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[generalcustard]

Ok quick couple of question for you guys if your keen,

Ok so Handles... How do you shape them, I've seen them attacked with spokeshaves, drawknifes, and then finished with a good bit of sanding.

Also wat is the weapon of choice when it comes to doing the splicing of the bat. We've a few tradesmen in the cricket team, very practical minded blokes, they seem to think a Bandsaw is the only way to go. Is this so.

Cheers for those who take the time to read my ramblings and then answer.

[hit4six]

Using a rasp is the best way to shape a handle.

[SillyShilly]

Most handles will only require a bit of work towards the base near the splice - careful attention with a draknife or a spokeshave should be enough and then finish off with the rasp, there normally sholdnt be too much work to the handle. Take your time on the handle mind you - i've done one bat where the handle felt like a square block which wasnt too clever!

If you can set up a jig that would be best - doing it by eye on  a bandsaw may work but if you get it a bit wrong you'll be kicking yourself if you waste the cleft - Norb would be the man to ask regarding the techincal apsects of what you may need to set a jig or something similar.

[SAF Bats]

I have a heath robinson jig for handles best to get a jointer / cabinet maker to do you one... You'll need a fairly hefty bandsaw as the smaller ones will have to much blade travel and the cut won't be even through the willow.

[generalcustard]

Ok useful stuff... Thanks guys.