Big Edges, Low Swell: Buy the New Balance DC 600 Cricket Bat in Long Blade or Short Handle
Overview
The New Balance DC 600 cricket bat is an English willow bat for senior club players. It comes in Long Blade and Short Handle sizes. Its low swell profile carries large edges and a big sweet spot. A 6 piece Singapore cane handle adds comfort at impact.
It makes a sensible first English willow bat. It also works well as a spare for the season. You get a genuine English willow feel and a forgiving shape without paying top end prices.
The low swell sits the weight lower down the blade. That suits players who drive off the front foot and play on slower club pitches. Large edges give you more margin on shots you do not quite middle. The UK season runs from April to September. Choose early so you have time to knock it in.
Features
- English willow feel: You get the livelier response of English willow rather than Kashmir willow.
- Two senior sizes: Long Blade suits taller players. Short Handle is the standard adult size.
- Forgiving edges: Large edges help thick outside edges and mistimed shots travel further.
- Power where you drive: The low swell puts mass behind the ball on front foot shots.
- Comfort on contact: A 6 piece Singapore cane handle helps soak up jarring at impact.
- Natural hand feel: The semi oval handle shape sits comfortably in most grips.
- Clean finish: A silver grip and clear toe guard keep the look simple.
Design and Materials
The blade is English willow. It may show some grains, blemishes or a band of heartwood. These marks are mostly cosmetic. The willow still gives the response club players expect from English willow over Kashmir willow.
The handle uses 6 piece Singapore cane in a semi oval shape. Cane handles flex slightly at impact, which helps reduce sting in your hands. A silver grip covers the handle. A clear toe guard protects the toe from damp and wear without hiding the willow.
Key Technologies
English Willow Blade: Both senior sizes use English willow. It gives a livelier response off the face than Kashmir willow.
Low Swell Profile: The thickest part of the blade sits low. This rewards drives and shots played under the eyes.
Large Edges and Sweet Spot: Thick edges widen the hitting area. You keep more power on shots away from the middle.
6 Piece Singapore Cane Handle: Cane strips are bonded with rubber inserts. The build adds flex and helps absorb shock.
Semi Oval Handle Shape: A shape between round and oval. It gives a natural hold that suits a wide range of grips.
Clear Toe Guard: A clear guard covers the toe. It helps stop moisture and cracking from tapping the bat on the crease.
Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Brand |
New Balance |
| Model |
DC 600 |
| Sizes |
Long Blade (LB), Short Handle (SH) |
| Willow |
English willow |
| Handle |
6 piece Singapore cane |
| Handle shape |
Semi oval (33/37) |
| Grip |
Silver |
| Toe guard |
Clear |
| Profile |
Low swell, large edges and sweet spot |
VKS Review
The DC 600 is a sensible way into English willow. The low swell and big edges give it a solid, full feel on drives. The cane handle takes the sting out of a ball hit near the toe. It gives you a genuine English willow bat with a forgiving shape.
The trade off is the willow. It will not match the grain or look of top end English willow bats. Players who mostly play off the back foot may also prefer a mid or high swell. If you want a premium blade for high level cricket, look further up the range instead. VKS has over 50 years of cricket experience, and The Telegraph named us London's Finest Cricket Store. You can visit our London store in Ealing to pick up both sizes before you buy.
Q&A Section
Is the DC 600 good for club cricket?
Yes, it suits club players well. English willow, large edges and a low swell give a forgiving bat for weekend cricket. Players at a higher level may want a top end bat for more performance and a longer life.
Should I choose Long Blade or Short Handle?
Choose Long Blade if you are tall or stand upright at the crease. Short Handle is the standard size for most adult players. If you are not sure, come in and hold both sizes in your stance.
What should I expect from the willow?
Expect a natural English willow blade with some visible marks. It can show grains, blemishes or heartwood. These are mostly looks, so the bat still plays like English willow.
Which players suit a low swell bat?
A low swell suits players who drive a lot off the front foot. It also helps on slower, lower bouncing club pitches. If you pull and cut more, a mid or high swell may suit you better.
Does the DC 600 need knocking in?
Yes, every new English willow bat needs knocking in before match use. Knocking in hardens the face and edges so they resist cracks. Start with a mallet, then play gently in the nets before games.
What is the difference between the DC 600 and the DC 800?
The main difference is the willow. The DC 800 uses better quality English willow and costs more. Both share the same low swell profile, handle, grip and toe guard.
Can I try the New Balance DC 600 cricket bat before I buy?
Yes, you can see it in our Ealing store in London. Our team can help you compare pick up and size. It is also available online with free UK delivery on orders over £100.
