Have recently received my Private Bin from L&W, and would agree in the main about their customer service. Yes the bat looks great and had to force myself to use it as it was so well finished. Even the wife couldn't stop stroking it !! (double entendre not intended!). Was fully knocked in too. Did it meet my requirements? Yes and no. told them what I was looking for but that most important was as light pickup as possible on a light a bat as poss. So effectively they had free reign, and although it arrive probably 2 ounzes heavier than expected, it has a lighter pickup compared with my 2lb 5oz I use indoors (slaz V1200). Took a good while do make so wont have an opportunity now to use it in anger.
all that said, I have dealt with Red Ink last year in producing a bat for my 8 year old. and John Collings attention to customer service was superb, delivering a beautifully finished bat absolutely on a par with L&W. After hundreds of whacks with a hard ball, the bat is really beginning to open up nicely. so much so, when I do throw downs to him I'm beginning to consider wearing my helmet.
so, I think anyone can find a high quality podshaver quite readily in UK. I suppose it just really comes down to personal preference. That said, a few M&H bats I've looked at at Uzi Sports recently don't seem that well finished considering the price. Actually quite disappointing really. No doubt they play superbly though.
But, yes, thank you L&W. Lets hope I can do justice to the bat.