Aslan's Scores (of the non-lady kind) [Archive] - Page 7

Amyers

11-23-2016, 08:32 AM

I'd have fun bowling if I always bowled over a 600 series and had at least one 700 series every month.

Agreed. But as we've discussed many, many times before...void of preconceptions...there is little an average bowler can do to adequately 'prepare' for a day/evening/night of bowling. 10-15 minutes of warm-up...with even just 4 bowlers on a pair means you get maybe 3-5 shots per lane in practice. Subtract a couple shots per lane based on "warming up/getting your footing"...thats 1-3 shots per lane. No preconceptions, no plan...just 1-3 shots on each lane.

What if the ball isn't making the turn? Did you start with your strongest ball? Are you playing the right line? Hard to say...but what IS certain...is you have at MOST 2 shots per lane left to figure it out. And bowling is almost ALL about preconceptions. If you think I'M bad...what if we did a poll and asked how many bowlers bring 1-2 balls to league night, have played at the same house for 10+ years, the same line 10+ years, and keep expecting their average to increase despite never doing anything to improve it other than show up to league each week?

Manke thinks I'm over-thinking things (and he is SO not the only one...definitely NOT the only one). Many bowlers have shared Manke's criticism. Why do I need 4 bowling balls? Why do I practice? Why do I take lessons? Why do I keep track of my progress/statistics? Maybe you AND manke are correct. Maybe just keeping things simple...one ball, pick a random target based on a best guess from 1-3 practice shots...and just have fun. Maybe I can even learn how to make the ball spin really, really fast...throw a 6lb house ball thumbless. Hell, maybe I'll try 2-handed? God forbid.

Well, thats 'sort of' true...by design even...but not 100% accurate. This gets down to a very interesting discussion I know you've addressed on Modern Bowling and BTM...and something we've talked about here quite a bit.

On one hand...3-4 balls that are all very, very different in every way...would give you a great selection of balls to choose from...and this would probably be ideal for a person in a sport league, travel league or a tournament player.

On the other hand, > 90% of bowlers bowl almost all of their games in the same house on a THS. Having 3-4 balls that are very, very different...in this scenario...would lead to having no less than 3 balls that are completely useless.

But, in fairness, RobM is correct. My arsenal selection purposely chose 3 balls that would have very similar characteristics concerning cover material (pearls), RG (2.49), and surface (4000-polished). This was done intentionally to better isolate some of the variables I'm interested in comparing, such as;
- manufacturer differences (Radical vs. Rotogrip vs. Ebonite)
- technology differences (New Reax, Recent Defiant Edge, Older Innovate)
- Differential Differences (0.054, 0.052, 0.041)
- PerfectScale validity (224.8, 216.47, 189.9)

My first two arsenals were based on cover stock and surface preparation. These two are widely believed to be the most important factors in ball movement. However, I was intrigued by Rob's articles on using RG as a primary factor in arsenal selection so I've dabbled with RG as well. My current arsenal intentionally kept surface and RG constant (for the most part) so I could focus on those other 4 factors.

And before Amyers shows up to remind us (again) of this...YES...as a scientist....I realize the most effective way to study things (using the scientific method) is to limit the variables so that everything (except the one thing you're testing) is constant. Yet, as I've repeated numerous times...changing only one variable would be impractical given the multiple variables in bowling ball specifications. In other words, until Brunswick hires me and gives me an unlimited supply of bowling balls to work with...concessions must be made.

Thus far...even though it's still early...only 1-2 months in...I'm starting to think differential is more important than previously thought and I still stand by PerfectScale as a fairly reliable number when comparing multiple brands. Jury is still out on manufacturer differences and technology differences. The pre-mature retirement of the Defiant Edge kinda threw a monkey wrench (not the ball) into the whole experiment.

Some findings that "don't make sense" regarding the 3 arsenals and the cover and RG criterium:

Arsenal #1: The Bullet Train. This ball was a hybrid and had a 2.55 RG. Yet...the S79 cover seemed to make it hook earlier than the solids and earlier than the lower RG balls.

Arsenal #2: The Dark Encounter wasn't nearly as strong as it's specs indicated. It seemed like there was some truth to the manufacturer differences as the Lethal Revolver was noticeably more reactive than the Dark Encounter. The Melee Jab and Loaded Revolver were also very strong with good movement...both Brunswick.

Remember, I'm the one that bought two identical Encounters in order to test the effects of drilling layouts on ultimate ball movement. So...while I try to perfect my arsenal selection...I have to try and 'test' theories. But, I also want to have arsenals that are useful and can help me score well...so it's a fine line.

Ok since you already mentioned it I won't get into the scientific method stuff. We talked about this Arsenal a lot and I argued there were more differences between these balls than you even thought but Rob has a real point here too.

As an arsenal for a three game series on league night it works. It offeres different shot shapes and a small step down in the Innovate. It wouldn't be anything I would pick but for that express purpose it should work. As a tournament Arsenal where your bowling multiple shifts on the same oil its woefully inadequate. I mentioned this when we were talking about this Arsenal too. The balls are too close together to offer enough step downs especially for you who loses his mind if he's got to move 3 boards left.

If I wanted to keep my spot as long as possible I'd add two balls to your current arsenal. Probably a Brunswick Fanatic and a Rhino or their equal from another line

RobLV1

11-23-2016, 09:32 AM

I admire the fact that you want to see the differences between balls by doing your "experiments," but if you want to score, you CAN'T be doing them during leagues and tournaments. Taking three balls with low rig's that are virtually identical, differentials that are pretty close, and surfaces that are similar may show you tiny differences, but do it in practice, not when it counts. At least not if you want to be able to quit complaining when you can't figure out how to play the burn.

Another story: last Saturday, I bowled three games before coaching the Junior Gold kids. The first game I used the Brunswick Fanatic BTU (non-aggressive urethane-like cover - 3000 ab. surface, rg 2.60, diff. 0.030) and shot 220. For the second game, I used a Radical Ridiculous (rg. 2.54, diff. 0.050, 3000 ab. surface), and shot 140. For the third game, I used the Storm Code Black (rg. 2.50, diff. 0.058, OOB finish 1500 + polish) and shot 200. The Fanatic and the Ridiculous are drilled the same, the Code Black drilled with a longer pin and the MB drilled out to tone it down.

So, the next morning I was back at the same center bowling dollar pot games with some friends. I tried the Fanatic: nothing. I tried the Code Black: worked on one side, over/under on the other side. I tried the Ridiculous on the side where the Code Black didn't work and had a great look. What changed from Saturday to Sunday? Three things: the weather changed (humidity increase), different bowlers were bowling with me, and we were on a different pair of lanes. By the last of six games, I was playing inside the third arrow with a polished Storm Fight (rg 2.62, diff. 0.043). I shot 220 clean to win the game.

My point is that despite the fact that things had changed drastically from one day to the next at the same center, I was able to find something for the simple reason that I had an arsenal with me that covered a huge spectrum of possible lane conditions: an aggressive ball polished to compensate for my lower ball speed, a medium ball with some surface to read the oil, an aggressive ball in terms of cover material with a high rg and and polish, and a very non-aggressive ball with a high rg and some surface for a smooth reaction.

Do your experiments on your own time and take what you learn with you when the lights come on, or, you can just keep doing what you're doing and complain when conditions are less than perfect; your choice!

Aslan

11-23-2016, 12:16 PM

The balls are too close together to offer enough step downs especially for you who loses his mind if he's got to move 3 boards left.

If I wanted to keep my spot as long as possible I'd add two balls to your current arsenal. Probably a Brunswick Fanatic and a Rhino or their equal from another line

Agreed. If I were to bowl travel leagues or become a "real" tournament bowler...I would probably need to expand my arsenal from 3 balls to 5 balls...needing something hybrid/solid to start with if conditions are very long/wide/heavy volume...and something rather weak for shorter patterns, drier patterns, extreme burnt conditions, etc... Given those conditions never exist during league play at the house I bowl 87% my games...figured there was no sense to that.

Another story: last Saturday, I bowled three games before coaching the Junior Gold kids. The first game I used the Brunswick Fanatic BTU (non-aggressive urethane-like cover - 3000 ab. surface, rg 2.60, diff. 0.030) and shot 220. For the second game, I used a Radical Ridiculous (rg. 2.54, diff. 0.050, 3000 ab. surface), and shot 140. For the third game, I used the Storm Code Black (rg. 2.50, diff. 0.058, OOB finish 1500 + polish) and shot 200. The Fanatic and the Ridiculous are drilled the same, the Code Black drilled with a longer pin and the MB drilled out to tone it down.
Without seeing the shots, I'd say switching to the Rediculous made no sense. You were shooting a 220...the lanes started to transition....maybe your shot was weakening...yet you balled UP to a ball that would hook far sooner and far more than the ball you started with. My question about that story...is why did you switch balls when you did? What did you see/not see?

So, the next morning I was back at the same center bowling dollar pot games with some friends. I tried the Fanatic: nothing. I tried the Code Black: worked on one side, over/under on the other side. I tried the Ridiculous on the side where the Code Black didn't work and had a great look. What changed from Saturday to Sunday? Three things: the weather changed (humidity increase), different bowlers were bowling with me, and we were on a different pair of lanes. By the last of six games, I was playing inside the third arrow with a polished Storm Fight (rg 2.62, diff. 0.043). I shot 220 clean to win the game.
It seems like the moral of that story is...there's no possible way to ever even have a slim idea what the lanes are going to present...so you just gotta hope that with 4-6 balls and 3 games to work with...you can shoot a 510 series with one game in the 220s.

Lots to think about. What's overwhelming is, for each of these lengthy discussions about this theory or that theory about ball motion and ball dynamics...there are probably 3-4 physical things I need to fix. Bowling always seemed so simple...just rolling a ball at little wooden pins. Then you attempt to get "better" and you learn that there are about 40 different things you need to improve and to go from beginner to a consistently good bowler takes about 2-3 years minimum. Ughh!!

RobLV1

11-23-2016, 04:33 PM

Without seeing the shots, I'd say switching to the Rediculous made no sense. You were shooting a 220...the lanes started to transition....maybe your shot was weakening...yet you balled UP to a ball that would hook far sooner and far more than the ball you started with. My question about that story...is why did you switch balls when you did? What did you see/not see?

It seems like the moral of that story is...there's no possible way to ever even have a slim idea what the lanes are going to present...so you just gotta hope that with 4-6 balls and 3 games to work with...you can shoot a 510 series with one game in the 220s.

I'm afraid that you totally missed the point of my story. I bowled three games with three different balls in PRACTICE to learn as much as I can about the differences between them. You are right that there is no way to anticipate what the lanes are going to give you which is exactly why you have to see what you have, have a balanced arsenal that can address virtually any condition, and learn to adjust fast!

RobLV1

11-23-2016, 07:43 PM

Aslan

11-29-2016, 02:08 PM

Since posting this, I had another thought, though it may be hard for you to hear. It occurs to me that you are looking at two things; cover material and layout that can't be changed (once the ball is drilled, it is drilled unless you are going to plug it and try something different). The two things that can be changed; the surface (easily adjusted) and the core (you know everything that there is to know about the core before you CHOOSE a ball), you choose to ignore.

I'm not sure I understand what you mean. The core is certainly taken into account both in RG and differential. I chose cores with identical RG values so that would be a constant. The differentials (pre-drill) are quite different between the Innovate and the other two balls. The layout to me is a very minor thing I don't pay too much attention to....I leave that to the coach or ball driller.

As to surface and cover material...my earlier trials with surface manipulation have led me to try and leave that alone as much as I can. I think sanding balls down and adding a bunch of surface is rather pointless on a house shot unless the point is too have the ball completely burned out mid-way down the lane. If I were a tournament bowler with no knowledge of any conditions I might encounter...I might keep a few abralon pads with me for some on-the-spot surfacing pre-tourney...but ya can't really do a very good job surfacing a ball without a ball spinner.

As to cover material...I've found...again in earlier trials...that the specs are only valid (in terms of ball progression) if you stay within a brand and within a performance level. Yes, you can play with RG, Diff, etc... and put together a decent progression if all the balls are the same manufacturer from the same line-up and same era...but outside of pros and high level amateurs...most people don't continually have the most recent full line of manufacturer's products to work with.

Why? You take lessons from Mark and Missy as well as from me and heaven only knows how many others, and yet you can't figure out how to bowl on the burn. Are you really that afraid of learning to make lateral moves, or are you that afraid of being successful at bowling?

I realize that this is harsh, but I've known you for a long time now, and for the life of me I cannot understand why you are so intent on doing everything you can not to improve. Rant over. Sorry!

Again, I'm not sure I understand the point. It seems like you believe there is an obvious area I need to improve in...it seems to be lateral movement...yet I don't know how else I can explain the limitations with lateral movement that I'm encountering.

I move 2:1 left...bowl okay for awhile...I move 2:1 left...maybe bowl okay, maybe miss right. But if I go 2:1 again...there's almost no way that ball makes it to the pocket. Now, that might be my speed/rev rate not matching that line. Or that might be something else...but continuing to move left when you're missing right...I don't see the point in that.

Now, there IS a legitimate limitation to my arsenal selection...and I'll try to touch on it shortly when I post my recent tournament scores. I think there IS some validity to your criticism of my 3 ball choices...but again, thats only a limitation the 2-3 times a year I either don't have fresh conditions OR I'm bowling a multi-round tournament...which is rarely, rarely, rarely. So, do I buy MORE balls looking for yet another option? Maybe. If I want to really do well in tournaments I think I need a ball with a more aggressive cover/surface than the Reax Pearl and I think I need a long/straight...weak as hell ball for the burn...something like my old Slingshot or a Tropical Breeze. My Loaded Revolver wasn't "bad" in that role...but if I got too much hand in the shot, forget about it.

But, I'm a few days behind in score posting...so, here goes;

Aslan

11-29-2016, 02:19 PM

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

501 Series: 138-209-154

Game 1 was three splits and two missed single-pins. I was journaling my thoughts each frame but the journal got too profane so I stopped. I was about a half game away from just "pulling a Manke" (my phrase for just saying *&$% it and "just going up and throwing the ball" as everyone tells me to do).

Game 2 I switched to the Innovate and did better. Still a split and a chopped multi-pin spare...but other than that, struck well (see recently posted video).

Three more splits and another missed single-pin in Game 3 was about all the "fun" I could handle.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 42% (2 turkeys, a double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 38% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 11% (1/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-6-7 split (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/7)

Average over 3 games: 167.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 177.00.

Not a great pre-Thanksgiving tournament warm-up in terms of bumping up my ego and confidence level...but, 7 splits...WTH am I supposed to do??

Aslan

11-29-2016, 02:33 PM

ABT Tournament: Squad 1, Day 2
Older Brunswick synthetics: low-oil Brunswick synthetics

649 Series: 257-183-209

Missed a single 7-pin in the 7th frame of Game 1 to ruin a clean 269.

A missed 2-5 conversion in the 5th frame and a 3-6-7-10 split in the 8th frame slowed me down in Game 2.

In Game 3, I chopped a 3-6 in the opening frame and then chopped a 1-10 washout in the 3rd frame...but struck enough to salvage the 200+ game.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.38 pins
Strikes: 67% (2 5-baggers, 2 turkeys, 2 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 45% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (3x).
Also left a single 5-pin and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 16% (1/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 216.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 220.33.

