ubstorfk -- Yes, bowling balls have changed a lot in the last 13 years! The main thing your pro is going to need to know is - what do you want the ball to do? Do you want a lot of break, a little break, skid/snap, arc, etc. When you define that, the pro should watch you throw some shots with your existing equipment and determine your PAP (positive axis point). If he doesn't do these two things, find another driller. After this, he will be able to make a ball recommendation. Don't let him stop at one recommendation, get a list of several across the various manufacturers (don't allow him to limit the selection to what he has in stock, he can get any ball made, usually within 3 - 5 days), then come back here and read the information available on them. Also visit the manufacturers' web sites and bowlingballreviews.com. When you make a final selection, let him measure your hand, then compare his recommendations to the fit of your existing equipment before approving a final grip. If the grip changes are major, you may want to supply him an old ball to drill with the new grip so you can throw it before making a final decision. I don't charge for this service (just drill the grip in an area that the existing holes won't impact), but some might. Based on your description of what you want from the ball, he will lay it out. You can read the information in the drill sheet supplied with the ball and help him decide on the layout. Then drill it and throw it. If it doesn't do exactly what you wanted, ask him about surface changes and/or a balance hole to adjust the reaction. -- JohnP
