Custom Bats Cricket Forum
Equipment => Bats => Bat Making => Topic started by: billyb on December 10, 2020, 10:16:04 PM
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I'd love to see a competition where batmakers send in their best bats made to the same spec for comparison, but I doubt that would happen.
So who do you think is the bee's knees?
Is it Keeley of Sussex fame? Pack, of the Irthlingborough Cave? Kember of the Salix Clan? Is it one of our very own, on this forum, like @Red Ink Cricket?
Maybe it is someone at Gray Nics, or @Kippax, Charlie French...
Who makes the mightiest wand in the land?
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I think it all depends what you want in your bat. At the minute I've got a TK made, a H4L and a Red Ink and all are very nice bats but for different reasons.
TK makes a very well balanced bat but the TKs I've had have all sacrificed weight in the toe and shoulder to achieve this. Specs are generous for the weight but the handle is very thin and had to be built up even for a smaller bloke.
H4L hasn't seen any use in anger but it's super grainy, the response from an old ball and mallet is excellent and again good specs for the weight. However, it doesn't pick up quite as nicely as the TK, probably owing to the amount of weight left in the toe. Finishing however is excellent.
Red Ink was the value bat. Really nicely balanced, good spread of coverage, thick toe, thick shoulders and a thick handle. Specs not as generous as the other two but mallet and old ball response is very nice, and the price for a custom is significantly cheaper than either TK or H4L.
So even in my limited collection, there's things that each maker does well and not so well. I hear people rave about the finishing of a Salix, I've had a Kippax which was enormous but didn't pick up very well, etc.. So I think the difficulty in declaring a top maker is that we all want something different in a "great" bat.
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Best bat i have ever used to date, is a 3lb H4L Pro Grade. Still got it mind you. Have had it for 5 years. Its gone through plenty of refurbs but it is still the best pinging bat i have atm and have ever owned!
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all about the sheer amount of wood, lack of concaving and does it go all over the bat. If it's pretty.. great... if it's got some lovely 'buff' on it.. great.. but if it ain't a go'er then tbh, that's all just window dressing (which is what a lot of people choose or fall for depending on your view point).
The best bat's I've personally used are
Rob Pack - Had nothing but guns. Saw 2 bat's I'd class as 'standard' ones to others dotted around
Matt H4L devil from 2016 ish
A second hand salix in one game which was a weapon but I could never justify the price as the others I've seen look good but were nothing special bat wise so I was worried about over paying for a standard bat.
all mine are 2.9/2.10
just my view though
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This is a really difficult one, especially if you have had every single bat made by every single brand.
I think you would have to exclude the big brands from any discussion as they may have multiple bat makers.
That leaves you with amongst others (the smaller boutique brands):
Rob Pack
Nick Nixon
Paul Aldred
John @ Red Ink
Ed @JN Garrard Bats
Matt @H4L
Charlie French
AJK
To each their own. I've had great TK/Newbery bats, good Hunts County Bats, great Garrard bats, etc. etc.
What do we consider to be the most important factor in terms of bat-making? Is it performance, durability, pick up and balance, shape/size?
I personally like bat makers that individually press their bats. I don't like the man but I can't say I've had a bad Aldred bat. They are all heavier than expected but they all perform well. They are all reasonably big profiles. I just can't put up with his views/opinions so wouldn't spend my money with him anymore.
If I had a unlimited budget and could choose only one UK bat maker I would go to Aldred or maybe Rob Pack, or possible Ed as he is a mate and only 2 miles from home or maybe Andrew Kember. In truth I have no idea. Bats are so variable and what I might think of as rubbish I could give to someone else and they could love it and think it was the best bat ever.
The truth of the matter is that we all should support UK bat makers and ideally the smaller brands we like/love so that the skills aren't lost. Find a bat maker you like (or several) and just use them and enjoy the experience of buying a bat. I just love bats and the feeling of getting a new one...and then selling it for a minimum 50% loss :(
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The truth of the matter is that we all should support UK bat makers and ideally the smaller brands we like/love so that the skills aren't lost. Find a bat maker you like (or several) and just use them and enjoy the experience of buying a bat. I just love bats and the feeling of getting a new one...and then selling it for a minimum 50% loss :(
Bar losing 50% on every bat, well on board with this. If you've got the money (and not everyone does, let's be fair) then it's a great option to support some of the smaller guys. I love the personal level of service you get with the smaller batmakers and kit suppliers, plus there are some cracking deals to be had.
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I think all batmakers have their own quirks, and as much as I'd like to see the results of a competition - it wouldn't be indicative of what batmakers are truly capable of. Every batmaker has their forte, probably based on what their customer demands are like. (ie. I'd imagine Aldred would do Butterfly better than most, H4L do monster sized bats better than most, etc etc.) It would probably do the consumers no good if they all flock to the 'winner' - they would probably get more orders than what they could fulfill, probably rush to get them out, might cut corners etc. etc., while other worthy batmakers go under the radar a bit. We're very lucky to be able to actually talk to a batmaker to figure out what we want.
Based on my experience, I love Keeley, H4L, and Robertsbridge made bats. I've seen a few other smaller batmakers bats, such as Scott and G&F, who have all been very impressive too. (Most of the bats I've had most success with have been from India and NZ.)
The most important aspect of a bat is that you enjoy using it! Does dealing in boundaries by swinging from the hip please you most? Get something with a stiff handle with a slightly firm press. Do you like to have that glorious silky feeling of driving the ball neatly into the gap for a well run 2? Get something with a slightly whippier feel. Does using a bat that your favourite batsman uses bring you enjoyment? Go for it, just make sure you get a good one! (Never underestimate the mental side of things, unless you're @19reading87)
What you feel is probably the most important thing - go with a maker who presses well, (most I've bought from do) but does the handle and pick up exactly the way you like it. (Again, I'm a collector, so I'll try anything from anyone/brand I like the look of.) Rebound is important, but as @sarg says, a premium rebound might net you a few more runs in the entire season. Pick up, feel and correct weight are the most important tangible things. Oh, and I also like high quality handles/handle fitting and non-storm damaged bats - nothing worse than finding a bat you love, only for it to split at the shoulder and never feel the same again even after rehandle.
all about the sheer amount of wood, lack of concaving and does it go all over the bat. If it's pretty.. great... if it's got some lovely 'buff' on it.. great.. but if it ain't a go'er then tbh, that's all just window dressing (which is what a lot of people choose or fall for depending on your view point).
The best bat's I've personally used are
Rob Pack - Had nothing but guns. Saw 2 bat's I'd class as 'standard' ones to others dotted around
Matt H4L devil from 2016 ish
A second hand salix in one game which was a weapon but I could never justify the price as the others I've seen look good but were nothing special bat wise so I was worried about over paying for a standard bat.
all mine are 2.9/2.10
just my view though
About time we got some RP specials on here. ;)
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Handles are key to what you think are the best bats - I could never use an H4L or Keeley, for example, but I'm well aware they make nice bats! The amount of batmakers with a great reputation in the UK is ever growing, we're spoilt for choice these days.
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Roger weston, choice willow, vulcan, vsports bats...there are quite a few to choose from. I personally love my keeley made blank bat. Only problem I found was the splice area to be too thin. Had to have a new handle fitted twice. I've got a custom made hunts I'm planning to use next season
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It is impossible to answer this question, it is so subjective.
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It is impossible to answer this question, it is so subjective.
Absolutely no excuse not to have a rambling 20 page thread on the respective merits of various batmakers until somebody gets in an argument :D
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I mean surely that's literally the point of a 'CustomBats' forum... 😉
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It is impossible to answer this question, it is so subjective.
