I think all batmakers have their own quirks, and as much as I'd like to see the results of a competition - it wouldn't be indicative of what batmakers are truly capable of. Every batmaker has their forte, probably based on what their customer demands are like. (ie. I'd imagine Aldred would do Butterfly better than most, H4L do monster sized bats better than most, etc etc.) It would probably do the consumers no good if they all flock to the 'winner' - they would probably get more orders than what they could fulfill, probably rush to get them out, might cut corners etc. etc., while other worthy batmakers go under the radar a bit. We're very lucky to be able to actually talk to a batmaker to figure out what we want.
Based on my experience, I love Keeley, H4L, and Robertsbridge made bats. I've seen a few other smaller batmakers bats, such as Scott and G&F, who have all been very impressive too. (Most of the bats I've had most success with have been from India and NZ.)
The most important aspect of a bat is that you enjoy using it! Does dealing in boundaries by swinging from the hip please you most? Get something with a stiff handle with a slightly firm press. Do you like to have that glorious silky feeling of driving the ball neatly into the gap for a well run 2? Get something with a slightly whippier feel. Does using a bat that your favourite batsman uses bring you enjoyment? Go for it, just make sure you get a good one! (Never underestimate the mental side of things, unless you're
@19reading87)
What you feel is probably the most important thing - go with a maker who presses well, (most I've bought from do) but does the handle and pick up exactly the way you like it. (Again, I'm a collector, so I'll try anything from anyone/brand I like the look of.) Rebound is important, but as
@sarg says, a premium rebound might net you a few more runs in the entire season. Pick up, feel and correct weight are the most important tangible things. Oh, and I also like high quality handles/handle fitting and non-storm damaged bats - nothing worse than finding a bat you love, only for it to split at the shoulder and never feel the same again even after rehandle.
all about the sheer amount of wood, lack of concaving and does it go all over the bat. If it's pretty.. great... if it's got some lovely 'buff' on it.. great.. but if it ain't a go'er then tbh, that's all just window dressing (which is what a lot of people choose or fall for depending on your view point).
The best bat's I've personally used are
Rob Pack - Had nothing but guns. Saw 2 bat's I'd class as 'standard' ones to others dotted around
Matt H4L devil from 2016 ish
A second hand salix in one game which was a weapon but I could never justify the price as the others I've seen look good but were nothing special bat wise so I was worried about over paying for a standard bat.
all mine are 2.9/2.10
just my view though
About time we got some RP specials on here.
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Topic: The Best Batmaker in the UK (Read 27068 times)