Ok, so I took the plunge and went for one of the I-bats as the offer seemed so good from Onlinestockist. I have the company before and always been happy with the service. I really wanted a light SS but the lightest they had in stock was 2lb 10oz so I went for that.
It arrived within 5 days of placing the order and was well packaged and came with an excellent carry case. It was nearer 2lb 11oz but then I guess it does have a scuff sheet on. They sent a spare scuff sheet too and I weighed that separately and it was nearly 1/2 oz so the bat would have been just over 2lb 10oz originally. I have added a second grip for balance which I know weighs just over 1 oz so total weight is now just shy of 2lb 12oz.
It is a massive bat. 44mm edges , thick toe and no concaving at all. It picks up well due to the duck bill toe I guess and just feels big, wide and powerful in the hands. It knocks up well and will I am sure go like a rocket when I have had a few nets. It may just end up being my 20/20 bat though due to its weight (I am looking in to getting a lighter, full backed SS).
It is definitely similar to Clarke's profile and with six straight grains and very few blemishes it is good quality willow. It really is as big a bat as I've seen and I have held some 3lb bats.
I would highly recommend Onlinestockist, and their communication and willingness to help is up there with many others in my opinion. Hope you enjoy the pics.
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Topic: SS I-Bat (Read 10672 times)