A Step Up in Willow: Buy the New Balance DC 800 Cricket Bat in Short Handle
Overview
The New Balance DC 800 cricket bat is an English willow bat for adult club players. It comes in Short Handle, the standard adult size. Its low swell profile carries large edges and a big sweet spot. For the new range, New Balance has upgraded the quality of the willow.
That upgrade brings a slight price increase on the Short Handle. In return, you get better English willow than the previous DC 800. It is a good fit if you want more than an entry level bat 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, so choose early to leave time for knocking in.
Features
- Better willow than before: The DC 800 now uses better quality English willow than before.
- Standard adult size: Short Handle suits most adult players.
- 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, upgraded for the new range. Better willow usually shows fewer blemishes and a more even grain. Some marks or heartwood may still appear, but these are mostly cosmetic. The willow gives the response club players expect from English 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
Upgraded English Willow: The Short Handle uses better quality English willow for the new range. It is a step up from the wood used before.
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 800 |
| Size |
Short Handle (SH) |
| Willow |
English willow (upgraded for the new range) |
| Handle |
6 piece Singapore cane |
| Handle shape |
Semi oval (33/37) |
| Grip |
Silver |
| Toe guard |
Clear |
| Profile |
Low swell, large edges and sweet spot |
| Pricing |
Slight increase, due to the improved willow |
VKS Review
The DC 800 is a sensible next step for a club player. 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. The upgraded willow makes it a better bat than the previous DC 800 for a small extra cost.
The DC 800 shares its shape, handle and grip with the DC 600. The difference is the willow. If budget comes first, the DC 600 costs less. Players who mostly play off the back foot may prefer a mid or high swell. 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 compare both bats before you buy.
Q&A Section
Is the DC 800 good for club cricket?
Yes, it suits club players well. Upgraded English willow, large edges and a low swell make a forgiving bat for regular matches. Players at a higher level may want a top end bat for the best performance.
What is the difference between the DC 800 and the DC 600?
The main difference is the willow. The DC 800 uses better quality English willow than the DC 600. Both share the same low swell profile, handle, grip and toe guard.
Why has the DC 800 price gone up?
The price has risen slightly because the willow has improved. New Balance has upgraded the wood on the Short Handle. You pay a little more for better quality 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 800 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.
Can the DC 800 be a Christmas present?
Yes, it makes a good gift for an adult club cricketer. A winter purchase leaves plenty of time to knock it in before April. Check the size first, as Short Handle suits most adults.
Can I try the New Balance DC 800 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 feel. It is also available online with free UK delivery on orders over £100.
