Cheech, that was my feeling 20 years ago when reactive resin pieces became in vogue. Here I was carrying 200+ average using an LT-48 and later a 9R series Columbia Yellow Dot for most of the 1980s. It wasn't until 1990 when I made the transition to urethane using the Columbia U-Dot and later a Brunswick Rhino that I got off a touring pro -- and I still carried a 200+ average. The best bowler in the house carried, what, 219 maybe 220 and he was a former touring pro.
When reactives were introduced, like you alluded to, I saw bowlers who were at best 175-180 average hacks now carrying a 210-215 average. They didn't get better, but their equipment now gave them three boards and more hitting power than they could ever dream of. Say what you want, bowlers like Walter Ray Williams, despite his longevity, became beasts thanks to the new technology.
Although I've returned to the game after being away 18 years, I've already gotten a kick beating the crowd (that includes a touring PBA champion) that I bowl pot games using my Fab Blue Hammer that I bought in 1995. Can you imagine the look on their faces when a geezer like myself beats them and their Motiv, Storm, and current generation Roto Grip equipment?
