Great thread guys, really interesting this one.
If you are looking to reduce weight, going back to the hole theory, why not look at the shoulder less bats, or the first woodworms, and lose weight from a useless area. I think willowstix (or something) are trying it again- its in AOC cricket mag.
How about we try making an aluminium bat?!!
I would actually be interested in having a go with one in all seriousness... like the new carbon hockey sticks.