yes, 80 grit sanding paper and a sander got the worst off in about 10 minutes. Rest of the time was spent doing the tricky curvy bits on the back by hand. A bit of wire wool for fine sanding and it's done. The bat in it's original condition was a bit unfinished and either not sanded down or some diy sanding had gone on. Tempted to stick some Linseed or Beeswax on to finish off, but it looks pretty good as it is. Might get some raje stickers and scuff and slap it on ebay. It's 2'8 btw with a pretty thick handle and 1 grip.