Hello,

My first post on here. I've been taking a liking to bowling lately. When I was younger I did bowl on a league and had much fun doing it. These days I don't even have my own ball, my wife and I just go and use the alley balls (yuck!) its just about impossible to get any hook on those. I am wanting to get a nice, good all-around ball. What's a good ball I can start out with that will work well in both oily and dryer lanes? I just don't know where to start with all of the balls that are available. I really appreciate any input!

Thanks for the replies.

Why not start out with a high performance ball and get used to working with it? I'm just curious.

I'm not a terrible bowler, last night with an alley ball I was able to roll a 172 and a 165 (not great, but not too bad considering I haven't bowled in awhile and was using a cruddy alley ball). When i was younger I took plenty of lessons, had a Monster (I believe that's what it was called) and it worked well for me at that time, average 175 in league when i was 15.

Usually I say "Buy the best and only cry once"

if you suggest I go with a beginner ball I will try that to start because I am a beginner...

I'd just get 2 mid-ranged balls, one for medium - heavy and one for medium -light. I really don't think a spare ball is a definate need, especially if you don't have alot of revs. I usually only use my Clear Wolf for 10's or 9's or if the backends are jumpy for spares.

One problem with high performance balls is that they are usually condition specific.  Mostly for heavy oil conditions.  They are also pretty jumpy so can be unpredictable for new bowlers.  Used in the wrong condition then will burn up and be dead at the pins or over/under react depending on the skill level of the bowler.  

I like the BVP line for intermediate bowlers.  Good balls for the price.  

But today you will not find a ball that works well in both heavy oil and dry lane conditions.  

Erin

Thank you for all the helpful replies.

Do you guys find that most local bowling alleys have drier or more oily lanes? I can't afford two balls right now, so i am thinking about erring towards balls that are geared more towards dry to medium lanes.

Thanks again!

It is difficult to make a general statement about lanes being dry or oily.  I think a medium/light oil ball would be a good choice if you are getting back in the game again.  I am and the Tropical Storm has been a good choice.  Another good choice is the Columbia Super Trooper.  Brunswick makes some great entry level balls such as the Rampage and the Punisher.  Others posted here will work just as well, or better.  Good luck to you!