I wouldn't hesitate to switch to 14. I have slower ball speed as well and I adjusted to 14 and now carry 10 pins higher than I did throwing 15 and 16. If you put a fair amount of revs on the ball, you won't see any difference in carry. As a matter of fact, I've had more carry because I am able to put more revs on the ball, I am able to throw more aggressive balls on the dryer stuff and I get less deflection using a 14lb as oppossed to 15 or 16. It may take some time to figure out your timing though when throwing a 14. I had to really focus on keeping my feet slow. It took me a little while to get consistent with it because I would throw one through the break point then get to the line and throw it causing the ball to go high on the next shot. Once I got used to the weight difference though, it was all good.

thanks! i'm drilling up a used 14lb ball today and spend the rest of the summer getting used to it. if i like it, i will buy new stuff at 14. i think i will be fine. anyone else have any experience in doing this???