Custom Bats Cricket Forum

Companies => Off-the-shelf companies => Gunn & Moore => Topic started by: e4sby on January 03, 2019, 05:00:56 PM

Title: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on January 03, 2019, 05:00:56 PM
Well.... on a drunken night between Xmas and New year I bought this from a friend of mine for a decent price

Will let the few photos I’ve taken tonight do the talking

Specs are

39mm edge, 64/65mm spine and bat weighs 2lb 9.6oz with a pick up index of 2

(https://i.ibb.co/G5rRYH8/7-A5322-D9-AB22-4-EE8-96-C0-661-F81-A5670-F.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HH9qwhb)

(https://i.ibb.co/TkD7RXq/EC1-B113-C-7828-4-A00-A7-F0-D516330-D9798.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NsgJphn)

(https://i.ibb.co/QQPqcz4/E67-D736-E-BA46-4-AE6-BC20-28-CAE23-DAC15.jpg) (https://ibb.co/bmsy3qk)

(https://i.ibb.co/GsyvCzD/D2515-C04-B99-E-49-C0-98-D9-996-BDB9413-C3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VHRWMfG)

Couldn’t resist buying.... this is my second GM I’ve owned, picked up a Travis Head last year which I sold as was too heavy.

Think this will be the last bat I’ll ever buy.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: liscon12 on January 03, 2019, 05:03:53 PM
Think this will be the last bat I’ll ever buy.
Famous last words...
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on January 03, 2019, 05:43:46 PM
Snap. You've got good taste :D As I'm sure is the same for yours, ping is unreal all over and it's a real joy to use. I'm sure you'll love it!

Thanks!

It seems to be pressed firmer than the Travis Head bat I had briefly in my possession last year.

Did you do much knocking in of yours?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on January 03, 2019, 06:28:03 PM
Famous last words...
I had decided never to buy another bat but after looking at this gorgeous bat, I am leaning toward buying Stokes Player Bat.

Damn you CBF!!
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: brokenbat on January 03, 2019, 06:43:18 PM
Thanks!

It seems to be pressed firmer than the Travis Head bat I had briefly in my possession last year.

Did you do much knocking in of yours?

so this picks up better than your travis? (assuming that was the same weight)
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Umi on January 03, 2019, 07:00:22 PM
I picked up a couple of latest BEN STOKES P.E in my local shop, and I was soo impressed with the pickup and ping. Went couple of days later and it was sold out.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Tailendfielder on January 03, 2019, 07:03:29 PM
I went through a bin of them at the factory, the pick up on some of them was ace.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on January 03, 2019, 07:16:32 PM
I did a fair bit mainly because the mallet was indenting the face even through the scuff. Feel-wise, bouncing a ball on or having a hit is pure Rolls Royce smoothness :) So I guess I'm not sure I'd describe it as firm, certainly not compared to my B3

Mine isn’t leaving any indentations and does seem close to a B3 press, performance though is decent!

so this picks up better than your travis? (assuming that was the same weight)

Travis head was 2oz heavier but pick up was more balanced (BS is still decent) from memory handle was noticeably thicker on Travis Head


I had decided never to buy another bat but after looking at this gorgeous bat, I am leaning toward buying Stokes Player Bat.

Damn you CBF!!

Apologies
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: brokenbat on January 03, 2019, 07:18:31 PM
This forum is deadly... i bought my "last bat ever" 10 bats ago.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Ramis_78645 on January 11, 2019, 06:10:17 PM
I recently bought a GM Noir Original LE but I’m a bit worried to play with it . I’ve knocked it in for like 4 hours but when I ping it with a ball I seem to get seam indentations . Is there anything I can do about this as I don’t want to crack the bat ?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Mattsky on January 11, 2019, 06:27:05 PM
Proper full profile, shorter blade, middle not too high or low, lightweight and fantastic grainage.
A terrific buy, that. Lovely stick. I'd be happy to walk out to bat with it.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Yorkershire on January 11, 2019, 06:40:28 PM
This forum is deadly... i bought my "last bat ever" 10 bats ago.

