Recreational bowler looking for first ball

[Stevarian]

Hi, I am brand new here. I have been bowling for fun a few times lately, and decided that the house balls stink. I would like to get a ball of my own. I have just started to do some research, and found this site.

I can't tell you much about the type of alleys I will be bowling at, as I don't really know enough to discuss it intelligently.

I would like a decent ball, and one that if I decide I would like to start learning to hook, I can.

I had emailed someone at bowling.com a couple of days ago, and they recommended the Columbia Scout Reactive or the Brunswick Power Groove Reactive if I wanted to learn how to hook as a beginner. Their prices are below $70 with free shipping on both balls. This is the price range I would like to stay in.

Any thought on a good beginners ball? Thanks!

Also, what can I expect to pay for a pro-shop to drill it?

Steve
Spokane, WA

Edited on 11/4/2004 0:03 AM

[mrbowlingnut]

Be careful some shops charge 50 bucks to drill an internet ball, most shops have these same balls in there stock so the local guys price will be cheaper on low end balls. If you were talking about a 200 ball the net is the way to go but i think you will be better off to go the local pro shop, ask a friend who bowls league for a decent driller. If the driller does not spend more than 10 minutes with you just politely go somewhere else, it should take almost 30 minutes to discuss what you are trying to do and fit you hand properly. Good luck you sometimes need it if you pick the wrong proshop no matter were the ball comes from.

[Stevarian]

Thanks for the info, that is something I didn't even think about.

Also, what about ball weight? I think I read somewhere the ball should be about 10% of your body weight. I weigh over 200 pounds, so I assume a 16 pound ball would be good?

Steve

[TuCkiE]

You might want to see if you are comfortable with a 16 pound ball. Probably a 15lb or 14lb. For me, I started out with a 14lb because I was and still am close to 140 pounds. I want to have a heavier ball, but my wrist is still not as strong. So, I decided to stick to 14lb probably until later.
Some people may not be able take the weight of the ball the first time. And make sure you get a good driller to ensure a proper fit.
Just my 2 cents.
--------------------
Bowling is the game, Brunswick is the name.
Become the best, and beat the rest...
only with BRUNSWICK.

Edited on 11/4/2004 2:25 AM

[a_ak57]

General rule, is that a ball fitted for you will feel 1-2 pounds lighter than a house ball will.  SO go from there.

Also, I recommend the Power groove.  It will hit harder (yes there is science behind this you'll find out soon enough ) than the scout will, not to mention it's a GREAT ball as well.

Though you won't understand it now, if you buy online, when asked for "pin", go for 2-3 inches, and when asked for "top weight", go for around 3 oz.

Let us know any other questions.

Oh and welcome to bowling.
--------------------
-Andy

Brunswick Unofficial Amateur Staffer

[Stevarian]

Thanks again! You guys are great!

For A_AK57, would the Power Groove be good for "straight" bowling too? (In other words, if I don't hook, or don't try it for a while?)

It sounds like I need to visit my local Pro-shop. Will I have the same options when I shop locally for the "pin" and "top weight" specs A_AK57 mentioned?

Thanks again! I am very glad I found this site!

Steve