BAT CARE - PREPARING YOUR NEW BAT
Oiling
REAPER CRICKET recommend that when you receive your bat you apply 2 or 3 light coats of raw linseed oil to the face, back edges and toe (unless a toe guard is fitted). Clean the bat using very fine sand paper before each new application. After oiling lay bat flat for a few hours and allow to dry. Ideally over night where possible.
Anti-Scuff Sheet
When your bat is completely dry, we would suggest the application of a clear Anti-Scuff sheet and edge tape if needed.
Knocking In
Knocking in will help ensure a long lasting future for your bat and increase its performance. It should be carefully knocked in with soft old leather cricket balls or a bat mallet. Knocking in should be aimed around the edges and the toe on the face of the bat. Take great care when knocking in as hitting too hard too soon may crack or damage the willow. The more time you invest in conditioning your bat the better, performance will be greatly improved and it will also help contribute to increasing the life of your bat. We would suggest 4 to 6 hours knocking in as a minimum. Avoid bowling machine practice until the bat is fully knocked in.
Toe Guard
REAPER CRICKET Custom bats do not come with a fitted a toe guard. We are happy to provide these if required. Our junior range has fitted toe guards to help avoid water damage arising from use in damp / wet conditions.
Bat Cover
Keeping your bat in a protective case when not in use will help protect your bat from unwanted dents and bumps.
Willow
Willow is a natural soft wood, that when pressed provides the rebound qualities required to strike a ball. Some small cracks will appear on your bat due to general wear and tear, these will not affect the performance of your bat.
Expert Advice
If you are unsure on the best way to prepare and look after your bat please feel free to contact REAPER CRICKET. We will be more than happy to help and advise you.
Oiling
REAPER CRICKET recommend that when you receive your bat you apply 2 or 3 light coats of raw linseed oil to the face, back edges and toe (unless a toe guard is fitted). Clean the bat using very fine sand paper before each new application. After oiling lay bat flat for a few hours and allow to dry. Ideally over night where possible.
Anti-Scuff Sheet
When your bat is completely dry, we would suggest the application of a clear Anti-Scuff sheet and edge tape if needed.
Knocking In
Knocking in will help ensure a long lasting future for your bat and increase its performance. It should be carefully knocked in with soft old leather cricket balls or a bat mallet. Knocking in should be aimed around the edges and the toe on the face of the bat. Take great care when knocking in as hitting too hard too soon may crack or damage the willow. The more time you invest in conditioning your bat the better, performance will be greatly improved and it will also help contribute to increasing the life of your bat. We would suggest 4 to 6 hours knocking in as a minimum. Avoid bowling machine practice until the bat is fully knocked in.
Toe Guard
REAPER CRICKET Custom bats do not come with a fitted a toe guard. We are happy to provide these if required. Our junior range has fitted toe guards to help avoid water damage arising from use in damp / wet conditions.
Bat Cover
Keeping your bat in a protective case when not in use will help protect your bat from unwanted dents and bumps.
Willow
Willow is a natural soft wood, that when pressed provides the rebound qualities required to strike a ball. Some small cracks will appear on your bat due to general wear and tear, these will not affect the performance of your bat.
Expert Advice
If you are unsure on the best way to prepare and look after your bat please feel free to contact REAPER CRICKET. We will be more than happy to help and advise you.