Club Obi Wan

Question for you Fed Deluxe owners. I have a Fed Deluxe that I ordered a while back and have not opened until now. I did not know that Akubras run big, and they told me to order true to size. I just tried it on and it is a good centimeter or more too large. Akubra recommends inserting the sizing felt and as the hat shrinks remove the felt to size. Before I bash it I was wondering if that is valid advice, or should I try to off it while it is still new and untouched? A return/exchange to Australia is cost prohibitive. I would like to bash it this weekend if I have the chance. BTW, this is my first go at bashing a hat, which I am quite excited about, wish me luck...

I can only speak to the one's I've owned, and the answer is yes, they do shrink slightly with time and wear. If it's not rattling around on your head, but just fits slightly loose, then I'd use the foam tape until it does. You'll also see a change after you bash it.

Like I said, this is what I've experienced with mine, and I've owned both standard and Deluxe Feds over the years. Regards. Michaelson

The foam should help correct a cm. or so difference. Do not worry about bashing, it is easier than it sounds.
Good luck and don't forget pics.!

Thank you for the reply Michaelson and Feraud. The hat is larger than I would normally accept, but the felt makes it fit just right. It will be a good benchmark on Akubra shrinkage (..'I was in the pool......'), if it does indeed come to size. I tried some cold bashes and I am ever anxious to steam in the final. Pics to follow when I can finally get it done. If not this weekend as I may not have the time to put Raiders on the dvd and have a few cocktails, it will be as soon as I return from my current travels. One cannot rush such things.