Looking for advice.... I generally use a 4x4 layout on much of my gear. However, I have been reading a lot about layouts that consider "pin buffer" as part of the drill, which is a concept new to me.

Also, after reading the RotoGrip Asymentricial Drilling booklet, they call a 5x3 layout with a 2" pin buffer something that "produces a higher entry angle on many lane conditions."  

So, my question is about how the reaction of 5x3 layout compares in the real world to a 4x4 stack... any help is appreciated!

I am 5 1/4, 1/4" up, 300 rpm, 17 mph.

--------------------
pjr300
live from the Bowling Capital of the World
specs and transaction record (positive and negative) in my profile

In the pin buffer layout system that Storm advocates, the pin buffer is just the horizontal distance between pin and VAL, which determines how quickly the ball responds to friction (or how angular the motion is at the breakpoint).  A shorter pin buffer from the VAL to the pin will make the ball more angular, while further distances will make the ball transition more slowly and arch more.  It's a more accurate method of choosing pin up/pin down.

A 5x3 layout with a 1" pin buffer will result in the pin being placed higher and closer to the VAL, while a 5x3 layout with a 3" pin buffer will place the pin further away from the VAL and lower.  Both will be lower-flare layouts on symmetrical cored balls, so both will get a little more length and backend with slightly less overall hook than a 4x4 layout ball, but the one with the 1" pin buffer will be more skid/snap while the one with a 3" pin buffer will roll off the spot.

You can read detailed instructions how to use this method here by clicking on the Drilling Procedure link.

Edited on 2/26/2009 7:45 PM

Surface is going to dictate more than pin placement. If you are looking for something on the fresh, you are better off with a solid such as the HyRoad or Rattler and adjust the surface. Also you do not want a too strong of a layout as it may flare out or not react in the back end. I would go with a 5" pin to PAP and place the pin under the fingers. Place the CG far enough in the positive quandrant, so if you need to add a weight hole to adjust the reaction after drilling.
Try to finish with 3/4 oz positive and 1/4 oz thumb. These finishing statics will pretty much allow a weight hole straight across for more back end or one down the VAL for earlier and more overall.
--------------------
Formerly BrunsRico

Quick question.  On a drilled ball, if you find your VAL, what part of it is used for determining the pin buffer?  Is it the spot that interects a line parallel to the midline and through the pin or something like that?