Another strong Squad 1 performance. I couldn't win any additional money really, but stayed to bowl another round just so I could try to figure out how to play those lanes once they get burnt up. I knew the cashers round on Sunday would be the 3rd squad...so if I wanted to do well...I needed to figure out the burn.

I used the Reax Pearl in all 3 games...figuring with just the 3 balls, I needed to be extra careful about switching too soon.

Aslan

11-29-2016, 02:47 PM

ABT Tournament: Squad 2, Day 2
Older Brunswick synthetics: burnt house shot

652 Series: 220 (clean)-228 (clean)-204

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.12 pins
Strikes: 51% (1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 2 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 86% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (6/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x).
Also left a single 4-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 77% (7/9)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2 and 2-8 (2x each)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 217.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a

I felt good at this point simply because I FINALLY was able to bowl well on the burnt conditions. Finally.

I was throwing the Innovate near the end of Game 3 of the first squad...but didn't like the look in practice, so I switched to the Hammer Scandal Pearl and used that ball the entire 2nd squad.

I think I was making better first shots in the first squad; but I obviously did a great deal better with spares in the second squad. In both squads I was just below the cut line....even though it didn't matter since I already made the cashers round the weekend before. And added benefit...beat a VERY talented young 2-hander in Squad 2. Out of the gate I thought there was no way...a 2-hander that could hit single-pin spares like they weren't nothin. But, like most high rev players...even the younger ones....thats a tough style to keep doing consistently shot after shot and it finally caught up with him.

fortheloveofbowling

11-29-2016, 03:38 PM

Nice bowling in the tournament.

Amyers

11-29-2016, 03:44 PM

I'm not sure I understand what you mean. The core is certainly taken into account both in RG and differential. I chose cores with identical RG values so that would be a constant.

That's part of the issue. You understood what the numbers were and did it anyway. You ended up with three balls that fit the same condition. Even though there are some differences between the balls with your speed and hand they all fit in the medium basket. If your going to only carry a 3 ball arsenal you can't do that.

As to surface and cover material...my earlier trials with surface manipulation have led me to try and leave that alone as much as I can. I think sanding balls down and adding a bunch of surface is rather pointless on a house shot unless the point is too have the ball completely burned out mid-way down the lane.

If your going to stay in the dirt then surface is pointless your right more surfaced balls will burn up that's why you move latterly.

As to cover material...I've found...again in earlier trials...that the specs are only valid (in terms of ball progression) if you stay within a brand and within a performance level. Yes, you can play with RG, Diff, etc... and put together a decent progression if all the balls are the same manufacturer from the same line-up and same era...but outside of pros and high level amateurs...most people don't continually have the most recent full line of manufacturer's products to work with.

This is B.S. is your trying to stack balls they way you have no it's hard. If your looking for early strong, Benchmark, and light that isn't hard to do.

Again, I'm not sure I understand the point. It seems like you believe there is an obvious area I need to improve in...it seems to be lateral movement...yet I don't know how else I can explain the limitations with lateral movement that I'm encountering.

I move 2:1 left...bowl okay for awhile...I move 2:1 left...maybe bowl okay, maybe miss right. But if I go 2:1 again...there's almost no way that ball makes it to the pocket. Now, that might be my speed/rev rate not matching that line. Or that might be something else...but continuing to move left when you're missing right...I don't see the point in that.

If your missing right after moving left you may need more surface the ball is skidding past the breakpoint most likely on the heavier oil

Now, there IS a legitimate limitation to my arsenal selection...and I'll try to touch on it shortly when I post my recent tournament scores. I think there IS some validity to your criticism of my 3 ball choices...but again, thats only a limitation the 2-3 times a year I either don't have fresh conditions OR I'm bowling a multi-round tournament...which is rarely, rarely, rarely. So, do I buy MORE balls looking for yet another option? Maybe. If I want to really do well in tournaments I think I need a ball with a more aggressive cover/surface than the Reax Pearl and I think I need a long/straight...weak as hell ball for the burn...something like my old Slingshot or a Tropical Breeze. My Loaded Revolver wasn't "bad" in that role...but if I got too much hand in the shot, forget about it.

it's not a limitation a few times of the year. your locked into one place on the lanes every night. what if the shot isn't there that night? your screwed. I'm not the most flexible player in the world due to my ball speed but I can start with my Rhino and play 23-10 or go the other way and use the Mastermind Einstein and play 35-15 your limiting yourself to a very narrow box. Find a way out.

Aslan

11-29-2016, 07:04 PM

Even though there are some differences between the balls with your speed and hand they all fit in the medium basket.
"medium"? The Reax and Scandal are about as strong as it gets right now. But, I suppose it's the problem with "strong" versus "soonest hooking" versus "most overall hook", etc... What is "strong"? Soonest to hook? Most hook in oil? Most board coverage? Most angular backend?

This is B.S. is your trying to stack balls they way you have no it's hard. If your looking for early strong, Benchmark, and light that isn't hard to do.
I don't speak WestVirginiaese or whatever that is.

It sounds like you're saying ya just get a "strong ball" and a "benchmark ball" and a "weak ball". Thats an interesting plan...except, once again, there is virtually ZERO agreement on what those terms mean. There are a few scales on different websites...but nothing that has been more or less recognized as legitimate. And let's just say there was a "way" to quantify your system (The Amyers Ball Strength System). Whats a ball with a 2.51 RG? Benchmark? "Weak"? "Strong"? How bout a 0.047 differential? Benchmark? Or "weak"? So, we are all in agreement that there is no difference between a pearl, hybrid, and solid cover and no difference between manufacturer cover material? Radical = Motiv = Ebonite? What about technology differences? Is the Reign of Fire a Benchmark ball now but used to be a "strong"?

It's a very, very complex system.

If your missing right after moving left you may need more surface the ball is skidding past the breakpoint most likely on the heavier oil
I haven't bowled on "heavy oil" in about 3-4 years.

it's not a limitation a few times of the year. your locked into one place on the lanes every night. what if the shot isn't there that night?
Well...it's not there when I sub on Tuesdays...for some reason...haven't figured those lanes out yet...seems to play 'short' for a THS...work in progress. But at the Wednesday and Friday center...the shot is always the same. There are no "magic lanes" on one side or the other. Thats why I'm not overly concerned about the arsenal selection...it was designed for a shot and it allows me to play that shot. On the few occasions I have a tournament...then my arsenal isn't ideal.

Aslan

11-29-2016, 07:26 PM

ABT Tournament: Squad 1, Day 3
Older Brunswick synthetics: low-oil Brunswick synthetics

532 Series: 137-162-233

Game 1 was miserable. Struck once in the first frame then it was just #(88)! Game 2 wasn't much better. Bad shots, couldn't carry, couldn't convert spares.

In Game 3, I finally got settled in...was clean except for a missed single 7-pin in the 5th frame.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.84 pins
Strikes: 41% (1 5-bagger, 2 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 38% picked up

Single Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 5-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 36% (4/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 177.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 189.00.

Not the greatest performance for a squad 1. Had some "sticking" issues so I had to get used to using my Ebonite shoe covers. I figured if I had a strong Squad 2, I could carry that over into the cashers round that followed.

Aslan

11-29-2016, 07:38 PM

ABT Tournament: Squad 2, Day 3
Older Brunswick synthetics: burnt house shot

538 Series: 146-191-201

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.56 pins
Strikes: 31% (3 doubles and 4 singles)
Spares: 76% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (5/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (2x).
Also left a single 2-pin, 5-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 68% (11/16)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a.

Splits: 50% (2/4)

Average over 3 games: 179.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a.

Another poo performance...but I was getting stronger as the round went on...so I figured I still had a shot.

In the Survivors Cashers round 1, I rolled a 191 scratch, +16 after handicap. This was enough to make it past the first round from 37 to 18.

In the Survivors Cashers round 2, I only managed a 165 thanks to back-to-back splits in the 9th and 10th frames.

So...I won $20 in the last tournament...this time I probably won $40-$60.

Now that I'm caught up with goals, videos, and scores...I can go take a shower and get ready to sub tonight!!

Amyers

11-30-2016, 11:16 AM

"medium"? The Reax and Scandal are about as strong as it gets right now. But, I suppose it's the problem with "strong" versus "soonest hooking" versus "most overall hook", etc... What is "strong"? Soonest to hook? Most hook in oil? Most board coverage? Most angular backend?

That's why I used the term early strong to try and clear confusion. If your only going to carry three balls you've got to actually fill the slots. Part of this depends on the conditions you are likely to encounter and your style. With a limited ball selection you can't really have multiple pieces filling the same spot so your not going to have the ability to worry about angularity or board coverage.

Early/strong: lower rg, some surface, strong cover. For me it doesn't take a super strong ball because of my speed and I carry a higher rg 2.504 than I would recommend for a more balanced player. I keep this ball finished with 3k surface again higher than normal sue to my speed. Even if the patterns heavier this ball still hooks and finishes I've used it on Badger and done ok with it. For you with your speeds should probably be in the 2.47-2.49 area, strong cover, and surface in the 2k range.

Benchmark: Any ball below the early/strong ball that you can control in rough conditions and relate to your other balls. If I'm carrying 4+ my Danger Zone fills this spot and is good at it. If I'm carrying three its the Fanatic. Danger Zone is rg 2.501 surface is 4k the Fanatic 2.54 500/compound/polished. The Danger Zone fits well here on lighter oil it can move to the early/strong and the fanatic fills this role for me. The Fanatic isn't ideal in this role but in houses I know I can get away with it. I refer non polished ball is this role though.

For you Rg. 2.49-2.51 medium cover and some surface 3k is probably preferable.

Light oil burn: The Rhino fills this role for me Rg. 2.524. surface is 500/compound/shined and I've lightly hit it with a 4k pad. The ball has to have a higher rg and a less aggressive cover stock to help it get down the lanes. Something similar would work for you.

It sounds like you're saying ya just get a "strong ball" and a "benchmark ball" and a "weak ball". Thats an interesting plan...except, once again, there is virtually ZERO agreement on what those terms mean. There are a few scales on different websites...but nothing that has been more or less recognized as legitimate. And let's just say there was a "way" to quantify your system (The Amyers Ball Strength System). Whats a ball with a 2.51 RG? Benchmark? "Weak"? "Strong"? How bout a 0.047 differential? Benchmark? Or "weak"? So, we are all in agreement that there is no difference between a pearl, hybrid, and solid cover and no difference between manufacturer cover material? Radical = Motiv = Ebonite? What about technology differences? Is the Reign of Fire a Benchmark ball now but used to be a "strong"?

I gave rg examples above its not a tried and true system it varies by the person I'm typically going to skew my search towards higher rg and weaker covers. I honestly don't weight differential much so it's pretty much ignored unless is extremely high or low. as far as the Rg goes it depends on the cover and surface. For your example it could fit anywhere on the chart that's why we examine it's placement in the manufactures ball line up, the cover stock and it's surface. If it has a strong cover and 2k surface it's going towards benchmark, if it's a weak cover and polished could be light.

In this instance manufacturer doesn't matter a lot in a three ball arsenal there are going to be huge gaps between the balls anyway so if I'm slightly off it's really not going to matter and the balls are going to be at different surfaces anyway so they aren't going to overlap. Now in the instance of my current arsenal I'm thinking of putting something between my Fanatic and my Rhino that's a somewhat small difference and why I try to throw mainly one brand and what I was getting at with my poorly worded WestVirginiaese response earlier.

I haven't bowled on "heavy oil" in about 3-4 years.

You play in the dirt you move 3 boards inside it's heavy oil for you. Heavy oil is relative like everything else in bowling. You play around the ten area in my leagues which are different from yours more 5 man teams with most playing with reactive equipment that shots gone 1/2 way though the first game. That's an area of the lane where what oil is there is very light. I'm not a lane man and Idk the actual amounts of oil but say there are 6 m/l of oil on that board you move in and throw on the top hat that's maybe 18 m/l of oil the ball is crossing 3x as much. If throwing across 3x as much oil as your used to isn't your definition as heavy than I don't know what is. You have the opportunity to throw on heavier oil every night you simply refuse to take advantage of it.

Well...it's not there when I sub on Tuesdays...for some reason...haven't figured those lanes out yet...seems to play 'short' for a THS...work in progress. But at the Wednesday and Friday center...the shot is always the same. There are no "magic lanes" on one side or the other. Thats why I'm not overly concerned about the arsenal selection...it was designed for a shot and it allows me to play that shot. On the few occasions I have a tournament...then my arsenal isn't ideal. [/QUOTE]

No the difference here is that it's not ideal simply that it's functional for league and during tournaments the problems become so pronounced that it makes it obvious that you have a problem. The next few times you go to league find the top three highest average non two handers bowling right down what there line and break point are do this over a couple of weeks. I guarantee they aren't playing the same line break point every night. at some point it's not about your ability to hit your mark consistently it becomes about finding the mark that allows you to score the best.

Aslan

11-30-2016, 11:18 AM

Tuesday Night League: Fairly new synthetics, low oil to dry THS

448 Series: 136-164-148

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.36 pins
Strikes: 24% (8 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin and 10-pin (3x each).
Also left a single 5-pin (1x) and 2-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 53% (7/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 149.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 168.33.

:confused: :mad:

No line. Couldn't find it all night. Balls were coming back with almost no oil lines.

In practice I was striking by throwing the ball out right, letting it enter the hook phase about just midway of the lane...then while in the roll phase...roll the rest of the way to the pocket.

As has been beaten to death recently...I don't have a "weaker" ball that I can go to when I'm playing on shiny particle board...so Game 1 I channeled my "Inner Rob/Amyers" and started moving those little hooves of mine laterally. I was FINALLY going to do it!! I was FINALLY going to move from my A-Game near the track...to my "C-Game" opening up the shoulders a little!!

Is everyone excited to hear what happened? No? Oh....you saw the scores so that made it anti-climactic? I get it.

Well, needless to say....the "RobM/Amyers" attack sequence was a miserable failure. But don't feel too bad...when bowling on a pattern that is essentially a 1 foot wide oil pattern going about 45% of the way down the lane...even the greatest laid plans can fail.

In Game 1 I tried the Reax Pearl...but it entered the roll phase at about 35 feet. I tried to move inside...that wasn't helping much. I tried to ball down to the Innovate...but it lost so much energy at 3/4 of the way down the lane that most times it didn't even make it back to the pocket. If I was "lucky", I hit pocket and left a very weak 10-pin. If I was "less than lucky"....I left a 2-pin, 5-pin, a bucket, a washout, etc...

I was so upset about Game 1, I went out to the car and grabbed by 16lb Hammer Big Blue Spare ball. It's beat to caRp...I just keep it in the trunk in case I make an impromptu stop at a bowling center and want to throw something other than a house ball.

RobM 'might' ask "what were the other bowlers throwing that were doing well?"
Well, imaginary RobM...our two worst bowlers had the best games they could remember. One lofted a ball even further than Amyers...old resin ball straight at the headpin...no axis rotation. Another guy throws an old pearlescent ball from the 60s/70s...he throws a back-up ball and he had his first 5-bagger ever...so he was on cloud 9. But the only "legitimate" bowler that was doing well on our pair was throwing an old "Mark Roth" urethane ball...he was a lower speed...almost a palm or thumbless release. So hey! If ya can't beat em....join em!