I think a consensus would be arrived at quicker than the question of whether Butler, Foakes or Bairstow should keep wicket for England
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Well the best “Wand” must come from Willow & Wand lol.
Iv had my fair share of bats over the years and if I had to stick to one bat maker for the rest of my playing days it would be anything made by Kember. That’s purely due to the pressing being absolutely top notch, the finishing is second to none and the shapes offered cover all bases plus the design and styling is always classy and subtle which I like.
If found that after making a few bats now and being totally honest not feeling like I get much in the way of feeback or interest the branding plays such a vital part in people’s options. If people don’t like the look of the stickers than it’s almost a non starter (well I can only assume that from my point above.
From recent experience Ed Garrad is a superb bat maker and still very young compared to the big names mentioned so I have no doubt his stock will rise further in years to come.
In the same vain I think Scott is producing some stunning shapes and his branding and finish looks spot on as well.
It’s just each to there own, I actually think it’s harder to find a bad bat maker over a good bat bat maker these days as the overall quality is superb pretty much across the board
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Well the best “Wand” must come from Willow & Wand lol.
Iv had my fair share of bats over the years and if I had to stick to one bat maker for the rest of my playing days it would be anything made by Kember. That’s purely due to the pressing being absolutely top notch, the finishing is second to none and the shapes offered cover all bases plus the design and styling is always classy and subtle which I like.
If found that after making a few bats now and being totally honest not feeling like I get much in the way of feeback or interest the branding plays such a vital part in people’s options. If people don’t like the look of the stickers than it’s almost a non starter (well I can only assume that from my point above.
From recent experience Ed Garrad is a superb bat maker and still very young compared to the big names mentioned so I have no doubt his stock will rise further in years to come.
In the same vain I think Scott is producing some stunning shapes and his branding and finish looks spot on as well.
It’s just each to there own, I actually think it’s harder to find a bad bat maker over a good bat bat maker these days as the overall quality is superb pretty much across the board
I think that branding does play a role. I got my first bat from Ed Garrard at the start of last year purely on the basis that I thought that the branding is as good as anything there is on the market. There wasn't much I could find online from anyone reviewing the performance. As it happens it is a great bat and I have picked up another one this year (and I will certainly go to him again) but when taking a punt on something unknown, branding is important.
It certainly isn't the be all and end all though. My main match bat at the moment is a B3 and I have to concede that I neither like the name nor the branding
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I think that branding does play a role. I got my first bat from Ed Garrard at the start of last year purely on the basis that I thought that the branding is as good as anything there is on the market. There wasn't much I could find online from anyone reviewing the performance. As it happens it is a great bat and I have picked up another one this year (and I will certainly go to him again) but when taking a punt on something unknown, branding is important.
It certainly isn't the be all and end all though. My main match bat at the moment is a B3 and I have to concede that I neither like the name nor the branding
Branding plays a huge part. For example BB and Phantom are where TK made. One is £300 for G1 and the other £450 yet people are prepared to pay £150 more for the same bat but different stickers.
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Let’s see if the following can get a few more pages out of this thread 😂 :
why is b3/GM not on this list? They surely make some of the best bats out of the UK. And if using machines was an issue, TK would be disqualified as well.
The only ‘skill’ left in making a good bat is pressing and handling... shapes can be made by machines, and a “hand crafted” shape is no better than a “machine crafted” shape.
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Branding plays a huge part. For example BB and Phantom are where TK made. One is £300 for G1 and the other £450 yet people are prepared to pay £150 more for the same bat but different stickers.
Certainly a large part, but I wouldn't discount the standard shapes offered either. Not every TK shape is cookie cutter and if it fits exactly what someone wants then the extra cash can be very easy to justify as we all know!
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From my point of view, I’m just very pleased to have received an honourable mention, particularly against some of the other names being thrown about.
I think it’s clear that if you know where to look, then you can get a pretty amazing bat within your budget. But there is also a fair amount of lower standard stuff to filter through.
My advice is to find a brand that works for you. If it’s a Red Inker then amazing, if it’s a h4l or any other brand who produces top quality bats like that then that’s great too. If you don’t support us, we don’t exist and don’t have the opportunity to do what we love.
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Branding plays a huge part. For example BB and Phantom are where TK made. One is £300 for G1 and the other £450 yet people are prepared to pay £150 more for the same bat but different stickers.
Agreed, but I think it's also the case that a minority of players buying bats will have a clear idea who actually makes them and where there could get a bat from the same maker at a lower price.
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Think this just proves that there are some quality and diverse offerings out there to suit many budgets. What I would say is to almost echo John's comments. Support your UK batmakers/brands, whoever they are and you'll get a great bat at a good price, along with a personal experience.
If you buy from a respectable and decent brand, then you shouldn't get a lemon. If you do (and I needn't come across any with the ones I've dealt with), you'd expect it to be replaced anyway.
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Let’s see if the following can get a few more pages out of this thread 😂 :
why is b3/GM not on this list? They surely make some of the best bats out of the UK. And if using machines was an issue, TK would be disqualified as well.
The only ‘skill’ left in making a good bat is pressing and handling... shapes can be made by machines, and a “hand crafted” shape is no better than a “machine crafted” shape.
B3 imo are great but their prices aren’t particularly competitive imo.
GM in my experience make bats pressed like barn doors - that’s why they wouldn’t feature on my list.
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Branding plays a huge part. For example BB and Phantom are where TK made. One is £300 for G1 and the other £450 yet people are prepared to pay £150 more for the same bat but different stickers.
Branding does play a huge part, but phantom aren’t TK made.
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I had originally envisaged hand-crafted, traditional UK batmaking. Like John at Red Ink, H4L, Garrard, Rob Pack, Kember and so on. I read an article that suggested there are 20 proper bat makers in the UK. Are there that many?
I love GM bats (and have one now) and I admire their continued success, but B3 and GM are not, in my (mediocre) opinion, traditional batmaking - and so wouldn't be included.
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I'm guessing Phantom are made by B3 now. I won't add a question mark because I'm not expecting anyone to confirm.
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I love GM bats (and have one now) and I admire their continued success, but B3 and GM are not, in my (mediocre) opinion, traditional batmaking - and so wouldn't be included.
It's been said that Keeley uses the same method, and was in fact doing it first.
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Branding does play a huge part, but phantom aren’t TK made.
They certainly were at one point fairly recently so the point still stands in terms of how important branding is to the mainstream as someone else raised the point that 99% of the players don’t care about 99% of the things forum members look for in a bat.
Another point is GM certainly don’t press like a barn door it’s a firmer press but performance wise they are as good as any out there in my opinion. They do take a little longer but for me they have the best handle shapes on the market. I would guess like most of I could I would choose my bats from the best elements of all bats if it was possible. That’s what I try and do with the bats I make. Base my handles on a thick semi oval (GM) shape wise the on trend duckbill toe, large profile and then i finish as well as I am able with my skill set and tools at present.
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Does anyone have 2k to spare? Order an identical bat from each maker and see what you get back! :D
I've never heard that about Keeley! Wow.
(See, we've even opened a potential can of worms. This is a classic CBF thread.)
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I had originally envisaged hand-crafted, traditional UK batmaking. Like John at Red Ink, H4L, Garrard, Rob Pack, Kember and so on. I read an article that suggested there are 20 proper bat makers in the UK. Are there that many?
I love GM bats (and have one now) and I admire their continued success, but B3 and GM are not, in my (mediocre) opinion, traditional batmaking - and so wouldn't be included.
