Custom Bats Cricket Forum
Equipment => Bats => Bat Making => Topic started by: edge on September 15, 2017, 06:41:29 PM
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Had thought about it for a while, but recently took the plunge to pick up a part made off the forum and got shaping - so here is my first batmaking attempt. Decided to aim for a fairly classic shape with a long middle and full profile, but in a short blade/longer handle combo - coming out to roughtly 1/2" longer than a standard bat.
Started out with one H4L partmade:
(https://s26.postimg.org/x9wrgcos9/IMG_20170909_130927.jpg)
After shaping she looked like this:
(https://s26.postimg.org/n681k781l/IMG_20170915_142510_01.jpg)
And after a good sand here we are, went for a Laver-esque toe:
(https://s26.postimg.org/mhz7199bt/IMG_20170915_170411.jpg)
(https://s26.postimg.org/edr2wimwp/IMG_20170915_170241.jpg)
(https://s26.postimg.org/wt6yg6bnd/IMG_20170915_170325.jpg)
Concaving? No thanks.
(https://s26.postimg.org/yeqtlqb95/IMG_20170915_170128_01.jpg)
(https://s26.postimg.org/az4b2n249/IMG_20170915_170113_01.jpg)
Angled toe to stop feathering
(https://s26.postimg.org/7puh9x3eh/IMG_20170915_170307_01.jpg)
Still needs binding, pressing cracks glueing and a bit of a final polish, but I'm pretty happy! Shape came out well after some warming my way into working on it, wasn't planning to have the middle extend as high up as it does but liked the way it came out! She's on the weighty side at roughly 2.10 in current form so I'm hopeful it'll come out around 2.12 which I'm fine with, bit heavier than I'd usually use but wanted to keep as much wood in there as possible, it feels good in the hands so we'll see how we go. Tapping it up feels very nice indeed so I'm feeling hopeful!
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Not much wrong with that. Good job.
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Great job, i hope she goes well for you. I guess if you play with a bat you've made yourself there is no one left to blame for a bad day at the crease...i wouldn't like that!!!! :)
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To be fair Dr Edge.....that's a pretty impressive effort for a first go.
You will be giving us hackers who failed in woodwork lessons at school ideas we might be able to have a go.
It's not east thou and the master batmakers really are that....superb at what they do.
The key thing after the shape is right is balance thou correct?
What does it feel like now ? Is it acceptable as it is like one you might get from a shop?
Top effort .
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Thanks all! @ppccopener I think the balance feels pretty good to me and should obviously improve with binding and grips, looking forward to getting it properly finished off and really seeing how it feels to bat with but at the moment I reckon it feels pretty nice in the hands. I'm obviously a bit biased though ha so looking froward to seeing what other people make of it as well!
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If i ever have a crack at shaping i hope my first effort is half as good . Well done sir !
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Looks good..I would prefer this shape if pickup is good!
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Nice Work! It is something I would prefer to use.
Send the specs to B3 so I can order a custom made of this shape.
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Nice Work! It is something I would prefer to use.
Send the specs to B3 so I can order a custom made of this shape.
You flatter me! Do feel free to send the profile photo to the Doc if you genuinely fancy one, I believe that's all he needs.
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Top work Edge
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Fantastic work @edge , it looks great! Give it a really nice polish and then get some cool labels made up. Monster runs next season!
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Fantastic work @edge , it looks great! Give it a really nice polish and then get some cool labels made up. Monster runs next season!
Cheers @JK Lewis , if I can get anywhere close to your feats with a self-made bat I'll be over the moon! Had been planning on keeping it plain but the idea of getting some stickers done is tempting me hard...
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Thanks all! @ppccopener I think the balance feels pretty good to me and should obviously improve with binding and grips, looking forward to getting it properly finished off and really seeing how it feels to bat with but at the moment I reckon it feels pretty nice in the hands. I'm obviously a bit biased though ha so looking froward to seeing what other people make of it as well!
If the pick up feels right then the balance is right. Well done.
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Cheers @JK Lewis , if I can get anywhere close to your feats with a self-made bat I'll be over the moon! Had been planning on keeping it plain but the idea of getting some stickers done is tempting me hard...
