Yesterday I took delivery of what I think is the best bat I have ever held in my hands, let alone owned! This might well be a highly premature statement given that I've only just struck the bat with a mallet but having owned so many exquisite bats in the past, I think this Screaming Cat Professional will be special. Everything about it is superb - big shape for its dead weight, pick-up and most importantly the rebound. Not to mention the finish which is not such a big deal for me but I have never seen a better finished bat.
Even the experience of buying this stick was great. Julian is such a knowledgeable yet humble man. I contacted him way back in December and we had several discussions about the specs. The starting point from my side was - best possible rebound with as large a sweetspot as possible and a gentle, uniform bow. The topic of willow cosmetics (# of grains, heartwood etc) never came up because its not important for me and also because Julian's views on this topic are fairly well documented. Given his grading system it is fairly easy if performance is your only criteria.
Typically, I am very opinionated and also very clear about the shape I want but it was refreshing to debate the pros and cons of different options and settle for a shape we both felt good about. It is a slight variant on his stock models but one that he has already used in the past for other players. That entire process was unhurried and lasted a very enjoyable full month. What I didn't know was that the actual making of the bat in Feb would coincide (to the day, I think) with his 30 years of pod shaving. And so he promised that this bat will be a very special one. I didn't give this much importance because I believe that a master like him puts his very best into every bat he makes.
But, boy was I chuffed to open the package yesterday. It is indeed an amazing bat. Big profile for a 2lb9/10 (including one grip) and beautiful balance resulting in a really light pick-up. And most importantly the mallet just flies off ...not just off the middle but a fairly well spread area. I still need to knock it in so it should get even better! Even the knocking-in process is made easy as he makes a few dents with his mallet which serve as a gauge for the right amount of knocking-in required to get the best performance. So, all I need to do is just even out the pre-existing dents. Simple, but effective as I am generally not a big fan of knocking in and invariable start playing in with under-prepared bats.
One final detail that was a nice surprise was a subtle signature on the back of the bat and the engraving of my initials on the shoulder. Does no good to its utility as a bat but I am a sucker for these little gestures.
Will also post a proper review when I have used this bat more. Apols for this long post but just wanted to share my enthusiasm at seeing this super bat!
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Topic: 30th Anniversary Special from Julian (Read 8147 times)