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[RightArmRapid]

On grains, what are peoples preferences regarding them? Do you like a tight grain or a wider grain? I personally have always gone with a narrower grain but for no reason other than asthestics.

If both bats played equally well I'd go for one with a narrower grain (assuming it isn't covered in blemishes) But if one bat has a wider grain or isn't as aesthetically pleasing but plays very well I'd choose it hands down.

[Sam]

I know this is an oldish topic but thought it fit appropriately in here. If each ring/grain on a tree shows one yar of growth , then when a bat only has 5-6 grains does that mean its been cut down after only 5-6 years?

[Kulli]

I know this is an oldish topic but thought it fit appropriately in here. If each ring/grain on a tree shows one yar of growth , then when a bat only has 5-6 grains does that mean its been cut down after only 5-6 years?

Not necessarily as the width of the blade won't run for the outside of the tree to the very middle.

[Banksy]

Width of grain isn't to do with age, it's speed of growth.

[trypewriter]

This site is WELL worth a visit.

http://www.cricketbatwillow.com/

[Kulli]

Width of grain isn't to do with age, it's speed of growth.

Indeed, but I presume most tree's the cut down are of a similarish size.

[Buzz]

this is interesting - as a friend of mine has some cricket bat willow trees in his garden and they are near a stream and his cess pool. The trees grow a some speed as a result - when the cut a few of them down they were still pretty young - 8-10 years old but very wide and as a result pretty wide grains. The bats that came out of them only had about 6 grains (and aren't particularly well pressed ) still they have planted some more to have another go!!

[trypewriter]

I don't think six grains is a sign of a bad bat though.

[Banksy]

Indeed, but I presume most tree's the cut down are of a similarish size.

Size yes, age no.

[Sam]

From what I've heard most are cut down between sort of 13-19 years for cricket bats . Something around a 60 inch circumference I believe.

[Kulli]

Size yes, age no.

If they are all cut at the same size then speed of growth and age are obviously related!

[Banksy]

If they are all cut at the same size then speed of growth and age are obviously related!

A young tree that has grown fast will be the same size as an old tree that has grown slow, but the old tree will have more grains, because its older, even though both trees will have the same diameter trunk and be felled at the same time.