Thanks very much for the feedback, it's really helpful. I've tried to put on extra grip but takes the bat up another ounce and at 2.9 already it means I have to try to wield a 2.10 bat with my puny arms! I am wondering how much weight extra binding may take the bat to.
Tomorrow is the last day by which I need hat like the shape of the NB bat make a decision before I send it back. To be honest the bat looks like the NB bat Stokes uses. Very full, square toe, big edges (40mm) and lower middle. I will look to post some pics if I hold onto it