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[Ryan]

at last a proper shaped cricket bat. No silly edges and a bow like a boomerang. They look like classic Salix mh original and mjolners. I think i will get a RP bat. Do u think I wi be able to get an oval handle shaped???

Rob will custom make it to your requirements! Fantastic service 

[Karlo84]

Thought I would re-ignite this thread following my visit to the pack cave.

To keep a long story relatively short, whatever you THINK you know about bat making, whatever you BELIEVE  are the rules and guidelines to bat making- quite simply....forget! Rob is an absolute genius when it comes to getting the best out of his willow and really does re-write the bat-making laws, I have a bit of experience when it comes to 'pod shaving' but RP literally threw all of my "experience" (ahem) out of his workshop window. I must add he is an absolute gentleman and there was no arrogance about him whatsoever, his knowledge speaks for itself in his craftsmanship.

After a fairly tortuous drive down the m1 and a fairly sizeable detour due to a lorry fire closing the motorway for a junction, we were running fairly late, but RP being the gent he is stayed open as he appreciated the mileage we were putting in to see him. On arrival there was a coffee waiting and a selection of wood a pro would be happy to use. Feeling like a fat kid in a cake shop (although trying to remain cool) Rob thought he would really send me over the edge by bringing in yet more quality willow. Following many solid forward defensives that boycott would be proud of and a couple of elegant shadow drives I had narrowed it down to two. 2 bats of similar pick up, one with 6 grains, one with 14. The rules generally "state" that the 14grain bat will have a bit more ping.....WRONG! The 6 grained bat nearly put a hole in robs ceiling when bouncing a ball as you do. That'll do me, but asked him if he wouldn't mind just altering the balance slightly by taking an ounce or two from the shoulders/top of the bat; without hesitation he took me in to his workshop, carried out the work, re-sanded the area beautifully, pressed,oiled and stickerd it up and whoolah - I have a new love of my life.(pics to follow)
Incidentally I have also ordered the new softs which will be uploaded upon arrival.The softs quality is also second to none.

All in all - Top man, Top Kit, Top service! I couldnt recommend Rob or his kit highly enough, well worth the mileage!! It's also only fair that Simon gets a mention too, he seems to be well on his way to help Rob get the recognition he deserves through his work in the shop and sales/admin ability.

Karl

P.s. thanks to Liam for the intro and good conversation for the 5 or so hour round trip haha, my mate is still hurting from the verbals being delivered on the way back!!