amount of bats I get through I'm looking at trying an Indian company English willow bat. Reading round the subject it seems the Indian English made bats seem to go from ball one, or at least open up a bit quicker than English crafted bats. Drier willow and all that I guess?
Well that's what I'm after as i'll be looking to use the bat for the rest of the season.
As I tend to get through so may bats I'm looking to be spending around £130-£150 (including shipping/postage). max.
Obviously for a decent stick though. Grade 1 or 2 willow if I can help it. I like a bit of a bow in my blade - middish middle. Weight would be light 2.7 / 2.8. Would be keen for 8+ grains too.
Thinking along the lines of these -
https://www.cricketershop.com/products/sg-opener-ultimate-english-willow-cricket-bat-size-sh?setCurrencyId=6 (https://www.cricketershop.com/products/sg-opener-ultimate-english-willow-cricket-bat-size-sh?setCurrencyId=6)
http://www.dkpcricketonline.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&view=productdetails&virtuemart_product_id=164&virtuemart_category_id=6 (http://www.dkpcricketonline.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&view=productdetails&virtuemart_product_id=164&virtuemart_category_id=6) - bit out of price range but looks a gun.
https://www.cricketershop.com/products/sg-sierra-250-english-willow-cricket-bat-size-sh (https://www.cricketershop.com/products/sg-sierra-250-english-willow-cricket-bat-size-sh) - keen on this after watching an eclipse all sports review online but surely there's a catch at the price??
http://onlinestockist.com/BDM-Dynamic-Power-Super-Grade-1-English-Willow-Cricket-Bat-2015-P796921.aspx (http://onlinestockist.com/BDM-Dynamic-Power-Super-Grade-1-English-Willow-Cricket-Bat-2015-P796921.aspx) Really like the stickering on the BDM's but I'm a bit worried a bat that has been sat around doing nothing for 2 years will be deteriorating and won't be worth the money in the end? Anyone any advise about that? Would it just be a matter of doing a thorough knocking in job to open up the willow?
Same script as above but this is from 2013 - http://onlinestockist.com/BDM-Dynamic-Power-Grade-1-English-Willow-Cricket-Bat-P796924.aspx (http://onlinestockist.com/BDM-Dynamic-Power-Grade-1-English-Willow-Cricket-Bat-P796924.aspx)
I'm currently using a Aldred Butterfly 1 which I have had for a season and a half. It goes like a gun but I'm not really keen on the shape - just a bit too straight for my liking.
Appreciate any pointers fellas.
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Go with the BDM dynamic super, you won't be disappointed.
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http://www.thecricketshed.com/product-p/rsb.htm (http://www.thecricketshed.com/product-p/rsb.htm)
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I've read your post and I believe you are overthinking things. I've bought so many bats over the years and I can honestly tell you that shape hasn't been a major consideration in any purchase I've made. I'm more interested in the response of the bat, weight and pick up. If you buy on-line you will always take a risk, if you go to a shop you may pay more but at least you will be able to view/test out any of the bats that are there.
There are brilliant Indian bats, there are brilliant Pakistan bats and there are brilliant English and Australian made bats.
I've bought from online stockiest and from DKP. I would rather buy from Nick (DKP) and Ajit (Online Stockist). To be honest looking at your price range why don't you just get Paul Aldred to make you up another Butterfly in a different profile. You may have to pay a bit more than £130-150.
You are perhaps being a bit unrealistic in your specifications.
Just my personal thoughts/opinions.
Have fun buying whatever you like because that is all that matter :D
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Why are you getting through so many bats?
I guess you need to ask if you'd rather spend £150 every season or spend a bit more for a bat that lasts.
Not sure where you are based, but if you can get the Uzi sports or Vitas (I've purchased from both of them before and they are excellent, as I'm sure the other places on here are) I'm pretty sure they'll have something perfect for you.
Good luck on your search, and keep us updated.
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Get a lower end c.a ....5000,8000,10000. Usually perform/open up early, have a nice bow, great shapes pick up wise .
Dkp , eclipseallsports, cricketshed all sell them . I'm not sure but i think a forum sponsor or two do aswell ( maybe vks or vitas ).
If you go the onlinestockist route it will be a gamble. It might pay off if you get what you ask for.... or you could end up with a bat too heavy that has been cracked during knocking in , or worse. I'd say use ols for savings when getting softs .
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Why are you getting through so many bats?
I guess you need to ask if you'd rather spend £150 every season or spend a bit more for a bat that lasts.
