"If you have high ball speed or low revs or choose to use a 5.5 or 6" pin position, then you'll need either more surface (1000 grit) or a milder drill or a lower ball speed."

Thanks!!! After reading that little snippet in another thread, I decided to take my Cell cover down to 1000 abralon, and shot 286-211-247=744. The drill on mine is 4.5 X 4 with a 2.5" pin slightly above ring finger and MB slightly right of thumb, and I do have a higher ball speed with medium revs. Taking the cover down to 1000 allowed me to play down the boards(5-7) without having to back down on the speed. You DO have to be careful about not "wimping" it down the lane, though, and the carry generated by the higher speed is simply phenomenal!

I always read your posts/replies for the "spot-on" observations about coverstock and drilling suggestions.... keep 'em coming!
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r.k.wolfe

Edited on 2/13/2008 2:53 AM

charlest... I actually am more used to, and comfortable with, keeping ball-speed high rather than trying to back-off.  It is the big reason I was thrilled reading all the initial observations about the Cell, because maybe FINALLY there would be a ball that suited my style without compromising one part or another.  My first few outings seemed to justify my expectations but, like you, I DID notice a slight tendency toward over/under if you weren't consistent with your speed and release.  I find that with the cover at 1000 abralon I still get the GREAT continuation from midlane through pin-deck, but the back-end is significantly smoother and consistent. I am not a fan of angularity as I am not skilled enough to get consistently good results from it, and the tamer back-end motion seems to allow ME more room for error.... I have carried some shots that have left both myself and teammates just scratching their heads and laughing in amazement! This is due mainly to being able to maintain a higher ball-speed with a lower grit, in my opinion. I will keep the sandpaper-grit information handy for future consideration, though I am very happy with the results I am getting, so far, with the 1000 abralon.  Once again, thanks for your continuing efforts in educating bowlers about coverstock prep and drilling layouts.  I believe Roger also knew that your opinions on the Cell's performance would be invaluable to people's assessment of performance capabilities of the ball, and sending you a "comp" ball was a wise decision knowing that you would evaluate it honestly, and without bias.
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r.k.wolfe