 :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

Well late last year I thought I had my last ever 2 bats that I was ever going to buy until they were well and truly 'gone and beyond use'.
- JEDi Custom
- AM Monarch

Forward some months...
- GM Factory tour popped up so naturally went along and bought 2 GM bats ( Noir and Mythos) - Swore to myself the Noir was going to be my bat for the coming season... but then I fell in love with the Mythos
- Then AM offered me a real Pro bat. Having never had the luxury of owning a bat that was destined for a pro I couldn't refuse...
- Reluctantly decided to put up the JEDi for Sale and had a buyer
- Found a buyer for my Monarch
- Then had a change of heart and couldn't part with the JEDi - so swapped out and got rid of the Noir. Thinking being that I could always buy a Noir due to the CNC and consistency of GM, but the JEDi was made for me.

So the current 'Plan' is have 3 bats in use and never to buy another one unless I sell one first! (CBF makes this really difficult!). Also I still have not decided which bat is going to be main match bat, the AM or JEDi. The Mythos is for 20 20 but the pick up is awesome.

3 bats I am very happy with but I have promised myself should I get another bat it will be a TK.

BTW Gorgeous @e4sby !!!!!!



Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Yorkershire on January 11, 2019, 06:43:18 PM
PS funnily enough the AM bat has a very similar profile to the Diamond!
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on January 11, 2019, 07:35:03 PM
Proper full profile, shorter blade, middle not too high or low, lightweight and fantastic grainage.
A terrific buy, that. Lovely stick. I'd be happy to walk out to bat with it.

I just hope I can do it justice....
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Ramis_78645 on January 11, 2019, 10:27:56 PM
Does this seem reasonable for a LE bat despite the heartwood ? Hope it doesn't crack when I take it to the bowling machine tomorrow . It still keeps getting seam indentations which wasn't the case with my GM Octane LE when I knocked it in , hence thew worry of it being cracked.

https://imgur.com/a/37k2PA1
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Mattsky on January 11, 2019, 10:36:54 PM
@DorsetDan

Does the Diamond not feature the "...shorter than traditional blade length at 540mm"?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: brokenbat on January 11, 2019, 11:18:04 PM
@DorsetDan

Does the Diamond not feature the "...shorter than traditional blade length at 540mm"?

The Players Edition is full length. There was initially a typo on the GM site.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Cholrudee on January 12, 2019, 05:23:02 AM
Does this seem reasonable for a LE bat despite the heartwood ? Hope it doesn't crack when I take it to the bowling machine tomorrow . It still keeps getting seam indentations which wasn't the case with my GM Octane LE when I knocked it in , hence thew worry of it being cracked.

https://imgur.com/a/37k2PA1


Bowling machine balls are a No No for knocking in bat blades.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: LateBloomer on January 12, 2019, 06:46:36 AM

Bowling machine balls are a No No for knocking in bat blades.

I disagree, Ive used the bowling machine between knocking in and match use on several bats and has worked perfectly
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: FattusCattus on January 12, 2019, 10:39:09 AM

Bowling machine balls are a No No for knocking in bat blades.

Please explain why?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SOULMAN1012 on January 12, 2019, 02:15:38 PM

Bowling machine balls are a No No for knocking in bat blades.

Nonsense used bola balls to knock in in and get my bats match ready for years and had no issues
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: ProCricketer1982 on January 12, 2019, 03:48:17 PM

Bowling machine balls are a No No for knocking in bat blades.

Why ?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Six Sixes Cricket on January 12, 2019, 06:40:20 PM
Does this seem reasonable for a LE bat despite the heartwood ? Hope it doesn't crack when I take it to the bowling machine tomorrow . It still keeps getting seam indentations which wasn't the case with my GM Octane LE when I knocked it in , hence thew worry of it being cracked.

https://imgur.com/a/37k2PA1
The bat looks lovely. Are you getting seam indentations in the actual willow or in the scuff sheet? Also they are match ready, so no need to do loads of knocking in. Get in the nets, hit plenty of bola balls and enjoy
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: InternalTraining on January 12, 2019, 07:12:45 PM

Bowling machine balls are a No No for knocking in bat blades.

