I think people are brainwashed to think new equipment is bigger and better than previous years' pieces. I throw all older stuff because it saves me money, and I can try a lot more bowling balls that way. Most of my stuff is 2nd or 3rd drill, and I'm averaging 227 on the THS. Carry has never been a consistent problem, just a few nights every now and then where nothing wants to go down. On harder sport shots, I'm around 195-200 with the same equipment, all with a few years under their belts. I do not see the "huge" advantage of the new releases that the companies advertise.
However, you see this all the time here: I just shot 830 out of the box with a 300 first game. Hard to argue with these results. But I think the difference here is mental. Purchasing a new ball and having that "new ball" feel. I wonder if it's a mental thing or the simple will power of the brain that helps pins fall. Similarly, when you're throwing it well or on a hot streak, you sometimes know right off your hand the ball will strike. You get lucky breaks, and the good feeling runs strong. On the contrary, when you have bad luck and things don't quite go your way, you feel depressed or angry, and that last pin always finds a way to stay up. I wonder how much will power plays a part in pin carry and bowling. It would be an interesting experiment, albeit hard to run. Is it possible to make your own luck?
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Penn State Mens Bowling
