Jeff and Folks,
Once more into the fray:
The manufacturers of these devices do even a worse job of tellign you what they are for than ball manufacturers tell you which ball is for which condition and for which bowler. Let me try a little.
There are 3 basic types of wrist/hand/finger devices:
1. Your basic basic (double word intended)
These include the Mongoose Equalizer, the Scorpion and the Pro Release as examples. The support piece, usually a piece of metal cushioned in soft material, goes up the back of the hand to the first set of knuckles and down to an inch or two below the wrist. It keeps the wrist straight; some offer the ability to "force" a cupping of the wrist. (This is totally unnecessary in today's game, in my opinion.) Among the other benefits, besides helping support the wrist, is to reduce pressure on the thumb, thus allowing for an easy and quick release. It also permits a very consistent release. It's invaluable as a training device. The negative is it creates a dependency if you use it too often, unless you are in the middle of recuperation.
2. The model with a special support for the index finger.
Example: the Cobra.
This model helps add axis rotation, if you have too little. If you have a normal release, it will almost make a spinner out of you. All other benefits and negatives as in #1 apply.
3. The model that is #1 PLUS and extension that goes to the 2nd set of knuckles.
Examples: Mongoose Lifter, The Eagle, Pro-Release Extended.
The idea of this one is the opposite of #2. If you spin the ball too much or if you have too much axis rotation, this model helps you to roll the ball more and spin it less. All other benefits and negatives as in #1 apply.
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"Those who do not remember history are doomed to repeat it."
Edited on 7/31/2003 9:41 AM
