Back in September, I got in contact with Red Ink to take advantage of his end of season sale. I picked out a lovely looking cleft and a few weeks later received a nice bat - very good finish and balance on it too.
The following months were filled with the stresses and strains of buying a house and staying with the inlaws. Cricket pottering was at a minimum. So, it was early this year that I began to knock the bat in. Unfortunately, after a few cursory bashes this happened:
I contacted John, and he was great. Offered to take it back and have a look. I duly did, and shortly after I received the bat back, repressed and well taped up. In fact, the bat felt better bouncing a ball and all was well.
Unfortunately, when I started knocking again, the same thing happened and the crack started spreading. Again, John was quick to reply to messages and after checking, offered to make a replacement. He glued up the original too, and sent it me to along with the new bat. Which is awesome. I love it, characterful grains, lovely feel and it taps up (no splits or cracks after 20 mins of wood bashing) really well. It's one inch shorter, with a longer handle, mid middle and offset edge. A bit like the DB3 posted earlier. The finish is super. I can't recommend John enough - really patient and reasonable. A good batmaker too. Thanks for a beauty.