Not sure where you are based, but if you can get the Uzi sports or Vitas (I've purchased from both of them before and they are excellent, as I'm sure the other places on here are) I'm pretty sure they'll have something perfect for you.
Good luck on your search, and keep us updated.
Its not a bat every season - probably two. I've never found a bat I liked as much as my Gray Nics Xyphos Pro Performance hence the bi-seasonal search!
I'm based in Manchester. There's not many boutique shops around to be honest.
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No pm selling or attempts to avoid the selling rules please.
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No pm selling or attempts to avoid the selling rules please.
Sorry I'm a newb and haven't looked up any forum rules. Wil lrefrain.
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Contact @Blank Bats and you won't be disappointed
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Its not a bat every season - probably two. I've never found a bat I liked as much as my Gray Nics Xyphos Pro Performance hence the bi-seasonal search!
I'm based in Manchester. There's not many boutique shops around to be honest.
We are just over an hour away from Manchester if you would like to come down?
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We are just over an hour away from Manchester if you would like to come down?
Honestly @ljriley90 even if you don't end up buying anything do yourself a favour and go down and have a look round B3, the factory tour alone is worth a trip! That is presuming you're still doing tours at the new gaff @The Doctor?
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ALWAYS Open Door - we love showing people that we have a factory. And are not like pretty much every other brand - buying in blanks bats and stickering them up but pretending that we make them....... ;)
MEOW!!!
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my suggestion would be visit b3 or make the trip down to UZI sports in swindon -hell of a journey but well worth it you will not leave disappointed.
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Honestly @ljriley90 even if you don't end up buying anything do yourself a favour and go down and have a look round B3, the factory tour alone is worth a trip! That is presuming you're still doing tours at the new gaff @The Doctor?
I'm a bit stumped (pun intended) for free time to fit the trip in currently - might be one for me once the season is done :D
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Boutique shops up north.... Hello! :)
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I have just bought a SS master 1000 from OLS. Cost 49 quid. It took less than week to arrive, knocked in and scuffed, pings better than my £300 Salix.
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BDM won't disappoint if you are looking for an Indian bat.
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Yep BDM have been making some crackers you can get around 40mm edges and full profile around 2.8-2.9 at the price you are willing to spend.
Just the middles will be generally lowish mid.
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Morning all.
Quick update I've gone for a CA 10000 in the end. Had a net last night with a CA 15000 and was really really impressed.
The mid middle should be a benefit for me as I open the batting.
Cheers for all your input guys - much obliged.
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Good choice. Can't go wrong with CA.
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Good choice. Can't go wrong with CA.
Unless it breaks
Or isn't full size
Or width
;)
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Unless it breaks
Or isn't full size
Or width
;)
Or weighs 8oz more than the sticker says... :-[
Or you cut yourself on the razor sharp "fully knocked in" edge
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Depressing thread.
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Wow
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A light hearted comment from me @ljriley90 although I do knock in/repair dozens of CA bats every year and I've never seen a full size one. As for if/when it breaks, that's more a general thought on the type of seller you discussed in your first post, there will be zero after sales / warranty from most of them
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Morning all.
Quick update I've gone for a CA 10000 in the end. Had a net last night with a CA 15000 and was really really impressed.
The mid middle should be a benefit for me as I open the batting.
Cheers for all your input guys - much obliged.
I have 4 CAs. No issues with them, all of them are trampolines.
My team mates have CAs and love them. Again, other than usual wear and tear, no issues with them.
My oldest is 4 seasons old and used for many happy innings. I retired it this season. I have 3 other raring to go should I need to take to the middle.
Oil it, knock it (round the edges, the toes), and use it.
Newbery released Kudos(2) as a shorter blade and didn't tell anyone about it. The sizing "whinge" is pretty old. People still use those bats without issue and they score loads of runs which is the point. CAs open up fairly quickly (unlike some that take a season or more) which is why they are so popular.
Check out bats that your team mates have, ask around. They are great bats.
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Or weighs 8oz more than the sticker says... :-[
Or you cut yourself on the razor sharp "fully knocked in" edge
This is not true anymore. I had one custom made in the factory (last year or year and a half ago) and it was 2-11 on the dot. I also bought another thru a friend and weight was what was listed.
Lot of my team mates and club mates have bought CAs in recent years and it is the least complained about brand. For the price point, older 5000 and 10000 are great bats.
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Newbery released Kudos(2) as a shorter blade and didn't tell anyone about it. The sizing "whinge" is pretty old.
