thumb slug

[chadw1974]

I'm constantly hanging up in the thumb hole & I've had the thumb hole opened up several times. I've seen some other bowlers use a thumb slug in their ball & I'm wondering if the slug is for creating less friction to make it easier to get your thumb out of the ball?

[rcstricklin]

At first I wondered why people used them until I finally took all my balls to the pro shop and had them put in. Now I understand. My thumb slides out of the ball much easier now giving me more revs and control. It has definitely made a difference in my game. I would recommend. but if you do it to one you have to do to all for that consistent feel. Try it out.
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"I don't roll on Shabbas"

[spinner031]

It also won't rip up your thumb (uh, provided you're not squeezing) like the coarse inside of the actual ball.
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I'll give you five bucks off 'cause you look like a guy who knows his BALLS!

[Graaille]

I went from no slug to thumb slug, and it made a world of difference, my release was better from the first throw.  And if it still rubs just a bit on the thumb, a bit of teflon tape will make the release even cleaner -- mind that you may have to widen the hole just slightly to allow for tape clearance.

[Dan Belcher]

Exactly.  The purpose of using a slug or insert in the thumb hole is for a consistent, smooth feel and surface.  This allows you to come out of the ball more cleanly, it helps protect your thumb from getting torn up by the coarse inside of the ball, and gives you a better feel.  And yes, leaving a little room for a piece of tape when your thumb changes sizes isn't a bad idea.

[BirwinJR]

Slugs or thumb inserts are the way to go. They will give all your balls the same feel, but when you talk to you pro shop and see what your thumb pitches are that can also be a problem.
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www.rotogrip.com KING OF THEM ALL

Edited on 7/2/2007 4:04 PM

[darth_big_ern]

I went to using thumb slugs after bowling with a friend's ball that had the thumb slug.  My ball driller asked me why I want a thumb slug and I said I get a better feel with them.  I now use vinyl oval thumb slugs and have the cleanest release I have had in years.
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Visionary Test Staff

I love the sound of falling pins anytime of the day.

I live in Buffalo, NY and contrary to popular belief, it is not snowing.

Edited on 7/2/2007 4:14 PM