BallReviews

General Category => Drilling & Layouts => Topic started by: wbltim on October 30, 2009, 03:06:29 PM

Title: Serial Numbers
Post by: wbltim on October 30, 2009, 03:06:29 PM

Hi all -

Not sure if this is the right place to post this one, but here goes.  I just had a ball drilled and resurfaced.  At the end of the whole process, the serial number of the ball has been abraded off.  I can still see the USBC and a couple other numbers (it is an Ebonite), but the rest is gone.

Two questions:

1) Can I use this in a tournament such as the USBC Natioanls?
2) If I used it in leagues and happened to miraculously bowl some type of honor score with it, would it be good if they can't see the serial number?

The ball is legally drilled, but I just wasn't sure how much of a big deal it is if the serial number is half gone.

Thanks!

Title: Re: Serial Numbers
Post by: themagician on October 30, 2009, 11:26:43 PM

The ball needs to have a visible serial number if i remember the rules correctly. Also if the ball has been sanded that far it may be smaller than the rules allow and it should be checked, that too could lead to it being illegal and not legally usable in league play though most wouldn't notice.
--------------------
BowlingChat.net (http://"http://www.bowlingchat.net")

Title: Re: Serial Numbers
Post by: Hogsharley on October 30, 2009, 11:39:56 PM

As per bowl.com

quote:

---

If my bowling ball’s serial number has been removed or is no longer visible on the ball, is it
still legal/acceptable to use in USBC competition?
If the serial number can no longer be identified, it must be replaced by engraving another serial
number provided the ball’s original product name and manufacturer’s name are still visible. The
manufacturer’s name, product name and the serial number must be visible for the ball to be used in
USBC competition. These items must be included to verify that it is an approved ball.

---

--------------------
3 holes of fun!!

Title: Re: Serial Numbers
Post by: Juggernaut on October 30, 2009, 11:41:54 PM

Cut&Paste from Bowl.com:


Nevermind. Hogs beat me to it.





Edited on 10/30/2009 11:43 PM

Title: Re: Serial Numbers
Post by: J_w73 on October 31, 2009, 01:13:28 AM

yes.. just engrave the serial back onto the ball..

also I checked with bowl.com about the specs on the size of a ball..
the size specs are for the ball at the time of manufacturing.. I was told that there isn't any size specification for use of a ball in league play..

but I am pretty sure I have seen them check the size with plastic templates during USBC tournaments..


from USBC

If you are referencing "Physical Specifications" on page I-2 of the Equipment Specifications Manual, those specifications listed are manufacturing specifications. Meaning that all the bowling balls when submitted at the time of approval must meet those specifications. Specifications are on the initial manufactured ball and there is not a rule or specification on the size of the bowling ball during league or tournament play.

Thank you for your support and interest in the equipment specifications. If you have any other questions, please feel free to respond.

Nicki Mours


Nicki Mours, Research Engineer, Equipment Specifications and Certifications
United States Bowling Congress
621 Six Flags Dr., Arlington, TX, 76011
1-800-514-BOWL, Ext. 8404



--------------------
16-17 mph,350 rpm,PAP 5 1/2 x 3/8up, HighGame 300 x 3, High Series 808
Book Average 205,PBA Xperience ave180