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[Nmcgee]

I've presented this question to a couple of bat makers, but would like to hear from you guys.

I have two bats that have very stiff handles. Will taking the binding off and replacing with taping benefit the flexibility of the handle? The best bats I have feature standard cane handles with noticeable flexibility (think Lavers). Some high quality bats I own have handles that are rock hard.

I've seen video of Mike Hussey removing his binding and replacing with sports strapping tape but I think this is to reduce the thickness of the handle.

[Butterfingerz]

It's something Michael Clarke does also. Indeed the bonding will make a difference, how much depends on the quality of the handle itself

[Nmcgee]

The strength of the handle is compromised?

[procricket]

I used to unbind the top half of the handle and found noticeable flex but it depends on what handle you are using.  I found sareen to be decent for flex after the  process but ranson handles didn't.

After a test period of over a year I would stick to binding  the main reason players do it is to alter the feel of the handle and use tape to get the correct shape unless they carry a handle set to there batmakers which I have seen a few times.

Yes the handle is compromised with unbinding.

[benny231]

I would imagine that players like Clarke and Hussey can do this without worrying about decreasing the life expectancy of the bat due to their sponsors..

[procricket]

De stringing a bit does not add that much flex trust me on that one.

[Nmcgee]

So, better off simply exercising the handle. Any guidance on this?

[Pelican042]

Stand on the handle

[Seniorplayer]

Agreed standing on handle will loosen it up and provide you with whip.

[tejasapatel]

Stand on the handle

Seems like this is your fav suggestion when it comes to loosening the handle.