I got the same advice from Laver, don't use Bola fed balls for bat knocking. I stand by that suggestion as Bola balls do hit the bat a late harder and also at the same/close proximity of the same spot over and over again which could lead to early delamination in a new bat.

Best way to knock a bat in order of effeciveness:

- Light mallet work followed by old, soft leather balls in nets - takes longer but an even bat knocking experience.
- Mallet work - slow and gentle to heavy.
- Mallet and machine knocking ( I have to say that my machine knocked bat pings incredibly well )
- Buy a Kranzie ($$$$) and don't knock , they are pretty good to go out of the box.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Ajdal on January 12, 2019, 07:25:05 PM
I got the same advice from Laver, don't use Bola fed balls for bat knocking. I stand by that suggestion as Bola balls do hit the bat a late harder and also at the same/close proximity of the same spot over and over again which could lead to early delamination in a new bat.

Best way to knock a bat in order of effeciveness:

- Light mallet work followed by old, soft leather balls in nets - takes longer but an even bat knocking experience.
- Mallet work - slow and gentle to heavy.
- Mallet and machine knocking ( I have to say that my machine knocked bat pings incredibly well )
- Buy a Kranzie ($$$$) and don't knock , they are pretty good to go out of the box.


Of all the people on the forum, I think I wanna see you bat the most!!
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Ramis_78645 on January 12, 2019, 09:40:26 PM
@Six Sixes Cricket I’m getting them on the scuff sheet itself , when I ping it with the ball . I guess it’s ready to go in the nets ?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Six Sixes Cricket on January 12, 2019, 09:45:37 PM
@Six Sixes Cricket I’m getting them on the scuff sheet itself , when I ping it with the ball . I guess it’s ready to go in the nets ?
That’s fine then, Go for it 👍
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: LateBloomer on January 12, 2019, 11:06:53 PM
I got the same advice from Laver, don't use Bola fed balls for bat knocking. I stand by that suggestion as Bola balls do hit the bat a late harder and also at the same/close proximity of the same spot over and over again which could lead to early delamination in a new bat.


Absolute nonsense  :D but each to their own
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: InternalTraining on January 13, 2019, 12:25:39 AM

Of all the people on the forum, I think I wanna see you bat the most!!

Ok. It is good to emphatically desire things in life. There are no free lunches. Do some good in the world, good karma always helps. Your wish(es) might be rewarded. Someday.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: InternalTraining on January 13, 2019, 12:27:40 AM
Absolute nonsense  :D but each to their own

I am with team Laver. You are not. As you said "each to their own". Enjoy the peace and quiet. :D
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Ramis_78645 on January 13, 2019, 03:51:44 PM
Had a net session with the Noir and it pings everywhere. Already got some cherries on it and 93 not out in a practice game 👍 Luckily there were no cracks 😅
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on January 13, 2019, 05:58:09 PM
Absolute nonsense  :D but each to their own
One of my teammates used bola balls in nets for 2 straight weeks, the following week his bat broke into two pieces. He paid £225 for it and it was such a good bat.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: billyb on January 13, 2019, 06:23:24 PM
Stunning bat OP! I'm very happy with my 909. Great bats. Could almost tempt myself with the Diamond Original pads too!
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: ProCricketer1982 on January 13, 2019, 08:15:13 PM
One of my teammates used bola balls in nets for 2 straight weeks, the following week his bat broke into two pieces. He paid £225 for it and it was such a good bat.

