It was a beautiful day here in Glasgow, so I couldn't waste the sunshine!
Weights from left to right: 2lb 12.58 (Counterbalanced), 2lb 13.42 (I asked for a 2.10!), 2lb 10.04oz, 2lb 20.46oz, 2lb 9.75oz, 2lb 12.82oz (Asked for 2.10 also!) and 2lb 12.33oz (Counterbalanced). The funny thing is, all of the bats I had custom made for me all seem to weigh quite a significant amount more than I ask for... Maybe I should start asking for 2.9s...
I am retiring these match softs:
It's good to see the bat collection trimmed somewhat, I still have many more bats, but they're waiting to be popped up on eBay. I still have 2 more on the way, and I'm probably going to have to make room for them! The Dynadrive LE and Tour may have to go, but I'm hoping to keep them both. The Icon I just received today from Pro-Direct, there are 9-10 straight grains, but they aren't very defined and there are quite a number of blemishes. It weighs a touch under 2lb 10oz, has a pick up index of 2 and seems to be very responsive. I'm surprised at how my taste in profiles has changed, I used to dislike the Icon profile, but times change, and there's something about the look of the F2 which I like. (Tend to prefer a slightly rounder face) I don't think I would have ever thought of having a GM in my collection this year, but the GM Flare at Vitas I tested changed my mind completely! For anyone going down to the Vitas event, do pick up the bat and guess its weight, then have a hit with it! Really was an incredible bat, and I feel that this Icon may just come close! It has a very long middle and an impressive 65-67mm spine!
The gloves seem to be a problem though...
I bought the GM D30s, Newbery GTs, and 2 pairs of small mens Quantum 5 stars along with a pair of Quantum Elite SMRH from the Sports Direct sale. I would not recommend the Newbery GTs, something about them which makes them feel rather uncomfortable for some reason. The GMs seem to mold into shape quite easily, and the Quantums are nice and snug, but lack the protection the previously mentioned two give. The Quantum pads weigh around 840-850g each pad, while the Kooks weigh around 910-960g each, so a fairly noticeable difference in weight! The Quantums are also more comfy IMO.
Great to see pictures of kit popping up now, I felt this thread was lacking a few pictures!