First bowling ball purchase.

[samus1003]

I am relatively new to the sport and I want to purchase my own ball and have it custom drilled. I have only used house balls between 10-12 lbs. Avg speed is around 16 mph and avg around 140 a game. This is all done with straight shots. I want to learn how to hook the ball, and have learned plastic coverstocks are really only for spares. I would appreciate recomendations for an entry level ball to learn to hook without being, too,expensive. Also, is it recommended that I go for a heavier ball if it's being custom drilled?

[LookingForALeftyWall]

When I returned to the game of bowling over a decade ago, into the modern age of bowling balls, I was suckered by the shop into getting a $239 ball. Then another shop owner sold me a used wicked for $90 which had over 30 games on it.

So do your research.

I had the opposite experience when I returned to the game.  The PSO I went to suggested a mid-level ball.  I did not want to hear that advice and got a top-shelf ball instead.  A month in, I went to a ball demo and of course, the ball I matched up best with at the demo was one of the balls the the PSO originally suggested.  Live and learn!!!!

[rkm825]

I certainly agree with going to your local pro shop, but since you asked for a ball recommendation I'll give you one - the Ebonite Cyclone.  I've sold a lot of them and haven't had a single complaint.  --  JohnP

I started off with the cyclone myself and I love it. Also in my opinion about the weight of your ball, I used to throw an 11-12 pound house ball but was told to go up in weight to 14 because it will feel light with custom drilling and for me it was.