Stickers is always a nice touch, however I'm not sure of the benefits of branding it 'Edge Bats' ;)
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Stickers is always a nice touch, however I'm not sure of the benefits of branding it 'Edge Bats' ;)
"Edge bats - if you can't find the middle, at least you've got the Edge!" :D
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Twine turned up in the post at the weekend so here we are, all done. Sanded up to a nice finish, and went old school with black binding. 2.12 on the nose with one grip, picks up nicely - happy edge! Just need to get it knocked in for forum nets now.
(https://s26.postimg.org/qqbwfqevt/IMG_20170925_151915.jpg)
(https://s26.postimg.org/flmxugh5l/IMG_20170925_152747.jpg)
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Looks good, you have done a great job with that.
If I could have one ask this winter it would be cor loads more threads like this!
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Looks good, you have done a great job with that.
If I could have one ask this winter it would be cor loads more threads like this!
Thanks @Buzz , I'm really pleased with it - turned out much better than I thought it would for a first attempt! Would definitely encourage anyone thinking of it to have a go at shaping.
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Carbon fibre binding next time? :)
It's definitely on the cards when I get my hands on a bit more workspace! Kevlar/aramid composite wrap of the handle is the way forward I reckon, watch this space.
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very nicely done, @edge !
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Have been reminded that I haven't posted photos of the stickers! Went quite minimalist, what do you think?
(http://s1.postimg.org/9kv9u07r7z/IMG_20171004_151416.jpg)
(http://s1.postimg.org/6bw5xckwqn/IMG_20171004_151444.jpg)
(http://s1.postimg.org/4k372g2epr/IMG_20171004_151519.jpg)
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I've just finished a part made from Matt today.
Yours looks a cracking job!
Really like the stickers.
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Fantastic @edge You must be pleased as punch.
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Love this thread - well done mate it looks fantastic
First ton with your self made bat, that’s a moment right there.
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Often Less is more with branding and the stickers have a classy look. Personally I'm unsure about square toes as I haven't experienced one myself, but it looks like a very useable bat. What is it's weight?
Good job. Will we see it at nets in a few weeks?
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Love this thread - well done mate it looks fantastic
First ton with your self made bat, that’s a moment right there.
Thanks mate, self made bat is stage one complete at least! Will get working on the ton ;)
@Gurujames thought I'd go for a Laver-style toe as quite like it personally, will see how it holds up! Not too worried about cracking with the corners rounded off. Bare and with one grip it was 2.12, in current state with two grips and stickers/scuff she's a healthy 2.14. Fingers crossed I'll get the necessary pass for nets, if so then it'll definitely make an appearance.
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Cracking stuff Ed looks a real top quality effort, finished really well and a lovely shape.
Where did you get the stickers from?
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Cracking stuff Ed looks a real top quality effort, finished really well and a lovely shape.
Where did you get the stickers from?
Thanks mate! Got a few sets printed up by a local vinyl printers who did a decent job.
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Was just thinking we haven't had enough bat making threads on the forum lately, so.thought I'd post an update ;) Been out in the garden sanding up this one this afternoon, quite pleased with how it's coming! Just need to work on a better method for binding the handle...
(https://s7.postimg.org/cnd9kjw57/IMG_20180405_135145_02.jpg)
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Was just thinking we haven't had enough bat making threads on the forum lately, so.thought I'd post an update ;) Been out in the garden sanding up this one this afternoon, quite pleased with how it's coming! Just need to work on a better method for binding the handle...
(https://s7.postimg.org/cnd9kjw57/IMG_20180405_135145_02.jpg)
Looks a great effort!
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Looking lovely Ed!
Did you use any of the tools you had off me yet?
Also did you see the youtube video I made a while back - made a cordless drill-powered binding lathe with some wood, pillow bearings and threaded rod.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edJ0CsAZbmI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edJ0CsAZbmI)
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Looking lovely Ed!
Did you use any of the tools you had off me yet?
Also did you see the youtube video I made a while back - made a cordless drill-powered binding lathe with some wood, pillow bearings and threaded rod.
Yeah they were dead useful for doing the shoulders on this, thanks mate - much better than just relying on a rasp like I did for the previous bat! Didn't see the video, can you post a link? Sounds like the kind of thing I'm considering knocking up so could be quite useful!
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Didn't see the video, can you post a link? Sounds like the kind of thing I'm considering knocking up so could be quite useful!
Attached it to the last post mate but here it is - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edJ0CsAZbmI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edJ0CsAZbmI)
Do you want it?
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I'll drop you a PM.