True, but then Newbery also didn't sell SH bats the same width as a Harrow...
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In Southern California cricket is played pretty much every weekend. Everyone has either CA or SS bats with exception of few GN and GM bats. I used CA 15000 for 3 seasons and never had any issues with the handle or with narrow width.
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I have had a CA 15000 players edition for an year now and there are no signs of wear and tear. I have scored 1000+ runs with it and being an opener I face the new hard ball. The overall length of the bat is approximately 1/3 of an inch shorter than the normal sized bats but to be honest I never noticed it until I read about it on this forum. The weight on the labels are most likely less than the actual weight. Mine says '2.7 lbs' and it is 2.10.5 on my scales.
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@InternalTraining you beat me to it with those 2 posts of yours .
Got two big bangs through eal that were custom orders . The sticker weights say 2lb8 , the actual weiguts are 2lb7.6 and 2lb7.9..... so are people now going to complain about sticker weights being overquoted ?
Re size , you said it all .
Durability wise seem a lot better than a lot of other brands , and everyone should bone and knock in there edges thus taking care of any sharp factory edges . Personally , i give all my new bats a very light sand aswell as boning and knocking in .
All 5 of my ca's are trampolines too .... everyone thats ever layed hands on them gets bat envy big time.
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@ljriley90 glad you went with a plus 10000. Super bat , especially at that price point . You should be fine durability wise . Just bone and knock in the edges (light sand if need be) and oil and scuff and you'll be sweet .
My 5 ca's are all top , top notch bats ..... and you'll soon be a fan aswell . :)
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A light hearted comment from me @ljriley90 although I do knock in/repair dozens of CA bats every year and I've never seen a full size one. As for if/when it breaks, that's more a general thought on the type of seller you discussed in your first post, there will be zero after sales / warranty from most of them
No worries - just felt a bit down after getting excited about making my purchase then getting brought back down to earth with a few home truths I guess.
I'll be giving it a good oiling and knocking in process but I'm just keen for the bat to be "opening up" pretty quickly hence why I plumped for the CA. Reading round the subject they should be responsive quicker than an English crafted counterpart.
On the blade length front I have had an Ihsan previous which was around half an inch shorter but I hardly noticed. Not a big deal for me.
Will post some snaps on bat arrival for those interested and see what I've ended up with.
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I would be worried Buying CA at the moment.
I have seen images of genuine CA 15000 getting refurbished only for it to be discovered it has front and back veneer grains stuck on!
hiding a ugly cleft
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I would be worried Buying CA at the moment.
I have seen images of genuine CA 15000 getting refurbished only for it to be discovered it has front and back veneer grains stuck on!
hiding a ugly cleft
Not genuine, just one of the millions of fakes out there . This is what you get when you don't get a c.a from a trusted supplier.
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How do you know it wasn't Genuine?
do you work in the CA factory?
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BDM dynamic power super or original will meet your expectations and price range!! Eclipse sports have some amazing bdm bats.
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Newbery released Kudos(2) as a shorter blade and didn't tell anyone about it. The sizing "whinge" is pretty old. People still use those bats without issue and they score loads of runs which is the point. CAs open up fairly quickly (unlike some that take a season or more) which is why they are so popular.
Yes, but Newbery made the handle longer to make the bat the correct length, CA don't. CA are essentially selling harrows as full sized bats at full sized prices.
I've been accused of being on some sort of vendetta against CA in the past, i'm simply reflecting what i see through the shop every week. I cannot disagree with performance, they definitely go well and they often look lovely in terms of grains. The number of repairs i do on them, combined with shoddy workmanship i'm asked to correct by the owners of brand new CA's tells me overall they are unlikely to last as long as they perhaps could, or should.
Todays example, a Plus 15000 dropped off this morning for knocking in after the owner used it a few times and quickly realised the 'fully knocked' sticker was nonsense. Its actually got pretty much the correct blade length but the length of the handle means its a bit smaller than SH size. It weighs almost 2'9, the sticker says 2'7, far from the worst i've seen which was a 2'14 bat saying 2'8.
Here are the crunch points:
The blade is 102/103mm wide. I have harrows from some brands in stock that are 105mm wide.
The handle has been poorly fitted with a bit lump of filler wedged between the splice and the bat to bodge what would have been a massive gap.
(http://i.imgur.com/Q3u36psh.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/JPtQQReh.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/xl8Ncj6h.jpg)
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Sand it see if its got a grain veneer on it lol
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Genuine CA s do not have a veneer finish. Hence why as people have said buy from a trusted source.
