Since getting back into bowling last December I've read several times (& places) that if you are using "old" balls you're at a disadvantage compared to the new(er) balls that are on the market today.  I don't doubt that to be true, but what is considered "old"??

Just wondering......

Thanks!!

I don't completely buy that argument about being at a disadvantage using your 'old' bowling equipment. I've got four pieces that I purchased (all new) back in 1995 -- Track Sensor 2, Track NRg, Blue Hammer, Burgundy Hammer -- that I'm still using as of this writing. You're only at a disadvantage if you're using them on the wrong lane conditions. Along those lines, it does not hurt getting newer equipment; that depends on the level of your game prior to your bowling hiatus and whether you're looking to bowl at that level again.

There is old chronologically, and there is old technologically.  Urethane and polyester are old technology, although both can still have a place in a 5 or 6 ball arsenal.  Resin is the newest technology, but it is still 20 years old.  That means a resin ball featuring "new" technology can easily be worn out in terms of its attributes of resin additives that cause the ball to have optimal friction characteristics.  On the bright side is that fact that on the typical house shot lane conditions, even a worn out resin ball is often adequate and may yield as much scoring potential as a brand new out of the box hook monster.  Whether as new shell will help you depends on what you are looking for.  If you want maximum back end hook ( not necessarily the best characteristic for good scoring, but something many people desire ) then keeping a fresh shelled is something you will like.   

There has nothing new, technology-wise, since 1997 so you figure it out

I go to league with a two-ball arsenal.  Legends Black Pearl and Legends World Class Reactive, both from 2006.  I take okay care of them and I have no trouble with matching up.  All one needs is an understanding what the lanes are giving you and what your equipment allows you to do.  As long as you realize the limits of what the two give you, you can exploit the shot and score.

If all I bowled was house shots, I would have a two ball arsenal, and would probably update it every 3 years. 

If all I bowled was house shots, I would have a two ball arsenal, and would probably update it every 3 years. 

I agree.  Unfortunately, I have been too cheap to purchase newer equipment.  Instead, I use old stuff that I am having to maintain more than usual.  I could see replacing equipment every 2-3 years and thus not needing too much maintenance.