If you class a proper bat maker as crafting from the willow tree to the finished bat less than 20 but from cleft to finished bat that’s about right I think. There are of course plenty more me included that create from a part made Cleft to finished bat I would have no idea how many as some come and then some go.
Tradition meets innovation I guess. People say the price of a Salix is to high but they do all them selves so in my opinion the price is more justified than for example a B3. On the flip side B3 have a large retail premises and lots of no doubt costly machinery so you could argue there price is justified.
Again just my view point but I do agree with the sentiment that we need to support local U.K. bat makers, shapers, crafters or we will eventually lose the craft and the choice will be limited.
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GM seem in recent times to have been keen to re-emphasise the handmade element. Strange really when you consider how keen they were to show off how their new machine enabled them to produce identical duplication of bats.
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I'm guessing Phantom are made by B3 now. I won't add a question mark because I'm not expecting anyone to confirm.
Phantom aren’t U.K. made in recent times, but obviously are entitled to change this at any point.
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They certainly were at one point fairly recently so the point still stands in terms of how important branding is to the mainstream as someone else raised the point that 99% of the players don’t care about 99% of the things forum members look for in a bat.
Another point is GM certainly don’t press like a barn door it’s a firmer press but performance wise they are as good as any out there in my opinion. They do take a little longer but for me they have the best handle shapes on the market. I would guess like most of I could I would choose my bats from the best elements of all bats if it was possible. That’s what I try and do with the bats I make. Base my handles on a thick semi oval (GM) shape wise the on trend duckbill toe, large profile and then i finish as well as I am able with my skill set and tools at present.
Horses for courses Chris, I’ve had 3 and used 2 more and all of them have been over pressed - not just ‘firmer’. They were planks. Could they be exceptions? Absolutely. However I’ve heard lots of reviews that echo this.
Also, I don’t think Phantom have been U.K. made for at least 12-18 months, I know they use a variety of suppliers, but I’ve not seen a genuine TK from them for ages.
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Always had a soft spot for Warsop. One of my favourite bats ever was a 2.9 Marlin. Gorgeous.
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Horses for courses Chris, I’ve had 3 and used 2 more and all of them have been over pressed - not just ‘firmer’. They were planks. Could they be exceptions? Absolutely. However I’ve heard lots of reviews that echo this.
Also, I don’t think Phantom have been U.K. made for at least 12-18 months, I know they use a variety of suppliers, but I’ve not seen a genuine TK from them for ages.
Exactly mate before last season is used GM for 3 seasons and scored as many runs as I had in previous seasons with other brands they do take a little while to really loosen up but for any GM owner it’s not just the pressing that handles are very stiff so if you can loosen that handle a little ie the Marnus technique on the handle at slight angle makes a world of difference.
Regardless of if Phantom are now U.K. made or TK made they certainly where at one point and the price difference between them and say BB was large for the same product. Now lots of cricket players in fact the vast majority won’t know who makes there bats and believe mostly likely that phantom do. However for most the branding Made them part with there money on top
Of the fact that they would have been decent bats. As I say though the vast vast majority of bats are good bats regardless of where they come from and regardless of whom or what made them.
Let’s hope the trend reverts back to smaller U.K. bat makers on here as that allows some to start making a following at clubs and league across the country and will help keep a tradition that a lot of us like alive. However that comes at times at a little extra cost to a imported bat or sticker brand.
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Always had a soft spot for Warsop. One of my favourite bats ever was a 2.9 Marlin. Gorgeous.
Oooh there's a blast from the past. I wanted a Warsop when I saw Napier tear it up with one on TV!
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I don't believe there is such a thing, as 'best batmaker' for many reasons like people have commented previously. I also don't care if the bat was CNC'd or handcrafted with a travisher and spoke shaver; for me the most accomplished bat makers, must be able to press their own bats. I also doff my hat to those who innovate within industry.
Branding plays a huge part. For example BB and Phantom are where TK made. One is £300 for G1 and the other £450 yet people are prepared to pay £150 more for the same bat but different stickers.
Don't disagree with your initial sentiment on branding.
However, lets try and be factual when throwing around figures. Having just checked the website for both vendors; a standard range G1 from BB can be purchased for £285 which is defined as LE grade and a similar G1 from Phantom, is £255 and defined as Players grade.
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Phantom aren’t U.K. made in recent times, but obviously are entitled to change this at any point.
Or disappear altogether? Like a real phantom bat brand might?
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I don't believe there is such a thing, as 'best batmaker' for many reasons like people have commented previously. I also don't care if the bat was CNC'd or handcrafted with a travisher and spoke shaver; for me the most accomplished bat makers, must be able to press their own bats. I also doff my hat to those who innovate within industry.
Don't disagree with your initial sentiment on branding.
However, lets try and be factual when throwing around figures. Having just checked the website for both vendors; a standard range G1 from BB can be purchased for £285 which is defined as LE grade and a similar G1 from Phantom, is £255 and defined as Players grade.
Sorry I only looked at the top end prices which was £325 and £450 for a dark edition or £550 for this anniversary model. Again the power of branding. Limited to X number etc. Only because again and it’s just my view there is no G1++ nonsense it’s just sum are nicer to look at that others or have more grains and that’s a way to charge more.
Again that’s just my view and personally I just Grade between G3 to G1 as that’s what I buy my willow as so that’s what I feel it should be sold to anyone as.
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This is a tough question to narrow down. As @Buzz said it is subjective. I’m rocking a Rob Pack as my main bay as of this week that will be reviewed in tomorrow’s bat giveaway video. I like TK and Kember made bats. Matt at H4L makes some weapons. I have purchased many B3 as i wanted input into the shape. I have used Chase. Being so far away there are many i have missed.
I think if you have the ability to visit your local maker, see their bats and chat then your going to get the most out of them.
I guess on sheer volume and experience over the years the Keeley Brothers would be hard to beat.
That said the two Rob Packs i have seen this year have been really pleasing as he has put so much work into making and preparing them and one of them is mine now 🤟
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If you use that many different bats, I wonder if you can really be using any of them enough to be getting the very best out of them.
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(https://i.postimg.cc/MTSNmskM/Screenshot-2020-12-11-184843.png) (https://postimages.org/) (https://postimages.org/)
Anybody I've missed? There is so much variety on that list, and so many great batmakers! The people I personally think we should be supporting.
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Robert James
Hunts County
@edge
@Churchy1989
Chris King (GN)
JEDi
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(https://i.postimg.cc/MTSNmskM/Screenshot-2020-12-11-184843.png) (https://postimages.org/) (https://postimages.org/)
Anybody I've missed? There is so much variety on that list, and so many great batmakers! The people I personally think we should be supporting.
Very much appreciate being part of that list! Thanks!
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Maybe the forum's going to return to what was supposed to be about?
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‘Best batmaker in uk’
Hugely subjective,, and a question I think should be asked on a custom bat forum regularly.
Not sure how you’d define best, as I’m sure most people have different expectations.
Me personally, as a consumer, I look at EVERYTHING, by this, I mean, the bats no good if it looks amazing but doesn’t ping, either due to pressing or whatever,,,balance and pick up have to be fairly decent, handle shape/thickness,,,etc etc
The last bat I payed for and used was a H4l,,,in my eyes, the best .
Matt plays cricket, understands what a bat has to do, has access to in my eyes the best supply of willow,, and offers decent value for money.
Hence why I ONLY use him for my willow.
I’ve played cricket for over 40yrs now, and had bats pass through my hands from most makers/suppliers/brands including those on previous lists..
I’d say most if not all, can make a decent bat, at most price points,,,,it’s just that my batting needs all the help it can get, so I’ve always wanted the best that’s available at any one time.