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Lovely job mate well done. Perfect timing for the season, we just need the sun to come out! :)
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Yip, pretty good job there mate. Big fan of the finished product.
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Other projects have got in the way lately but I've got round to getting bat #002 finished, very pleased with this one. My take on the very popular Joe Root type slight duckbill shape, with a rounded spine as I've always liked them but never owned one myself. Serbian G1 cleft with all the grains you could wish for, 2lb11 and picks up really nicely - if you ask me anyway! I'll let the pictures do the rest of the talking:
(https://s7.postimg.cc/4o8l4twgr/IMG_20180423_165906.jpg)
(https://s7.postimg.cc/dj9ffd8ej/IMG_20180423_165917_01.jpg)
(https://s7.postimg.cc/63a5t6ffv/IMG_20180423_165806.jpg)
(https://s7.postimg.cc/kmhaukt57/IMG_20180423_165819.jpg)
(https://s7.postimg.cc/acevvbnu3/IMG_20180423_165720.jpg)
(https://s7.postimg.cc/qnezrnnh7/IMG_20180423_165746.jpg)
(https://s7.postimg.cc/sf7ymjrej/IMG_20180423_165738_01.jpg)
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Absolutely lovely bat well done.
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... Serbian G1 cleft with all the grains you could wish for, 2lb11 and picks up really nicely - if you ask me anyway!
Very nicely done!
What do you think of the Serbian willow?
How's the bat's ping?
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Awesome job again Ed, really well done. The profile is fantastic, I'd best get over your way for some lessons. Get busy knocking it in, have a go with it this weekend! :)
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Very nicely done!
What do you think of the Serbian willow?
How's the bat's ping?
It's just the same as normal willow to be honest! The two I've had have been quite dry though so a little harder to work with, but as a finished product I doubt many people could spot the difference. Will be interested to see how this one plays - high hopes as tapping it up is very good.
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That looks awesome !
It actually reminds me of an ST .....only the photos weren't of the bat on a rock next to the ocean . :D
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Lovely bat Ed, top work!
What do you think of the Serbian willow?
Just to add my two cents, the Serbian willow bat that I had as a bit of a tester has now become my match bat... honestly the performance is as good, if not better, than anything I've had previously. Highly recommended from a personal standpoint.
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Really like the shape of the handle. Almost rectangular by the look of it.
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Really like the shape of the handle. Almost rectangular by the look of it.
Cheers, I'm a big believer in a solid handle/shoulders being a really important part of the bat so I try and take out as little as possible around there when blending the shoulders in to the handle - right at the bottom it's quite square sided where it follows the shoulders, then smooths into a nice traditional oval for the main section of the handle.
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Looks really good. Great work there!
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Just to add my two cents, the Serbian willow bat that I had as a bit of a tester has now become my match bat... honestly the performance is as good, if not better, than anything I've had previously. Highly recommended from a personal standpoint.
Thanks for sharing this. Even though Serbian willow is great, it is not a cost effective substitute for English willow as prices are not much different. True?
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I like the landscaped garden!!! and the bat is not bad either
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Thanks for sharing this. Even though Serbian willow is great, it is not a cost effective substitute for English willow as prices are not much different. True?
They're only slightly cheaper once the importing costs are taken into account, but it's more a case of the supply being abundant compared to EW. It's no secret that EW is in vast demand, which isn't currently being met, so hopefully the Serbian Willow can help with the shortage (plus the trees are much older meaning the grain lovers amongst us should be pleased!)
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#003 is a bit of a beast, got a very light cleft and so tried to make the biggest bat I could from it with just a smidge of concaving. 2lb10, not the prettiest but she's definitely a pinger, I'm looking forward to giving this one a go.
(https://s15.postimg.cc/5n5t52s5n/IMG_20180531_143059.jpg)
(https://s15.postimg.cc/d352qzaqz/IMG_20180531_143254_01.jpg)
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Big bat for 2-10!! Nice shape too.
Spine is running along the blade. How's the pickup?
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Looks really nice..thick full profile
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Bat gauge arrived, good job I don't play professional cricket ;)
(https://s15.postimg.cc/5czo7xcy3/IMG_20180601_125209_01.jpg)
@InternalTraining picks up really nicely I think, very pleased with the balance.
