So heres the thing. I enjoy surfing around, reading these pages, reading ball reviews, studying equipment, etc.
When I see a ball that interests me, after comparing it to other models, I'll buy it - on line. If I discuss my pending ball selection with my pro shop friend, bowling partner, he always shoots down my choices and recommends something (Ebonite Family) else. Many times going with his recommendation, the ball flat out doesn't react. I end up selling it on ebay or giving it away.
My ball selections work better (not always Ebonite). But to get him to drill it, takes weeks. If I buy something very strong, he drills it weak and it never moves.
This is why I now purchase my equipment drilled on line. Its working out fine and I learn a lot about equipment choices. At least the ball choices are mine, good or bad. Of course, I think I lost a friend at the pro-shop.