Being honest here,,,,I have a B3 that’s amazing, I have a GM that’s amazing, I have several tk bats that are amazing, but,,there’s no way,I’d buy one now,,discounting the fact I can shape my own bats, the only bats I,ve consistently used/seen/tapped up are Matts at H4l, I’d be happy to buy his bats sight unseen,,,,unfortunately I couldn’t and wouldn’t do that with any other uk bat supplier.
Indian made,,,well that’s a different story, and I’m sure would be a very interesting thread.
And yes,,,would be nice if we all supported uk brands,,,especially at this time, and with the fantastic choice of suppliers out there
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Maybe the forum's going to return to what was supposed to be about?
Bats and cricket?
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Missed off Vulcan cricket & Xx/Norfolk cricket, I’ve had all my bats from bat makers on this list and I certainly wouldn’t look at any other brands
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Solitaire too. Isn’t there a list/map, albeit outdated, on the homepage.
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Warrior, World Class Willow, BTC, BT Blades, Wombat, Morton & Carson to add to that list too.
It also depends on what you term batmaker, but that's another debate! :D
I think the main point is that all these brands offer a good product. Some will do more of the process than others due to equipment, experience etc.
In terms of performance. I tried quite a few when I was shaping from part mades and all were very good, some more consistent than others. Although I won't rank these on here, as never had a proper dud from any supplier in the UK.
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For me
Tim Keeley
Paul Aldred
Matt H4L (need another in my life soon)
Andrew Kember
B3
Kippax (after having one exception bat a few years ago)
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Only other UK batmakers I can think of who press clefts are:
The Mangled Bat Company
Lionheart Cricket
Nixon Cricket (still active on Facebook)
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Bats and cricket?
Independent UK batmakers keeping the tradition alive. That's who the site was set up to support.
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Often scoffed at here, but the fella at Woodstock is a batmaker of sorts?
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Often scoffed at he, but the fella at Woodstock is a batmaker of sorts?
Their business model is "interesting" but the few Woodstocks I've ever seen were very nice looking bats.
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Never quite understand the objection to Woodstock, John does just as much, if not a fair bit more, than most the batmakers that are being discussed on this thread?
Woodstock as a brand always seem to be one of those being resented for doing well, they're one of the small minority of brands that have actually lasted long term. Their softs are good quality and the bats by all accounts are solid, I've never seen a bad one from the few I've had my hands on.
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Independent UK batmakers keeping the tradition alive. That's who the site was set up to support.
Be nice if a few more of them frequented the site then 👍🏻
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I think it's possibly to do with how freely they've handed out 'sponsorship' in the past. The logic being that if they can give 25% off to just about anyone who asks, why not just charge lower prices and offer them to everyone.
Agree with @Neon Cricket, what I've seen of their kit does look perfectly good. If you like the more traditional style branding they do that well.
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It may just be my experience, but I would certainly say that around league cricket the proportion of players using bats from smaller brands is far greater now than it was when I started playing league cricket in the 90s. The reach of the internet brings small or new brands an exposure that wasn't possible before.
When I started playing, you were limited either to what your local cricket store stocked - which was inevitably the large brands - or those smaller brands who operated locally. For me that was initially Gerry Hardstaff or Peak Sports and later Bill and James Cornford under the Fusion brand.
Over the last few seasons the number of smaller brands on display is far greater and they come from all over the country, not just the local area. For example, I am one of a small number using Ed Garrard' s bats. Without the internet, I can't see anyway that they would have reached up here
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I suspect Woodstock get a fair bit of custom from those who know 'Newbery ain't what they used to be' without knowing much more. Similar branding to ye olde Newbery.
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Be nice if a few more of them frequented the site then 👍🏻
Seems we have four of our own now? Before you even count the established 'name' sponsors?
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Seems we have four of our own now? Before you even count the established 'name' sponsors?
For sure these are a few forumers who have taken up bat making, but there’s virtually zero input form the very small makers this place was set up to support. Of those who didn’t start here who actually ever posts anything?
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John Red Ink.
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John Red Ink.
Another that was a forumer first and then started making bats.
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Has anyone mentioned Warsop?
They used to be guns and think he supplied most of the Essex team for a while
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Another that was a forumer first and then started making bats.
The lads from H4L still chip in here and there. Likewise B3.
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It’s very difficult at times to continue with high levels of content on here. It’s very easy in the start when sales are lower but as they improve it can be hard to manage the workload, especially around a young family too. I’ve got a 4 year old and a 1 year old who both keep my pretty busy as it is so bat making or certainly the promotion of it has taken a hit over the last few years.
I still try and comment where I can but it’s not easy. As always, the forum prices remain in place which over a decent discount on normal prices.
Once I’m back up and running and the thumb has healed enough to get back to making, I’ll try and get a little video of the workshop as it is now we have moved and so you can see the difference from the early days. There’s been a massive change in the workshop and huge investment across machinery etc.
I’m open to ideas from the forum on any content you may want. If you want to drop me a pm with any ideas you have or things you would like to see then I’ll see what I can do around workloads.
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Updated list. A few companies in here that I'm not familiar with, so please let me know if I should edit the list a little.
(https://i.postimg.cc/gjJF5ppL/UK-Batmakers.png) (https://postimages.org/)
I'm sure people would love to see more content @Red Ink Cricket ! I also appreciate the effort it can take.
As a forum, it goes both ways. We want to see more content, more pictures, more engagement from a number of sponsors (and ideally new sponsors too)! Yet unless it is done as a public service, it also needs to be driving sales and interest for them. A few years back, I think it really did when you had @hell4leather cricket, Rob Pack, and others posting regular updates. I'm not sure that is the case now, but I'm sure @Red Ink Cricket and others understand the returns better.
Something that others have done in the past is have someone post images etc. for them, thus doing some of the labour. @RPC/Blueroom Cricket - Adie is an obvious example of this, although I haven't seen him start an RPC thread since 2017, and I'm not sure the brand benefits from some of the unproductive arguments that have been engaged in with 'RPC/Blueroom Cricket' in the username. I assume some people wouldn't mind doing that, though, if it drove more engagement and content to the forum!
One of the most exciting journeys I've followed on here as a company has been @Ayrtek Cricket. I've only ever bought batting gloves off him (which were the best I've had), but the whole Adidas collaboration was major-league exciting. We have some great companies on here still too! I assume the below are all sponsors.
(https://i.postimg.cc/6QgMwNCG/Brands.png) (https://postimages.org/)
Something that is quite unique about the forum is how many budding podshavers are out there, practicing their trade, and some of their work is absolutely outstanding already. To build off that, a 'CustomBats Academy'-type thing might be a really cool feature, where a different batmaker every month could cover a topic of educational interest to those learning the trade. Just an idea, of course.
*Also, that list contains 36 names! Which is pretty impressive in my book.
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@billyb Top work mate, could amend the following:
Churchy - Church Cricket
Jonny77 - Scott Cricket
Leachy48 - Patriot Cricket
Northern Monkey - Oxfordshire Cricket Bats
Soulman - Willow & Wand Cricket
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Another that was a forumer first and then started making bats.
Didn't know that
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When did Garrard and Flack become Garrard? What happened to Flack?
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@billyb Top work mate, could amend the following:
Churchy - Church Cricket
Jonny77 - Scott Cricket
Leachy48 - Patriot Cricket
Northern Monkey - Oxfordshire Cricket Bats
Soulman - Willow & Wand Cricket
Slight amendment to that, patriot has now been put firmly on the back burner as I am now part of Reaper Cricket (hopefully you will soon see us sponsoring the forum)
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You also have another from the bat makers shed with Mr Kelsall
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Can you all stop noticing how good G&F are please!?!
