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[joeljonno]

So a few months ago, I got a handled cleft from Red-Ink, and after buying some tools a doing a bit of work, found it is not the easiest thing to do.

When BlankBats put a few G3 part-mades up for sale, it really made me think.  After resisting for a while, I eventually folded and bought one (well, three).

I had a good discussion about them and found Blank Bats were very helpful through some PMs. Paid up on a Sunday and they were delivered by Tuesday lunchtime, impressively quick.

Current weight is around 2:14, but will look to remove a chunk of that.  Obviously will need the handle binding which will add a bit of weight back.

Large edges, decent spine, some concaving for pick up.  Really taps up nicely as well.

Here is the pics of my first one prior to starting really.  Hopefully will be able to give an update about this in a few days or so.













For grade three willow, it looks rather nice.  Only 5 grains, but reasonably straight.  A couple of small marks near the bottom but doesn't really seem to affect performance.

Can't wait to get started on it properly.

[procricket]

Looks a nice shape a quick sand looks well that mate

[joeljonno]

Looks a nice shape a quick sand looks well that mate

To be fair, the blade is almost done if you are happy with a heavy weight (which I am), maybe take an ounce or two off it.  It is just shaping  the handle and the binding that needs to most work.

[Ryan]

Looks a nice shape a quick sand looks well that mate

i find the sanding takes as long as the shaping.

[procricket]

Fair shout mate guess your finish on that lam is quite special I bet it does

[100 not out]

These are ideal to get started, further down line a pressed and handled cleft could be an option. I guess that's a more logical way to go rather than the other way round.

[joeljonno]

Bit of an update.

I have been working on the three I have had for a while, slow progress when you only have the minimal tools.

Used this last night and it really goes well.  Weights 2'13 with one grip and picks up nicely for the weight and shape.  Have left plenty of meat at the bottom and a nice high spine.  Took some weight off the edges and removed any concaving.  Edges are just over an inch.





Not the best looking but plays well for me (got 39 red in about 10 overs of T20 chasing 75). MIght not be the same one as the top picture either as I do have three of these.

I'll try to add some more pics when I get them uploaded.

If you are wanting to try making bats, I cannot recommend Blank Bats highly enough with the service they provided and the performance of the bat.

[Number 11]

A good effort there mate, things can only improve the more you do. Keep it up