Frequently Asked Questions
Materials & Craft
What wood do you make your cricket bats with?
All OX29 bats are made from premium English Willow with high-quality cane handles. We don't use alternatives like Kashmir or Serbian willow because they underperform compared with English Willow's blend of strength, spring and lightness.
Do you hard press or soft press your cricket bats?
We don't use a "hard vs soft" binary - each cleft is pressed to optimise both performance and durability. Every online bat includes a ping-test video so you can hear the rebound before buying.
Repairs & Maintenance
How do I fix a cracked cricket bat?
At OX29 Bat Doctor, we repair cracked bats using specialist glue combined with clamping techniques to restore strength without affecting balance. We can also fit a new toe guard, apply edge tape, and add scuff sheets for extra protection.
Can I repair a bat handle myself?
DIY handle repairs are risky. A damaged handle needs to be professionally spliced and refitted, while a toe split requires precise gluing back into place. We use custom-built professional equipment to ensure safe, lasting repairs.
What should I do if my bat gets water damage?
If your bat becomes damp or water damaged, dry it naturally at room temperature - never with a heater or direct sunlight. Contact us as soon as possible, as we may be able to carry out repairs to prevent long-term damage.
How should I care for my bat after purchase?
We recommend storing your bat in a cool, dry place and avoiding damp or excessive heat. Regular oiling, correct knocking-in, and using a toe guard or scuff sheet will help protect the willow and extend your bat's lifespan.
Do I need to knock in my new OX29 bat?
Our bats are expertly pressed and need minimal knocking-in. We bone the leading edges and toe and offer two preparation options:
- Machine knocking (~13,000 strikes) for ready-to-use durability.
- Hand knocking for earlier "ping" while maintaining the crafted press.
Custom Bats & Buying Advice
Where can I buy handmade cricket bats in the UK?
You can order custom handmade bats directly from OX29 Bat Doctor. Each bat is crafted to suit your playing style, weight preference, and feel. We ship across the UK and worldwide, and we also offer workshop consultations to help you choose the right bat.
How long does a custom bat take to make?
Our custom handmade bats usually take 1-2 weeks to craft, depending on the level of customisation and workshop demand. If you need a bat urgently, please contact us and we'll do our best to prioritise your order.
What's the best bat shape for front-foot players?
For front-foot dominant players, we recommend a low-to-mid sweet spot, as shots are often struck lower down the blade. Our custom bats are designed to maximise the sweet spot for both power and control.
How do I choose the right bat weight?
The right bat weight depends on your strength, stroke style, and age. We offer weight consultations and trial swings in our workshop on all the bats we sell, helping you find the perfect fit.
Can I book a consultation in person?
Yes - we offer workshop consultations where you can test different bat shapes and weights, discuss custom requirements, and get professional advice tailored to your game. Please book in advance.
What bat size should I buy for my child?
Bat size depends mainly on height and growth. Use the size guide below to choose the right option.
Orders, Shipping & Warranty
What is your returns policy?
Stock bats: tell us within 7 days of receipt and return within 14 days in original condition (unused or lightly used - for example, throwdowns only - with the same grip, stickers and scuff sheet). Knocking-in fees aren't refundable.
Custom bats: non-returnable unless there's a manufacturing fault (covered by our 6-month warranty).
Do you ship cricket bats internationally?
Yes - we ship worldwide. All orders are securely packaged, and we provide full tracking information once your bat has been dispatched. Shipping costs and delivery times vary depending on your location.
What warranty do you provide on your bats?
All new bats come with a 6-month manufacturer's warranty covering faults in materials or workmanship. This does not cover damage caused by misuse, poor maintenance, or natural wear and tear.
Can I collect my repaired bat from the workshop?
We do not offer personal collections. Repairs are returned via Parcelforce, and we also provide a 24-hour drop-off service. Courier return is faster and avoids long uncollected wait times. See our Shipping & Transit Policy for full details.
Payment & Finance
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept the following payment methods:
- American Express
- Apple Pay
- Bancontact
- Diners Club
- Discover
- Google Pay
- iDEAL
- Maestro
- Mastercard
- Shop Pay
- Union Pay
- Visa
- Shopify Pay
- Bank Transfer
- Card Machine (in our workshop)