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Hard at work shaping a couple ready for CBF Vs Kilve today
(https://s22.postimg.cc/g5ob8ypmp/IMG_20180717_115617.jpg)
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Ready for sanding
(https://s22.postimg.cc/vrfa462jl/IMG_20180717_132042.jpg)
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Will post more photos later but here they are ready to head down to Kilve today, two lovely sticks:
(https://s22.postimg.cc/xzu0fp7sh/IMG_20180726_093747.jpg)
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Face and profile shots of #004 and #005:
(https://s33.postimg.cc/gpbpvsikv/IMG_20180726_093838.jpg)
(https://s33.postimg.cc/dih6c9dlb/IMG_20180726_093622.jpg)
(https://s33.postimg.cc/3l65j8nzz/IMG_20180726_093713.jpg)
Very pleased with these, particularly the shape of #004 - aimed to pack all the wood into where it counts so it's a very full convex middle and the weight and balance has been taken elsewhere where it isn't needed. Both approx 2.11 and both will be up for sale so feel free to get in touch ;)
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Lovely full oval handles on these too. Great work ed.
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Bat gauge arrived, good job I don't play professional cricket ;)
(https://s15.postimg.cc/5czo7xcy3/IMG_20180601_125209_01.jpg)
@InternalTraining picks up really nicely I think, very pleased with the balance.
Actually, unless your league has specifically written an exception into its playing conditions, it applies to all levels of cricket.
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Actually, unless your league has specifically written an exception into its playing conditions, it applies to all levels of cricket.
Not yet it doesn't - delayed for clubbies until 2020, and even then noone in my league will be checking.
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Actually, unless your league has specifically written an exception into its playing conditions, it applies to all levels of cricket.
I don't think that is the case. As Edge says unless it's specifically stated it won't effect club players until at least 2020.
I'm sure there was something about being able to continue using illegal sticks for the natural life of the bat too, but I'm not sure that is enforceable.
Out of curiosity I just checked the rules for the league I play in, there wasn't a single mention of bats under the equipment section, but a thrilling 2 pages detailing the size and location of sponsors logos that are permitted on shirts and jumpers!
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Been a while since the last post on here, but here's a fresh stick in the finishing stages, destined for a forumite:
(https://i.postimg.cc/qMX4y0RT/IMG-20190423-120143.jpg)
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I’ve not seen a clamp like that since A Level biology!
Looks a lovely shape, I’ll be keeping an eye out for the pictures of the finished article.
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I’ve not seen a clamp like that since A Level biology!
Why were you using a bike workstand in biology?! 😂
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I don't think that is the case. As Edge says unless it's specifically stated it won't effect club players until at least 2020.
I'm sure there was something about being able to continue using illegal sticks for the natural life of the bat too, but I'm not sure that is enforceable.
Out of curiosity I just checked the rules for the league I play in, there wasn't a single mention of bats under the equipment section, but a thrilling 2 pages detailing the size and location of sponsors logos that are permitted on shirts and jumpers!
It's in the Laws, so the only case in which it doesn't apply is if the local playing conditions explicitly contradict it.
"5.7 Bat size limits
5.7.1 The overall length of the bat, when the lower portion of the handle is inserted, shall not be more than 38 in/96.52 cm.
5.7.2 The blade of the bat shall not exceed the following dimensions:
Width: 4.25in / 10.8 cm
Depth: 2.64in / 6.7 cm
Edges: 1.56in / 4.0cm."
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It's in the Laws, so the only case in which it doesn't apply is if the local playing conditions explicitly contradict it.
"5.7 Bat size limits
5.7.1 The overall length of the bat, when the lower portion of the handle is inserted, shall not be more than 38 in/96.52 cm.
5.7.2 The blade of the bat shall not exceed the following dimensions:
Width: 4.25in / 10.8 cm
Depth: 2.64in / 6.7 cm
Edges: 1.56in / 4.0cm."
yeah, thats for professional cricket or any new bats manufactured after a certiain date if those bats wanted to be used in first class cricket etc,
they also said the natural lifespan of any bats manufactured before the laws changed then the no pro player could still use them.
if this was to be enforced on all old bats can you imagine how many amateurs would have to buy a new bat or stop playing! it would be stupid!
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yeah, thats for professional cricket or any new bats manufactured after a certiain date if those bats wanted to be used in first class cricket etc,
they also said the natural lifespan of any bats manufactured before the laws changed then the no pro player could still use them.
if this was to be enforced on all old bats can you imagine how many amateurs would have to buy a new bat or stop playing! it would be stupid!