So, I had my best game of the night...a horrid 164...by playing the Big Blue Spare ball up the 7-9 boards...almost a straight shot at the pocket. As you might imagine, no carry whatsoever. I was kinda hoping to just play for spares...try to get an all-spare game under my belt. Lord knows my spare shooting in Game 1 was atrocious...might as well practice. I struck once...but opened a couple times...otherwise all spares...mostly 7 /s.

So...that duo of voices returned....from the bowlingboards.com realm...it was Amyers and RobM...demanding that I put that stupid spare ball away and really open up those lanes!! So, I did just that. I grabbed that Reax Pearl...moved my feet to about 25-30...and started targeting the 16-19 area at the arrows. I was FINALLY an INSIDE PLAYER!!!

First shot, pocket 10-pin...which I missed because my thumb has swollen from all this wonderfully embarrassing bowling I have been doing lately...so I had to make an emergency stop at the pro shop to have the thumb hole widened.
Next shot, STRIKE! Actually, the ball dove through the nose and it was a spill strike...just like the pros...
Then it was a 2-4-5-8 bucket...my "usual" when I try to play inside.
Then I really started having FUN FUN FUN when I left a 1-2-4-10 washout on the next shot...literally my FAVORITE leave. Most people leave weak 5-pins...maybe a 2-pin...or an 8-pin....not me! I play inside and it doesn't work...I get to spend a lot of time on my 1-2-4-10 game....JOY JOY JOY!!!

So, I switched to the Innovate and moved back towards the track...was clean the rest of the way...but the inside game was still leaving me gifts like the 2-pin and 2-4-8.

So, Good Times.

Amyers

11-30-2016, 11:31 AM

Aslan

12-02-2016, 04:51 PM

Lol why is it the story is always funnier when your bowling bad?
Because you are Rob have conspired with Iceman to ruin my bowling game like the teacher in Karate Kid III.

The key difference here from what Rob and I have been talking about is here it sounds like the heads are gone. Is this league not freshly oiled? If the heads are gone moving in doesn't really help your better off balling down to the weak ball you don't have lol and throwing hard which I can't do or lofting the gutter caps like its the double burn at the us open which I can't do either. My best suggestion in this instance is to find the guy that oils the lanes car in the parking lot and let the air out of his tires.

I don't know the answers to those questions. If I HAD TO...I could drill up the Track 300A and just use that ball at that center...and also use it for burn tournament conditions.

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

509 Series: 137-214-158

Game 1 I was missing right...couldn't figure out if it was me being lined up incorrectly or the ball burning up too soon.

Game 2 was solid with lots of carry. A 9-10 split in the 10th kinda ruined the score.

A couple splits and a missed single-pin coupled with an inability to strike on one lane led to a rather lackluster game.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.52 pins
Strikes: 38% (1 4-bagger, 1 double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin and 10-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 4-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (6/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 169.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 177.67.

Last Week: 138-209-154
This Week: 137-214-158

It's like a bowling version of The Twilight Zone.

RobLV1

12-02-2016, 06:52 PM

Wow, first time that I have been accused of conspiring to ruin someone's game. No big surprise about the oil rings. Oil rings are meaningless. If you play outside of ten board, you're not going to see them BECAUSE THERE'S NO OIL OUT THERE! I bowled pot games today with a guy who lives in Las Vegas, so he thinks he has to play in the desert. He hit the pocket every single frame and left seven ten pins and was whining about it. I subtly told him that the true definition of insanity was repeating the same thing over and over and expecting a different result each time. Glad I didn't suggest that he try moving left, as he too might accuse me of conspiring to ruin his game.

Aslan

12-04-2016, 05:21 AM

Wow, first time that I have been accused of conspiring to ruin someone's game...Glad I didn't suggest that he try moving left, as he too might accuse me of conspiring to ruin his game.
Actually, I accused you and Amyers of conspiring with Iceman...it's Iceman trying to ruin my game. Ice knows that an Iceman vs. Aslan Challenge Part II would lead to his ultimate defeat...so he's trying to get me to bowl bad enough that I give up the sport and take up fly fishing or shuffleboard or ping pong.

No big surprise about the oil rings. Oil rings are meaningless. If you play outside of ten board, you're not going to see them BECAUSE THERE'S NO OIL OUT THERE!
Okay. That analysis 'would' be relevant...except that in the case I was talking about...I was already playing well inside of 15. So, you're now saying...you can't play the track...nor can you play 5-7 boards inside the track...thus your shot is a 10-board oil pattern from 15-25. And I can't even really guarantee that...because I was between 17-19 and STILL wasn't getting any oil lines.

I know there IS oil...somewhere out there...because I saw a very faint oil line on my spare ball after throwing it cross-lane at a corner pin...but it's not 10-30 like one might expect. Thats the problem with "Modern Bowling" is the game has become FAR too dependent on oil conditions and equipment. For example, who are the best bowlers on the site right now? VDubtx and MWhite...if we go by averages and reported performances?? So what do you think would happen if those guys showed up at a center and they only oiled from 15-25? What kinda series do you think they'd have? I've seen MWhite throw some miserable series (by his standards) on unexpected conditions. How well would VDub do? He's normally a 625-650 series bowler...would less than ideal conditions cause him to throw a 525-575 series?? What about the next tier of bowlers...the "rest of us" that are averaging in the 450-540 series range on most nights? What would that non-ideal pattern do to our games?

And then there's the bowling ball side of things. Lets say you show up for league night and they say, "Tonight it's a 38ft THS and everybody needs to throw a Radical Guru Master." How "well" would bowlers do if they couldn't throw the balls they want to throw? Kind've a 'fantastical' example for folks like MWhite or RobM...where they have a much better than average access to equipment...but most bowlers have 1-2 bowling balls. Some of us more psychotic folks have 3-6 bowling balls. But the facts are the facts. If we don't have a good ball/lane condition combo...we struggle. The days of the best bowler winning because they bowled better with a Columbia Yellow Dot than all the other bowlers with Columbia Yellow Dots has disappeared long ago. It's not the best bowler that wins the tournament or the league night...it's the person with the best knowledge of the oil pattern and the most diverse selection of equipment. It's why bowling as an Olympic sport is such a silly concept. It's like Nascar as an Olympic sport...except without any regulations on engine size or car aerodynamics. Bowlers show up with illegal Motiv balls and wrist braces that look like they got their hands chopped off by Darth Vadar...and some bowling team from Outer Mongolia is throwing old urethane balls. The playing field is too uneven. It's like baseball where some teams get to use metal bats and baseballs while other teams have to use wooden bats and softballs.

And YES...my arsenal choice greatly limits my adaptability right now...as a byproduct of it's design. By keeping two significant bowling ball specifications constant (RG and Cover material)...I've limited how different my ball paths can be and that limits where I can realistically play on a THS. Now, in my defense;

1) 80% (not some, or several...but the overwhelming majority of bowlers across the country and globe) of bowlers carry 1-2 bowling balls. The idea that bowling has evolved to a sport requiring at least 12 balls to be competitive...may have truth to it...especially as you move up the ladder from rec bowling to tournament bowling...but there is NO WAY a bowler should struggle mightily on a random league night with 3 strike balls....even if they are similar in specs.

2) It made NO SENSE to design an arsenal around a tournament I participate in 0-3 times a year (that due to my inflated average I have ZERO chance of realistically winning) and a center that I sub at about 9 times a season. It made MORE sense to design the arsenal around the center where I bowl at least once a week...most weeks twice a week or more. It would be like you (RobM) choosing 6 balls to form a great arsenal and then choosing 4 more balls because once a year you bowl in Laughlin and their lanes are way different than Vegas. Now, in YOUR case...you have more bowling balls than you know what to do with and a steady supply from manufacturers...but even in your case...that one time you bowl in Laughlin better have nice payday at the end of it...or you're not spending $300 on an arsenal JUST for that ONE time. And for YOU...it's $200 or so in drilling costs...maybe not even that if you drill them yourself. For most of us...thats $400 in bowling ball costs PLUS $200 in drilling.

So...back to the dilemma at hand.

I'm pretty sure it's a arsenal/lane condition problem at this one center. IF the THS is incredibly narrow...as I fear it is...and the heads are dry...then I have nothing I can use in that situation. My best bet would be to try the Innovate...but ultimately just throw the Hammer Big Blue Spare ball right at the pocket and hope for carry. My current arsenal is listed in my signature. I also have (in 16lbs weight):

- Hammer Rhythm (retired: 433 games)
- Columbia Encounter(s) (retired: about 150 games on each)
- 900 Global Bullet Train (retired: 252 games)
- Ebonite Warning Sign (undrilled)
- Track 706A (undrilled)
- Track 300A (undrilled)

- The way I see it, the Bullet Train, Rhythm, and Warning Sign will be no help on dry conditions. The RGs aren't much higher than what I'm already using and the cover materials are more aggressive.
- The Encounters are pearls...and I could polish them up...but again, the RG isn't much higher than what I'm using...so I don't gain much over what I'm alraedy throwing.
- The 706A has a higher RG and a little snap at the end, but on really dry conditions or really burnt conditions...I'm just worried I'd drill this one up, end up having it not be much use, then I've prematurely drilled a ball I was hoping to save for my next arsenal.
- The 300A has the highest RG imaginable and I have no real use for it in my next arsenal...at least as things stand presently. So, there's no huge downside to drilling it up. It'd be nice to still have the Slingshot...but it cracked...so the 300A is probably the only good option I have. IF the lanes are dry and burnt...the 300A is going to be one of the few reactive resin options that will keep me from having to use the Big Blue Spare ball.

So...what do you think of drilling up the 300A for those situations? Or is that just throwing good money after bad? I hate to rely on ball changes...but if I can't move laterally, I can't change the surface to be more polished than they already are, and I can't change lane conditions...it seems a ball change is the best option available. Other options are:
- Increase speed
- Loft the Heads

These are both TERRIBLE options for my current, physical game development. Increasing speed will amplify that big first step, screw up my balance, mess with my timing, and force my hand out of position. Lofting the heads will cause my hand to get out of position and I'll end up "hitting up" on the ball. While the ball will have less time to get affected by the lane conditions...it'l have more rotation because of me hitting up on it...so it'll probably still hook too early.

RobLV1

12-04-2016, 07:37 AM

Okay, let me set a few things straight. First, I don't have unlimited access to bowling balls. I pay for bowling balls like everyone else. I keep a PBA membership despite the fact that I am no longer physically capable of being competitive for the simple reason that for my $25 monthly dues, I am able to purchase new release balls at a discount and get them prior to their public release date. My arsenal is currently comprised of six balls, four of which go with me to any one of the six or seven centers where I occasionally bowl. If I only bowled in one center, I would have a three ball arsenal that would go with me all of the time.

If that were the case (bowling in one center exclusively), I would still have a three ball arsenal that would give me the widest range of reactions possible. It is not possible to "know" what ball you are going to start with and what line you are going to play. The factors that will tell you how to play the lanes include the oil pattern used (only a fool assumes that it will be the same as last week), the brand of oil used (ditto), the weather, the topography of the particular lanes on which you are to bowl, who has bowled on the lanes before you (if the lanes are not freshly oiled), and who is bowling on the lanes with you. Given all of these variables, why would I possible bring three balls with similar RG's? Personally, I only use two layouts; and tend towards balls with solid covers simply because I have no problem changing the surfaces during practice when the situation warrants it. Right now, for a three ball arsenal to bowl at most of the centers where I frequent, I would take the Storm Code Black (RG 2.51 asymmetrical), the Storm Rocket Ship (RG 2.54 symmetrical), and the Brunswick Fanatic BTU (RG 2.51, symmetrical). In fact, today I am bowling in a "Double Trouble" Tournament using a 45' sport pattern on one lane and a 35' sport pattern on the other lane. I am still taking these same three balls, and adding a Storm Phase II (RG 2.48 symmetrical), and a Storm Fight (RG 2.61 symmetrical).

If you can just get rid of your preconceptions about how you are going to play the lanes and trust your ability to listen to what the lanes are telling you, you don't need a ton of bowling balls; just a range of balls that give you a range of reactions with which to work.

Amyers

12-04-2016, 12:02 PM

Because you are Rob have conspired with Iceman to ruin my bowling game

It's like a bowling version of The Twilight Zone.

lol I did live in Missouri for a while and will be going back for Christmas.

Amyers

12-04-2016, 12:47 PM

Actually I understand what you were trying to do with the Arsenal. You were trying to give yourself multiple looks with different balls in your comfort zone. Unfortunately we can't always stay in our comfort zone. You have to go to where the lanes are one getting to the pocket and two carrying.

My balls aren't free either. I typically drill 2-3 a year. I make mistakes with balls too I don't remember the last time I used the virtual gravity. It just doesn't match up to me. I'll save it for one of the kids when they move up to 15 lbs.

I highly doubt they are only oiling 15-25. Could be they didn't oil at all could be the pattern is much shorter than you are used too. One of my houses has an oil machine from 1992 (I actually asked the other day). You really never know what it's putting out so you have to find the shot every night. Some nights I do it better than others. I'm averaging 197 there this year.

There is some truth to what your saying about oil and balls. My wife has been injured most of the year and we have a bowler subbing for her that typically bowls in only two of the houses here. He averages 210+ in both houses he normally bowls in. The back ends just absolutely fly in my Saturday night league house and I'm struggling with it some myself. He's averaging barely over 160 in this house. No spare ball because he can get away with it in other houses mostly agressive pearls in his three ball bags. It's actually kind of sad to watch because I know he knows how to bowl but due to an imbalanced Arsenal he looks like he doesn't know what he's doing in that house.

I'm not familiar enough with track to tell you too much about the 300a. I looked it up on line and from what it said and the numbers it could be ok. Personally myself I can get a rhino or tropical breeze that I know fills the bill drilled and all for $130 so I'd just get one of those punched up rather than guessing.

At the end of the day maybe think of it like this a higher Rg less agressive cover you can play in the 5-7 area. A medium Rg ball with a medium cover that you can play your favorite 9-11 area. And a stronger ball with length you can play in that 15 area

Something one of my old coaches taught me when I was struggling to play farther left. Move as far left as you can with your feet aim across twenty getting the ball as far right as possible adjust your speed until the ball hooks all the way across the lane. You just learned to play inside when you can do it.

djp1080

12-04-2016, 03:53 PM

RobLV1

12-04-2016, 06:31 PM

Rob, I bought a Storm Code Black and had it drilled up 50 x 5 x 35. It rolls very nicely for my style as I need as much help as I can get. I tend to be speed dominant. How did you have yours laid out? And how do you like it?

I really like the Code Black on certain conditions. I'm not 100% sure of the layout, but it seems to me it was something like 60 X 5 X 35. The main thing was that I drilled the MB out with the thumb hole to tame down the reaction, and made sure not to add a weight hole. The ball is certainly smooth, getting through the heads easily, but maintains a little "POP" at the back end to carry the corners. When it works, it works very well!

djp1080

12-04-2016, 10:16 PM

Thanks Rob!
My Code Black doesn't have a weight hole either. The pin, CG and MB look as though they're in line with each other. I'm only on THS and got this ball on the day it was released. I think I'd like to use it after starting out with my Hy-Road or IQ Tour 30 with nearly the same cover. Use Reacta Shine on all of them. The Code Black has one heck of a pop on the backend. I usually will wait till I see the review from BTM, but I liked what I saw already by some other reviews.