The company you are thinking of is CX or Cricket 'Xperts'. Stay away from them.
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Genuine CA s do not have a veneer finish. Hence why as people have said buy from a trusted source.
The company you are thinking of is CX or Cricket 'Xperts'. Stay away from them.
I'm sure he actually means c.a , said he'd seen it etc . But there are gazillions of fake ca's floating around... all in the right shape , correct placement of stickers , all holograms , even the barcode authenticity sticker , but underneath the toe guard awaits the horror of 4 grains . Never heard of this though when the bat is sourced property /reputable seller .
My ca' certainly dont have grain sheets , i sand the edges and take off the toe guard and sand/round the toe on all my bats , so i get to see the nice ,straight , real grains .
Jake /Vitas , just measured the edges on my 5 ca's . Bearing in mind the edges have been sanded and boned and knocked in , they (2× 15000, 2× big bang trd) are all 107mm , edcept the 12000 which is 106and a bit mm . So i would say pre preparation they all would have been 108mm or damn close .
Re the shorter blade , i know about it and i like it . Re the slightly shorter total length, i know that and like that too . I normally chop the tops off mh handles anyway .
If anything , from what ive seen , you can say ca's are academy ish length with senior/sh width . I dont doubt what you say , indeed you show evidence too , but maybe a lot of these repairs you see are coming from less reputable suppliers ? At the very least , factor in that they are extremely popular bats and you don't get to see all the ones people are happy with and don't bring in for repairs . ( and yes i did think that you would be thinking that there are plenty of other popular brands but you dont see them kn for repairs as often etc ) .
Basically , for as long as ca's are the best bats I've ever used and i have never had any problems with them, i will defend them .
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I'm sure he actually means c.a , said he'd seen it etc . But there are gazillions of fake ca's floating around... all in the right shape , correct placement of stickers , all holograms , even the barcode authenticity sticker , but underneath the toe guard awaits the horror of 4 grains . Never heard of this though when the bat is sourced property /reputable seller .
My ca' certainly dont have grain sheets , i sand the edges and take off the toe guard and sand/round the toe on all my bats , so i get to see the nice ,straight , real grains .
Jake /Vitas , just measured the edges on my 5 ca's . Bearing in mind the edges have been sanded and boned and knocked in , they (2× 15000, 2× big bang trd) are all 107mm , edcept the 12000 which is 106and a bit mm . So i would say pre preparation they all would have been 108mm or damn close .
Re the shorter blade , i know about it and i like it . Re the slightly shorter total length, i know that and like that too . I normally chop the tops off mh handles anyway .
If anything , from what ive seen , you can say ca's are academy ish length with senior/sh width . I dont doubt what you say , indeed you show evidence too , but maybe a lot of these repairs you see are coming from less reputable suppliers ? At the very least , factor in that they are extremely popular bats and you don't get to see all the ones people are happy with and don't bring in for repairs . ( and yes i did think that you would be thinking that there are plenty of other popular brands but you dont see them kn for repairs as often etc ) .
Basically , for as long as ca's are the best bats I've ever used and i have never had any problems with them, i will defend them .
Also , i admit that the handles aren't always the best in terms of binding . They dont bind down far enough to the shoulders . But , again , doesnt faze me because i always replace binding with medical tape . I havent seen any dodgy jobs/filler under the binding either . Never had a ca go in the handle .
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I have seen images of genuine CA 15000 getting refurbished only for it to be discovered it has front and back veneer grains stuck on!
I have never seen or heard this before. This is a first. :) I see a lot of CAs. This must be a fake.
It is also important to oil and knock your bat yourself.
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Yes, but Newbery made the handle longer to make the bat the correct length, CA don't. CA are essentially selling harrows as full sized bats at full sized prices.
Can you get a "Harrow" in 2-11 weight? I paid "SH" size prices for my custom size-6 bats. Customers pay prices what they deem appropriate for the product or buy something else.
Todays example, a Plus 15000 dropped off this morning for knocking in after the owner used it a few times and quickly realised the 'fully knocked' sticker was nonsense. Its actually got pretty much the correct blade length but the length of the handle means its a bit smaller than SH size. It weighs almost 2'9, the sticker says 2'7, far from the worst i've seen which was a 2'14 bat saying 2'8.
