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[brokenbat]

Please don't let this thread be a debate about whether one should use a scuff sheet or not (topic seems to have been thoroughly discussed in other threads)...

I am just curious what the best care strategy is ONCE ONE HAS ALREADY DECIDED to NOT use a scuff sheet?

Is it just regular sanding and oiling?

The big question for me: how do you handle surface cracks, and "opened grains" without a sheet?

Does anyone have pics of a thoroughly used bat, that was cared for without a sheet?

Many Thanks.

[Seniorplayer]

I never use a scuff sheet on any of my bats following each time the bats are used I inspect the bat inparticular the toe for damage and remove all marks and wipe clean as for surface cracks it depends on each individual crack and where they are as small cracks and indentations will not make your bat defective they are part of a bats life and should be left alone as repairing And sanding them could leave your bat with an uneven face cracks can be repaired with super glue.
Open grains are normal when they start to occur it shows your bat is fully knocked in.
All quality willow should eventually crack ( not Split).

[brokenbat]

I never use a scuff sheet on any of my bats following each time the bats are used I inspect the bat inparticular the toe for damage and remove all marks and wipe clean as for surface cracks it depends on each individual crack and where they are as small cracks and indentations will not make your bat defective they are part of a bats life and should be left alone as repairing And sanding them could leave your bat with an uneven face cracks can be repaired with super glue.
Open grains are normal when they start to occur it shows your bat is fully knocked in.
All quality willow should eventually crack ( not Split).

Thanks. And what about playing in wet weather, when the ball can get damp. Just let the bat air out after the game?

[Seniorplayer]

Ideally you should avoid using your best match bat in wet weather if you can get a wet weather bat the same spec as your match bat you could also use it for nets.
But as this may not be possible ensure your bat has had raw linseed oil applied not only will this retain moisture in the bat it will help repel water (don't over do the oiling though as that can weaken the willow fibres) if the bat gets wet or damp wipe it dry immediately when batting carry a cloth and wipe the bat  between overs refrain  from putting the bat back in its sleeve until it is dry  clean and dry the willow inc the toe asap and then apply a fresh coat of oil to the toe area then leave the bat horizontal in a well ventilated area such as a garage until you need to use it.

[Akewstick]

Please forgive my ignorance.

Why clean the scuff marks from the ball off the face? Just to make it look nice?

[WalkingWicket37]

Please forgive my ignorance.

Why clean the scuff marks from the ball off the face? Just to make it look nice?

Because nicer looking bats are Pingier! 

[Akewstick]

I've lost all the stickers off my bat after having it rehandled so I'm giving up on having it look nice. 

[FvanN]

Inspected after each use (which has been zero for the last 6 weeks) and carry out running repairs as needed. End of season sand and oil and back in the loft till January's nets.

But that said my B3 will be used in anger this year and will go back to B3 for a refurb just so I can get pink stickers applied

[Seniorplayer]

Please forgive my ignorance.

Why clean the scuff marks from the ball off the face? Just to make it look nice?

Not only does the bat look more pristine  you are able to see any minor damage more clearly.

[Gurujames]

Not the greatest photo and the bat is at the club so can take a better one at the moment. But this bat has never had a cover, it is 25 years old and has scored thousands of runs.
as with all of my gear it is treated very well but I always
1. Knock it in properly yourself
2. Rub it down with 240 grit paper every month or so and re-oil lightly.
3. Never drive at Yorkers
4. Do not lend it to either a. The club biffer or b. Anyone under the age of 25
5. Do not apply a toe guard as water will get under it and rot the toe.
6. Be bloody lucky

[brokenbat]

Not the greatest photo and the bat is at the club so can take a better one at the moment. But this bat has never had a cover, it is 25 years old and has scored thousands of runs.
as with all of my gear it is treated very well but I always
1. Knock it in properly yourself
2. Rub it down with 240 grit paper every month or so and re-oil lightly.
3. Never drive at Yorkers
4. Do not lend it to either a. The club biffer or b. Anyone under the age of 25
5. Do not apply a toe guard as water will get under it and rot the toe.
6. Be bloody lucky

All those surface cracks we see - are they glued on to the face? Dumb question probably, but how do you stop the face from "falling off" when there are that many surface cracks?

[Gurujames]

They are solid but in 2 or 3 small areas I have used a needle and syringe to inject glue into the crack. I only had to do this after around 22 years.

[ppccopener]

Brilliant thread.the forum is flying!

[Chalkie]

They are solid but in 2 or 3 small areas I have used a needle and syringe to inject glue into the crack. I only had to do this after around 22 years.

I have seen a number of people mentioning using a needle and syringe to inject glue into cracks - where do u get them as guess they are not on the shelves in Boots?

[WalkingWicket37]

I have seen a number of people mentioning using a needle and syringe to inject glue into cracks - where do u get them as guess they are not on the shelves in Boots?

You can probably get some used ones down your local playground/skate park/shopping centre (or wherever the reprobates congregate these days)