Aslan

12-06-2016, 11:51 AM

Okay, let me set a few things straight. First, I don't have unlimited access to bowling balls. I pay for bowling balls like everyone else.
You've tested how many bowling balls for Bowling Journal? You bought every single one? THAT folks, is dedication. I hope RobM at least got an honorable mention as employee of the month.

It is not possible to "know" what ball you are going to start with and what line you are going to play. The factors that will tell you how to play the lanes include the oil pattern used (only a fool assumes that it will be the same as last week), the brand of oil used (ditto), the weather, the topography of the particular lanes on which you are to bowl, who has bowled on the lanes before you (if the lanes are not freshly oiled), and who is bowling on the lanes with you. Given all of these variables, why would I possible bring three balls with similar RG's?
Because...while "yes", conditions CAN and DO change for a variety of reasons...the changes not only aren't as drastic as you suggest...but cannot logically be as drastic as you suggest.

A house uses the same lane surfaces, so thats constant. Temperature factors vary a small degree and are often time mostly accounted for with AC. A center 'could' change an oil from season to season...but not night to night. The oil machine is the oil machine. The techs are the techs. I agree that these factors can change a line...but logically...even worst case scenario...as long as they oil the lanes...it's gonna be within a 6-board area of where you usually play. You may need a 3:3 move or a 2:1 move or a 2:2 move or a 3:2 move...or maybe you start out with your ball #2 instead of your ball #1...again, a minor adjustment...that hopefully you are able to make in practice/warm-ups.

Now, the reason i said it CANNOT logically be any more than a minor adjustment...is that IF IT IS as bad as you suggest...and that any little change in barometric pressure could cause the lanes to play entirely different...then bowling has no legitimacy whatsoever. It's an elaborate game of beanbag horseshoes. To have conditions change SO dramatically for very minor reasons...reasons that occur on an hour by hour basis globally...would completely delegitimize the sport...because there is no ability to guarantee that two bowlers are bowling on the same conditions from second to second.

lol I did live in Missouri for a while and will be going back for Christmas.
Yes Iceman. I've now uncovered your secret identity. I thought it was NewtoBowling that was Iceman's new name...but it actually makes more sense that it's you.

My balls aren't free either.
And I don't want to know how much it costs to rent them. (cymbal hit)

According to your and Rob's stories...apparently I am the only one with access to free equipment...since most of my bowling balls are already purchased. However, for ME, it's more the cost of drilling than anything else. Sure, most of the balls I've purchased I've gotten for $59-$105...the only exceptions being the $120 I paid for my Frantic that I bought at a pro shop and the $205 I paid for the Scandal Pearl...but those both included drilling. But today I'm gonna get the 300A drilled up...that'll run me > $55 with inserts and what not.

I highly doubt they are only oiling 15-25. Could be they didn't oil at all could be the pattern is much shorter than you are used too.
Not sure. In an ideal World, I could just ask them for a spec sheet on their lane conditions...which they are 'supposed' to have but I've yet to see one center have. But, I've asked at LEAST 4 centers what pattern they put down and I've yet to receive an answer better than, "Ummm...I don't know for sure, I think just a regular one." Most answers are "what? Umm, I have no idea." They then supposedly leave a note for the tech and by next week you start the entire process over again.

The back ends just absolutely fly in my Saturday night league house and I'm struggling with it some myself. He's averaging barely over 160 in this house. No spare ball because he can get away with it in other houses mostly agressive pearls in his three ball bags. It's actually kind of sad to watch because I know he knows how to bowl but due to an imbalanced Arsenal he looks like he doesn't know what he's doing in that house.
Well, thats me on Tuesdays. I am supposed to be a 180-200 average bowler that subs routinely for the team anchor who is absent frequently. And I'm struggling mightily to reach a 500 series. I've tried just about everything I can do i terms of lateral adjustments, physical adjustments, targeting adjustments, ball adjustments, etc... At this point, the 300A is going to be my "last shot" at finding a ball I can throw...even if I have to me a little inside of my comfort zone. If this doesn't work and the 300A rolls out at 45ft...I'm just gonna have to average in the 160s throwing the spare ball at the pocket...or maybe throw a 10lb house ball thumbless or something...I'm out of options if the 300A doesn't work.

Personally myself I can get a rhino or tropical breeze that I know fills the bill drilled and all for $130 so I'd just get one of those punched up rather than guessing.
Those are both more aggressive options than the 300A...those are more like what I'd get from the 706A. The anchor on the team averages around 200 with an Ebonite Cyclone...so, 'maybe'...at this hose, less is more. Hopefully I find out tonight.

Something one of my old coaches taught me when I was struggling to play farther left. Move as far left as you can with your feet aim across twenty getting the ball as far right as possible adjust your speed until the ball hooks all the way across the lane. You just learned to play inside when you can do it.
I'd have to drastically drop my speed to attempt that little drill. But it's something to think about.

Amyers

12-06-2016, 12:31 PM

Because...while "yes", conditions CAN and DO change for a variety of reasons...the changes not only aren't as drastic as you suggest...but cannot logically be as drastic as you suggest.

I've seen some pretty drastic changes from night to night myself but we tend to have older lanes and oiling machines here but that's again missing the point. The point is that you won't have the best ball reaction every night if you think your going to play the exact same ball path and break point every night. You're not going to find that perfect place where you have miss room right and left at the exact same break point every night it just won't happen. Even in the best house we have which has newer lanes and a newer oil machine where the lanes are scoring best still moves around. Most of the time I play straighter with a breakpoint around 8 in this house. Last week in warm ups I left 2 ten pins and a pocket 7-10 in warm ups obviously I could get to the pocket from there but It wasn't going to be a good night if I played my usual line. I moved 6-2 left moving my break point to 6. Shot 237-211-189 should have changed balls earlier in the 3rd I had a board right and 2 boards inside I could miss and still have a good shot at getting a strike but If I stayed trying to play the line I originally tried like I used too I would have been lucky to break 200 any of the games.

As I've said watch the top bowlers for a month or so where they play I bet it's not in the same spot every night because they know better.

Now, the reason i said it CANNOT logically be any more than a minor adjustment...is that IF IT IS as bad as you suggest...and that any little change in barometric pressure could cause the lanes to play entirely different...then bowling has no legitimacy whatsoever. It's an elaborate game of beanbag horseshoes. To have conditions change SO dramatically for very minor reasons...reasons that occur on an hour by hour basis globally...would completely delegitimize the sport...because there is no ability to guarantee that two bowlers are bowling on the same conditions from second to second.

Nonsense every sport has its variables. Baseball is effected by the temperature and stadium sizes and no one quits watching or playing over it. My favorite football games to watch are played in the snow. Tennis has courts made of completely different materials the effects who has an advantage people still watch and play. Is every golf course the same? No. the only sport I can think of that's not overly effected by outside variations are Basketball, Hockey, and maybe Soccer.

According to your and Rob's stories...apparently I am the only one with access to free equipment...since most of my bowling balls are already purchased. However, for ME, it's more the cost of drilling than anything else. Sure, most of the balls I've purchased I've gotten for $59-$105...the only exceptions being the $120 I paid for my Frantic that I bought at a pro shop and the $205 I paid for the Scandal Pearl...but those both included drilling. But today I'm gonna get the 300A drilled up...that'll run me > $55 with inserts and what not.

I'm not sure how this counts as free when your still buying them and paying to drill them?

Those are both more aggressive options than the 300A...those are more like what I'd get from the 706A. The anchor on the team averages around 200 with an Ebonite Cyclone...so, 'maybe'...at this hose, less is more. Hopefully I find out tonight.

I'm not a Track expert but from everyone I've ever talked to the Tropical Breeze is the weakest reactive ball made not sure how it compares to the Rhino but from seeing them I would guess about 2-1 different. The Cyclone is actually strongest of all the entry level balls and most of the EBI people I know say it's more of a true medium than lighter oil ball.

I'd have to drastically drop my speed to attempt that little drill. But it's something to think about.

I have to have drier lanes and drop my speed to do it also on oiler conditions if I can get it to the 4-7 range I'm happy

NewToBowling

12-06-2016, 02:25 PM

Yes Iceman. I've now uncovered your secret identity. I thought it was NewtoBowling that was Iceman's new name...but it actually makes more sense that it's you.

I wish I had Iceman's arms :)

Amyers

12-06-2016, 02:41 PM

I wish I had Iceman's arms :)

Yeah but I can't bowl in sandals

RobLV1

12-06-2016, 07:32 PM

You've tested how many bowling balls for Bowling Journal? You bought every single one? THAT folks, is dedication. I hope RobM at least got an honorable mention as employee of the month.

Because...while "yes", conditions CAN and DO change for a variety of reasons...the changes not only aren't as drastic as you suggest...but cannot logically be as drastic as you suggest.

A house uses the same lane surfaces, so thats constant. Temperature factors vary a small degree and are often time mostly accounted for with AC. A center 'could' change an oil from season to season...but not night to night. The oil machine is the oil machine. The techs are the techs. I agree that these factors can change a line...but logically...even worst case scenario...as long as they oil the lanes...it's gonna be within a 6-board area of where you usually play. You may need a 3:3 move or a 2:1 move or a 2:2 move or a 3:2 move...or maybe you start out with your ball #2 instead of your ball #1...again, a minor adjustment...that hopefully you are able to make in practice/warm-ups.

Now, the reason i said it CANNOT logically be any more than a minor adjustment...is that IF IT IS as bad as you suggest...and that any little change in barometric pressure could cause the lanes to play entirely different...then bowling has no legitimacy whatsoever. It's an elaborate game of beanbag horseshoes. To have conditions change SO dramatically for very minor reasons...reasons that occur on an hour by hour basis globally...would completely delegitimize the sport...because there is no ability to guarantee that two bowlers are bowling on the same conditions from second to second.

First of all, I have never tested a bowling ball for anyone. I assume that you are talking about Bowling This Month though you say Bowler's Journal. I write instructional articles for Bowling This Month, I do not write, nor have I ever written, ball reviews and yes, I pay for every single ball I use. Secondly, when you combine the overall conditions like the oil pattern and the weather conditions with the topography of the individual lanes and the bowlers who are bowling with you, then yes, the conditions can vary tremendously and your belief that they cannot is just one more example of the preconceptions that you bring with you every single time you bowl. Get rid of them and you just might reach the level that you are shooting for.

JaxBowlingGuy

12-06-2016, 10:02 PM

For example, who are the best bowlers on the site right now? VDubtx and MWhite...if we go by averages and reported performances?? So what do you think would happen if those guys showed up at a center and they only oiled from 15-25? What kinda series do you think they'd have? I've seen MWhite throw some miserable series (by his standards) on unexpected conditions. How well would VDub do? He's normally a 625-650 series bowler...would less than ideal conditions cause him to throw a 525-575 series?? What about the next tier of bowlers...the "rest of us" that are averaging in the 450-540 series range on most nights? What would that non-ideal pattern do to our games?

I think MWhite was better in his own head then what the lanes actually told. Maybe back in his "prime" was what he spoke of.

JaxBowlingGuy

12-06-2016, 10:13 PM

I'm not a Track expert but from everyone I've ever talked to the Tropical Breeze is the weakest reactive ball made not sure how it compares to the Rhino but from seeing them I would guess about 2-1 different. The Cyclone is actually strongest of all the entry level balls and most of the EBI people I know say it's more of a true medium than lighter oil ball.

There are for sure "weaker" reactive balls than the Tropical Breeze unless your strictly speaking to Storms line.

Amyers

12-07-2016, 08:32 AM

There are for sure "weaker" reactive balls than the Tropical Breeze unless your strictly speaking to Storms line.

What are some major line examples that you feel are weaker?

I'm not an expert and throw primarily Brunswick myself but from what I've seen the Breeze is less than the Rhino, Outcast, and Rack Attack. With the Rhino being closest.

In this area I see primarily Storm, Roto, Brunswick, and Hammer. As far as Hammer goes I think the breeze is also less than the Nail or Viral series. I can only comment on what I see or what other players I trust tell me so if you have better info please share.

JasonNJ

12-07-2016, 08:52 AM

What are some major line examples that you feel are weaker?

I'm not an expert and throw primarily Brunswick myself but from what I've seen the Breeze is less than the Rhino, Outcast, and Rack Attack. With the Rhino being closest.

In this area I see primarily Storm, Roto, Brunswick, and Hammer. As far as Hammer goes I think the breeze is also less than the Nail or Viral series. I can only comment on what I see or what other players I trust tell me so if you have better info please share.

I would think the Columbia 300 Scout ball is the weakest reactive ball out. Pancake core and really weak cover but still reactive.

Amyers

12-07-2016, 09:32 AM

I would think the Columbia 300 Scout ball is the weakest reactive ball out. Pancake core and really weak cover but still reactive.

True I guess I should have amended it as reactive cover real core.

JaxBowlingGuy

12-07-2016, 11:14 AM

As mentioned there are some reactive balls with pancake cores. Columbia, Lane masters tempest ... as for a "real" core reactive ball the Tropical like is defiantly a contender.. for whatever reason the one I had some years ago had a major back end motion though and I found to be too strong on the dryer conditions.

Aslan

12-08-2016, 03:35 AM

I wish I had Iceman's arms :)
Which is EXACTLY what Iceman would say if he were you pretending to be him pretending to be you.

Yeah but I can't bowl in sandals
Neither could he.

Ooooooo!! Burn!!

Tuesday Night League: Fairly new synthetics, low oil to dry THS

605 Series: 158-244-203

Game 1 I had some split and multi-pin spare issues.

Game 2 I was dialed in.

Game 3 I continued to carry, but the spare issues snuck back in.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.09 pins
Strikes: 58% (1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 3 turkeys, and a double)
Spares: 35% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (2/3)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (2x).
Also left a single 5-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 27% (3/11)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-10 baby split (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 201.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 205.00.

Got the Track300A drilled up before league night and it seems to give me a better look than my other 3 balls...at least at that center.

NOT ready to say I've solved the issue...and NOT particularly happy I couldn't make the standard 3-ball arsenal work...but, this is the highest series I've shot since the middle of July.

Aslan

12-08-2016, 04:04 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

499 Series: 164-159-176

As usual, started out missing right and couldn't figure out which of the several reasons that could be.

Game 2 I had a pocket 7-10 where the 7 fell late. Two frames later, back on that lane, a pocket 7-10 split. Other than two splits and a missed single 10-pin...it was a clean game...just couldn't seem to carry.

Game 3 was more of the same, but with an extra missed single 10-pin and better carry.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.40 pins
Strikes: 34% (3 turkeys and 3 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (7x).
Also left a single 3-pin, 5-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (4/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4-10 washout and 7-10 split (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/5)

Average over 3 games: 166.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 177.67.

Five straight weeks of 499 to 509 series (499-506-501-509-499). It appears I have found my ceiling!

RobLV1

12-13-2016, 09:03 AM

So I've been pretty concerned about you my friend, what with your continuing travails in making adjustments. I had an experience yesterday that I thought I would share with you about making adjustments and how important they are.

