I had purchased an SD73 Pearl last week. The gross wt is 15 lbs., Top wt.- 3.36 oz. and pin placement 3"-4". While I have carefully studied where to locate the pin and the mass bias, I did not venture to dictate my preferred layout to our proshop driller. Instead, I just told him that I want a smooth entry into the pin deck or a balance 'C' ball path. I made it clear that I hate skid and sharp entry. Our driller asked me to play a few games with my old balls and after few exchanges, he drilled the ball with the pin about 1 ½" to the right and ½" above the ring finger. The mass bias is about 1 ½" from the
the thumb hole at a 4 o'clock position and a balance hole about 3 ½" from the c.g. and located further right of the thumbhole. To see an almost identical layout, visit
www.stormbowling.com - open Tech. Info. and proceed to Master Drilling Instruction. Just above the Storm Xtras Surface Reaction Guide there is a drawing for Off Pap drilling. This drawing is very close to the drilling of my ball, including the location of the Balance Hole, except that my pin is located a little bit higher.
After drilling, I played one game, the first shot is a strike but the remaining shots are not impressive and I felt like I am throwing a house ball. Our driller asked me to use the ball for a while and come back if I am not satisfied.
The following day, I played 5 games and to my surprise I scored above 200 on 3 games. The next day, I played on another bowling center and again I scored above 200 on 3 out of 4 games. Finally, I used it in a local league and won the 1st place on the singles event outplaying 30 other bowlers. I scored an average of 208 in 6 games. How else can I rate a ball that has earn me a title on its first try, except to give it 10 out 10.
For your info, I am a average rev., medium speed, semi-roller. Prior to the SD73 Pearl, I used 14.3 lb balls. My impression is the SD73 Pearl is like a self propelled ball, just release it with a lift and it will do the rest for you. Do not give it a very aggressive drill or you might find it too strong.
Upon seeing the performance of the SD73 Pearl, my brother placed an order for another ball.
Our only problem now is what type of cleaning/polishing cream to use. Rotogrip did not specify any brand that will suit their Sure Grip coverstock. Any advice from the readers please?
Wish you all a happy bowling and merry Christmas.
TONYAUH-R1-6/12/01
