So, I recently purchased a Black Widow Gold with the idea in mind I was going to have it for when I eventually do another PBA regional down here. Didn't pay much attention to the ball itself as it got drilled, then found out it didn't have a serial number on it...
So, send in for help and get the advice: Use a bevel knife to etch 4 numbers into the ball to make it legal for league/PBA. I mean....Is that legit...?
First don't use a bevel knife to just scratch the numbers in, it needs to be permanently engraved. Let the proshop use the engraver.
PBA Rule:
RULE 12 - EQUIPMENT REGISTRATION AND WEIGH-IN
12.1 Bowling Ball Serial Number. Each ball must have a serial number clearly engraved on the surface of the ball. Penalties shall be assessed per season.
NOTE: The ball must be removed from competition until a four (4) digit serial number is permanently engraved. PENALTY:
1st Offense - Warning
2nd Offense - $250 (PBA Tour)
- $100 (PBA50 and Regional Tour)
USBC Rule:
Chapter 8:
3. Identification. Each ball must have the original brand name/logo, original ball name and some form of serial number (the serial number may be engraved or re-engraved).
Additional Info:
1- Can the USBC star logo be re-engraved?
The USBC Star Logo is a manufacturing requirement, it would not need to be re-engraved.
2-If not is the ball no longer legal to be used in USBC certified/sanctioned competition because it's missing now?
The ball would be legal as this isn’t an end user requirement, assuming the ball has the other required markings
3- If the ball’s original brand and model name or logos are no longer visible, is the ball no longer legal to be used in USBC certified/sanctioned competition?
No. Once the ball is no longer identifiable by the brand name/logo and ball name it is no longer allowed to be used during USBC certified competition.