I bowled four games at Suncoast with an eighty year old friend of mine who just started bowling a week ago after having a knee replacement last August. Since I remembered where the shot started last week on the same pair of lanes, I knew to lay the ball down on 13 on the left lane and 12 on the right lane, using the Brunswick Fanatic BTU. I got through the first game with a 217 despite changing ball speed as I warmed up. In the second frame of the second game, I left a weak ten on the left lane. I didn't move. Meanwhile, I moved one board left on the right lane as I saw the ball begin to finish a little earlier. In the fourth frame of the second game, I left another weak ten on the left lane. I still didn't move (MISTAKE!). In the sixth frame of the second game, I left the 2-4-5-8 dinner bucket and failed to convert the spare. In the eighth frame, on the left lane, I balled up to the Storm Rocket Ship and moved my lay down point to 14. I left a four pin. I the tenth frame, I moved my feet two boards left and struck out for a 191.

In the third game, I was pretty much lined up for most of the game, shooting 235. In the tenth frame I noticed that the right lane was starting to lose finish, so I changed to the Rocket Ship, playing the same line that I had on the left lane with a good result. At the beginning of the fourth game, I again noticed that the left lane was not finishing the way it had, so I again balled up to the Storm Phase II, moving my lay down point in to seventeen. In the eighth frame, on the left lane, I left a 2-4-5 when the ball refused to finish. Once again, I didn't make an adjustment, and left the 2-4-5-7-8 in the tenth frame, failing to convert, ending up with 188. What I should have done was to realize that I had reached the end of my comfort zone when I moved the lay down point to 17, and balled down in the tenth to buy myself one more frame. Oops!

The moral of the story here is that two missed moves in four games lowered my average from a sure 220+ to 207. This is why it's so important to have an arsenal that includes a wide range of bowling balls in terms of core numbers, particularly the low RG, and to not be afraid to move when you see indications that it is time. It also shows how every move that I made when the ball quit hooking on a particular line was to the left to find more oil, rather than to the right which is the classic intuitive move, if you don't understand that carry down is a thing of the past.

Hope you find my story of some help.

J Anderson

12-13-2016, 12:23 PM

RobLV1

12-13-2016, 12:54 PM

A combination of being more focused on helping my friend, and a brain fart when I saw the weak tens and didn't think ahead!

Aslan

12-14-2016, 07:14 PM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low-moderate oil

571 Series: 201-222-148

Game 1, everyone was basnitchin that it was so dry that they didn't know what to do...but I was carrying just fine...playing 1-2 boards in of where I normally play. Unfortunately, my only two opens were a 4-6-7-9-10 split and a 3-10 baby split.

Game 2, I figured there was an 80% chance I'd have to ball down...OR...move left, near my UNcomfort zone. But, the Reax Pearl kept carrying. Only open was a 4-5 split in the 8th frame.

Then...I lost it. Left a 1-2-4-5 washout that I chopped. Pulled a shot and left a 4-pin. Then, I figured it was probably long overdue for a ball change...especially after the first frame where it wasn't that bad of a shot....seemed like it had NO backend. Missed right and left a 2-4. Left a 10-pin....then another 10-pin...etc, etc... Lost the line, couldn't get it back...even late in the game when I pulled out the Scandal Pearl...just couldn't find my line again.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 47% (1 4-bagger, 2 turkeys, 1 double, and 4 singles)
Spares: 55% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 6-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 45% (5/11)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 and 3-10 baby split (2x each)

Splits: 20% (0/5)

Average over 3 games: 190.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 193.67.

After reading Rob's story, my first thought was, "That sounds like me...it's not that I don't know how to adjust or what to look for...it's how friggin long it takes to finally figure it out. In his case, he finally got dialed in and it was the 3rd game. Most of the time for me, I have a line that works (probably because the maticulous notes I take)...but once I lose it (which happens faster on the older lanes I usually bowl on)...I lose it. Then, if I'm lucky, I find it again in the 3rd game...or like in this most recent example...I hold onto the line long enough to get two good games...but then game 3 is a disaster.

Not too upset. That league is only in their 3rd week back and I haven't subbed yet...so I was establishing. A good third game may have doomed whichever team asks me to sub next.

Aslan

12-16-2016, 06:32 PM

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

633 Series: 234 (clean) - 194 - 205 (clean)

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.21 pins
Strikes: 47% (3 turkeys, a double, and 5 singles)
Spares: 81% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (9/12)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin, 7-pin, and 10-pin (3x each).
Also left a single 5-pin (2x) and single 6-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 100% (4/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 211.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 218.33.

Just when I thought I found my 509 ceiling...I get to bowl on the other side of the house, where I tend to bowl better, and almost bust off a clean series.

The Reax Pearl was hitting light in practice, so I started out with the Innovate and used it both of the first two games. A couple bad shots in frames 6 and 7 ruined my shot at finally getting a sanctioned 270+ game.

I lost the clean series on two missed single-pins in frames 1 and 3 of Game 2.

Didn't really feel 'strong' with my spare shooting until Game 3...for some reason. And I really needed to find that confidence in Game 3, when my carry started to wane. I probably switched to the Scandal Pearl too early...then switched back to the Innovate too late...and it wasn't until the 10th that I got dialed in with the Scandal Pearl. Almost a Dutch 200...6 spares and 4 strikes...only double was in the 10th.

Kinda sucks that I bowled that well, with a 176 average, and we can only manage 3 out of 4 points. And, 75% is still a WORLD away from where I need to be on single-pin spare shooting. Other than that, consistency...accuracy...keep working on the form...keep improving the mental game...and I GOTTA run more than 3 strikes together.

fortheloveofbowling

12-17-2016, 09:43 AM

Nice bowling with the 633.

Aslan

01-03-2017, 08:10 PM

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

493 Series: 161 - 175 - 157

Game 1 I couldn't seem to carry...and my corner-pin spare shooting was VERY rusty.

Switched to the Innovate in Frame 3 of Game 2 and was clean the rest of the way...but only 4 strikes...3 on one lane...still wasn't carrying. My spare shooting seemed to improve once I got some tape in the ball...not bowling in 11 days...the thumb hole was way too big...and I don't use VISE inserts in my spare ball.

In Game 3, I ended up with a 2-4-8-10 split in the 2nd, a chopped 2-4-5-7 in the 3rd, then a 4-6-7-9-10 split in the 4th. Stayed clean the rest of the way...still not much carry and couldn't run any of the strikes together.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.56 pins
Strikes: 35% (1 double, and 10 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, and 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 53% (7/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 164.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 178.33.

Just when I thought I broke through my 509 ceiling...I'm right back under the roof.

This was the longest (11 days consecutively) that I've went without bowling; in probably 6-18 months...so I give myself at least a tiny pass on being rusty. I'm just really disappointed...because I was healthy and fresh...felt like I was doing everything well...just couldn't carry at ALL. People were saying it was slicker than usual...maybe it was....maybe it wasn't...but whatever it was...my arsenal was not a good match. I either needed a much weaker ball (like on Tuesdays) or I needed something with some surface on it.

Or, maybe it was that I just got off a flight after four hours of flying...six hours in airports...and just got back home about three hours before league started.

Aslan

01-04-2017, 03:26 AM

Saturday Weekly Color-Pin Tournament: Older Brunswick Synthetics/dry

464 Series: 175-149-140

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.25 pins
Strikes: 25% (1 turkey and 5 singles)
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 3-pin (2x), and 4-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 53% (8/15)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 (4x)

Splits: 50% (2/4).

Average over 3 games: 154.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 170.67.

And the hits just keep on coming...

Mainly just wanted to break in my new Pyramid bowling shoes!! Bowled a couple warm-up games and bowled a 233 and a 199, both clean. Figured the shoes were at LEAST a non-factor...at BEST seemed to be helping. Then...KaBlammm.

Aslan

01-04-2017, 03:27 AM

Tuesday Night League: Fairly new synthetics, low oil to dry THS

488 Series: 149-174-165

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.13 pins
Strikes: 25% (1 double and 6 singles)
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (2x).
Also left a single 5-pin, 6-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 55% (10/18)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5 and 2-4-8 (2x each)

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 162.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 165.67.

Thought the Track 300A was the answer to these lane conditions...but it just wasn't working. It seemed good in practice...but the line seemed too tight...so I tried to open things up a little...no luck. Line too tight; I end up getting splits. Open the line up and I leave a 2-pin, 2-4-5, and 2-4-8....just couldn't seem to figure things out. : (

Amyers

01-04-2017, 09:27 AM

Should I say at least you were consistent? I can't talk I took off a similar break first game back shot 225 then the wheels fell off even though I like you felt like I was throwing it good ended up with a 148 finished off a crappy night with a 184. Id rather have everything messed up and shoot bad than feel good and shoot bad.

Aslan

01-06-2017, 08:26 PM

Should I say at least you were consistent?
Actually, I can't even claim that. First day back, felt great, but averaged a 164. Saturday, felt great...put on my new Pyramid bowling shoes...shot a 233 and a 199 in warm-up. So, I felt good...felt solid...then averaged about 154 in the little, nightly tournament. Tuesday, first night back subbing with them since I shot a brilliant 605 series with the new Track300A, I was trying ANYTHING and EVERYTHING...to find the pocket...much less carry. All 3 lines, 2 different speeds, loft, etc... Horrible night...and it wasn't even consistent...because I shot in the 140s in Game 1...managed to settle down a little in Games 2 and 3.

Spare shooting...same thing. 4/8 on single pins Wednesday, then 3/8 Saturday, then Tuesday I go 4/5. Even the strike rate, 25% on two nights, but 35% on the other night.

And I LOOK so good. Not sexually speaking...but I keep getting compliments from teammates and opposing players on my "form" or my "game" or my ball motion. It's getting annoying, just like your issue of feeling good and shooting badly, it's like I'm doing everything right...but there's some tiny miniscule "thing" that is holding me back. Thinking too much...trying to be too precise...trying to make changes based on the last shot...etc... Or maybe it's a form issue...where the form looks good to newbies, drunks, and beginners...but a pro would see seven red flags.

Anyway...

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

609 Series: 184-200-225

Had early trouble with carry...figured out the right lane in the 4th frame....but never figured out the left lane. But, only open was on a 2-8 sleeper in the 5th frame.

Thought the wheels fell off in frame 2 of Game 2 when I chopped a 2-4 then threw a first shot gutter in frame 3. But, stayed clean and managed to strike once on the left lane to get me a turkey and salvage the 200.

In Game 3, I got dialed in on the left lane with the Innovate and was using the Scandal Pearl on the right lane. That combo allowed me to run a 4-bagger together. Should have been 236 clean, but I barely missed my first single-pin, a 10-pin in the 9th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 47% (1 4-bagger, 2 turkeys, and 6 singles)
Spares: 83% picked up

Single Pin spares: 90% (9/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x).
Also left a single 4-pin, 6-pin, 9-pin, and 2-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-8 (2x)

Splits: N/A

Average over 3 games: 203.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 207.00.

And the roller coaster continues! I was kinda showing off for the cute girl one lane over...so I thought maybe that was the difference...but then she left midway through Game 3 and I still did well...so??? But, the REAL good news is we swept the other team and 2 out of 3 games...all 3 of (1 guy didn't show) the guys bowled above their average. This was our first win in awhile...so, it's nice to be back on the podium.

Aslan

01-11-2017, 07:52 PM

Tuesday Night League: Fairly new synthetics, dry THS

577 Series: 197-209-171

First game I felt good. A few bad shots and a couple bad carry frames...but spare shooting was solid.

Game 2 I was absolutely dialed in...6 strikes in the first 7 frames. THEN, my team member jinxed the whole thing and said I was gonna end up with a great score...to which I had to remind him that it's not over till it's over...many a "great game" have been ruined in the 9th and 10th frames. And I'll be damned if the next shot I threw didn't slide right, leave a bucket, and then I chopped it. Then, a missed 10-pin...wasn't even close. So...my 238 game suddenly ended as a 209 game.

Game 3 I lost carry. Only missed a couple spare conversions, but when ya can't strike...spares become 'perfect or bust'.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.85 pins
Strikes: 42% (1 4-bagger, 3 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (8/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x).
Also left a single 5-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5, 2-4-5-8, and 3-9-10 split (2x each)

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 192.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 199.67.

Roller coaster ride continues.

The Track 300A is working better...even if I throw it up the middle I don't really see oil tracks...the lanes are rediculously dry. The downside to the 300A is that is just SO weak...such a "big/smooth" arc type of ball versus skid/flip...that when I try to open things up...it just doesn't come back. So every game is a battle between the line being too tight and going through the nose, the ball losing energy and rolling out and hitting weak, or the ball skidding too far and not able to come back. For these lane conditions...you almost need a ball in a urethane cover....but with some kind of strong core to help it on the backend. I'm kinda running out of ball options given anything stronger than a Cyclone seems to burn up midway down the lane....but urethane/low-hook resin balls like the 300A simply don't have the backend. So, I end up having some good frames...right up until the time I need to move left...then things get problematic.

I have a new belief, based on my last two performances, that I perform better when there is someone I'm trying to show off for....or impress...or I'm being watched...or some type of stage...or have a chip on my shoulder. It's like, the opposite of pressure. Most people get in those situations and get nervous and they struggle. I struggle if those things AREN'T there. Last Wednesday, a cute gal was nearby...I rolled a 609. Last night, a cute girl showed up...I roll a 577....5 pins higher than her anchor boyfriend. Last time I played against my old teacher (from way, way back when I bought my first ball in 2013), I had one of my best series. Even in my battles with MWhite...a far better and more experienced bowler...I always seemed to "play up to" the competition. When those things are absent...the pressure removed...which should relax me and let me do my own thing...I don't do as well. That's weird.

The guy I was subbing for is back next week so not sure when I'll be back in the line-up...usually about once a month. I'm gonna sweep with them mid-March in Vegas. A shame if I don't bowl with them in February...it's the only time I use the 300A...only got about 9 games on it.

mc_runner

01-11-2017, 08:31 PM

Nice job on the spares... big difference when you can hit those!

Aslan

01-13-2017, 08:23 PM

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

531 Series: 185-151-195

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 42% (3 doubles and 8 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin and 10-pin (3x each).
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 6-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 177.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 188.00.

No need for grad summaries. Like I posted earlier, if ya can't seem to carry the corner pins and/or run any strikes together...spare shooting has to be perfect. Add poor spare shooting to getting 3 splits...not gonna be a good night. Fortunately, the team did great...one guy had his high series for the season and the beginner guy shot his first 200+ game (ever, I think). Had the team knocked over 24 additional pins...we'd have taken the high team game spot.

I don't like relying on my teammates to win games...but it's appreciated when they do.

J Anderson

01-14-2017, 08:19 AM

Tuesday Night League: Fairly new synthetics, dry THS

577 Series: 197-209-171

...I always seemed to "play up to" the competition. When those things are absent...the pressure removed...which should relax me and let me do my own thing...I don't do as well.

So you're like the pre-Parsells era NY Giants.

Many days I feel the same way.

Aslan

01-14-2017, 11:07 PM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low-moderate oil

674 Series: 247-209-218

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.44 pins
Strikes: 67% (1 6-bagger, 4 turkeys, 2 doubles, and a single)
Spares: 45% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (4/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin and 6-pin (3x each).
Also left a 3-pin and a 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 20% (1/5)
Most common multi-pin leaves: N/A

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 224.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 232.33.

Game-by-Game recap in thread: "Don't Poke the Bear: A Bowling Story"

I will say, that late into Game 1, I thought about moving right...and I remembered some of the stuff talked about on here...especially from Amyers and RobM...and I actually moved left....when instinct told me to move right...and, after some slight adjustments when I switched balls...the moves left worked.