One of my mates too at £230 bat and did all the correct knocking in .. first game.. snapped clean through 4th ball.. such a good bat


Ps it was storm damage 🙈 more just to highlight bats break regardless of cost. Cost doesn’t equal durability or performance sadly. Same with anything.. see a lot of cars <insert makes of your choice>  new reg and broken down.. great way to spend 30k+ to break down ..
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on January 14, 2019, 10:43:30 PM
I wonder instead of Bola balls, can we use old match balls with the bowling machine?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Ayrtek Cricket on January 14, 2019, 10:45:47 PM
The wheels inside the machine don’t fare to well with the seams as it will wear them quicker than using actual dimpled bowling machine balls. It will also lead to larger variation in deoveries when the wheels hit the seam etc.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SD on January 15, 2019, 09:22:52 AM
There does seem to be a big difference of opinion as to whether using the bola is a good way to knock in a bat.  I have always found it to be an excellent way of getting a bat ready for use in games after work with the mallet.  If you watch slow motion footage of a bola ball hitting the blade, it's softness means that the ball flattens on impact, therefore spreading the force of the ball across a wider surface areas, whereas a cricket ball is harder and suffers less compression so that the force of the ball impacts on a smaller area on the blade.   

Using a bola frequently will probably impact on the lifespan of a bat though as for a recreational cricketer, you are unlikely to haver the chance to face actual bowlers in the nets anywhere near as often as you can book a net with a bowling machine so you will are far more deliveries in a shorter period of time if you frequent bat against bowling machines

Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Ramis_78645 on January 16, 2019, 12:59:19 PM
How long can a player edition / limited edition GM bat be used for ? I’m guessing around a year then it’s time to buy a new one ? I don’t know what to do with my old GM bats as they are placed in the store room doing nothing .
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Batoff on January 16, 2019, 01:15:09 PM
How long can a player edition / limited edition GM bat be used for ? I’m guessing around a year then it’s time to buy a new one ? I don’t know what to do with my old GM bats as they are placed in the store room doing nothing .

Until it breaks beyond repair?
This may be the wrong forum for such questions, but... Other than vanity, is there any real reason to replace a bat every year if it's not broken?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: dtl2018 on March 14, 2019, 02:28:01 PM
Has anyone else bought a Ben Stokes Player Edition bat?

I really like the shape but would prefer some more feedback before parting with £500?

Any other PE bats worth having?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SOULMAN1012 on March 14, 2019, 02:59:31 PM
Has anyone else bought a Ben Stokes Player Edition bat?

I really like the shape but would prefer some more feedback before parting with £500?

Any other PE bats worth having?

@JTtaylor145 has one for sale for £300 and has owned more bats than most so he may be able to answer any questions you have and you may be able to grab a bargain
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: JTtaylor145 on March 14, 2019, 03:10:30 PM
@SOULMAN1012 is right...I have owned an awful lot of bats  :(

The GM Ben Stokes Diamond Edition was/is a lovely bat. It's a different profile/shape/blade length from the normal Diamond model. It picks up fantastically well for its weight and the performance was good albeit it perhaps still a bit GM 'harder press' to begin with. In some ways I preferred the shorter blade full profile of the normal Diamond. I think the thing with these GM player editions bats are that they are very good. They pick up well, they perform well and are just decent bats. Whether you choose to spend between £450-500 is up to you. If you choose to spend that kind of money you will get a very good bat...but you could spend half the money and still get a very good bat.

I've just come to the conclusion that at 42 years old and playing 3XI cricket in Division 4 that I don't want or need a £450 bat. I'd rather have 2 bats at £225 each  :) :)

Is a GM Players Edition as good as a Keeley Superior, a Chase, a 3 Stripe B3 LE that's up to people to decide. You pay your money - you take your choice. 
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Northern monkey on March 15, 2019, 09:01:37 AM
Can’t take my eyes off that lovely travisher!
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: adb club cricketer on March 15, 2019, 07:15:32 PM
Wow.. Each of those player shapes are something!
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: potzy248 on March 16, 2019, 08:08:23 PM
I managed to pick up one of Travis Heads actual bats he used last season and the bottom hand is ridiculously Oval in shape. The blade shape is same but the handle is very different from the Players edition. Maybe they just go with the same Handles for all the PE bats?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on March 24, 2019, 08:28:59 PM
Used the bat for the first time today. Toe guard lasted about a dozen balls but boy does the bat fly! Think I need to add a little tape to the handle and it’ll be perfect. Bats about 2oz heavier than i used last season, didn’t seem to cause any issues, felt I was early on a few shots rather than late.

