I do enjoy it when I've missed a day's thread and catch up 😂
In my opinion I think people overthink things way too much. If you like the pick up and feel, go with it. Just about every bat I've seen in the last few years from reputable sources perform well, it's just what suits you're eye and feel. You generally get out, don't clear the ropes etc because of lack of ability, not because the bat has a 'middle' that's an inch too high!
I also don't think the Pro's all have low density, perfect willow that's pressed any different. I've seen a few and they're simply not any different. They hit bigger because they're better, train harder and are stronger. Not because they have better bats.
Gilchrist was apparently not bothered about his bats and I think Langer once said he'd happily break some of the boundary fence off and use that! He didn't do too bad either.