The key to truly embracing this modern bowling concept of constantly moving left to find oil...is going to require me to get much better at seeing the ball transition from skid to hook to roll. I am just starting to be able to see it. If I can't tell...then I don't know if I'm missing because of too steep an inside angle OR because the ball is burning up. Tonight, I guessed correctly.

Aslan

01-18-2017, 07:38 AM

Tuesday Night League: Fairly new synthetics, dry THS

588 Series: 181-214-193

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.15 pins
Strikes: 52% (2 turkeys, 3 doubles, and 6 singles)
Spares: 68% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (3x).
Also left a single 6-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5 (2x)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 196.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 203.00.

Got a call at the last minute to sub tonight. Now that I have the Track 300A designated for only that center and it's absurdly dry conditions...I have two bags. Well, downside to two bags...is you can forget stuff that you need...in tonight's case, my VISE inserts....ALL of them. So, I told the one guy I was gonna leave...but he asked if I had another ball...and I said the only other ball I had was a Hammer Big Blue Spare Ball...that I keep in my trunk...that I "accidentally stole"...that doesn't totally fit my hand...that is all banged up from bouncing around in my trunk. I only keep it there...in case I bowl unexpectedly.

Anyways, I warned the team that I would likely not be able to break 160 per game throwing essentially a spare ball right up the middle...but they unanimously agreed to have me bowl. The team we played beat us 3-1...they were the #2 team and had some real talent top to bottom. The whole night, everyone was complaining about the dry conditions...everyone except me. I barely made a 2:1 move left the entire night. If I could hit 11-12...and I didn't put too much speed on the shot, I found the pocket.

The bad news is, now my team will want me to use that damn ball every week. They don't understand...I had to make a LOT of really good shots with that urethane ball...very little error room. The fit was a problem...the span isn't large enough, the thumb hole is rediculously too big (and I forgot my tape with the inserts)...it's just not a good "long term" solution. Will I be more likely to grab it and use it on nights where games 1 and 2 stink? Yes. But, given how I've been throwing the ball lately...I would make a small wager that had I had my 300A and my inserts and been using my spare ball...I'd have shot over 588.

Since 1-4-17;
609-577-531-674-588 = Average: 198
Add to that, my lesson Sunday morning...even though we weren't really keeping score, it was like 3-4 games with 3 of them 230+.

Now I just need to fix the ball spinner this weekend. I ran into problems with it 2 weeks ago...I think I need a new part. But, the Innovate could use another resurface...it's starting to act 'squirrelly'.

Aslan

01-20-2017, 03:13 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

605 Series: 192-224-189

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.27 pins
Strikes: 63% (1 7-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 5 singles)
Spares: 33% picked up

Single Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin and 10-pin (2x each).
Never left a single 6-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 28% (2/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 201.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 212.33.

We were due for a letdown match, after trouncing the team last week with the third highest team game of the season. Fortunately we played the team where the one guy has the incredibly hot girlfriend...so I quickly found my motivation. The team was all nice guys...so I couldn't use the anger/competitive factors...had to tap into the other male primal desire...impressing babes.

Game 1 was okay...nothing special. The opponents had a crazy handicap advantage and their 149 average anchor shot a 220 scratch...so we were dead in the water. Game 2 started out poo-tastic...then I closed with 7 straight.

I started drinking earlier than usual...so by the middle of Game 2...it was kicking in. Relaxed me to finish strong in Game 2...but Game 3 I was starting to feel 'tipsy'. I guess a 189, when you open 4 times...including the 10th...isn't terrible. Or, you can look it the glass as half empty and say a 189 is a pretty horrible score when you strike 6 times.

Spare shooting was just a disaster. For some reason, I was 'expecting' to strike...and I often did. But, with the spares, it was almost like I was expecting to 'miss' them...and on most of em; I did.

The team lost 3...my 224 barely got us 1. I didn't win the heart of the cute girl. Turns out bowling prowess ranks low on the list of aphrodisiacs. But, I did win both the brackets I was in which covered about 2/3 of my costs that night.

Aslan

01-20-2017, 03:33 AM

Thursday Practice: older Brunswick synthetics;

185-199

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.90 pins
Strikes: 47% (4 doubles and 2 singles)
Spares: 63% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (5/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (2x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 5-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (2/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4-10 washout (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 192.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a.

Just bowling with a buddy this evening. Just used the Track 300A and a spare ball. My usual equipment is too strong for the lanes when they aren't freshly oiled, so I figured the 300A was the best bet. And, it's been working pretty well on Tuesdays in the other house...figured I'd give it a try.

J Anderson

01-20-2017, 05:34 PM

J Anderson

01-20-2017, 05:36 PM

Aslan

01-29-2017, 05:06 AM

So if this was practice, what were you working on?
Still trying to make my approach more fluid and still working on forward spine tilt.

Tuesday Night League: Fairly new synthetics, dry THS

527 Series: 160-219-148

Game 1 I ran into some split issues.

Game 2 was a missed single 5-pin away from a clean game; but not a ton of carry.

Game 3 my spare shooting was poor giving me 4 opens; including a chopped 2-8 sleeper in the 10th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 33% (2 turkeys and 5 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 5-pin (4x).
Also left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, 8-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 61% (8/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2 and 2-5 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 175.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 185.67.

Not a very good night. Hard to get good carry when anything thrown up the outside burns up and rolls out well before 50ft...and using weaker equipment in the middle...the equipment has no 'snap' on the backend.

Aslan

01-29-2017, 05:17 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

567 Series: 213-181-173

Game 1 I was a chopped 2-4-5 in the 6th away from a clean game.

Game 2 I again chopped a 2-4-5 in the 6th, but also opened on a 7-pin in the 10th.

Game 3 I chopped a 1-2-8 in the 4th and then another 2-4-5 in the 7th. Relatively little carry, but I ran a few strikes together late to salvage the sub-standard 173.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.78 pins
Strikes: 43% (1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 5 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (4x).
Also left a 2-pin and 4-pin (2x each)

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (4/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 189.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 193.33.

Just three players against a team that didn't show, so the 'rhythm' was off. And I just couldn't seem to hit the pocket solid. 2-pins, 1-2-8, left side bucket, 5-7 split, 2-4-5-7, 1-2-4-7, and FOUR 2-4-5 3/4 buckets. If I move outside to find some dry, the ball hits weak. If I move inside to keep it from burning up, doesn't make it back.

Aslan

01-29-2017, 05:46 AM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low-moderate oil

556 Series: 207-172-177

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.71 pins
Strikes: 41% (1 4-bagger, 1 double, and a 8 singles)
Spares: 72% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Also left a 5-pin and a 7-pin (2x each).

Multiple Pin spares: 63% (7/11)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4 (2x)

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 185.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 188.33.

I figured I wasn't going to carry a 207 average...all I could hope was that my game coming "back down to Earth" wouldn't hurt the team I end up subbing for. And, fortunately, the team took 2 out of 3, despite my performance. And, it's good to get my average down...even if it's still a bit elevated at 200.

This week was supposed to be a 'confidence builder' going into the USBC tournament this weekend. Instead, it was a stark reminder that, at the end of the day, I'm a 180s bowler. Not good news when I'm still forced to use a 192 average for tournaments.

Aslan

01-29-2017, 07:48 AM

Orange County USBC BVL Tournament: low-moderate oil, older Brunswick synthetics

Gonna be nearly impossible to win the Classic (191+) Division. I'd have a good shot of winning the B-Division (151-169) and at least some chance of winning the A Division (170-190). I was 30-40 pins ahead of the guy who was winning the A Division after the AM squad. But, competing in a 191+ division with an inflated 192 average, I'm gonna probably need my first ever 700 series in order to win. Given that's gonna be nearly impossible, I'm just hoping to finish in the top 5 of the division to keep my "Top 5 Finish at the BVL" streak alive.

AM SQUAD
534 Series: 222-156-156

Started off with a missed single 7-pin, but other than that I had good carry. Then, complete collapse as carry evaporated and my spare shooting was abysmal.

PM SQUAD

565 Series: 152-200-213

Started out horribly with 3 splits; including a Big 4 and pocket 7-10 in Game 1. Add in a missed single 10-pin, and I was out of every bracket except one.

Game 2, carry was sub-standard, but I was only a missed single 10-pin away from a clean game.

Game 3, things got better, but a missed single 10-pin in the 10th kinda wrecked things.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 (AM) and 8.69 (PM) pins
Strikes: 42% (AM) and 40% (PM)
(2 4-baggers, 6 doubles, and 7 singles)

Spares: 47% (AM) and 63% (PM) picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (AM) and 50% (PM) (9/14)
Most common single pin leaves: 10-pin (6x).
Also left a single 4-pin, 6-pin, 5-pin (2x), and 7-pin (4x).

Multiple Pin spares: 22% (AM) 69% (PM) (13/26)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2 and 2-4-5 (3x each)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 6 games: 183.17.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 191.83.

Was one of the stronger bowlers in the AM squad, but after Game 2 I looked at the squad as 'practice', more than anything.

In the PM squad, starting out with the 152 just mentally killed me. Being in the classic division, I'm not gonna be competitive when one of my games is sub-200.

Just bad timing the whole day. I'm trying to work on some form/timing issues...and it was just messing me up all day. I'm trying to improve my spine tilt and avoid 'popping up' when I release the ball. But if I concentrate on the spine tilt, I sometimes have the tendency to 'dive' when I get to the foul line. I'm also trying to keep my footwork fluid...I have a tendency to slow down/stop somewhere around step 3. But, when I concentrate on staying 'fluid', I have the tendency to rush my footwork and speed...which means I need more rpms to get the ball back to the pocket...and then I'm 'trying' too hard and my shot isn't relaxed etc.., etc.., etc... Lots of things in old duder's head, for sure.

In Game 3, when I started doing better, I started focusing on my balance arm a little more. Even though, a bowler's balance arm kinda 'does what it does' and isn't usually something you have to "think about"; I have seem to make much better shots if I focus on my balance arm, rather than just letting it 'do whatever'.

Try again in about 5.5 hours. Gonna try to be more relaxed and just focus on balance arm, form, and release. Hopefully I can still shorten my first step and have adequate spine tilt without focusing on it so much. I'd have to probably throw a 706 or better to win the division...gonna need to bowl a 670-690 series to keep my top 5 streak alive.

Aslan

01-30-2017, 06:18 AM

Orange County USBC BVL Tournament: low-oil synthetics

Coming into Day 2, the score to beat was a 682 or 692 (??). So, essentially, it'd take my best series (ever) to bump me into the top spot. Coming into the tournament, I knew the Classic Division winner would likely need a 706+ series.

I have to say, mentally it was going to be a question mark when I realized, on the same pair, I was bowling against one of the better amateurs in the area, a guy that averages over 200, over 220 in some leagues. So, would I get intimidated and poo the bed? Or would I "play up" to his level? I had a decent breakfast versus yesterday when I bowled on an empty stomach. However, I only had 2.5 hours sleep that night.

AM SQUAD
669 Series: 217 (clean)- 247 (clean) - 205

I felt good in Game 1. The high average guy beat me by 10 pins or less. I guess I figured, if I could hang with him...then I could actually win the Classic Division.

Game 2 I started out with a couple spares, but managed 7 strikes over the next 8 frames and beat out the high average guy by 20+ pins. At this point, I didn't care if I managed the 693 to win, but I wanted to beat that high-average bowler scratch.

Was able to continue my success in Game 3, but started losing carry in the 6th frame, which was also my only open frame of the series. I was able to regain composure after the open frame, and struck in the 8th and 10th to finish with a decent 205. I beat out the other two classic division rivals by 2 pins, each.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.45
Strikes: 57% (1 5-bagger, 2 turkeys, 1 double, and 6 singles)

Spares: 84% (11/13)

Single Pin spares: 80% (8/10)
Most common single pin leaves: 10-pin (4x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, nor 5-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 100% (3/3)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: N/A

Average over 3 games: 223.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 227.00.

Historical Reference
2014
I finished 5th in the B-Division with a 563 series. There were 18 competitors in that Division and the scores ranged from 390-661.
That year, the Classic Division winner rolled a 731. The range was 497-731 with an average series score of 617.

2015
I placed 3rd (out of 8) in the B-Division with a 527 series. That year, the B-Division scores ranged from 452-561.
That year, the Classic Division champion rolled a 787 series with scores in that division ranging from 480-787, with an average of 619.

That year, I also competed in the A-Division of the Citrus Belt BVL and finished 2nd with a 593. The winner shot a 630.

2016
I finished in 3rd place in the Orange County A-Division with a 609. Scores ranged from 473-663.
The Classic Division champion that year rolled a 741, the scores ranged from 441-741, and the average score was a 612.

While my strong outing wasn't enough to win the Division, it was quite respectable given my entering average was 192 and I was competing against bowlers with averages 191 and up.

Spent $75 to bowl, $20 in 50/50 and ball raffles, $65 in brackets, $5 tip (brackets) and $5 for prize fund = $170.
Won $85 in brackets and a 900Global Special Ops bowling ball in the raffle. Given the ball sells for $120, I probably made out well financially. I also probably won some prize fund money; maybe $20-$40.

J Anderson

01-30-2017, 10:20 AM

NewToBowling

01-30-2017, 02:16 PM

Maybe he had open frame in 10th after striking first ball

mc_runner

01-31-2017, 11:23 AM

Nice close on that tournament!

Aslan

02-01-2017, 04:52 AM

Nice close on that tournament!
Thanks!
Never won a ball raffle before, so I was more excited about that!

* I have won ONLINE ball giveaways...just never a ball raffle.

Nice bowling. You realize that about 2/3 of your strikes were either follow by a strike or preceded by a strike which is the kind of carry that pros get.
Nice to think I was statistically in that company. But, as we all know...no matter how well we bowl on a given night... "we know" that we weren't "pro level". Leaving a 2-pin on a miss right or pulling a shot and leaving a 3-6-10...NOT things a pro routinely does.

Given some of your recent posts about what seems to motivate you, I'm not surprised that you stepped it up a notch.
Yeah. I wasn't sure how it would go. I usually "play up to" my competition. But, this opponent...lets just say if I was in a doubles match and could have any amateur (non-pro) bowler on my team...I'd pick him. Let's just say, I'd almost take his "bad" shots over my "good" shots.

If your only open frame was the 6th frame of the third game, how could you be 8/10 on single pin spares?

Maybe he had open frame in 10th after striking first ball

Correct. My only single-pin misses were the 10-pin in the 6th frame of Game 3, and the 6-pin on the last shot of the third game, after striking on the first ball of the 10th.

J Anderson

02-01-2017, 10:25 AM

Thanks!

Correct. My only single-pin misses were the 10-pin in the 6th frame of Game 3, and the 6-pin on the last shot of the third game, after striking on the first ball of the 10th.

The local sport league used to have a "40 clean" pot, a bowler would have to have no open frames for all four games to win. If the pot wasn't won one week the money would be added to the next weeks pot. Under the rules we played by, your strike with a 9 fill would have been considered an open.

We had this pot going for at least two seasons with no one winning it. The money was not rolled over to the next season, but was either added to the general prize fund, or disbursed through an end of season roll-off. It was replaced with a strike pot where to win you need to get a strike in certain frames of all four games. I'm not sure if anyone has won this pot either, but at least two people have gone 40 clean since we gave up on the 40 clean pot.