Looking forward to using it on a grass wicket not the bouncy indoor surface we use for nets
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on March 25, 2019, 11:34:05 AM
I ripped it off and chucked it into the back of the net

The bat is special! Shame the batsman using it can’t do it justice
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Yorkershire on March 25, 2019, 12:01:20 PM
I found the same thing @e4sby - toe guard starting coming off very early but I guess that is down to the very un-GM toe shape. Dab of superglued fixed it. Awesome to hear the bat is going well :D

My toe guard in a new 808 is starting to come away too.. what glue did you use?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on April 14, 2019, 09:44:53 PM
Right...

Dilemma!

Had my last indoor net today and after a couple of crap nets went back to my faithful CF and had my best net in a long while. I put it down to it being 1.5oz lighter than the Stokes

Questions is... do I -

1) sell the Stokes (used in 1 net session at probably a £100 loss)

2) get 1.5oz removed?

3) persevere and hopefully I’ll get used to the extra 1.5oz as it could possibly just be in my head?

Cheers
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: mr_reagan on April 14, 2019, 10:29:57 PM
i say sell it, not because i want to buy it of course  ;)
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on April 14, 2019, 11:17:19 PM
Or send it to me for safekeeping. I will give it back to you once you get used to that 1.5 oz extra weight.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: AJ2014 on April 15, 2019, 07:54:39 AM
Right...

Dilemma!

Had my last indoor net today and after a couple of crap nets went back to my faithful CF and had my best net in a long while. I put it down to it being 1.5oz lighter than the Stokes

Questions is... do I -

1) sell the Stokes (used in 1 net session at probably a £100 loss)

2) get 1.5oz removed?

3) persevere and hopefully I’ll get used to the extra 1.5oz as it could possibly just be in my head?

Cheers
Weight reduction, that should be fine then, if still not to your liking then you can still sell it for whatever £ loss  most likely you'll use it, if not as a match bat, in the nets, I'm sure you will enjoy it not regret it
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: alexhilly1492 on April 15, 2019, 07:56:27 AM
isnt 1.5oz quite a substantial amount of wood?

id say try and get used to it?

how many grips do you use? if its one try adding a second (i find a thicker handle helps a bat seem lighter!)
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: jayralh on April 15, 2019, 08:02:30 AM
I got 2 bats for this season. One is under 2.10 other is over 2.12. I was selling heavier one but after playing around with handle and few other things it came up so balanced that I kept it. And used it yesterday in practice match and felt perfect in hands.
My point is try to change grips etc and you might find it's right for you. I got used to my bat with 2oz difference as long as it felt right.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Seniorplayer on April 15, 2019, 08:08:41 AM
I recently bought a GM Noir Original LE but I’m a bit worried to play with it . I’ve knocked it in for like 4 hours but when I ping it with a ball I seem to get seam indentations . Is there anything I can do about this as I don’t want to crack the bat ?

I would continue to knock your bat in until ball indentations cease to appear.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on April 15, 2019, 01:33:01 PM
I got 2 bats for this season. One is under 2.10 other is over 2.12. I was selling heavier one but after playing around with handle and few other things it came up so balanced that I kept it. And used it yesterday in practice match and felt perfect in hands.
My point is try to change grips etc and you might find it's right for you. I got used to my bat with 2oz difference as long as it felt right.
I used to think the same but I used 2.11.5 for one full season and it has caused me to have tennis elbow. I can’t bat long due to this excruciating pain.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: adb club cricketer on April 15, 2019, 02:32:07 PM
Even 0.5 oz is guite a difference  if one is not strong enough. I have tried many times but found that I just can't bat properly with a bat even 0.5 oz heavier than my usual bat weight. About adding second grip to make it balanced, I also find it only helps pickup for straight bat shots somewhat (not fully) but the added weight shows in cross bat shots. The weight difference feels even more uncomfortable the longer one plays into the innings. So it all depends on ones strength. Stronger guys - I am sure cant even notice difference in 2 oz weight :)


Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on April 17, 2019, 10:30:46 PM
Yesterday, I received my first GM player bat. All I can say is I am very impressed with the feel and ping. Definitely one of the best bats I have owned. I just love thick oval handles.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Bwcc on April 17, 2019, 11:14:10 PM
Even 0.5 oz is guite a difference  if one is not strong enough.
You do realise that 0.5 oz is 15g? Googled quickly so may be wrong but 15g is about the weight of a cd/dvd.
If people can actually tell the difference between 2.9 and 2.9.5 I’d be amazed I know the pros can’t
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: prim0pyr0 on April 18, 2019, 07:56:25 AM
You do realise that 0.5 oz is 15g? Googled quickly so may be wrong but 15g is about the weight of a cd/dvd.
If people can actually tell the difference between 2.9 and 2.9.5 I’d be amazed I know the pros can’t

15g on a 28" lever(ie on end of bat) has more weight feeling than holding a 15g cd/dvd
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: edge on April 18, 2019, 08:39:10 AM
I'm as fussy as the next bat nuffie but 0.5oz is about the weight of a scuff sheet... if that's bothering you then it's definitely you that's the problem, not the weight!
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: strang on April 18, 2019, 02:26:20 PM
I'm not sure about the whole lever analogy. I've been thinking about it a bit and we don't really lever pivot from the grip, more like it should be felt further up the arm, maybe in the shoulder joint. That where the shot is pivoting from.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: mr_reagan on April 18, 2019, 05:10:29 PM
Yesterday, I received my first GM player bat. All I can say is I am very impressed with the feel and ping. Definitely one of the best bats I have owned. I just love thick oval handles.

pictures or it didnt happen xD
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on April 18, 2019, 05:23:24 PM
I’m waiting for a reply from GM regarding a weight reduction.

Could you chase this up for me please @Edward Lowy
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on April 18, 2019, 05:41:12 PM
pictures or it didnt happen xD
I will post pictures once I get my other GM player edition as well. :D
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: alexhilly1492 on April 18, 2019, 06:37:23 PM
I will post pictures once I get my other GM player edition as well. :D

Other? Ooooo!

Which ones did you go for?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on April 18, 2019, 10:15:30 PM
Other? Ooooo!

Which ones did you go for?
I am getting used one. Shane Watson! It is simply amazing.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on April 24, 2019, 05:58:08 AM
Quote
Its doubtful we would get much more weight out of your bat without potentially making it more prone to damage. We would probably get no more than 1 oz out of your bat

Got an interesting reply from GM - not sure why concaving the bat by a couple of millimetres would make it more prone to damage...
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: potzy248 on April 24, 2019, 07:28:33 AM
I am getting used one. Shane Watson! It is simply amazing.

Photos or it doesn't exist.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on April 24, 2019, 02:03:46 PM
Photos or it doesn't exist.
I hope this works!

https://postimg.cc/gallery/2a1ubwtd4/
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: raza147 on April 24, 2019, 03:19:33 PM
used my stokes player edition for the first time on sunday, scored 127 and all i can say is its an absolute weapon
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on April 24, 2019, 03:30:19 PM
Update:

Spoke to Kev at GM head batmaker (possibly) and discussed removing some weight from the bat - no problems at all so will be sending it in for a slight weight reduction this week
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Akith.di@gmail.com on May 05, 2019, 04:32:58 AM
Seriously thinking of grabbing one of these!
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on May 10, 2019, 08:46:02 PM
The bat is back 1.5oz lighter and still looking a sizeable bat. Picks up much better but won’t be getting a look in anytime soon, my old faithful has scored me close to 100 runs last 2 league games

Will post photos next couple of days
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: JB on May 11, 2019, 09:02:40 AM
Good that it’s not reduced too much size, was it expensive to get done?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on May 11, 2019, 09:39:14 AM
Before