Regarding weight, my first Lavers arrived 2 ounces heavier than ordered. This is Laver & Wood, the brand that can't do no wrong these days! 6 ounces difference is scary, I agree. It is possible for a "natural product" to absorb moisture, correct? As I said in my original post, my last two CAs were on the dot for weight.
Here are the crunch points:
The blade is 102/103mm wide. I have harrows from some brands in stock that are 105mm wide.
The handle has been poorly fitted with a bit lump of filler wedged between the splice and the bat to bodge what would have been a massive gap.
Fair enough.
I will widen the range of this discussion so it doesn't sound like you are beating down on CA and I am defending it. ;)
I have a closet full of bats that have the correct SH specs - correct length, blade width, great handle, etc. And, they are also performance free. What do I do with that spec perfection? If I am middling my shots, what does it matter that my bat width is narrow my 2-5 mm? You are in the biz, and you know full well that some reputable bat makers narrow the width of the bats near shoulders to put more meat in the blade. There is a tapering that goes on. I suspect bat makers do whatever they can to enhance the performance of the bat.
Also, none of my SH bats are held at the length in fact 3 to 4 inches below the top of the handle. The size SH is an abomination if you ask me. What is the rhyme and reason behind the "SH" size? For tall guys like Alex Hales, Ali Cook, et-al, the SH might be fine but it doesn't work for short guys like myself. In fact, proportionally, tall guys if using SH or LH bat, are still using a short bat when compared to short people in 5-6'' to 5-8'' range using an SH bat. If producing a shorter bat improves the performance of a bat for the player, thank god for that! Nobody I know complains about the "short" CA, they don't even notice it. Same with width.
I just measured my XP-80 against my Warner replica, both made by Stuart Kranzbuhler. Guess what? Warner replica is a good 1/2'' to 3/4'' shorter than my XP-80 (standard SH length). Stuart Kranzbuhler has clearly cheated me since there is no mention of that length difference anywhere. :D
I said this before, and I say it again: bat sizes, as we use them now, are wrong! SH bat size is wrong! It is not for short people and it messes up their game and they have to adjust their natural swing for a bat that is too big for them. Harrow, size-6 bats are not made in right weights for adults. Now, THERE is a market to exploit and discussion to have. ;)
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Every warner replica I have seen has been labelled SSH.
Yes a mm here or there doesn't really matter, but this bat is visibly narrower than many harrows. I would rather have a bat as wide as possible so that on a very basic level i am covering up as much of the stumps as possible.
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Every warner replica I have seen has been labelled SSH.
Yes a mm here or there doesn't really matter, but this bat is visibly narrower than many harrows. I would rather have a bat as wide as possible so that on a very basic level i am covering up as much of the stumps as possible.
SH.
https://gray-nicolls.com.au/collections/kaboom (https://gray-nicolls.com.au/collections/kaboom)
SH.
https://www.meulemans.com.au/products/cricket-bats/gray-nicolls-kaboom-warner-replica-bat/ (https://www.meulemans.com.au/products/cricket-bats/gray-nicolls-kaboom-warner-replica-bat/)
SH.
https://www.kingsgrovesports.com.au/gray-nicolls-kaboom-players-edition-dw-bat-2017-18.html (https://www.kingsgrovesports.com.au/gray-nicolls-kaboom-players-edition-dw-bat-2017-18.html)
Maybe the 2017-18 ones are the proper SH length bats?
There are couple of newly made replicas by SK on their way to their owners. I will ask them to check length as well. These bats were made in last 2 to 3 months.
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I checked the width of the blades of the 3 match bats I have. CA 15000(107-108mm), 50+(105mm), XP80(105mm).
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I am really glad people are defending CA's here. I have read so much nonsense about them on this forum you would think they are a rubbish brand. The blade is a bit shorter but so what? CA performance is ridiculous. For me they have been very durable- and this is the case for my friends' CA's as well. I don't understand where this notion of them not being durable or the handles are bad is coming from? Also why not just knock your bat anyway? Isn't that a common sense thing?
Anyway I hope your new CA goes well for you. Please let us know. Also pics?
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I am really glad people are defending CA's here. I have read so much nonsense about them on this forum you would think they are a rubbish brand. The blade is a bit shorter but so what? CA performance is ridiculous. For me they have been very durable- and this is the case for my friends' CA's as well. I don't understand where this notion of them not being durable or the handles are bad is coming from? Also why not just knock your bat anyway? Isn't that a common sense thing?
Anyway I hope your new CA goes well for you. Please let us know. Also pics?
