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[jonpinson]

I've always wondered about this. Say for instance a batmaker has 3 or 4 standard shapes that he makes, is it considered impolite to ask for something else?

For instance if you like a shape made by one maker, is it rude to ask another to make one, on the basis you consider him to be a better maker?

Is asking for a copy of another maker's model a bit like fraud?

Not important, just always wondered.

[ProWannabe88]

I think if you base the request on the belief the podshaver is better than the other or that you think he could do a better job copying the shape then it could be seen only as a compliment.

[Howzat]

No way, its their job to make the bats for their customers, wont take them any longer to make something slightly different!

[Richard]

I think it comes down to what you're after and if the batmaker can replicate that shape. For instance, the Nixon I bought last year is traditionally shaped, small edges, high spine. If I wanted a GT\harlequin shape I wouldn't go to Nixon as other batmakers can shape those profiles far better. Each batmaker will have profiles that he is less comfortable with.

I don't think its rude to ask for something different, but maybe unwise if you're after something that that particular batmaker may struggle with.

[Rik]

Typically you are paying for it so I wouldn't view it as rude personally.

If for some reason somebody offers you a free bat then it would probably be a bit rude to be picky!

[thedon]

Its a business at the end of the day. As a customer you should be 100% satisfied. A batmaker may charge abit more if you ask for a different shape, but I believe custom should mean custom, and by refusing business away, it wouldnt make great business sense

[Alvaro]

I echo what Richard says - but do discuss it with the maker to find out their feelings. Some will end up sticking to what they know (Solitaire) or others will attempt to give you what you want.

[jonpinson]

Cheers for your views. I think what I should have made more clear was this:

If a batmaker has sweated over his own designs and put his heart and soul into it, would it come as a bit of a blow for someone to come along and say "I don't think your designs are good enough for me, make me something one of your rivals has designed."

I have no intention of doing this, I believe in buying authenticity even if costs a bit more.

[Talisman]

If you were buying a shape preferred by the batmaker than by it off the shelf, if you want a custom then get one, I don't know a single batmaker who would be offended but I do know the odd one that will take your request and bin it before making you a bat that will be better suited to your play. It's happened to me and they were right, even if it took me 3 months to admit it.

[roco]

Takes a man to admit he was wrong mike

[Talisman]

Just a lot of resentment when after going through your full description he says no, and then starts on the chosen cleft and makes something ugly looking, I couldn't believe it but he was right, mainly due him being a level 4 ECB Coach and a County batsman....

[jonpinson]

Just a lot of resentment when after going through your full description he says no, and then starts on the chosen cleft and makes something ugly looking, I couldn't believe it but he was right, mainly due him being a level 4 ECB Coach and a County batsman....

Details?

[Talisman]

David Banks at Stac, Wordsley.

[jonpinson]

David Banks at Stac, Wordsley.

Is he still making? Back in the day our best bat had one made by him.

[Talisman]

I believe he still shapes them, I can ask is you are interested.