NewToBowling

02-01-2017, 01:08 PM

J Anderson

02-01-2017, 01:19 PM

Of course this brings up the argument of what a clean game is. Mine (and apparently USBC) definition is any mark in the frame whether it be an X or /

Others say you still need to finish out the 10th frame and don't leave any pins standing to be considered clean.

I think when the clean game pot was being run, a spare in the tenth, with any fill, as long as you didn't throw a gutter ball, was clean. There was some talk that the fill should be 5 or more, but I don't think it ever became official. A strike on the first ball in the tenth required either another strike plus some fill or a a spare to be clean.

NewToBowling

02-01-2017, 02:29 PM

Blacksox1

02-01-2017, 09:59 PM

Aslan

02-02-2017, 07:38 AM

Of course this brings up the argument of what a clean game is. Mine (and apparently USBC) definition is any mark in the frame whether it be an X or /
I also believe, in another thread, this was discussed and the USBC definition is any one mark in the 10th. X--, XX-, XXX, X /, and / X.

Guessing in this scenario it would be better to get a spare over a strike, only in the 10th frame of the 4th game. Sport shot clean 40 sounds awesome. To me winning this pot would be better than rolling a 300 on a typical house shot.
Correct.

His league probably changed the definition because they were trying to hit 4 games in a row with no opens whatsoever. They call that "Clean"; but it's actually MORE than clean.

I didn't write the rule, but I think Blacksox is correct. Fundamentally, the last ball of the 10th frame is only there because of how bowling is uniquely scored. While strikes are needed in those slots to complete a perfect game, the are inconsequential to a "clean" game where there has been a mark in each frame.

"Clean Game - A game without any open frames" (Bowl.com)

Since there are no 11th nor 12th "frames", you just need "A" mark in the 10th frame.

We also had discussions back in 2013 about how hard a clean game was versus a perfect game. It was overwhelmingly decided that a 300-game was the more difficult accomplishment. "300-Game vs. Clean Series"?? That would be a more interesting debate. I'd say the 300-game is still harder...because you can hit light all night and have make-able spare shots. You really just have to stay in the pocket to avoid splits or more difficult spares. And when watching the pro tournaments....it seems like clean game after clean game after clean game...but no 300s.

Aslan

02-02-2017, 08:33 AM

Wednesday League Night: low oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

Before the match, an older fella on the other team asked, "Are you John?" I replied, "Yes." He went on to say, "I've been watching you bowl. Very impressive. You're a very good bowler."

So using anger as a motivator was out. There were ZERO hot chicks to impress. No opponents were throwing 2-handed.

BUT....I found out I have another motivator...people out of the blue telling me how awesome I am. Phew! Almost a kink in the armor!

596 Series: 238 (clean) - 199 -159

Only made a couple 'bad shots" in Game 1. I think the old guy on the other team wanted to be my boyfriend; he was quite impressed.

Game 2 I struggled early with a chopped 1-2-8 in the 2nd frame and a pocket 5-7-10 split in the 4th. Regained composure and made a timely ball change and managed to salvage the 199.

Game 3 I just wasn't making good shots and when I did, I couldn't get the carry. A 1-2-4-10 washout in the first frame...my only single-pin miss in the 3rd frame...and a chopped 3-6 in the 9th frame...did me in.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.97 pins
Strikes: 44% (1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, and 6 singles)
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 90% (9/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 6-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 198.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 202.00.

It's funny how your expectations seem to move upward as your skills improve. I 'should' be happy with a 550+ game, my high game in the league, and I averaged above my house average. But...I KNOW I can do better than that. More focus and concentration...some better balance...and I could have had a 625-675 series. Our team lost 3 out of 4 points...and the night just didn't seem like a "win".

bowl1820

02-02-2017, 10:19 AM

I think when the clean game pot was being run, a spare in the tenth, with any fill, as long as you didn't throw a gutter ball, was clean. There was some talk that the fill should be 5 or more, but I don't think it ever became official. A strike on the first ball in the tenth required either another strike plus some fill or a a spare to be clean.

And that's the slippery slope. Some would say a strike and done, clean game. You can gutter the next two balls.

According to USBC rules dept. a glean game is:

You only have to get one spare or strike in the 10th frame to keep the game clean.

The "Bowler's Guide" defines a Clean Game as follows: A game with spares or strikes in every frame.

Sincerely,
John Budnik,
Rules Counselor

But in regards to clean game "Pots", you have to go by whatever rule or commonly excepted convention is used where your at.

Aslan

02-04-2017, 05:16 AM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low-moderate oil

555 Series: 184-170-201

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 47% (2 4-baggers, 1 turkey, 1 double, and a 3 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 7-pin and 10-pin (2x each).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 4-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 60% (7/11)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-6 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 185.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 204.33.

Wasn't mentally in the game. Stats don't lie this time...would have averaged over 200 if I could just make my single-pin spares.

Aslan

02-09-2017, 03:55 AM

Wednesday League Night: dry synthetics, older brunswick lanes

573 Series: 174 - 195 - 204

Game 1 I had two open frames and just never found my line.

Game 2 my only open was a missed 6-10 in the 3rd frame...but couldn't string the strikes together.

Started out Game 3 with a 5-10 split, then a 1-2-4-8-10 washout in the 5th. But, I struck in 6 of the first 9 frames...and was able to mark in the 10th and salvage the 200+ game.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.82 pins
Strikes: 48% (1 4-bagger, 3 doubles, and 6 singles)
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (5/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Also left a 3-pin and 6-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 191.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 191.00.

Really dry lanes tonight...I don't think they oiled that pair pre-league. Spent all of Game 1, and most of Game 2, moving left. Once I got far enough to the left and was outside my comfort zone...I started pulling shots...afraid to trust my line. My imaginary RobM coach was insisting that I trust the line and playing inside was a good thing...but, it was difficulty. Standing 30-35 and targeting 17-22 at the arrows is NOT my comfort zone nor my "A-Game".

In Game 3, I started to finally trust the line...and suddenly I was making really good shots and carrying. Yet another example of how sometimes we struggle because we're fighting with ourselves. Even when I mentally decided and focused on playing that inside line...my body would often pull the shot at the last minute to try and straighten it out. It was mutiny.

NewToBowling

02-09-2017, 09:40 AM

Question, what is the reasoning behind the red/green text?

Is it to indicate under/over 200 games and 600 series, etc...

J Anderson

02-09-2017, 10:47 AM

Question, what is the reasoning behind the red/green text?

Is it to indicate under/over 200 games and 600 series, etc...

It's always dangerous to try to get inside Aslan's head, but I think red denotes stats that he feels are below what he should be getting, Black is for maintaining his current level of proficiency, and green is for stats that are significantly above his current level.

NewToBowling

02-09-2017, 11:12 AM

That sounds about right

Aslan

02-09-2017, 04:15 PM

It's always dangerous to try to get inside Aslan's head,

True.

Green denotes an improvement over the last week/session/tournament. Red denotes a drop in performance regarding that value.

So, in the most recent example, the 573 series was > 15 pins lower than last Wednesday, so it's Red. But, the 204 was more than 15 pins higher than Game 3 last week, so it is in Green.

The Pinpal stats work the same way...if I'm > 5% from last week...Green. If I drop 5% of more, Red.

And finally, I use Green and Red to indicate preferred leaves and such. Like, the 10-pin is green because as a RH bowler, I should leave primarily 10-pins. The # of multiple-pin spares is Red, because leaving that many multi-pin spares is 2 more than last week and leaving multi-pin spares isn't a good thing.

And, actually, I'm surprised nobody ever asked that before.

NewToBowling

02-09-2017, 08:24 PM

You should bring out more color schemes. Pink if you were trying to impress hot chick, orange if you were inebriated, purple if you and Mike White got into an argument, etc

Amyers

02-10-2017, 10:11 AM

True.

Green denotes an improvement over the last week/session/tournament. Red denotes a drop in performance regarding that value.

So, in the most recent example, the 573 series was > 15 pins lower than last Wednesday, so it's Red. But, the 204 was more than 15 pins higher than Game 3 last week, so it is in Green.

The Pinpal stats work the same way...if I'm > 5% from last week...Green. If I drop 5% of more, Red.

And finally, I use Green and Red to indicate preferred leaves and such. Like, the 10-pin is green because as a RH bowler, I should leave primarily 10-pins. The # of multiple-pin spares is Red, because leaving that many multi-pin spares is 2 more than last week and leaving multi-pin spares isn't a good thing.

And, actually, I'm surprised nobody ever asked that before.

I always just figured that you liked playing with the color buttons. lol actually it was pretty easy is to understand

mc_runner

02-10-2017, 10:24 AM

I had just kinda figured it was above average and below average... but yeah makes a lot more sense this way, I thought the colors were just off sometimes - haha.

I also like NtB's ideas there. You can track how you do in a game when there are other circumstances!

Aslan

02-11-2017, 12:59 AM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low-moderate oil

Was up since 4:45AM...so I kinda just wanted to go to bed. I was about 6-15 minutes away from just taking this Friday off...but finally got out of bed and got ready to go.

642 Series: 215 (clean) - 192 - 235 (clean)

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.15 pins
Strikes: 47% (3 turkeys, 2 doubles, and a 3 singles)
Spares: 94% picked up

Single Pin spares: 91% (11/12)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (7x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 100% (6/6)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 100% (1/1)

Average over 3 games: 214.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 217.67.

Good scores considering I never 'really' got dialed in. Struck more in Game 3 and hardly at all in Game 2. Game 1 was okay, but I couldn't really run anything together.

Second time this season that I almost had my first clean series.

A lot more spare shooting than I'd prefer.

Won $190 in mystery score and helped the team I subbed for take at least one of the 3 points...so I'm glad I didn't choose napping over bowling tonight.

Timmyb

02-11-2017, 03:32 PM

Nice!

Amyers

02-13-2017, 09:36 AM

Nice bowling. Good to see the spare shooting too.

Aslan

02-15-2017, 04:17 PM

Tuesday Night League: Fairly new synthetics, dry, narrow, short, THS

Still can't figure out how to play this pattern. I brought the Columbia Encounter and the Hammer Big Blue Spare ball with the Track 300A to try and have a couple more options.

541 Series: 178-149-214

Game 1 I opened on a 3-6-10 in the first frame, then left a weird 6-8-10 split in the 4th...and a pocket 7-10 split in the 10th. If I made a BAD shot...the negative results were amplified. If I made a GOOD shot...might leave a 7-10 split. :mad:

Game 2 was even worse. A 4-6-7 split in the first frame. Chopped a 2-5 in the 3rd. Chopped a 1-2-4 in the 5th. Then I left a 4-10 split in the 8th AND 10th...actually picking it up in the 10th.

Switched from the Big Blue Spare ball...which was just not working, not carrying, etc... Decided to use the Encounter as a "skid/flip" option...hoping to capitalize on what should be some decent carrydown given all the non-resin and weak equipment being thrown. Only open was on a 10-pin in the 9th frame. Picked up a 2-8-7 split in the 10th to salvage a decent game.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.78 pins
Strikes: 40% (1 4-bagger, 1 double, and 5 singles)
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Also left a single 3-pin and 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (6/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-5 and 4-10 split (2x each)

Splits: 33% (2/6)

Average over 3 games: 180.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 183.33.

Hopefully my last time subbing in this league before Vegas in March. The good thing is...once we get to Vegas and bowl on actual conditions...versus whatever this short/narrow TH(B)S is...I should be able to bowl well enough to maybe make some $$$.

If I DO, sub in this league again...I might do some surface work on my Bullet Train, Encounters, Rhythm...maybe put together a 3-ball combo where I can reduce the surfaces to a point where I might be able to utilize them...taking advantage of the stronger cores than what I get out of the Track300A.

Aslan

02-16-2017, 01:57 AM

Wednesday League Night: dry synthetics, older brunswick lanes

584 Series: 193 - 206 (clean) - 185

Game 1 I couldn't seem to carry. An open on a single 3-pin in the first frame, a strike in the second frame, then 7 straight 9 /s until I struck out in the 10th.

Game 2 was clean...but could only manage a double.

Started out Game 3 I ran into some split issues. A 5-6-10 in the 4th that I missed...a 5-6 that I was able to convert in the 9th...and a 3-10 baby split in the 10th that I chopped. Again, I could only manage a couple doubles.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.06 pins
Strikes: 36% (1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 85% picked up

Single Pin spares: 91% (11/12)
Most common single-pin leave: 3-pin and 10-pin (3x each).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6 (3x)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 194.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 198.33.

Again, really dry lanes...playing on the high side of the center. Started out with the Reax Pearl and stayed with it all 3 games. Ended up pretty far inside...outside my comfort zone.

Made some really good shots...took 2 firsts and a second in brackets...paid for the majority of the league night expenses...so I can't complain.

Aslan

02-18-2017, 12:56 AM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low-moderate oil

521 Series: 173 - 185 - 163

Game 1 I had some early spare shooting issues due to thumb fit. Struck out in the 10th to salvage the 173.

Game 2 I only had one open frame, a 3-10 baby split in the 5th. Only 3 strikes the entire game.

Game 3 I had four open frames. A missed 9-pin, another 3-10 baby split, and both the 2-8 and 3-9 sleepers. Struck out again to salvage the 163.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 40% (2 turkeys and 8 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 78% (11/14)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (8x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 28% (2/7)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-10 baby split (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 173.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 184.67.

Just couldn't seem to carry. Each game I only had a couple strikes...but managed to strike out in the 10th of games 1 and 3. Single pin spare shooting should have been 13/14, but I had too much tape in the hole of the spare ball and missed 2 spare attempts early in Game 1. Once I fixed the tape, I was automatic on corner pins with the spare ball. Shooting the 10-pin 8 times...not sure if I've ever done that before.

The lanes played differently than I expected; probably because of all the rain we had today. And, my physical game was off...some shots looked great...other shots I pulled or was off balance or was too upright...all kinds of issues. I needed to average 186 in order to help this team I was subbing for and I just couldn't seem to hit that number. And, my hopes of being a 200-average bowler...well, I'm down to 196 after my 207 average start to the season. I guess that's 'good news' given I'm one week away from this league average actually counting toward future tournaments and such.

J Anderson

02-18-2017, 04:47 PM

Timmyb

02-18-2017, 05:20 PM

Most of the really good bowlers that I know throw at least one shot a ten pin or a seven pin during warm-ups. The guys and gals who are only good on the THS seem to quickly find the combination of ball and line that gets to the pocket well and then they waste the rest of the time throwing strikes.

I always throw at least one shot at the 10 in practice. Still manage to miss one here and there. after the past few weeks, it would appear I need to do the same on 7's as well.

J Anderson

02-19-2017, 03:15 PM

I always throw at least one shot at the 10 in practice. Still manage to miss one here and there. after the past few weeks, it would appear I need to do the same on 7's as well.

Just in warm ups I have practiced shooting the 10pin over 4000 times right handed. The only time I practice shooting the seven pin in warm ups is when I'm bowling left handed. There is no doubt in my mind as to why I would rather shoot at a ten pin in competition than a seven.

Aslan

02-23-2017, 02:03 AM

Wednesday League Night: dry synthetics, older brunswick lanes

562 Series: 185 - 156 - 221

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 44% (1 4-bagger, 3 doubles, and 5 singles)
Spares: 58% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 2-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7 and 2-8 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 187.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 194.67.

