A guy I know gave me this Brunswick Zone ball. I'm not a true beginner; I've done some bowling over the years and I have my own ball, but it's a plastic ball from the 1980's and I want to get back into bowling the right way, learn to throw a proper hook and I want a ball that will make this easier to learn.

This ball doesn't fit my hand so I will need to have it redrilled. Also, I suspect that the technology has come a way since this was manufactured. By the serial number  JJ75799 I think this ball was made in 1996.

So my question is: What is the actual name of this ball and where can I read the specs about the flare potential etc. and if I'm going to spend the money to have it redrilled would I actually be better off buying a new ball...

And if I'm going to do that, what should a "lower intermediate" bowler who wants to take the game to the next level look for in a new ball?

Thanks!

Thanks Lane. I was mainly concerned about the age of the ball. Have there been major improvements in ball performance since 1996 that might help me learn faster if I invest in a new ball?

Thanks Lane. I was mainly concerned about the age of the ball. Have there been major improvements in ball performance since 1996 that might help me learn faster if I invest in a new ball?

The balls have advanced for sure, because we're putting lots more oil down than 20 years ago (the oils have advanced, too).  It depends what conditions you bowl on.  If the house is pretty dry, or at least drier outside, the Danger Zone would still react just fine, in my opinion.  Snakster brings up another viable option, though...

Quote from: Ripcord on January 23, 2018, 07:42:07 AM

Thanks Lane. I was mainly concerned about the age of the ball. Have there been major improvements in ball performance since 1996 that might help me learn faster if I invest in a new ball?

It depends on the conditions in the house where you bowl mostly. I would not worry about the ball's performance. The covers on most Zones are everlasting! The first ball out of my bag right now is a Red Alert SE. If you have the time, you can look that one up to see how old it is. I think it came out around 2001 or so.

The ball is a beast, even on the newer oils that they use now. I am not able to use it in every house that I bowl, but the ones where I can........it gives me a look that now one else has!

I'd say that your ball is a classic, and a great one to start bowling with!

That is one of the very best balls from that era so I would definitely drill it up.  Ball was so legendary they have a modern remake many use.