(https://i.ibb.co/GsyvCzD/D2515-C04-B99-E-49-C0-98-D9-996-BDB9413-C3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VHRWMfG)

After

(https://i.ibb.co/Rh6TVzG/0403534-B-3-DDF-4278-99-FA-75405-B20-E678.jpg) (https://ibb.co/f8NdP4V)
free dice app (https://freeonlinedice.com/)

Before

(https://i.ibb.co/TkD7RXq/EC1-B113-C-7828-4-A00-A7-F0-D516330-D9798.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NsgJphn)

After

(https://i.ibb.co/Bt8wKct/FBB31-EA2-10-EC-4929-866-D-820594-C9-EFF5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/G0gF3n0)


Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on May 11, 2019, 09:41:36 AM
I actually prefer the new shape, I’m going to thicken the handle a little and will be definitely getting kept

Cost was £50 for the work which has made it a very expensive bat!

I was surprised GM didn’t put a new toe guard on and the finish isn’t as good as it was originally, that could be me being fussy

Turn around was fantastic, received bat back within 3 days once Kev was back in workshop
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on May 11, 2019, 10:17:24 AM
In my head it looks slightly more duckbilled but I could be wrong
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: AJ2014 on May 11, 2019, 10:47:37 AM
I actually prefer the new shape, I’m going to thicken the handle a little and will be definitely getting kept

Cost was £50 for the work which has made it a very expensive bat!

I was surprised GM didn’t put a new toe guard on and the finish isn’t as good as it was originally, that could be me being fussy

Turn around was fantastic, received bat back within 3 days once Kev was back in workshop
Looks good and very usable now, spending £50 more or selling at £100 loss, a bat that feel and know is very high quality is difficult to get, so I would day you've taken right decision, I'm sure you're going to use it soon, can't leave it alone for longer time 😀
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: AJ2014 on May 11, 2019, 10:50:39 AM
Done same weight loss of only 1 oz, toe area, but it's feel is better and it's the one I wouldn't be getting hand on another as it's one of it's kind 😀
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on October 23, 2019, 10:45:51 AM
All set for the 2020 season!

(https://i.postimg.cc/Z5L93PXF/1-CEE9-F51-FE60-4-E9-A-8-A11-C4-BF2-C2-D887-B.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)

(https://i.postimg.cc/W4bd7FvR/D15-E0-ED7-D6-F6-48-D4-881-A-511-F921-E20-B1.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)

A bit of a latecomer to this thread, but my word, these Stokes bats are spectacularly good.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: thedevil on October 23, 2019, 10:52:04 AM
Lost for words  :(
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: velvetsky01 on October 23, 2019, 10:54:32 AM
thats just ridiculous - are you planning not to knock any of them in and use one for each game you play? madness lol (im only jealous ha)
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Wazza08 on October 23, 2019, 11:15:45 AM
 :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(
I'd be dead divorced if i had a stash like that!
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on October 23, 2019, 11:15:57 AM
thats just ridiculous - are you planning not to knock any of them in and use one for each game you play? madness lol (im only jealous ha)

I never knock bats in... no patience for it! Next season I’ll be playing Saturday and Sunday, Wednesday evening 20/20, 1 midweek match, and nets on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, so they all should get used. I really regret buying all the other bats I have now, as even if I manage to get rid of them all, it will be for a fairly hefty loss.  :(
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on October 23, 2019, 11:28:51 AM
:( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(
I'd be dead divorced if i had a stash like that!

Funnily enough, the better half is fine with me having 8 identical bats. It’s the other 12 random bats I have hidden in the garage that she found a few weeks back that she has the real problem with.  :D
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: thedevil on October 23, 2019, 11:45:24 AM
I sense a very decent for sale thread Coming if this is your standard of bat  :D
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on October 23, 2019, 12:17:18 PM
I sense a very decent for sale thread Coming if this is your standard of bat  :D

 :D Maybe!