What makes you think that? These are literally the laws of cricket. All cricket in the UK is by default played by these laws unless local playing conditions specifically override them.
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What makes you think that? These are literally the laws of cricket. All cricket in the UK is by default played by these laws unless local playing conditions specifically override them.
the announcement from the ICC at the time of the change.
it was made very clear then, Im looking for the article now
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the announcement from the ICC at the time of the change.
it was made very clear then, Im looking for the article now
What the ICC thinks is irrelevant, the ICC are not the ultimate authority on the laws of cricket, the MCC are, and if its in the laws, then its in the laws.
Our league regulations state "Matches shall be conducted in accordance with M.C.C. Laws with the exceptions contained in these Rules", I'm sure yours do too.
They also say nothing about bat size regulations that overrules Law 5.7. Thus, those regulations ARE in force in our league. They'll be in effect by default in every league in the UK, that hasn't explicitly inserted a clause into its playing regulations to override it.
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Edge,,,,,lovely lovely shape,,,,picks up like a feather I’ll bet
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What the ICC thinks is irrelevant, the ICC are not the ultimate authority on the laws of cricket, the MCC are, and if its in the laws, then its in the laws.
Our league regulations state "Matches shall be conducted in accordance with M.C.C. Laws with the exceptions contained in these Rules", I'm sure yours do too.
They also say nothing about bat size regulations that overrules Law 5.7. Thus, those regulations ARE in force in our league. They'll be in effect by default in every league in the UK, that hasn't explicitly inserted a clause into its playing regulations to override it.
From B3's website about the changes. They are not in force in the recreational game yet.
https://b3cricket.com/latest/mcc-law-cricket-bat-size-regulations/
Also - lovely shape and looking bat @edge
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From B3's website about the changes. They are not in force in the recreational game yet.
https://b3cricket.com/latest/mcc-law-cricket-bat-size-regulations/
Also - lovely shape and looking bat @edge
I love B3, but that's nonsense.
The bat size regulations are now part of the laws, like they're literally written there in black and white. They're as much as part of the laws as the lbw rule. The laws of cricket apply to every game of cricket, whether amateur or professional. Unless the game you are playing in has specific exemptions written into the playing conditions, then this applies to you.
I'm not sure how clearer I can make this. What is it that you're not understanding? Do you not understand that they're in the laws, or do you not understand that the laws apply to all forms of cricket unless overruled by specific playing conditions?
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I love B3, but that's nonsense.
The bat size regulations are now part of the laws, like they're literally written there in black and white. They're as much as part of the laws as the lbw rule. The laws of cricket apply to every game of cricket, whether amateur or professional. Unless the game you are playing in has specific exemptions written into the playing conditions, then this applies to you.
I'm not sure how clearer I can make this. What is it that you're not understanding? Do you not understand that they're in the laws, or do you not understand that the laws apply to all forms of cricket unless overruled by specific playing conditions?
MCC has announced specific limitations on the size of cricket bats that will be included in the new Code of Laws.
Bat size limitations to become Law, modes of dismissal to be reduced and language of the Laws to cater for both sexes.
Batsmen will be protected from ‘bouncing bat’ run outs.
New Code of Laws will be the first to be issued since 2000.
After the new Code is issued on 1 October 2017, the maximum dimensions of a cricket bat will be 108mm in width, 67mm in depth with 40mm edges.
The move comes after consultations with bat manufacturers, the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations, International Cricket Council, MCC World Cricket committee, umpires’ associations and other global governing bodies on the balance between bat and ball.
A bat gauge will ensure that the new limits are adhered to in the professional game, whilst a moratorium period, allowing players to use their existing bats which may be in breach of the Law, will be allowed in the amateur game. The length of the moratorium will be determined by local governing bodies and may vary for different levels of cricket
to quote @SLA "Im not sure how clearer I can make this..." read the above including the red part
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MCC has announced specific limitations on the size of cricket bats that will be included in the new Code of Laws.
Bat size limitations to become Law, modes of dismissal to be reduced and language of the Laws to cater for both sexes.
Batsmen will be protected from ‘bouncing bat’ run outs.
New Code of Laws will be the first to be issued since 2000.
After the new Code is issued on 1 October 2017, the maximum dimensions of a cricket bat will be 108mm in width, 67mm in depth with 40mm edges.
