Question for experienced bowlers

[slugg]

Hey guys. Most people recommend a plastic ball for a beginner, but I'd really like to start hooking the ball. So basically, is it a bad idea to get an entry level urethane ball as a first ball? Also, should I go with fingertip grip, or conventional? I already have well developed muscles in my hands, fingers, and wrists, so strength/stamina won't be a problem. I don't mind a steeper learning curve, but I do want to avoid making my game WORSE. I average about 120-130 with crappy house balls, with a high of 168, completely straight bowling.

So what do you think?

 

[calvinbiss]

You should definitely get a urethane ball with finger-tip grips. If you want to learn to bowl like a professional, you might as well learn how to use the ball. There is no sense in getting some intermediate ball.

Go talk to your local pro shop, they are full of advice and might even throw in a free lesson or two with purchase of a ball, mine did.

 

[Riverhound777]

Kind of curious about the same thing myself. Been bowling a lot lately and thinking of getting my own ball. I think most will suggest talking to someone at the alley to help you out. They will also have to drill the ball for you.

 

[NoCreativity]

Go fingertip. Maybe start with a less aggressive resin ball. Go to a shop that will fit you properly and they can recommend a ball that would suit your style. Might even want to take a lesson or two once you get the ball.

 

[calvinbiss]

Yes, when you buy the new ball, they will measure your hand and drill your ball on the spot.

 

[darkxshade]

Wish I could help you but I don't have/need my own ball, I already knock down 11 pins per frame as it is.

 

[ric1287]

just go with a "medium" style ball that won't have crazy hook on it. The Scout Reactive balls are nice for entry level, but loads better than a house ball.

I just got my Columbia Wrath which doesn't have as much hook as my old Killer Instinct, but I'll get used to it.

 

[slugg]

I ended up getting a Scout Reactive ball, 14 pounder. Had it drilled for a fingertip grip. I had to get the thumb readjusted (bored out wider) because I kept sticking. Other than that, after a few games of getting used to the new grip and the different feel of the ball, I was definitely a lot more consistent! Not counting the first 2 games (where I was still adjusting), I bowled a 134, 135, and a 134 in that order. Now I just need to get better, lol

Remark: I think I was giving myself too much credit originally... I do not bowl an AVERAGE of ~130 with the house balls... more like a 105. So yea, I'm pretty happy so far.

 

[alkemyst]

Originally posted by: darkxshade
Wish I could help you but I don't have/need my own ball, I already knock down 11 pins per frame as it is.

That's weak sauce man...I hit 300 just putting on my shoes.

 

[virtuamike]

Go fingertip. Don't see too many urethane balls on the lanes. A low end reactive would be better.

Don't need to be too strong, easier to be consistent when you're not muscling your grip or your swing. Make sure you find a good ball driller (there's more to it than just punching some holes), and a coaching session probably wouldn't be a bad idea.

 

[Mo0o]

Originally posted by: alkemyst

Originally posted by: darkxshade
Wish I could help you but I don't have/need my own ball, I already knock down 11 pins per frame as it is.

That's weak sauce man...I hit 300 just putting on my shoes.

Wow you had to put on shoes to get that? I hit 300 the moment I thought about going down to the alley

 

[FP]

I bought a hook ball about 2 years ago and never looked back. It will be strange initially but stick with it. My average went up about 30-40 pins/game.

Oh and... op, welcome to my sig!

 

[slugg]

^^ For the record, I've been drumming competitively for about 5 years, and playing for a total of 8 years. Thus, the only logical explanation is that my muscles have been developed by constant masturbation.