Does Johnny B still make hurleys?
The O’Briens of Cahir have been making hurleys since the mid-1930s, and John O’Brien, aka Johnny B, now operates the business out of a cottage that’s been standing since 1845.
What are the best hurleys?
Without doubt, the Torpey is a very popular hit amongst many senior inter-county hurlers and would count itself unlucky not to gain the number one spot. Predictably, the Dowling hurley is based in Kilkenny. Often regarded as ‘the star’ hurley, it is without doubt the best hurley in the country.
Who is the best hurley maker in Ireland?
With the early votes in, it appears that the number one hurley maker in Ireland is Star Hurleys in Kilkenny. Made by the Dowlings of Kilkenny, the Star is used by the majority of Kilkenny hurlers. It has a relatively big bas and is usually thinner than most other hurleys.
What wood makes hurleys?
ash wood
Hurleys are made from ash wood; the base of the tree near the root is the only part used and is usually bought from local craftsmen in Ireland (for about €20–50), who still use traditional production methods. However, for some time in the 1970s, hurleys made from plastic were used, mainly produced by Wavin.
How many hurley makers are in Ireland?
The irony is that Ireland’s 250 or so hurley makers had been importing 80% of their ash due to shortages here anyway but state forestry company Coillte had planted enough for self-sufficient domestic supply by 2020. With trees dying rapidly or being felled to stop the spread of disease, that is no longer an option.
What size hurley should I use?
The distance from the ground to their wrist is the correct length. Player should be able to hold the hurley at the top and the hurley should be just touching the ground. If a player is between sizes it is still better to have the hurley too small rather than too big.
What hurley does Lee Chin use?
The PRO 1001 Evolution is Lee Chin’s current hurl which will continue its development in our workshop under Lee’s guidance. There will be ongoing modifications from November to May on this model which may occasionally include slight size changes.
How do you pick a hurley?
Who is the greatest hurler of all time?
Henry Shefflin
There is no doubt about it – everybody wants to have him on their team. He is probably the best hurler that has ever played.” Eddie Keher, a six-time All-Ireland medallist and the man who Shefflin surpassed as the top scorer of all-time, stated: “Henry Shefflin is the greatest hurler of all time.
Are bamboo hurleys any good?
Bambú offers a greater strike and sweet spot compared to our ash collection. Scientific testing in Loughborough Sports University has shown the hurley to have a greater sweet spot for improved consistency. Players have experienced a sweeter strike with Bambú and claim it has a striking distance further than ash.
Why is ash used for hurleys?
According to Teagasc, ash timber is strong and flexible with a good capacity for shock absorbency so, it is for this reason ash has been traditionally used in Ireland for the production of hurleys.
What is the best weight for a hurley?
A precise 566 grams is typical of a hurl made to the specifications of one regular and long-standing customer – but that’s for the finished product, complete with handgrip at one end and bands at the other.