The move comes after consultations with bat manufacturers, the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations, International Cricket Council, MCC World Cricket committee, umpires’ associations and other global governing bodies on the balance between bat and ball.
A bat gauge will ensure that the new limits are adhered to in the professional game, whilst a moratorium period, allowing players to use their existing bats which may be in breach of the Law, will be allowed in the amateur game.
to quote @SLA "Im not sure how clearer I can make this..." read the above including the red part
Sigh. Why are you quoting an old out-of-date press release at me? Obviously I've read the old press release, I read it at the time, I'm well aware of what they claimed they were going to do, I'm not an idiot.
But the bottom line is, whether or not that is what they intended, it isn't what has happened. The new bat size limits ARE part of the laws, and the laws apply to all forms of cricket, by default.
So you can forget all this (No Swearing Please) about a moratorium until 2020. Unless your league has written an exemption into its playing conditions, the bat size laws do apply to YOUR league and have done so since the moment law 5.7 was introduced.
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I just checked the rules for the league I play in, there wasn't a single mention of bats under the equipment section
So law 5.7 is in force by default then, because presumably your league regs also say "All games to be played according to MCC Laws of cricket unless stated otherwise".
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Edge,,,,,lovely lovely shape,,,,picks up like a feather I’ll bet
Thanks mate, really pleased with how this one's turned out.
Big bats are definitely ok as long as you play below ECB prem leagues, similar to carbon handles etc etc. Perhaps take it to the bat laws thread if people really want to discuss the minutiae further!
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Good work Ed. Looks like a nice high middle and no doubt your trademark awesome shaped handle. Good job.
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Thanks mate, really pleased with how this one's turned out.
Big bats are definitely ok as long as you play below ECB prem leagues, similar to carbon handles etc etc. Perhaps take it to the bat laws thread if people really want to discuss the minutiae further!
Do you actually have a link to an actual law or regulation that states that though? Or is this just hearsay?
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Lookin’ awesome Ed! Anything new for yourself this season?
Cheers Dan, in an unusual move for me I haven't got any new sticks this year, although keeping this one for myself was tempting! The big one that started all this bat size chat off went so well last year I'm not even considering replacing it.
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Looks good Ed!
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Nice work again Ed, hope you’re well and ready for the new season
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Love the shape Ed your bat making skills are coming on no end!!
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Nice work again Ed, hope you’re well and ready for the new season
Cheers Phil, looking forawrd to starting again! Best of luck to you and the Fram this year too.
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All done and it's come up really nice I think, good size bat for a concave back and lovely looking butterfly stains:
(https://i.postimg.cc/cJfLN9pt/IMG-20190425-131901.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/NM4GKyfg/IMG-20190425-132052.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/sXyDfPz6/IMG-20190425-132108.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/3x4wtJ9B/IMG-20190425-132126-01.jpg)
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That's looks awesome mate
Love the character in that blade
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Lovely stuff Ed, some proper butterfly markings on that and nice looking grains - your workmanship is looking great!
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You are a true craftsman Edge - they are all beautifully done!
Just a question on the last one, with all that irregularities on the bottom half of the blade, why wasn't the handle put in the other end? I assume it was a partmade?
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Cheers @Chompy9760 , very kind! It was a part made yep, but I would have done the same if I was handling it myself. The marks in the lower half of the blade are all just butterfly stains, which won't negatively affect the bat at all - in fact the stained areas usually ping a little better, so the one you can see showing through around the middle of the bat is actually in a great position on the blade. More importantly, most maker's first priority when choosing which end to handle is how the grains run through either end of the cleft, and the grains are beautifully straight through the toe, so it's ideal from that point of view too.
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Nice work again Ed. Another bat, another ton? Best wishes for the new season.
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Cheers @Chompy9760 , very kind! It was a part made yep, but I would have done the same if I was handling it myself. The marks in the lower half of the blade are all just butterfly stains, which won't negatively affect the bat at all - in fact the stained areas usually ping a little better, so the one you can see showing through around the middle of the bat is actually in a great position on the blade. More importantly, most maker's first priority when choosing which end to handle is how the grains run through either end of the cleft, and the grains are beautifully straight through the toe, so it's ideal from that point of view too.
Thanks for the reply - fair enough! I can only judge from the pics, but the grains at the top of the bat also look lovely and straight, however I don't know what's under the sticker!