Can't speak personally on whatever quality issues, but if I ordered a SH bat from anyone and it came in an inch shorter and a lot narrower than full width, it'd be going back sharpish! Even people who love the bats must be able to see that it'd be pretty annoying? If you're a shorter chap and don't mind basically buying a big Harrow because that suits you, happy days, go shopping for a CA. If you're not, couldn't even consider them. Just imagine if a bat manufacturer made LB/LH bats and advertised them as SH, you liked the look of them and snapped one up, then it arrived much larger than advertised - you'd be miffed.
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Never reviewed a CA....yet.
The width reduction is just so they get a volume discount when posting. ;)
In all seriousness I have many players who swear by them and I am aware of the height issues, drying etc. etc.
Since Newbery was mentioned I personally really hope the asian made Newbery bats #cough SF STANFORD ## don't also come with customary width reductions to save weight or make the edges look bigger.
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Can you get a "Harrow" in 2-11 weight? I paid "SH" size prices for my custom size-6 bats. Customers pay prices what they deem appropriate for the product or buy something else.
Regarding weight, my first Lavers arrived 2 ounces heavier than ordered. This is Laver & Wood, the brand that can't do no wrong these days! 6 ounces difference is scary, I agree. It is possible for a "natural product" to absorb moisture, correct? As I said in my original post, my last two CAs were on the dot for weight.
Fair enough.
I will widen the range of this discussion so it doesn't sound like you are beating down on CA and I am defending it. ;)
I have a closet full of bats that have the correct SH specs - correct length, blade width, great handle, etc. And, they are also performance free. What do I do with that spec perfection? If I am middling my shots, what does it matter that my bat width is narrow my 2-5 mm? You are in the biz, and you know full well that some reputable bat makers narrow the width of the bats near shoulders to put more meat in the blade. There is a tapering that goes on. I suspect bat makers do whatever they can to enhance the performance of the bat.
Also, none of my SH bats are held at the length in fact 3 to 4 inches below the top of the handle. The size SH is an abomination if you ask me. What is the rhyme and reason behind the "SH" size? For tall guys like Alex Hales, Ali Cook, et-al, the SH might be fine but it doesn't work for short guys like myself. In fact, proportionally, tall guys if using SH or LH bat, are still using a short bat when compared to short people in 5-6'' to 5-8'' range using an SH bat. If producing a shorter bat improves the performance of a bat for the player, thank god for that! Nobody I know complains about the "short" CA, they don't even notice it. Same with width.
I just measured my XP-80 against my Warner replica, both made by Stuart Kranzbuhler. Guess what? Warner replica is a good 1/2'' to 3/4'' shorter than my XP-80 (standard SH length). Stuart Kranzbuhler has clearly cheated me since there is no mention of that length difference anywhere. :D
I said this before, and I say it again: bat sizes, as we use them now, are wrong! SH bat size is wrong! It is not for short people and it messes up their game and they have to adjust their natural swing for a bat that is too big for them. Harrow, size-6 bats are not made in right weights for adults. Now, THERE is a market to exploit and discussion to have. ;)
@InternalTraining ....... you da man !
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Can't speak personally on whatever quality issues, but if I ordered a SH bat from anyone and it came in an inch shorter and a lot narrower than full width, it'd be going back sharpish! Even people who love the bats must be able to see that it'd be pretty annoying? If you're a shorter chap and don't mind basically buying a big Harrow because that suits you, happy days, go shopping for a CA. If you're not, couldn't even consider them. Just imagine if a bat manufacturer made LB/LH bats and advertised them as SH, you liked the look of them and snapped one up, then it arrived much larger than advertised - you'd be miffed.
An inch shorter and narrower? So i have heard CAs have an issue with length, not width. Guess what though, all 3 of the CAs I have used are the same length as standard size Newbery and GN. Also the performance is way better :)
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Can you get a "Harrow" in 2-11 weight? I paid "SH" size prices for my custom size-6 bats. Customers pay prices what they deem appropriate for the product or buy something else.
Regarding weight, my first Lavers arrived 2 ounces heavier than ordered. This is Laver & Wood, the brand that can't do no wrong these days! 6 ounces difference is scary, I agree. It is possible for a "natural product" to absorb moisture, correct? As I said in my original post, my last two CAs were on the dot for weight.
Fair enough.
