weight difference between a hooking ball and a straight throw

[swanny50]

I'm trying to get my first ball that can hook, wondering if you want the balls lighter than the traditional straight shooting house ball? I usually throw a 15# or 16# ball there the only ones drilled so that my huge knuckled thumb will fit into. So I've never known if i should be throwing lighter or what. I'm 5-9' 165lbs but with a somewhat muscular build. Throw a 16# around 18mph. What would you recommend for a weight.  Thanks.

SWANNY

[rockerbowler18]

I'd recommend sticking with what you already throw weight wise. 16# should be good. If you think what you throw now is a little too heavy, no harm in dropping weight to 15#.

Talk to your local pro shop operator and get his opinion on what ball and how to best drill it to suit your needs.

[BrunsMike]

I agree with rockerbowler18 with what he suggested. I use 15# equipment for strikes and spares. The only difference though is that I use a much weaker ball for the right side spares, 6 and 10 pin mainly.

[dmonroe814]

Use the same weight for strike and spare balls.  Go to your proshop and get a plastic ball for spares.  Have it drilled to fit your hand, just like your strike ball.
I use my plastic ball for all spares except sleepers.

[charlest]

House balls are drilled to fit everyone and no one. Once you get a ball drilled to fit you personally, the ball will feel much lighter than any house ball. of the same weight I'd also suggest sticking to 16 lb. until or unless it feels too heavy after bowling 5 - 6 games at one time.

[txbowler]

I personally throw a combination of 15 & 16.  With the 15, I tend to generate a little more mph, maybe 1/2 a mph with the same swing and I've learned over time so that my balance is not affected changing back and forth.  Some other bowlers say, changing back and forth affects their timing and balance.

As a new bowler, I would not recommend doing what I do.  I've been at this for almost 40 years. 

As everyone above as said.  Visit a local pro shop and have a ball custom fitted for you.  It will make all the difference.  It may also feel weird at first, since you will be used to the big loose holes of house balls.

[BrunsMike]

My 1st response is partially invalid, I some how missed the part of using house balls in his post. I agree with using the same weight for both strike and spare balls but I also agree with having your equipment drilled to your hand not a one size fits none ball. You'll beable handle the ball with ease it'll feel completely natural.