Also love a Vulcan & a Keeley
Are we really going 5 pages without mentioning MILLICHAMP?
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Hawk get very little mentions on here. Huge amount of their bats about in the Worcester and Birmingham leagues and they are very highly regarded. Never seen or used a bad one yet. I was slightly surprised though when I asked them if they would copy a bat shape for me, they said they only make their own shapes. Lost a sale as a result.
Another batmaker is Dave Banks, STAC cricket in Birmingham. 2 of the best bats I've owned have come from him, and he's still making them from his small workshop.
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Are we really going 5 pages without mentioning MILLICHAMP?
Another brand I'm not even going to attempt to talk to parents about. Becoming popular with a certain type of kid in London. Due to links with Middlesex, I think.
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Has to be said. The forum sponsor who gave us most of his time was....
Paul Aldred.
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I heard that Robert James makes a fine bat imo 😜😂😂😂😂
There lots of good batmakers out there that quietly get on with things and don't have the exposure. but it seems the forum (when I actually log on) only concentrates on a few rather than the masses.
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Those who have contributed heavily to the forum usually seem to have found themselves part of a forum trend sooner or later. Whether it’s a valuable return on their or not I couldn’t say.
I get that the last thing a bat maker might want to do after a days bat making is sit down on a forum and talk about bat making. I just don’t get this optimism that the forum should be a bastion for small makers to the exclusion of all else. I think most of us are here because we love all sort of bats, and learning about them.
Do the sponsors actually still pay a fee. Some of them certainly don’t get value for their fee!
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Has to be said. The forum sponsor who gave us most of his time was....
Paul Aldred.
Paul was very active for short time, there have been others who’ve contributed over longer periods I’d say. Andy at SAF clearly had a passion for it. He started a lot of interesting discussions.
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Those who have contributed heavily to the forum usually seem to have found themselves part of a forum trend sooner or later. Whether it’s a valuable return on their or not I couldn’t say.
I get that the last thing a bat maker might want to do after a days bat making is sit down on a forum and talk about bat making. I just don’t get this optimism that the forum should be a bastion for small makers to the exclusion of all else. I think most of us are here because we love all sort of bats, and learning about them.
Do the sponsors actually still pay a fee. Some of them certainly don’t get value for their fee!
I use to try and contribute often, but when I received a message saying that my posts would be removed due to unauthorised selling (when all I was doing was post what I was up to and someone asked what my prices where and referred them to the website) I kinda thought, what's the point.
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Hence my question about how many of them actually pay,I struggle to believe the likes of RPC who haven’t posted in years do. Maybe the forum would be better if makers
Count all post freely. Must be another way to find server costs, I’d happily pay a small yearly donation, sure other would to.
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Paul was very active for short time, there have been others who’ve contributed over longer periods I’d say. Andy at SAF clearly had a passion for it. He started a lot of interesting discussions.
Agree, he was interesting. Very good on the physics stuff, and I often wish he was still around.
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Hence my question about how many of them actually pay,I struggle to believe the likes of RPC who haven’t posted in years do. Maybe the forum would be better if makers
Count all post freely. Must be another way to find server costs, I’d happily pay a small yearly donation, sure other would to.
@Kulli I did apply to be setup as a paid account, but got no response. Probably still pending.
Maybe I'll start posting again and see what happens.
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Agree, he was interesting. Very good on the physics stuff, and I often wish he was still around.
IIRC he just stopped making bats too, no idea why.
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IIRC he just stopped making bats too, no idea why.
I'd like to ask him about middle positions. I seem to remember him explaining the physics well at one point. I'm sure it can't be true that the 'middle' of a bat is simply the thickest part, as most people seem to assume.
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@Kulli I did apply to be setup as a paid account, but got no response. Probably still pending.
Maybe I'll start posting again and see what happens.
Yes please!
Seem to be different rules for different people at times
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Hawk get very little mentions on here. Huge amount of their bats about in the Worcester and Birmingham leagues and they are very highly regarded. Never seen or used a bad one yet. I was slightly surprised though when I asked them if they would copy a bat shape for me, they said they only make their own shapes. Lost a sale as a result.
Another batmaker is Dave Banks, STAC cricket in Birmingham. 2 of the best bats I've owned have come from him, and he's still making them from his small workshop.
It's interesting with Hawk. I've found them to be devotees who will not hear a bad word said about the brand. However, from my experience of seeing their kit (admittedly only circa 50 odd bats in 6-7 years), I've found them to be 5050 hit and miss. They seem to either produce something I'd happy walk out to the middle with or it's an utter plank. Cost seems no marker of quality either as I've seen our millionaire bloke who will spend monster bucks on them walk out with horrendous bats and then suddenly rock up with an absolute weapon.
when they are good though, they are very good.
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I'd like to ask him about middle positions. I seem to remember him explaining the physics well at one point. I'm sure it can't be true that the 'middle' of a bat is simply the thickest part, as most people seem to assume.
Isn't it the centre of percussion?
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Isn't it the centre of percussion?
What does that mean? I thought it was something to do with the optimal point in the bat arc?
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You can find out anything you want on Google. ;)
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IIRC he just stopped making bats too, no idea why.
He needed a break, his bats got very popular after winning the AOC blind bat test.
Then there were the occasional quality issue...
Also, Gunn and Moore still make bats?
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This is a good post which is obviously of interest to me! Maybe time to expand the lineup. On the sponsorship side of this conversation, as a retailer, although the costs were fairly low the returns were not great and for the time put in to the forum wasn't really worth it. The time taken to upload photos though the random methods that are required was a big put off.
I thought the forum would be right in the sweet spot of what I was trying to build however although part of the forum discussed UK and smaller independent brands there was much more of a concentration on OLS and what bargains could be found on Amazon/Sports direct which didnt really fit in with what I was doing, hence the reason for leaving as a sponsor.
Getting independent makers on here to post more will be a tough ask as its quite time consuming and they will be trying to create products and successful brands. Most independent makers are one man bands so dont have a great deal of time to focus on the marketing/social side of the job although they have started to do this much more in recent times.
There is also the issue that sometimes crops up on forums where you can be flavor of the month for a period of time and then regardless of what you do you drop off the face of the earth, this can be quite demoralizing and again potentially why some smaller independents dont frequent here.
Just a few comments on why there may not be as much interaction as some may want.
Its great that there are quite a few who have taken up bat making who are on the forum and fingers crossed they can find the time to keep posting and this will bring back some of the other sponsors/makers/forum members that may have become disillusioned previously.
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Isn't it the centre of percussion?
Yes. Looked it up.
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The amount of attention this forum gives Sports Direct has been shocking at times.
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This is a good post which is obviously of interest to me! Maybe time to expand the lineup. On the sponsorship side of this conversation, as a retailer, although the costs were fairly low the returns were not great and for the time put in to the forum wasn't really worth it. The time taken to upload photos though the random methods that are required was a big put off.
I thought the forum would be right in the sweet spot of what I was trying to build however although part of the forum discussed UK and smaller independent brands there was much more of a concentration on OLS and what bargains could be found on Amazon/Sports direct which didnt really fit in with what I was doing, hence the reason for leaving as a sponsor.
Getting independent makers on here to post more will be a tough ask as its quite time consuming and they will be trying to create products and successful brands. Most independent makers are one man bands so dont have a great deal of time to focus on the marketing/social side of the job although they have started to do this much more in recent times.
There is also the issue that sometimes crops up on forums where you can be flavor of the month for a period of time and then regardless of what you do you drop off the face of the earth, this can be quite demoralizing and again potentially why some smaller independents dont frequent here.