I will widen the range of this discussion so it doesn't sound like you are beating down on CA and I am defending it. ;)
I have a closet full of bats that have the correct SH specs - correct length, blade width, great handle, etc. And, they are also performance free. What do I do with that spec perfection? If I am middling my shots, what does it matter that my bat width is narrow my 2-5 mm? You are in the biz, and you know full well that some reputable bat makers narrow the width of the bats near shoulders to put more meat in the blade. There is a tapering that goes on. I suspect bat makers do whatever they can to enhance the performance of the bat.
Also, none of my SH bats are held at the length in fact 3 to 4 inches below the top of the handle. The size SH is an abomination if you ask me. What is the rhyme and reason behind the "SH" size? For tall guys like Alex Hales, Ali Cook, et-al, the SH might be fine but it doesn't work for short guys like myself. In fact, proportionally, tall guys if using SH or LH bat, are still using a short bat when compared to short people in 5-6'' to 5-8'' range using an SH bat. If producing a shorter bat improves the performance of a bat for the player, thank god for that! Nobody I know complains about the "short" CA, they don't even notice it. Same with width.
I just measured my XP-80 against my Warner replica, both made by Stuart Kranzbuhler. Guess what? Warner replica is a good 1/2'' to 3/4'' shorter than my XP-80 (standard SH length). Stuart Kranzbuhler has clearly cheated me since there is no mention of that length difference anywhere. :D
I said this before, and I say it again: bat sizes, as we use them now, are wrong! SH bat size is wrong! It is not for short people and it messes up their game and they have to adjust their natural swing for a bat that is too big for them. Harrow, size-6 bats are not made in right weights for adults. Now, THERE is a market to exploit and discussion to have. ;)
Indeed this is a great post. I wonder if players even realise a bat is a couple of mm shorter unless they measure.
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Just checked my CA 7 star players edition
The width is 108mm and length is the same as most of my other SH bats except a couple of warners and the NB 1080LE which has a longer blade than all my other bats but is still labelled SH.
Can't complain about the quality of CA with my only experience being this one I have which I must say is stunning. It was labelled 2.9lbs but i just checked the weight and it was 2.9lb 85oz after 2 coats of oil which has been the norm with most of my bats having gained a bit of weight over this winter.
The specs are really pretty fantastic with the edges being around 45mm after rounding it off it was about 47mm when it was in the packaging. The concaving is pretty mild similar to halestorms Ive seen, the profile is a mid to highish standard one with exceptional ping across the blade except for the very lower portion of the blade and pings even above a bit of the stickers.
The handle is a very thick round grip standard in length. It comes with a factory toeguard fitted by CA.
I find CA do adhere to the grading of willows a lot better than a lot of other brands which I have in terms of grains... Mine is a 17 grain sapwood beauty and from the few others I've seen they are all beauties too.
Speaking of which bats gaining weight , from a fee Ive just checked the worst ones in terms of weight gain has been my laver and wood which came in just below 2.lb 11 oz to now being 2lb 11.7 oz with a single chevron grip, scuff sheet and toeguard.
Another is my xp70 which seems to have gained a fair bit of weight too :/
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Just checked my CA 7 star players edition
The width is 108mm and length is the same as most of my other SH bats except a couple of warners and the NB 1080LE which has a longer blade than all my other bats but is still labelled SH.
Can't complain about the quality of CA with my only experience being this one I have which I must say is stunning. It was labelled 2.9lbs but i just checked the weight and it was 2.9lb 85oz after 2 coats of oil which has been the norm with most of my bats having gained a bit of weight over this winter.
The specs are really pretty fantastic with the edges being around 45mm after rounding it off it was about 47mm when it was in the packaging. The concaving is pretty mild similar to halestorms Ive seen, the profile is a mid to highish standard one with exceptional ping across the blade except for the very lower portion of the blade and pings even above a bit of the stickers.
The handle is a very thick round grip standard in length. It comes with a factory toeguard fitted by CA.
I find CA do adhere to the grading of willows a lot better than a lot of other brands which I have in terms of grains... Mine is a 17 grain sapwood beauty and from the few others I've seen they are all beauties too.
Speaking of which bats gaining weight , from a fee Ive just checked the worst ones in terms of weight gain has been my laver and wood which came in just below 2.lb 11 oz to now being 2lb 11.7 oz with a single chevron grip, scuff sheet and toeguard.
Another is my xp70 which seems to have gained a fair bit of weight too :/
Good to hear the players edition is serving you well. My 7 star is labelled 2.6 and weighs 2.65. The performance is ridiculously good with the bat pinging at the stickers as well. The pickup as the weight suggests is just something else. The bat is an absolute gem! As I mentioned previously the performance of CAs are exceptional.