I've spent a fair bit of time cutting and splitting wood with an axe, and while I can't vouch for 'ping', I can tell you without doubt that it's at least twice as hard to split wood with with knots in it Vs straight grains. Anyone swinging an axe aims to avoid the irregularites if possible, to get the most split wood with the least ammount of effort. So I'm certain that you have a durable bat that is most unlikely to split. :) I'll take that over looks any day.
The worst thing about having a durable bat, is that it lowers your chances of needing to make/buy another one :D
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Nice work again Ed. Another bat, another ton? Best wishes for the new season.
Ha thanks Justin, hopeful for more this season but not with this one - it's off to someone else, so hopefully they get a few too.
@Chompy9760 sounds like you might be unfamiliar with butterfly stain - no knots here! Butterfly is a staining of the wood caused when the tree is pruned or branches crack off and some of the colouring from the bark leaks into the wood - looks a bit funny to some but makes bloody good bats. https://www.laverwood.com/laver-woods-cricket-bat-lore-ch-5-butterfly-willow/ (https://www.laverwood.com/laver-woods-cricket-bat-lore-ch-5-butterfly-willow/)
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Not totally unfamiliar with butterfly, but obviously have plenty to learn! Thanks for the link. With a closer look I can see that the grains indeed go through the stain.
Sorry, I did not meed to imply that your bat had knots in it! I remember reading on the JS Wright website that butterfly added to the strength of the bat, and was adding to it with my axe experiences. Regrdless, I wouldn't be too proud to own that bat :)
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Great effort again @edge. Did you find the Butterfly willow different to work with? I remember in one of Aldreds videos he's says he prefers working with it.
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Great effort again @edge. Did you find the Butterfly willow different to work with? I remember in one of Aldreds videos he's says he prefers working with it.
I don't find it too different to be honest, other than it can be a bit harder around the stain so you need to pay extra attention there.
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Bat 007 ready for one of my clubmates, really pleased with the shape on this one. 2lb9.5 and just nips though the bat gauge.
(https://i.postimg.cc/w3m92HBM/IMG-20190712-175957.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/w3m92HBM)
(https://i.postimg.cc/mzT6HYh7/IMG-20190712-180010.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/mzT6HYh7)
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Been a while since I posted in here! Handed over a lovely grainy butterfly today, to a clubmate who wanted a slightly modified version of his old bat - nice long middle fading away at the toe to keep the pickup light, just a smidge over 2lb 8oz. Hopeful that at some stage this season I'll get to walk out as part of of opening pair both using my bats!
(https://i.postimg.cc/VJvXpwsP/IMG-20200209-103005.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/VJvXpwsP)
(https://i.postimg.cc/SYmMrF15/IMG-20200209-103010.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/SYmMrF15)
(https://i.postimg.cc/2bQWh8Gh/IMG-20200209-103218-01.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/2bQWh8Gh)
(https://i.postimg.cc/WDJgp7J9/IMG-20200209-103237.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/WDJgp7J9)
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Looks great. Do you always play with your own bats? How do you find other makes compare?
Nice grains on that sofa too 😂
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You and @northernmonkey make them with very straight toe but with more rounded corners than other makers. Is this for extra durability? Why don't other makers do this so often?
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Looks great mate 👍
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@Psi the majority of the time I use my own sticks yeah, the exception being a Puma I rebalanced that I usually carry as a spare, or if I fancy getting the Mongoose out! I'm obviously biased haha, but I prefer my own to mainstream brands - I get my part mades from the best suppliers I can so the performance isn't in doubt, and being able to shape them to your own preference is great.
Re. the toes, yeah it's durability - I like a flat toe, but round the corners so they're less susceptible to damage. Not a massive difference but prefer to to a traditional toe. Laver & Wood are the only well known brand who do them that way I think.
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Another for a clubmate, lovely straight grains on this cleft with a massive butterfly stain quite high on it. Nice and easy request this one - "I like the one you made for our opener, but I don't really like big edges and could you make it quite heavy". So it's a little more traditional than the last few I've made - convex back, fairly long flowy middle and sensible edge size. 2lb12, hopefully he'll be happy with it!
(https://i.postimg.cc/nr4K9sRC/IMG-20200222-140849.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/6qrS6pCh/IMG-20200222-141942.jpg)
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I like the underlying grain structure under the butterfly on that. Could you tell from the cleft that it would be like that or does that emerge during making?