Just a few comments on why there may not be as much interaction as some may want.
Its great that there are quite a few who have taken up bat making who are on the forum and fingers crossed they can find the time to keep posting and this will bring back some of the other sponsors/makers/forum members that may have become disillusioned previously.
Well said, nice to hear that perspective.
Im not a fan of the picture uploads either
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I feel Robert Pack is seriously underrated.
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Has Charlie French been mentioned? Makes a serious bat too - used 2 during uni before Neon came around, both were absolute rockets!
As for the forum sponsorship thing, obviously I'm no batmaker and won't ever pretend to be - but I do echo a lot of the comments above. I think we sometimes need to remember that CBF is in reality a very small community of cricketers, especially compared to the behemoths of social media so expecting small companies to give constant input on here is pretty infeasible.
I reckon the forum would do better selling advertising space to brands and then letting all post freely personally, but obviously that's not my call (especially as most sponsors haven't paid in forever). I'd much rather pay a fee to have a banner advert on here than have to pay to be able to post promotional stuff, I can just do that on FB/Insta anyway.
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When did Garrard and Flack become Garrard? What happened to Flack?
@Bats_Entertainment The Flack in Garrard and Flack has not been actively that involved in the business for quite some time. I don't think Liam (Flack) ever made a bat to be honest. From the start it has pretty much been Ed. No falling out at all.
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B3 imo are great but their prices aren’t particularly competitive imo.
Pricing is a difficult thing, some customers say we provide great value for money given the choice, quality and after sales service. Others like yourslef point out we arent competitive with others.
Personally I agree we do charge more that some of the other other forum sponsors but also charge much less than the mass produced bats.
I guess you make your decisions on what suits you best. We could reduce prices but this would not allow us the time to provide the best before and aftersales service along with a massive choice and the technology to get what you ant made how you want it.
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Pricing is a difficult thing, some customers say we provide great value for money given the choice, quality and after sales service. Others like yourslef point out we arent competitive with others.
Personally I agree we do charge more that some of the other other forum sponsors but also charge much less than the mass produced bats.
I guess you make your decisions on what suits you best. We could reduce prices but this would not allow us the time to provide the best before and aftersales service along with a massive choice and the technology to get what you ant made how you want it.
Totally agree is a give and take situation mate! I’ve had several bats from you guys and loved them. Also I agree that you charge much less than GM GN etc.
We are just spoilt for choice here with so many companies producing cracking sticks. As you said, with the market as it is currently, it’s all personal choice.
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I'm guessing Phantom are made by B3 now. I won't add a question mark because I'm not expecting anyone to confirm.
Not at all! B3 Do not make bats under any other name
I'd like to know where you got that thought from??
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Pricing is a difficult thing, some customers say we provide great value for money given the choice, quality and after sales service. Others like yourslef point out we arent competitive with others.
Personally I agree we do charge more that some of the other other forum sponsors but also charge much less than the mass produced bats.
I guess you make your decisions on what suits you best. We could reduce prices but this would not allow us the time to provide the best before and aftersales service along with a massive choice and the technology to get what you ant made how you want it.
B3 offer something fairly unique as far as I'm aware, in terms of being able to offer a bat recreated to exact specs time and time again. No doubt other batmakers can copy a well-loved bat but I'm not aware of anyone using the technology B3 use to do it. As USPs go, if you can have your favourite bat recreated down to the mm, I can certainly see the attraction.
Whether that might justify a price premium is personal choice but I would certainly attest to the quality of customer service that B3 have provided me in the past.
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Best is hard. But Tim Keeley is the most influential batmaker in the World, interesting that a number of these other names banded about as best batmakers are shaping bats Tim presses.
Do take the time to visit the factory and see them at work before he retires.
Wrote this in a post a couple of years back:
"What makes a Tim Keeley bat special? Well, I'm a firm believer that there's not that much between top-level batmakers. They all use the same willow and handle - and the MCC have limited any real innovation so is the average Tim Keeley bat significantly better than anyone else's? Probably not. The bats Tim and Nick make are wonderfully consistent and well pressed, but they are not alone in this.
What does set the Tim (and his brother) apart though is their reputation. And that's a reputation he thoroughly, thoroughly deserves.
Tim has been making bats by CNC since the 90s, pretty much the same technology that GM launched 10 years later and now claim make them the World's most advanced batmakers. First short blade, long handle cricket bat? Tim Keeley, with the Newbery Uzi. It's taken over 10 years for other brands to cotton on with every brand now offering one in their range. First carbon handle cricket bat? Again. Tim Keeley. Adjustable counterbalanced handles? Yep, him too.
Tim is one of the last remaining batmakers of the John Newbery dynasty, one of perhaps a couple remaining now Millichamp has stopped making. Newbery has done more for cricket bat design than anyone in the past 100 years. The Scoop was his design, as was the Excalibur. These are 2 of the most iconic designs ever to have graced the field. Tim trained directly under his stewardship.
Keeley fully deserves his reputation and the plaudits, and the industry widely recognises this too. When a young batmaker needs help starting out, who is the first to lend a hand? Who do the Indian batmakers visit for advice on shaping and finishing? He's the most humble, helpful, artisan you could hope to meet.
It's possible to visit the Keeley factory and see them in action and I can't recommend it enough."
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Who of those mentioned among 'the best' shapes Keeley presses?
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I've heard BT Blades does.
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Adjustable counterbalanced handles? Yep, him too.
Wow, I never even knew such a thing existed!
What was it like? Pics?
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I've heard BT Blades does.
I've heard of it, plenty. But among those regarded as amongst 'the best' on here? I don't think Robert Pack does anymore...
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I don't know any other brand where if several months down the line you are not happy with the bat for a sensible reason, they will knock up a new one FOC, no questions asked and stand by their guarantee.
Neither do I. My question would be, would you prefer lower prices or that higher level of service?
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I've heard of it plenty. But among those regarded as amongst 'the best' on here? I don't think Robert Pack does anymore...
https://www.facebook.com/BlueRoomCricket/photos/3436595823041173 (https://www.facebook.com/BlueRoomCricket/photos/3436595823041173)
These bats do look to have been CNC'd by someone.
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https://www.facebook.com/BlueRoomCricket/photos/3436595823041173 (https://www.facebook.com/BlueRoomCricket/photos/3436595823041173)
These bats do look to have been CNC'd by someone.
Weren't we shown Robert Pack's press?
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Press is shown here :
https://www.facebook.com/BlueRoomCricket/photos/a.2313081965392570/3796376350396450/ (https://www.facebook.com/BlueRoomCricket/photos/a.2313081965392570/3796376350396450/)
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Weren't we shown Robert Pack's press?
Don't M&H have all the batmaking kit too? Just because you have all the kit doesn't mean you use it all the time.
Another example: you can also see more part made CNC'd bats in this Warsop pic: https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/tony-sains-and-john-bowles-cricket-bat-makers-with-warsop-news-photo/88771808?adppopup=true (https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/tony-sains-and-john-bowles-cricket-bat-makers-with-warsop-news-photo/88771808?adppopup=true)
Those are just the two examples which we have photographic evidence of.
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I don't know any other brand where if several months down the line you are not happy with the bat for a sensible reason, they will knock up a new one FOC, no questions asked and stand by their guarantee.
I can attest to this. I had one two years ago that i wasn't content with and was replaced with a brand new bat which is a top performer. Price and value are different things and value is a subjective quality. Personally I do value this sort of guarantee
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I really respect what B3 does, I'm just not a huge fan of the branding! It would be fun to design a bat through them one day.