In terms of weight gain. I ordered an H4L monster from one of the retailers on this forum. He claims the bat was 3lbs when it was with him. I weighed it when it reached Canada- 3.28. Either he was full of (No Swearing Please) or the bat somehow gained that much weight.
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Morning fellas,
CA 10000 turned up yesterday. Asked for 2.8 defeinitely feels 2.8 - I don't have digital scales to confirm but compared to my Aldred I'd say it's definitely a good 3 or 4 ounces lighter. An extra grip should bring it up to optimum weight.
I count 11 grains, all pretty straight. Bit of heartwood on my inside edge (I'm left handed) which I'm happy about because I do play to leg a lot - will be sure to give it a bit of extra oiling there.
In terms of comparison to length I'd say they are pretty much exact. Width for the CA is 106mm, for the Aldred 108mm. So some of you might have a better idea if that means the CA is Harrow size base don that? For me personally I really doubt the difference in width will register one iota when I'm batting.
I love the pick up, feels really balanced with mid-middle which is what I'm after as an opening bat.
Sorry for being so negligent but I cant seem to upload photos if anyone has the instructions for that ill get some photos up
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Since Newbery was mentioned I personally really hope the asian made Newbery bats #cough SF STANFORD ## don't also come with customary width reductions to save weight or make the edges look bigger.
The lower Ind made Newbery's are made by SF? If that is the case, I think it is a good thing as SF seem to be producing good bats..
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Morning fellas,
CA 10000 turned up yesterday. Asked for 2.8 defeinitely feels 2.8 - I don't have digital scales to confirm but compared to my Aldred I'd say it's definitely a good 3 or 4 ounces lighter. An extra grip should bring it up to optimum weight.
I count 11 grains, all pretty straight. Bit of heartwood on my inside edge (I'm left handed) which I'm happy about because I do play to leg a lot - will be sure to give it a bit of extra oiling there.
In terms of comparison to length I'd say they are pretty much exact. Width for the CA is 106mm, for the Aldred 108mm. So some of you might have a better idea if that means the CA is Harrow size base don that? For me personally I really doubt the difference in width will register one iota when I'm batting.
I love the pick up, feels really balanced with mid-middle which is what I'm after as an opening bat.
Sorry for being so negligent but I cant seem to upload photos if anyone has the instructions for that ill get some photos up
Let us know how it performs in the nets? Also i think you could upload to Photobucket? Not sure on how to upload myself.
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If you are using your phone to take pictures, install Photobucket app and create an account. You can upload pictures on that app and when you click on the i icon all the way on the left of your screen, Click on the bottom link and copy and paste it on your post. It should display the picture. Just like I have posted this following picture.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v218/mundapaki786/custombats/5C0ED488-1988-4191-88CB-09A7EC95E6E4.png) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/mundapaki786/media/custombats/5C0ED488-1988-4191-88CB-09A7EC95E6E4.png.html)
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Ok figured out how to load up. These snaps are from last week. Will upload the oiled version so you can see how the grains have come out. I'm pretty happy with it.
(http://i682.photobucket.com/albums/vv182/ljriley90/20170628_124219_zpsa2mrmsxz.jpg)
(http://i682.photobucket.com/albums/vv182/ljriley90/20170628_124419_zpsn5ulsovd.jpg)
(http://i682.photobucket.com/albums/vv182/ljriley90/20170628_124506_zpsecxnorpc.jpg)
(http://i682.photobucket.com/albums/vv182/ljriley90/20170628_124319_zpssgp2vqtd.jpg)
(http://i682.photobucket.com/albums/vv182/ljriley90/20170628_124252_zpse0e3yv9p.jpg)
(http://i682.photobucket.com/albums/vv182/ljriley90/20170628_124301_zps7r7dtxkn.jpg)
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Looks good mate. Far superior in terms of looks compared to the CA 10000s I have seen here in the shops in Pakistan.
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Not that I want to start this all up again, but so it is both narrower and shorter by the looks of things? Any difference in the total length between the two?
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Height looks similar, bear in mind the Aldred has a rounded toe and the car has an almost square toe.
Bat looks good anyhow
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Looks good enough to be a 12000 or even 15000 . Nice score .
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Last one from me on this. Have not netted with yet but feels really responsive on the mallet test.
(http://i682.photobucket.com/albums/vv182/ljriley90/20170705_132837_zps6msrui7y.jpg)