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That looks lovely! Best it flies off of that
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I like the underlying grain structure under the butterfly on that. Could you tell from the cleft that it would be like that or does that emerge during making?
Little bit of both, you can always get a good idea from the cleft but it shows much better when finished.
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Rare combo of day off and sunny morning so made time for a refurb of the first bat I made, which had been looking a bit sorry for itself, plus some sanding work on a new weapon for me as I haven't made myself one in a while. Can't wait to get this one done!
(https://i.postimg.cc/gjKzQbrb/IMG-20200302-110400.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
(https://i.postimg.cc/9MZFP7hM/IMG-20200302-112631.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
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Jesus!
Looks a significant lump. Hope it goes well.
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Lump is done - grains grains grains and butterfly stains. This is hopefully the long term replacement to my match bat - middle as big and long as possible while keeping the pickup sensible. 2.11 and a bit of change, just sneaks through the gauge at 39mm edge and 66mm middle. Trying a black grip for a change, not sure about it. Looking forward to having a hit with this!
(https://i.postimg.cc/Gp5wY0J3/IMG-20200303-132132.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
(https://i.postimg.cc/rs5vvD6z/IMG-20200303-132137.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
(https://i.postimg.cc/tTKKShML/IMG-20200303-132247-01.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
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That look awesome. I really like that shape
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I like the look of that a lot! Looks very Laver & Wood (not sure if that's what you were going for) but either way a quality stick. Handle looks a great shape also.
Congrats, you must be happy with it.
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Looks great mate and like the shape. See you went for the black grip 😁 I'm a fan of black stickers and grips at present for some reason. Top work!
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Lovely bit of wood, I love a good butterfly
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Finished one off today for a clubmate who wanted a similar bat to one I've done before. 2lb9 and a nice light pickup, not a classical looker of a cleft but the grains stand out nicely and should be a goer.
(https://i.postimg.cc/ZRc648W3/IMG-20200612-112908.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/B6KQC40v/IMG-20200612-112938.jpg)
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Lovely work mate
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Lovely shape that mate and a nice cleft, nice to get a character cleft
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That’s lovely mate. Nice work
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Proper job. I'd be very happy with that!
Thanks Dan, high praise indeed from you!
Watch this space, alternative handle binding experiment coming soon...
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Yeah that is a very nice shape mate.
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(https://i.postimg.cc/tTKKShML/IMG-20200303-132247-01.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
Love the shape! How is it pinging?
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Lots of batmaking posts lately reminded me I never posted one from back in August. Enjoy some not terribly good photos of one I made for a teammate who wanted something with a bit more power than his old Kookaburra, 2lb11 with a long middle and decent edge size. Lovely grains with a small butterfly stain high in the cleft and a little graping lower down:
(https://i.postimg.cc/26z794mV/IMG-20200818-164651.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/BnH5qhnj/IMG-20200818-164705.jpg)
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Love the shape! How is it pinging?
Thanks, it goes beautifully but sadly I've blown the toe on it rather badly! In the fix it pile for before winter nets start.
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Very nice how profile mate
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Lovely mate, great shape and nice looking willow. Its difficult trying to play photographer. I'm always trying to find the best shot and failing....bit like my batting! 😆
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Thanks, it goes beautifully but sadly I've blown the toe on it rather badly! In the fix it pile for before winter nets start.
That's a shame. It's a gorgeous looking bat.
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Haven't made a bat for a while but back on the tools this morning - here's a fairly classic duckbill profile, will finish a little over 2lb 10oz.
(https://i.postimg.cc/VvjbLtzp/IMG-20210420-111807.jpg)
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Lovely stuff mate
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Cheers Jonny, nice to get one made after not doing much over the winter. Here she is gleaming in the sun, bit of speck but lovely grains:
(https://i.postimg.cc/DzycxLs7/IMG-20210420-133218.jpg)
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Something about that type of toe shape just really appeals.
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Nice work mate and again a personal favourite of mine the square toe shape.
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Spot of mid-season shaping today, one for my opening partner whose Salix handle has gone a bit Misbah. Typical modern pro duckbill type profile with the bill a little higher for an extra light pickup, will be 2lb8/2lb9.
(https://i.postimg.cc/zfRtdHzn/IMG-20210712-160111.jpg)