Title edited as just realised someone else had used the same one.
A while back when everyone was drooling over the massive Aus GN bats John happened to mention he had some large clefts and planned to make a big bat. That was just the invitation I needed as I have wanted a Red Ink for a while, and also with my ability to use the edge more than is appropriate, the bigger the better.
So I dropped John a line and after he sent some cleft pictures we spent quite a while corresponding about how close he could get to my impossible ambitions - big edges, based on the 50+ shape, but under 2'12. We agreed the basic specs and he got to work. I have to say that John has been fantastic throughout, putting up with all my dumb questions and emails.
A couple of weeks later it's here, and I'm really pleased with the end product.
Unlike the one that John made for Nick last year the cleft was not superlight but he has still conjured up the following specs in standard length blade and handle (oval at bottom) with fairly high middle.
7 grains with a little graping
Max edge - 44mm
Spine - 62mm
Toe min - 20mm
Shoulder min - 14mm
Just a little concaving
Weight 2' 11.6 (including toe guard)
Ping test with a ball puts a smile on my face, and can only get better with knocking in.
Only a couple of niggles. Handle is a bit thin (3-5mm less diameter than my others) so will need to add another grip or some tape. Also it doesn't quite follow the 50+ shape but John recommended a slightly lower middle due to our UK pitches.
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Topic: X2 beauty from John (Read 3899 times)