A very strong, well-reasoned vote for Keeley from @Tom. Can't say I disagree.
Maybe we need more categories.
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Neither do I. My question would be, would you prefer lower prices or that higher level of service?
Whilst we're totally different companies in the way we operate, you're not the only brand who would, and have, replaced bats quibble free - that goes for quite a few brands on here and elsewhere in the interest of fairness on a public forum.
@WalkingWicket37 can back me up from my part (Sanders...).
Charlie French can also definitely be included from my personal experience with them in the past, replaced a bat of mine after a good 3/4 months of use due to toe damage - I was only after a repair for the damage and they sent a completely new bat back without question.
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^ Replacing a bat that's damaged "quibble-free" is good business but there is no policy for bats that are lemons i.e. performance free.
Any bat maker whose bat opens up in reasonable time and performs is a genius bat maker. Rest is ...meh.
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My vote goes for Keeley!
- Great customer service.
- Nice pingy bats that can take to the middle even new and hit some boundaries.
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I will confirm @Neon Cricket replaced a bat that had a seasons use, absolutely quibble free.
I recommend a teammate go to them as he was after a new stick, he bought a Pro Players and asked me to knock it in for him. Thanks to lockdown it was in my possession for a good 5 months and was the most thorough knocking in job I've ever done!
He used it for the (shortened) season and decided he didn't like something about the bat. Adam simply replaced it quibble free.
Edit - the bat was not damaged in any way or "performance free" as InternalTraining worded it (the owner hit a six literally out of our ground!)
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I might make a little poll.
Categories:
Best Batmaker (Non-Forum Brands)
Best Batmaker (Current Forum Brands)
Finest Forumite (Those learning the trade here)
Bat of the Year (Any)
Any other categories people want to see?
I'd rather focus on the skill of batmaking than branding, softs, product range as such, unless that sounds like fun to everyone else!
*Please DM nominations for bat of the year*
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Not at all! B3 Do not make bats under any other name
That's nice to know. Honestly.
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Don't M&H have all the batmaking kit too? Just because you have all the kit doesn't mean you use it all the time.
Another example: you can also see more part made CNC'd bats in this Warsop pic: https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/tony-sains-and-john-bowles-cricket-bat-makers-with-warsop-news-photo/88771808?adppopup=true (https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/tony-sains-and-john-bowles-cricket-bat-makers-with-warsop-news-photo/88771808?adppopup=true)
Those are just the two examples which we have photographic evidence of.
I agree it doesn't. But weren't there arguments about it on here involving the RP employee? The press picture was used as the 'proof'.
Woodstock is another one shaping Keeley part-mades?
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I might make a little poll.
Categories:
Best Batmaker (Non-Forum Brands)
Best Batmaker (Current Forum Brands)
Finest Forumite (Those learning the trade here)
Bat of the Year (Any)
Any other categories people want to see?
I'd rather focus on the skill of batmaking than branding, softs, product range as such, unless that sounds like fun to everyone else!
*Please DM nominations for bat of the year*
Sounds fun, although I doubt there's anyone active here who's used all the forum brands!
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Keeley brothers for me. Just something about their bats which tick the boxes for me.
Love seeing the progression of “our own” on here though
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Sounds fun, although I doubt there's anyone active here who's used all the forum brands!
Don't worry, like everything on here it will be massively subjective! But fun, and might make the winners and runners up happy.
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Not at all! B3 Do not make bats under any other name
Who makes Phantom bats now?
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Who makes Phantom bats now?
Last rumour was Indian made I think?
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Last rumour was Indian made I think?
More generically, given some of the size to weight ratios I have seen advertised on social media in the past, someone with either access to amazing low density willow or a hot kiln!
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Who makes Phantom bats now?
If you look at their Instagram there’s some pretty dead set giveaways that point to them being made in the sub continent, where is anyone’s guess though.
The handle clamps used here are the most blatant giveaway however:
(https://i.postimg.cc/prTSb3yq/3277-EB52-8-CA2-40-A9-A1-DC-C3-A5547-ADD9-A.png) (https://postimg.cc/gXCs3SVZ)
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I've heard of it, plenty. But among those regarded as amongst 'the best' on here? I don't think Robert Pack does anymore...
Rob presses his own willow fella. Some of the willow is grown by himself too and some other comes from a local big estate so is from tree to bat.
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I really respect what B3 does, I'm just not a huge fan of the branding! It would be fun to design a bat through them one day.
Ready when you are, I like a challenge...
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Rob presses his own willow fella. Some of the willow is grown by himself too and some other comes from a local big estate so is from tree to bat.
I'm not the person you need to be having the argument with (follow the thread through). I was suggesting he doesn"t use TK anymore. Which you seem to be confirming?
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Sadly for me, I do not work for Rob (I'd happily walk away from my job if I could though!).
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Sadly for me, I do not work for Rob (I'd happily walk away from my job if I could though!).
But you seem well positioned to addtess any 'concerns'? Your name suggests you are a representative of the company and have permission to speak on its behalf.
You've told me Rob presses his own bats. Fine.
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Does anyone remember Willostix? What happened to them? I bought my wife a size 5 Willostix Salamander for playing in the park, and she loves it!
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Does anyone remember Willostix? What happened to them? I bought my wife a size 5 Willostix Salamander for playing in the park, and she loves it!
Top end ones made by Salix weren’t they, cheaper ones in India somewhere.
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Willostix (at least the lower end) were made by RNS from memory. They didn't make their own.
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Sadly for me, I do not work for Rob (I'd happily walk away from my job if I could though!).
Why do you have RPC and Blueroom in your username?
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Top end ones made by Salix weren’t they, cheaper ones in India somewhere.
Pretty sure that it was just the Spitfire model that was made by Salix.
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Interesting thread. I don’t think I will add much other than to agree with others who have said that it is hard to call a ‘best’ between most of those mentioned.
Personally, over the years I have used Bradbury, Fusion, Laver, Charlie French, Warsop, Newbery, Woodstock (all pre-2011) and more recently (post-2015) Chase, Alfred, Affinity, B3 and H4L. I would say in retrospect that they all took a while to ‘open up’ before playing really well. The exceptions would probably be the Woodstock that seemed to fly from the off but I don’t think lasted a season and Aldred/Affinity which were too heavy for me to get on with (I think both were of the “it’s the pickup not deadweight that counts” school of thought which sounds great but I’m not convinced by from experience).
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Pretty sure that it was just the Spitfire model that was made by Salix.
I had always assumed that they were all made in India! I do love Salix, I just wish they were a bit cheaper.
Hell4Leather has long been a forum favourite, but I haven't heard much about them lately. Have they had any new releases this year?
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I had always assumed that they were all made in India! I do love Salix, I just wish they were a bit cheaper.
Hell4Leather has long been a forum favourite, but I haven't heard much about them lately. Have they had any new releases this year?
I'm a Salix fan, don't think there are better bats around, all mine are second hand so yes they are expensive.
But I think the top end range and posh which is sometimes associated with them is a bit off the mark.
I looked at their website last year just out of interest on new bats and I think they have been overtaken by quite a few others.
It's all subjective of course what anyone thinks of as expensive but I no longer think they are at the top price wise.
Up there yes but bat prices have gone nuts these last few years...
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Why do you have RPC and Blueroom in your username?
This was my question too !
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This was my question too !
...and mine... I assumed he worked for Rob
.
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...and mine... I assumed he worked for Rob
.
And it has "Forum Sponsor" under username...?
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...and mine... I assumed he worked for Rob
.
I thought it WAS Rob.. haha
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I remember there was that ProWannabe guy who used to do stuff for Rob on here I think.
