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[thedon]

We all know to keep a bat from drying out we need to care for it by keeping it oiled.

My question is this, if buying a bat, say from last seasons stock ie over 1 year old from a retailer, will the bat have lost optimum performance, as no oiling was carried out?

Some retailers are carrying very old models of certain brands. Would it be wise to actually buy one of these?

[petehosk]

I could be wrong, but I am under the impression that drying a bat out from the 'optimum' moisture content of around 13% does not degrade the performance, it will merely be in danger of giving the bat a slightly shorter life, as it will make it more brittle! A bat performance could be just as good (or in some cases better) if they are 5-8% moisture, but will be a little lighter too. I know I am generalising, but please feel free to correct me if I'm way off the mark!!

[Lekka Global Alliance]

It's very hard to guage optimum performance on a new bat if it has never been used Unless it has been pre-knocked in. If the bat already is donned with a protective bat face sheet you should be in the clear and not have any concerns or worries. (just make sure you get a proper discount)