Hey Ace, (No trouble at all. This is how we all learn, by asking.)
Typically, a longer pin from cg (pin out) can create more imbalance and wobble which creates length before it starts it's psa (preferred spin axis). A pin in ball tends to roll more evenly and stable which helps start it's psa faster, therefore not having the same reaction properties in comparison. Here's a very helpful link (thanks Storm Track) with info put together by the group of guys here on BR to help educate today's bowler.
http://home.mchsi.com/~s-cross-7-28-71/FAQ.htm-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In regards to your choice or necessity of hook. This is all relative to the bowler and his/her needs. If you consider yourself a power stroker and bowling mainly on medium conditions, you probably don't need to have balls that are strong or designed for heavier oil. However, I would not just use the hook rating numbers as your main guide because that can be a little misleading and each company utilizes their own system. The best way is to do exactly what you're doing, ask. Hope this helps some and feel free to ask us here in the Track forum anything you're not clear on. We have a great bunch of guys that are really willing to help their fellow bowler improve.
The range
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Rick Leong - Ten Pins Pro Shop
Track Intl. - Amateur/Pro Shop Staff
Vise Inserts Staff
www.Trackbowling.com*El Presidente of the Track Revolution
