Newbie Questions....

[Spastik]

I am getting into bowling now after a couple of weeks of drinking with my buds at a new bowling alley in town. I started at about 80-90 for a game then progressed to the mid 100's and just got a 199 this week but the balls feel awkward there so I want to get one of my own to see what I can really do. Now the alley does have a speedo and I throw between 21 and 22 MPH consistantly and I have really no hook at all since the balls are weird (that sounded weird). I started using the 15lb since the holes felt better but I liked the weight of a 16 since it felt a little more substancial. I want to get a ball that will be good in just about every condition, allow me to learn to hook gradually, and have enough weight that I don't throw it over 30 MPH like I do with the 10lb. I really don't throw the ball like I am trying to kill the pins, I am just extremely strong (workout 5 days a week and am very fit). Thanks for the help and money really is no object, well I won't mind spending $150 on a ball (just lost a grand last night in poker, ugh!).

[JohnP]

Spastik -- Welcome to the sport of bowling.  As a beginner, you don't need any ball more sophisticated than entry level resin or particle.  All manufacturers have them - look for the balls in the pro shop that are about $80.  This would be a good time to begin a relationship with a good ball driller and a good coach.  Have them watch you bowl and make a recommendation of a ball.  But don't let them talk you into spending $200+, you just don't need that now.  If you want to buy over the internet,

https://www.buddiesproshop.com/Default.asp?

has the Ebonite Tornado TPS (which has been recently discontinued) in 15 and 16 pound for $35 or so plus shipping.  This is a great buy and a ball that would be perfect for you.  With your weight lifting backround, I would suggest starting with 16 pound, then dropping to 15 pound later if you think that would be better after getting some experience.  You should really consider starting with a relaxed fingertip grip if you plan to continue and start league bowling.  --  JohnP

[a_ak57]

Actually, the power grooves are pretty strong.  I forget, I think it's like teal or something, but one of them is actually a medium ball.  They're stronger than advertised.  Probably the most ball for the money.
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-Andy

[a_ak57]

I hate to tell you, but A)  They are significantly stronger than the scouts, their diff.  is as high as mid-price plus balls, and B)  There IS a sanded one for medium-oily conditions.  I have one of the pearls, and it's MUCH stronger than a scout.
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-Andy

[TheBowlingKid25]

If you could get a hold of a Monster Bruiser, that would be a nice starter ball. Very even rolling, easy to control, and under $100. You'd probably need to find a used one though.
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16 years and still going strong! 16 years old that is! The names Warrior Princess, Xena..Warrior Princess
And why would I "saw" pins in half, THATS A WASTE OF PINS!

[TheBowlingKid25]

Steph, you have a urethane scout. You dont have many revs though, thats why your ball doesnt hook alot.
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16 years and still going strong! 16 years old that is! The names Warrior Princess, Xena..Warrior Princess
And why would I "saw" pins in half, THATS A WASTE OF PINS!

[Spastik]

I am a bit impressed with all the variations of balls I have seen on the internet and cores and whatnot, I had no idea that there was this much! What do you mean when you talk about medium, strong etc. and what does the sanded sinish do (I assume more hook, but I am usually wrong).

Any list of what the main terminology about balls would be very helpful.

[TheBowlingKid25]

medium, or strong means how much the ball hooks. Sanding a ball will make it hook earlier, and arc more, not snap, and is better for heavier oil. Polishing a ball will make it go farther down the lane before it hooks, and it will make a sharper turn.
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16 years and still going strong! 16 years old that is! The names Warrior Princess, Xena..Warrior Princess
And why would I "saw" pins in half, THATS A WASTE OF PINS!

[Spastik]

Thanks for all the help guys, I will check out some pro shops here in the area after I get out of the gym today! Also, should I be trying to throw at a certain speed or just what feels natural? I have this problem with golf that a couple pros told me I swing way too hard but then they tell me to swing comfortable which is what I am doing. I do kinda have to tilt a little more to the right when I release because my lats get in the way (tried it straignt on and boiunced my tricep off my lat and throw directly into the gutter), do you forsee any problems with this?

Thanks again!
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What if the hokey pokey really IS what its all about?