Ball Selection |
||
|
The choice of bowling ball is critical in creating the precise angle of entry needed to throw strikes. It seems as though with all the new equipment being introduced bowling centres are constantly changing the oil patterns on the lanes to try to satisfy everyone. This in turn requires the bowlers to adjust to the amount of oil as well as the break point on their equipment. With so many types of balls on the market, it would require a significant investment to have every ball surface in your arsenal. Therefore, we will explain the newer reactive balls and the must-have plastics for spares. Most experienced and high-average bowlers like to start off with both a solid reactive and a pearl reactive, the solid will usually begin their hooking earlier, while the pearl will slide farther down the lane and delay its hook. Depending on the amount of lift and turn the bowler puts on the ball, either of these two can be used. With a moderate amount of turn a bowler should be able to use a solid reactive ball with a surface shined to about 8oo grit:(or the surface most newer balls come from the maker). For some lane conditions, it is an idea to go down to about 600 grit to get the added bite from the ball surface. Some bowlers with little are no turn on the ball would probably benefit from taking the ball surface to as low as 320 grit. This would get the ball moving earlier toward the pocket and not slide out into the 3 pin ! Perhaps the best investment you could make would be a lighter plastic ball for your spares. With the reactive balls hooking so much and so unpredictable it is far more easier to just shoot the spares with a ball that just plain goes straight. It cannot be stressed enough about knowing your equipment. How many times have you heard this ... "My ball just doesn't hook enough anymore!". While some balls may have been passed by, most can increase their hooking strengths just by sanding the ball down a few grits. Remember, the bowling companies put out balls at just one surface grit that does not mean you have to play it at that grit ... ... use what you need! More advanced tips on selecting your Bowling Arsenal |
Top of page