Maybe I'll drop Rob a line and ask.
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I'm a Salix fan, don't think there are better bats around, all mine are second hand so yes they are expensive.
But I think the top end range and posh which is sometimes associated with them is a bit off the mark.
I looked at their website last year just out of interest on new bats and I think they have been overtaken by quite a few others.
It's all subjective of course what anyone thinks of as expensive but I no longer think they are at the top price wise.
Up there yes but bat prices have gone nuts these last few years...
Yeah bat prices are crazy now. I try and set a £200 limit these days. You can get SG 'Players' bats here for like $599/699. Crazy money in my mind. Do Salix still do the HitsHard thing?
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I remember there was that ProWannabe guy who used to do stuff for Rob on here I think.
Maybe I'll drop Rob a line and ask.
Liam did yes.
Rob didn’t do anything so I said I’d help but sadly I don’t have the time and barely see Rob more than 3-4 times a year now
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Liam did yes.
Rob didn’t do anything so I said I’d help but sadly I don’t have the time and barely see Rob more than 3-4 times a year now
I mean that's a nice thing to do, but every negative interaction you've had on here reflects poorly on Rob and his brand, and it is worth reflecting on that. I honestly thought you worked in the Pack Cave or something. I don't mean to come across as holier-than-thou, but having had some belters off Rob, I care about his business.
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Liam did yes.
Rob didn’t do anything so I said I’d help but sadly I don’t have the time and barely see Rob more than 3-4 times a year now
This is honestly a bit shocking. How could you use another brand’s name if you’re not affiliated with them? I honestly got the impression this is an official RPC account.
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This is honestly a bit shocking. How could you use another brand’s name if you’re not affiliated with them? I honestly got the impression this is an official RPC account.
I dont think any business owner or employee in their right mind would openly spout all that negative nonsense on a public forum!
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I mean that's a nice thing to do, but every negative interaction you've had on here reflects poorly on Rob and his brand, and it is worth reflecting on that. I honestly thought you worked in the Pack Cave or something. I don't mean to come across as holier-than-thou, but having had some belters off Rob, I care about his business.
All opinions are my own. I always help promote his kit and will always help rob out where I live and that’s what I do. He’s an awesome guy and I’ve never had another but a belter. This was an idea which sadly I didn’t have time to do.
I’m sure Buzz can change my name if you would feel better.
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A few other UK based batmakers that popped to mind, who may not be in the industry anymore:
FatBats
White Willow Cricket - @Beachcricket Unsure if they're still around
Affinity - Marcus moved on momentarily from batmaking
Dan Nicholls - I think he moved to Aus, but had 2 bats made by him which were guns
A few others I don't think have been mentioned:
Alex Hohenkerk - @thebigginge Still making at GN, and not sure who else makes at Robertsbridge, but they've got more than 1 maker.
The Crick3t Lab - Nice chap called Luke, who is actually the son of Gary @GDP1964 B&S. He has started shaping his own, learned from a VERY reputable baTmaKer.
@Perkins17 makes an outstanding bat
Outside the UK - ST Cricket @mad_abt_cricket - currently on hiatus
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I’m enjoying the idea of Robert James, Rob Pack & Charlie French becoming forums trends because they aren’t currently forum trends. Peak CBF.
Three brands I’ve not used yet either - so bring it on.
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The Crick3t Lab - Nice chap called Luke, who is actually the son of Gary @GDP1964 B&S. He has started shaping his own, learned from a VERY reputable baTmaKer.
@Perkins17 makes an outstanding bat
Had a quick look. Some very nice G2s for £100 if they are from that particular bat maker
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I’m enjoying the idea of Robert James, Rob Pack & Charlie French becoming forums trends because they aren’t currently forum trends. Peak CBF.
Three brands I’ve not used yet either - so bring it on.
@Northern monkey and Rob Pack Cricket are probably the last 2 makers on my list, not because I don't like the look of their bats, (quite the opposite really) but rather that's when I think it'd be good to pack in the collection. Always said that the day I get a Rob Pack would probably be the day I give up hoarding gear for good haha. What a pair of makers for a swan song, eh?
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Yeah bat prices are crazy now. I try and set a £200 limit these days. You can get SG 'Players' bats here for like $599/699. Crazy money in my mind. Do Salix still do the HitsHard thing?
The hits hard bats are still around but don't think Salix continued with them far as I know. They were a more affordable bat but still grade 1's and 2's.
As a comparison on salix website the best willow POD model has an SSP of 550 gbp, equivalent willow GN legend approx 800.
I don't actually know the most expensive bat in the UK, I'm sure others on the forum do, I suspect it's around the 800-850 mark.
Personally I have a GM 606 used from EBay for 50 gbp(including postage). :)
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I reckon you could get a decent bat from every sponsor and still not pay 850! :D
I feel like Red Ink would be my next port of call, or RPC, but I just can't justify more willow with no cricket. :(
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You could get 2-3 from me as a min at that price, obviously grade dependant. Maybe I need to up my prices
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You could get 2-3 from me as a min at that price, obviously grade dependant. Maybe I need to up my prices
Call it the Black Ink Edition and you are sorted! ;)
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Call it the Black Ink Edition and you are sorted! ;)
Red Ink X1+++ Limited Original Players Edition?
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Red Ink X1+++ Limited Original Players Edition?
I'll take 3, as long as it has Kohli written on the toe in sharpie!
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I can be lazy and not sand the toe and then get a black sharpie out if that’s what people want.
Any particular names people want on the bottom?
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Fattus
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Fattus
It’s not real unless it’s misspelt. So might I suggest “Fateuss” instead? Or “fattos”?
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Does it bestow the powers of retired players too?
If so, I'll take Lara & Ponting... written on the same toe. :D
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Does it bestow the powers of retired players too?
If so, I'll take Lara & Ponting... written on the same toe. :D
What about para and lonting?
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Thanks for the mention @Batoff I would do some posts, I just hate the palava of how to upload photos.
But if anyone wants to have a look @church_cricket on Instagram.
Website coming soon....
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The hits hard bats are still around but don't think Salix continued with them far as I know. They were a more affordable bat but still grade 1's and 2's.
As a comparison on salix website the best willow POD model has an SSP of 550 gbp, equivalent willow GN legend approx 800.
I don't actually know the most expensive bat in the UK, I'm sure others on the forum do, I suspect it's around the 800-850 mark.
Personally I have a GM 606 used from EBay for 50 gbp(including postage). :)
HitsHard was a sub brand for Ben their understudy to make under but he subsequently followed a different career path I believe so it’s just Salix now.
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Kevin Woodgate is one of the best bats makers but never gets any credit.
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Kevin Woodgate is one of the best bats makers but never gets any credit.
Who is he?
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Once of Newbery?
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https://wisden.com/stories/your-game/cricket-gear/salix-cricket-story
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https://wisden.com/stories/your-game/cricket-gear/salix-cricket-story
Yes, I've read that. Where is he now?
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I know! He still works with Keeley? He'll be the Kevin pictured in The Guardian!
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Bat maker for Newbery when they was based in Northiam, then Robertsbridge and Ashburnham and now makes Keeley bats.
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Bat maker for Newbery when they was based in Northiam, then Robertsbridge and Ashburnham and now makes Keeley bats.
So, given how popular Keeley bats are, he ought to have been mentioned more often? The article suggests Kember rates him very highly.
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So, given how popular Keeley bats are, he ought to have been mentioned more often?
You would have thought so.
If anyone has been to keeley, he spends pretty much all his time in the little wooden shed next to the big metal shed.
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He was doing repairs and refurbs when I visited and what a cracking job he was doing too