i contacted Kieran in October with a view to getting a custom made Heritage, as the price of £115 made me think that I couldn't really go wrong. I got in touch just as his wife sprung a surprise holiday on him, so we spoke on the phone after he returned. After a good chat (he's an interesting guy), we settled on a Long Blade Spitfire with a Mid-to-Low middle, weighing between 2lb10oz and 2lb12oz.
What I received is indeed a Heritage Spitfire, with a Mid-to-Low middle and weighs 2lb13oz dressed. This is with one grip, stickers and scuff sheet, but this doesn't bother me as I hadn't specified dressed or undressed, so, it's slightly over. Undressed it would be under. Unfortunately it isn't a Long Blade, so I contacted Kieran and he immediately offered to replace it, which I declined, as I'd rather knock it in and see how it goes.
Off the ball mallet, the rebound is good, and the middle is very long. The bat has no concaving, and also has an interesting profile from the toe up in that it doesn't have a defined spine and is more rounded, much like the old Turbos. I'd say that the shape is aesthetically very pleasing, and looking at it you feel that it will probably be a good 'un. Given that Kieran presses most of his bats himself, I'd say that he has done an admirable job here.
The pick up is about what I'd expect of a 2lb13oz bat with the middle where it is and I could more or less tell it's weight straight away, just from that! It doesn't pick up badly, and feels like it will be good in use, but of course, needs some knocking in first. Kieran has offered, if I don't get on with the weight, to reduce it a little. Certainly first class customer service.
Here are the pictures for your delectation.
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Topic: Heritage Spitfire (Read 3978 times)