-
I've bowled for fun for 10 years. In college I bowled 8-10 games a week, never had a ball or shoes. I'd like to get more serious (I'm in my first league). I'm about a 170 average (181 avg last week with my first ever closed game).
I use a 14 pound house ball, throw one handed (right), and have a pretty big hook (with the junky house balls).
The owner of the alley who watched me (apparently an ex pro) recommended a High RG ball with a Mellow Cover. I'm comfortable throwing a bunch of different types of hooks depending on oil patterns. I don't know what other info you might need in order to recommend a specific ball, but I'm looking for advice. Thanks a million. Glad to join the ranks of real bowlers.
-
For an entry level hook ball its hard to beat those Slingshots!
Chris Garrett
Upstate Pro Shop
Greenville, SC 864-569-0878
Upstateproshop@charter.net
PBA Member
Brunswick Regional Staff
Vise Regional Staff
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation.
-
Tropical Storm, Roto Dark Star, 900G Link. Perhaps a urethane ball should be considered like the Natural or Grenade
-
Thanks for the suggestions.
I want something that's going to hit the pins harder and spin a little harder so I can get more of a hook when the conditions are more oily. Any of those recommendations fit better than another?
-
For someone whos already averaging 170-180 with a house ball (and hooking one at that) I don't think you really need an entry level ball (I could be wrong with seeing you bowl) But for you I would reccommend something for medium oil at the medium price point, I believe for brunswick its called the advanced value performance line. Any of the snake balls should suit that need if you're looking for brunswick (anaconda, python, diamondback etc). I'd go for one of those.
Arsenal
Brunswick Avalanche Pearl
Brunswick Power Groove
Roto Grip Cell Pearl
Brunswick Target Zone
-
Track 505T or Roto Grip Nomad Solid
Arsenal:
715T................... 65x4.4x30 1000AB
505T................... 65x4.5x30 2000AB
Bank Pearl...........60x5x40 1500 polished
Dark Star.............70x3.5x40 1500 polished
Red Backlash.......80x3x40 2000 polished
-
When you already get a house ball moving, and want a big B option, I'd also say a Slingshot or a (recently discontinued) Power Groove (which is a tad stronger due to the higher RG differential). An Avalanche Pearl (the green/black one) could also be an option, or the Damage (which uses the same cover but has a more powerful core, yet wih a higher RG). All of these ball use proven coverstocks with a high durability, and IMHO are a suitable option for a beginner (at least considering fingertip).
-
I agree with
dizzyfugu on his recommendations.
And I would add to his comment about using a finger tip grip drilling; the biggest change you will find in going to your own ball is all the different releases possible with a finger tip layout versus a house ball loose conventional grip (mostly for the good).
If you do go to a conventional grip on your first ball you will find the tighter properly fitted holes will dramatically change your release of the ball; and opening up the holes a lot will defeat most of the potential benefit of having your own ball.
-
I've always thought I would like finger tip grips best but didn't even know that was an option. Would you get all three fingers drilled for that style? I feel like I would love two close together for middle/ring and one further away for the thumb. Right now, I never out my thumb in the ball, just hold it on the side.
-
Most bowlers use a finger tip grip which has three holes, with the thumb all the way in one hole, and just the first joint of the middle and ring fingers in the other two holes. A finger tip grip is easier to get out of (to release the ball) and puts more rotation on the bowl.
Having said that, if their is a way to drill (or not) and throw a ball someone has tried it. There are bowlers using no holes, some using two for fingers only; and their are even bowlers that go finger tip for the fingers and use just the first joint of the thumb - kind of a more stable to hold version of no thumb hole at all..
Finally, some bowlers that started throwing two handed when little kids have continued to throw with two hands very successfully as adults.
You really need to work with a ball driller who can see you throw the ball, to get what's best for you and your style.
-
I would also recommend the Damage. Not a high end ball, but has a lot more versatility then the Slingshot imho.
Nicanor (Ten On The Deck)
-
I love this website. You guys are incredibly helpful. Thank you so much for all of the replies.
-
Something from the Avalanche line would fit the bill. I love the solid myself and I hook it a bit too. High rg, low differential, and very durable consistent covers. Very good balls that can be had pretty cheap if you search around.
-
Motiv Recon...
jls
-
I wouldn't jump on the Recon to fast. I had the Silver/black with a the pin up and 5" from my pap and it rolled a lot sooner then I expected. Compared to the silver/blue avalanche it was much stronger and hooked sooner. I would go with the Midnight Vibe before the Recon. The Midnight Vibe or maybe the Backlash if going with Hammer.
Be good, or be good at it.