Refinishing old bats
 

Lately I have gotten into getting old player model bats, mainly LS, autographed by HOFers. However, some of the older player bats are hard to find not used. I try to clean them up without damaging the patina and dip them in a lacquer.
What does everyone one think about doing this? I am an amateur/intermediate woodworker but I am new to the vintage bats.

Thanks

Tom

BTW...these are not game used.

Hi Tom
Its ok to clean up old store model bats. Since you are getting them signed, I'm sure you want them to be clean looking and not covered in ball marks.

Game used bats-always leave as is.
Matt

IMO it is acceptable to refinish store model bats and in many cases the practice results in a more desireable piece. Of course, you would only do this if the finish is trashed and the bat in poor shape. If anything is added, i.e. a knob repair etc, it can detract from the price of an original example in nice shape, but the value is far greater than that of a damaged original piece.

Fred Lowman is a BRILLIANT restorer of bats. I have sent him bats with shattered handles that he can make new again. It really is amazing.

http://www.crackofthebat.net/home/lesson-format

An exception would be decal restoration. I would not touch a repainted decal bat with a ten foot pole.

Matt, Thanks for your response on repairing my old bat. I'm going to assume the end is burned from Ty Cobb swinging it so fast, and leave as-is so that it will bring more after I have Coaches Corner authenticate it.

Bill Rayburn Bat Restoration
 

http://www.sportsantiques.com/09natstorypg7.htm
Tom, Bill Rayburn of Murray Kentucky did a great job restoring a Spalding ring bat for me a few years ago...take a look at the photos in the link above. PM me and I'll get you his contact.
-Carlton