beginner needs help choosing equipment

[nhsmoker]

Let me start off by saying I am a very inexperienced beginner. I have bowled here and there through out the years but never gave any thought to proper technique or anything. When I do bowl my score is usually in the 130-140 range. I have decided to take up bowling more regularly and possibly take some lessons and join a beginners league. I am looking for a decent ball to start with. I would like to learn to hook the ball and improve my game. At the pro shop I talked with a couple of workers and the dv8 reckless and too reckless came up as good balls for the lanes that I will play on are these recommendations good? which is better for me? Also I see there is a used reckless in the wts section of this site obviously it is not drilled for my particular hand is this something I should consider or just buy new? I am sure I will have many more questions but this is a start.

[hhhbs1]

For someone starting out I would recommend a low end resin ball. This way you don't spend a lot of money to get started. During this starting out process you can learn the game and figure out what your style will be. Once you have bowled a season or two and know you want to keep bowling you can start getting the higher end bowling balls that match your style and lane patterns  you will bowl on. I would say a misfit, cyclone, 300c or something along those lines would be good.

Personally I would buy my 1st ball brand new most low end balls are in the $130 price range. I would go to a good pro shop and have them fit your hand for finger tip grip.

[MI 2 AZ]

First, find an instructor in your area and talk to them.  You can even ask them for recommendations on which proshop to use. 

My opinion for a beginner who is going to learn how to hook the ball is to look for a ball that will be in the medium oil class, a solid resin ball not a pearl.  My reasoning for that is if you are learning to hook the ball, you don't know where you will end up in the hook range (small hook to very big hook) and while you are learning you will be more erratic.  The solid medium ball should be more controllable and predictable for you than a pearl coverstock ball.  The pearls will have a tendency to magnify your mistakes and as a beginner you may want to avoid that.  There should be a lot of choices in the mid-range price area so you should probably avoid the higher-priced balls for the first ball.  I am thinking that the first ball will end up in the gutter quite a bit and possibly will receive more damage because of that and many of the higher-priced balls will be of the 'hook monster' class which you should avoid as your first ball.

New or used?   That's up to you.  There is nothing really wrong with a used ball but it usually helps to have a bit of experience in knowing what to look for first.  If your instructor or ball-driller recommends a used ball for you, strongly consider it.

For some links on spare shooting systems, look at this topic:

http://www.ballreviews.com/beginners-board/advice-for-long-time-layoff-t287184.0.html;msg2331331#msg2331331

[tommyboy74]

First, find an instructor in your area and talk to them.  You can even ask them for recommendations on which proshop to use. 

My opinion for a beginner who is going to learn how to hook the ball is to look for a ball that will be in the medium oil class, a solid resin ball not a pearl.  My reasoning for that is if you are learning to hook the ball, you don't know where you will end up in the hook range (small hook to very big hook) and while you are learning you will be more erratic.  The solid medium ball should be more controllable and predictable for you than a pearl coverstock ball.  The pearls will have a tendency to magnify your mistakes and as a beginner you may want to avoid that.  There should be a lot of choices in the mid-range price area so you should probably avoid the higher-priced balls for the first ball.  I am thinking that the first ball will end up in the gutter quite a bit and possibly will receive more damage because of that and many of the higher-priced balls will be of the 'hook monster' class which you should avoid as your first ball.

New or used?   That's up to you.  There is nothing really wrong with a used ball but it usually helps to have a bit of experience in knowing what to look for first.  If your instructor or ball-driller recommends a used ball for you, strongly consider it.

For some links on spare shooting systems, look at this topic:

http://www.ballreviews.com/beginners-board/advice-for-long-time-layoff-t287184.0.html;msg2331331#msg2331331

I agree completely.  A medium oil solid resin ball is the best way to go, and many of them won't break the bank either.  The best thing to do is talk with a good pro shop and/or coach, and work with them to determine the best drill layouts and ball choices.

[BallReviews-Removed0385]

I like the idea of the Reckless because it's a pearl that is pretty smooth.  Not all pearl balls are skid/snap.

Most guys who learn to hook the ball, start outside (closer to friction) and at most bowling centers your carry percentage will be higher with a pearl. If you find enough friction with a solid cover, they will slow down much faster, and lose energy faster.  Should you decide to go with a solid cover ball then you can always add polish to aid carry if needed.

I also like the mid price pieces from nearly every manufacturer as a starter ball because they will typically be a little more forgiving on those "not so good" releases.  Good luck to you, and let me know if I can help.

[kidlost2000]

Most entry level ball from any company would be a great starting point. The Too Reckless would be a versatile ball for starting out with and would be one you can keep and use more often even as you continue to get better. Any of the Karma series would be another great choice(not includding the new urethane) for getting started as well.

Theres a million options, but a good entry level ball from any manufacture will not be a bad investment especially when fitted to your hand.

[milorafferty]

This is probably not an opinion most here will agree with, but I would start with a polyester ball. Learn good form and to release it cleanly. Once you can hit your target and repeat shots, then you will be ready to step up to reactive resin. Polyester is cheap, durable and isn't going to soak up oil like a reactive resin ball. You will still have a place in your bag for it when you are actually ready for a hooking piece.

[BallReviews-Removed0385]

I don't disagree with Milo, because everyone should have a spare ball, or at least find a house ball that fits in a pinch. Every bowler leaves 10-pins and a "straight" ball will make your life much easier.

If you want to hook the ball, you are more likely to develop bad habits trying to hook a spare ball, so to speak.  It depends on what you want first.

For your first performance ball, though, I stand by my original post.

[MI 2 AZ]

I probably should have mentioned this earlier, but I forgot because I more focused on answering your concerns.  For a beginner, don't skimp on your bowling shoes.  Don't buy a cheap pair because it may in the long run, cause you more harm than good.  Buy a good expensive pair with interchangeable soles/pads/heels that will help you to adjust your slide on the approaches.  A good pair of bowling shoes will last you many more years than your first bowling ball (unless your first ball is plastic which you will be able to use for spares) and is much more important in helping you to gain consistancy in a good delivery. 

[houseball69]

Not a beginner but feel like one after long layoff. looking for all sorts of suggestions for new equipment?

[stc067]

I would suggest an entry level solid.(Cyclone Freeze solid,300t)These balls are versitile, readily accept surface changes, and won't break the bank.I would next suggest some sessions with a quality coach.This will help you develop your fundamentals, and give you a good base to build on.Good luck!

[trash heap]

You have to start out with an entry level ball. It makes the most sense. Money and from a begining stand point.