On the plus side, at least you know that if Ciaran! buys then flips them he won’t have put a higher grade sticker on it than it actually is... 
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on October 23, 2019, 12:17:53 PM
One bat would get through that fine (sorry for the heresy) ;) :D I love the worry about losing money selling others, having bought 8 £500-600 bats  :D

Wash your mouth out. One bat is madness.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: brokenbat on November 01, 2019, 07:33:32 PM
@SouthpawMark you are my hero. Next time the Mrs complains, I will just pull up this thread.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on November 01, 2019, 07:39:02 PM
@SouthpawMark you are my hero. Next time the Mrs complains, I will just pull up this thread.

Thank you. I’ll pop a fan club badge in the post! You are member #0001
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: AlanB on November 01, 2019, 08:42:28 PM
If there is one site to unashamedly display such a bat stash, this is it.
It is at its best with this post.
Thank you for doing so.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on February 20, 2020, 10:07:50 AM
I’ve had a hit with all 10 now, both against the bola, and against the filth served up in early pre-season nets. There’s one that feels a little bit firmer than the rest, so that’s going to be my net bat. The rest all feel buttery soft and are pingtastic. Can’t wait for April to arrive.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Psi on February 20, 2020, 10:41:30 AM
And just remind us... Why do you need 10?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SOULMAN1012 on February 20, 2020, 10:45:49 AM
And just remind us... Why do you need 10?

Because it’s his money and he is free to spend it on what he wants and he clearly has good taste and a willow addiction so prefect for this place.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: e4sby on February 20, 2020, 10:57:34 AM
I regret selling mine...
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: shentser on February 20, 2020, 12:50:29 PM
My daughters pal has one of stokes bats that she won in a fundraising raffle at her local club in Co . Durham.

I will see if I can get some pics of it when they are next at training.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on February 20, 2020, 03:49:39 PM
And just remind us... Why do you need 10?

Because 11 is too many, and 9 isn’t enough.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Buzz on February 20, 2020, 05:05:47 PM
Because 11 is too many, and 9 isn’t enough.

Sorry, how can 11 be too many?

Who is the poor sod in your team who doesn't get to borrow one? Or is that the stubborn old bloke with his 1990s ss turbo?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: mr_reagan on February 20, 2020, 05:12:55 PM
Just when i was starting to forget about these this thread had to be brought back up. Seriously tempted to buy one despite the fact i have a b3 crown in the trott shape im yet to use
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Kulli on February 20, 2020, 05:13:55 PM
I really want one, just need to find one 2’9 or less 😀🤣
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on February 20, 2020, 05:19:29 PM
Sorry, how can 11 be too many?

Who is the poor sod in your team who doesn't get to borrow one? Or is that the stubborn old bloke with his 1990s ss turbo?

If you saw our #11 bat you wouldn’t even let him borrow a bat bought from a petrol station that came in a bag made of netting, with 4 stumps, a bail and a rubber ball.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on February 20, 2020, 09:33:43 PM
What happened??
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Buzz on February 20, 2020, 09:36:20 PM
Some banning and editing happened.
First time in ages.
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on February 20, 2020, 09:52:39 PM
Some banning and editing happened.
First time in ages.

If I guess who, do I win a prize?
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: JB on February 20, 2020, 10:04:58 PM
Some banning and editing happened.
First time in ages.

Don’t look all day for once and something happens
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: KW9221 on February 20, 2020, 10:10:15 PM
Some banning and editing happened.
First time in ages.
It had to be done! Good job @Buzz
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: SouthpawMark on February 20, 2020, 10:13:05 PM
It had to be done! Good job @Buzz

James Bond always gets his man in the end...
Title: Re: GM Diamond Ben Stokes Player Edition
Post by: Psi on February 21, 2020, 01:09:13 AM
Damn I missed the banned messages too. I was in Mr Cricket today looking at some Ben Stokes Player bats. Very nice. If I had the money I might get a few. Of all the bats there the GMs are the best value from the look of them, closely followed by the Kooks. Even the 606s and 707s look good as or better than many of the over £250 offerings from Chase, Newbery, Spartan, SF, GN, etc. I'm only going by looks though. They have some lovely looking H4L there as well.