I was reading the posts under the "role of the hole..." post and it got me thinking that perhaps the process of ball drilling has been over complicated by some people.  

I do not drill balls for professional bowlers but I do have a few contacts at Storm and Brunswick who do.  I have spoken to them on a wide variety of topics related to drilling balls and we always seem to come the same conclusion;

To set up a ball reaction for a given bowler you: (based on their style)

1. Select a ball bases on core r.g. differential (how much flare you want) and on coverstock nature.
2. Select a pin to pap distance that will produce the approximate amount of flare desired, as well as addressing length.
3. Select a mass bias placement to fine tune the shape of the break point.
4. If needed place a balance hole to make the ball ABC legal.  (Balance hole placement can also be used as a tool to adjust the amount of flare.)
5. Prep the shell if needed to match the condition once the ball is thrown.

To me, these simple steps are the best way to set up a reaction.  A competent ball driller will use these steps to create the best reaction for their customers.  I just think so much of the talk confuses people, let's keep it simple and do what the pro's do, follow those steps!  Any thoughts?

I agree Brian that there might be those who want to make the process sound more simple than it really is but that is not my intention here...

I feel that what separates the "men from the boys" in the ball drilling process is how to make those steps come together for the best reaction on a given condition, especially creating the proper amount of track flare.  

It still requires a well trained and knowledgeable ball driller to make it all come together but I would rather have that as opposed to someone who talks a lot without ever saying anything.  The perception that ball drilling "magic" exists is what bothers me.