I just recently got a trial sample of this product, and it worked great for me. Prior to that I was using the red ebonite tape on the back of my thumb to get a good release. Now here's my problem. I recently picked up a Smokin and went to a new driller for the work. I didn't match another ball, I just let him measure so I could see if he improved my drilling at all. Well, the thumb in the ball feels FAR better than that in my old equipment, and I'm getting a pretty good release. It's a fairly snug fit so by the third game I have to start using easy slide to get my thumb out. I like the fit overall, but I'm wondering if I should try to avoid the necessity for easy slide, and open the thumb up a bit to put in the carpet. How much should I open it up if I do this, and how would you recommend doing it?