Again, really dry lanes...playing on the high side of the center. It took me 2 games just to get dialed in and the stats don't lie; my spare shooting was awful.

We took 2.5 points (out of 4), but I'm not used to being the weak link on the team. One more week, then sweeps. I got a tournament this weekend, a lesson next weekend, then it's (probably) one of my last trips to Vegas for sweeps. Both leagues where I'm eligible to bowl sweeps...are at Sam's Town...my first time bowling at that center. So, if RobM or any Vegas guys/gals have any advice on Sam's Town...I'd appreciate it!

Aslan

02-25-2017, 08:36 PM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

542 Series: 182 - 201 - 159

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 40% (2 turkeys, 1 double, and 5 singles)
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 6-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 180.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 190.00.

Was off my game for some reason. I was supposed to be out of town Thursday and Friday, but weather cancelled my trip. So, I figured I'd sub Friday as a "warm-up" for the OC USBC Open this weekend. Obviously, it wasn't the huge confidence-builder I had hoped.

Aslan

02-25-2017, 09:36 PM

Scratch Saturday Tournament:
Older Brunswick synthetics: medium-heavy oil

984 Series: 234-194-175-138-243 (clean)

About 7 months ago, I tried my hand at a 5-game scratch tournament and was rather embarrassed.

Despite not being at the "top" of my game right now, I was on the way back from the OC USBC Open Team Event and saw that this scratch tournament was about to start and decided to try my luck.

What I didn't realize, was:
1) Due to the high rev players and 5-game format, I confirmed with the maintenance person that they actually increased the volume of oil a great deal.
2) I would be bowling against some of the best bowlers in the area, including many former PBA regional guys, and, one of my coaches (a current PWBA pro).

I almost asked for my money back...but decided to stick it out and get some practice in...although my expectations of winning were rather slim (to put it lightly).

As is often the case with my game...the tougher the competition and tougher the environment, the more I seem to elevate my game. In game 1, I had the 4th highest score or the field of 29. I moved outside of the 9-board and played out-and-in...something I don't often do anymore. I was a missed 4-pin in the 5th frame away from a clean game.

Game 2 wasn't bad...strikes weren't as plentiful, but I was making my spares. The only open was a a chopped 1-2-10 washout in the 4th frame. I was no longer in the top 6...but I had bowled two games and both times outscored my coach. Despite this feat...I KNEW that I wouldn't be able to count on the experience and consistency that she had...I figured it was only a matter of time before my carriage turned into a pumpkin.

Game 3 was more of the same...struggling to adjust to the heavier oil volumes...unsure whether I was missing right due to playing too aggressive a line...or because my ball was burning up and i needed to move left. A pocket 8-10 in the 4th and a missed single 7-pin in the 9th did me in. I was now about middle-of-the-pack and my coach bowled a 218 to close on me.

Game 4 I finally made a ball change...but the damn Innovate and it's lower differential meant I had to make some additional adjustments. I struck in the 2nd frame...and that was that. I chopped a 3-6, chopped a 2-8 sleeper, chopped a 2-4-8, chopped another 1-2-10 washout, and missed a single 10-pin in the 10th...to finish with the lowest game of the entire field...of the entire tournament...the only participant to shoot below a 140. :mad: And my coach...well, she rocked out with a 249 and moved solidly ahead of me in the standings.

Game 5 I gave up on trying to play inside...moved back outside to the track...and just played out and in...like I did in Game 1. My 243 was the second highest score of Game 5 and moved me back to the middle of the field.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.09 pins
Strikes: 47% (2 5-baggers, 3 doubles, and 10 singles)
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 81% (13/16)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (4/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-10 washout (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 196.80.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 203.80.

Several months ago, I posted "Okay, note to self, "You're not ready for scratch tournaments.""

While I still think I'm a bit outmatched in this field...at least I can honestly say I'm a better bowler now than I was several months ago.

Am I tired? After 3 games of a mentally challenging OC Open Team Event from 9AM-12PM...then an exhausting 5-game scratch tournament from 12:30PM until 3:30PM? Yes...because I'm old. I had only had a Monster energy drink and about 50 ounces of diet cola...so I scarfed down some chicken tenders from KFC...and will now take a hot bath...and maybe a nap...maybe just an early bedtime...but I am now physically and mentally EXHAUSTED...

Aslan

02-26-2017, 08:36 PM

OC USBC Open Tournament: low oil synthetics

Day 1
Team Event:
571 Series: 210-189-172

Game 1 felt great. Games 2 and 3 I lost my carry. Spare shooting was above average...but only so much you can do when you can't seem to strike.

Day 2
Doubles Event:
604 Series: 209-186-209

Same as the day before...good carry in Game 1...above average spare shooting in Game 2...but couldn't seem to carry. Then, I managed to carry again in Game 3. Good enough to win back the $50 I had invested in brackets. I had little chance of winning in the scratch brackets...got paired up against a regional PBA pro once in round 1 and again in round 2.

Singles Event:
479 Series: 182-172-125

Same as last year (and the year before for that matter). Once the lanes started to breakdown...there's only so far I can move inside before losing my ability to play. When I missed a single 7-pin in the 10th during Game 2...I was just mentally spent. Once again, OC USBC Open, I go in with an inflated average (192) and really have no shot of winning. I was hoping to get some experience...but I bowl at that house once a month when I take lessons...and the THS there plays very much like most OC centers...very dry outside, very low volume in the middle, breaks down quickly, minimal carry-down.

The 125 was probably my most embarrassing game of the past 3 years.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.87 pins
Strikes: 42% (2 5-baggers, 1 turkey, 6 doubles, 17 singles)
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (14/20)
Most common single pin leaves: 2-pin and 10-pin (7x each).
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (16/32)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6 and 6-10 (3x each)

Splits: 0% (0/8)

Average over 9 games: 183.78.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 190.56.

Still have a lot to learn. I just can't seem to move inside of 15 without missing right. And if I stay outside...I either can't stay right when the lanes transition...which they do quickly around here...I either go through the nose or can't carry.

You asked a while back for high average leagues to watch. Check out the Bud Almost Scratch League on Tuesdays at seven at Southpoint. I have to miss next week for a hospital procedure, but I'll be back the following week. This is the ultimate high average league in Vegas. Hope to see you while you're in town.
I'll be in Vegas a couple times in March...might be my last trip for some time...as I plan to move to the Midwest in March-May of this year.

Friday March 3rd and Friday March 17th. If either of those work for you...I'd like to take you out for steaks (on me) if you're interested. I'll be staying at Sam's Town both times...not sure if you know of a good steakhouse around there. I've ate at the Silverton and the steakhouse inside the South Point...both were excellent. Not sure if there's something decent near the Sam's Town area or not.

Aslan

02-26-2017, 09:10 PM

Aslan

03-02-2017, 03:23 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

635 Series: 157 - 212 - 266 (clean)

Game 1 I was trying to use the Reax Pearl that I recently re-surfaced...but it just wasn't working. I thought maybe I polished it a bit too much and it was going too long...or maybe it was just burning up too soon...still hard to tell. But, midway through the game I switched to the Innovate. A few open frames and my inability to carry really did me in.

Game 2 I actually struck in 7 of the first 8 frames...but missed every spare opportunity which finally made me kick my stupid roller bag in frustration. To strike 7 times then open in the 9th and 10th on make-able spares is about as much frustration as I could take.

Game 3 I recovered my focus and struck 9 times in the first 10 shots before finishing with a spare to fill out the 10th...1 pin shy of my high sanctioned game of 267...which I've rolled twice, but never higher.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.25 pins
Strikes: 59% (2 5-baggers, 1 4-bagger, 1 double, and 3 singles)
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 57% (4/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (4x)

Splits: N/A

Average over 3 games: 211.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 233.00.

Another night of awful spare shooting. Ever since I had to add some tape to my spare ball, I've been having problems with my spares. And once I have problems...it's a mental spiral downward.

I'm hoping I didn't mess up my Reax Pearl by resurfacing it...but it was developing a track and I got sweeps Saturday in Vegas...so I wanted to get it ready.

Mainly I was just using some stuff from my lesson yesterday...trying to keep my swing easy and effortless...keep my hand more under the ball...feel it come off my fingers. The Innovate was working really well (for a change) so I never needed to pull out the Scandal Pearl.

I got a check in the mail today for $80 for the 4th place finish in the BVL tournament. No brackets or sidepots tonight...but I did win $100 in the 50/50. This will be the first time (and maybe only time) that I'll be going to Vegas with a significant amount of money riding on the outcome. I've probably got $180 in brackets, sidepot, strike balls, card game, and mystery score...and then a shot at additional prize money. I'll head out to Vegas tomorrow afternoon to beat the traffic and then get some practice in on Friday.

manke

03-02-2017, 10:20 AM

Good luck in vegas!!

fortheloveofbowling

03-02-2017, 10:20 AM

Nice bowling with the 635.

Aslan

03-03-2017, 12:23 PM

Good luck in vegas!!

Thanks. This'll probably be my 2nd to last attempt at beating Vegas...and my 2nd best chance to win $$$.

Pre-Sweeps Practice: Sam's Town (Las Vegas)

Bowled in many Vegas houses...but never Sam's Town...so I decided to get some practice in after I arrived. Kind've a nice bowling center.

616 Series: 207-222-187

Started out dominating. The re-surfaced Bullet Train up the 9-board seemed to be giving me a great shot. Only two opens in the first two games...a missed 10-pin in Game 1 and a 2-8-10 split in Game 2. Game 3 shoulda been better; but I left a 1-3-6-8-10 in the 10th...and somehow, the 1,3, and 6...all managed to miss the 8-pin.

506 Series: 159-196-151

It was unlimited bowling for 3 hours...so I decided to push my luck and try out the Reax Pearl. Things didn't go so well once I made the ball change. The Reax Pearl just seemed to burn out if I played 8-12. And when I moved in and played 13-16...it wouldn't come back. So it was weird multi-spare after weird multi-spare.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.67 pins
Strikes: 49% (1 5-bagger, 4 turkeys, 1 double, and 14 singles)
Spares: 59% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 2-pin (2x), 3-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (13/24)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5-8 bucket, 2-7 baby split, 2-5, 1-2-4-10 washout, and 6-10 (2x each)

Splits: 40% (2/5)

Average over 6 games: 187.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 190.50.

Using the Bullet Train up and in over the 9-11 boards seemed to be a really good line. The downside came when I decided to move to the next ball in my progression...a much newer, stronger Reax Pearl. The Reax Pearl was almost immediately going brooklyn and I had to move about 11 boards inside with my feet, throwing over the 13-15 boards. With that line...I had to make perfect shots to get the ball to come back to the pocket.

I surfaced the Bullet Train by hitting it with 800, then 1500 Silair...then using buffing compound...no polish. The Reax Pearl I tried to restore to near OOB by hitting it with 2000 Abralon, then 4000 Abralon, then buffing compound, then a light resin polish. But the Reax Pearl seems to have lost the power it had before the resurface. My best guess is that the polish is causing it to go far too long...tricking me into thinking it's burning up and i need to move inside. But, if I try to stay outside with that ball...it goes nuts when it hits friction...and Sam's Town seems to have a good deal of friction on the outside.

I hate to abandon my arsenal that has gotten me to a 184 average and put me in position to win some dough...instead throwing a beat up old Bullet Train with about 500 games on it. But, the Bullet Train almost couldn't miss. How long would that last with 8 people bowling on a pair? Hard to say. And what I do when I move inside and the Bullet Train starts hitting light? Skip the Reax Pearl and use the Innovate? Hard to say at this point.

More practice today...

Amyers

03-03-2017, 01:24 PM

Good luck. Might give the Scandal a try if the reax isn't making it back

Aslan

03-03-2017, 04:11 PM

Nice bowling with the 635.
Thank You.
Nice bowling on your recent update as well! (I often stalk score pages without posting)

Good luck. Might give the Scandal a try if the reax isn't making it back
The Scandal Pearl is a beast. It's usually my "carrydown" option. I'm not a "carrydown proponent" nor "carrydown denyer"...I'm kinda in the middle. I think it CAN be there...depending on how much oil is applied and who is bowling and what they're throwing. So, I try not to get that ball out unless I have to. When there IS carrydown...it hits harder than any ball I'ver ever thrown...nothing I have thrown is even a close second (except the Reax Pearl...which is less skid/flippy...most likely because it's a Radical/Brunswick).

Sam's Town seems to have a LOT of bounce on the outside...so if there's no carrydown...the Scandal Pearl is gonna go nuts.

Friday AM Pre-Sweeps Practice, Sam's Town, LV

688 Series: 226-257 (clean)-205

Played in a little poker tournament in the morning. Was doing great and frustrating the old timers...then at the start of Round 2 I got knocked out. Pocket Queens...all in against Big Slick and Jack/Queen suited. The guy with Big Slick never hit an Ace nor a King...and I had a big advantage against Jack/Queen...but I'll be DAMNED if he didn't hit the flush. Oh well, it got me to get out of bed in the AM and only cost me $23...probably the only gambling I'll be doing this weekend.

Was able to practice on one of the lanes I'm scheduled to bowl on tomorrow in Sweeps. Only did 3 games because I plan on taking a break and then going back down there in the afternoon/evening for my final round of practice.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.53 pins
Strikes: 66% (1 5-bagger, 2 4-baggers, 1 turkey, 2 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 70% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 5-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 0% (0/2)
Multi-pin leaves: 1-3-6-9 and 4-6-7 split

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 229.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 233.33.

Started out with the Bullet Train up the 9-board...but the lanes seemed a little more "used" than last night when I got a freshly oiled lane.

I switched to the Reax Pearl...but the line was too tight, so I had to open it up a little. The polish seems to make it go longer than I'm used to...but the POSITIVE is it allows me to play the track...which is my A-Game. Usually, the Reax Pearl is just to strong and wants to hook to soon to play outside of 11.

I'm gonna stop short of saying Sam's Town is "easy"...because:
1) As soon as I say that, I'll throw a 489 series tomorrow.
2) Vegas centers are RENOWNED for putting more volume down on Saturdays when the lanes are packed with sweeps bowlers all day.
3) As RobM always points out...things can change alot one day to another and one pair to another. I've been told, that Sam's Town is older...and the lanes transition rather quickly...so keeping up with that with two teams of bowlers will certainly add a degree of difficulty.
4) There's a BIG difference between practicing on ONE lane...and bowling on TWO lanes...not to mention a big difference between bowling by one's self with minimal pressure...versus bowling in sweeps for > $1000 on the line with 7 other people on the lane.

What I will say...is the pins seem "light". I had a 4-pin wiggle it's way over and barely touch the 10-pin...and it fell over like it was attached to a string and someone pulled on it. Thats not a "good" nor "bad" thing...probably more "bad" because it means the little old ladies with no power...are gonna be able to carry.

Aslan

03-03-2017, 10:57 PM

Pre-Sweeps PM Practice: Sam's Town (Las Vegas)

597 Series: 184-190-223

Had thumb-fit issues in Game 1...took me awhile to get warmed up. Game 2 I had a couple spare-shooting issues. Game 3 was much better...but missed a clean game due to a chopped 3-10 baby split in the 9th.

562 Series: 182-189-191

Game 4 was 'blah'...including a pocket 7-10 in the 10th. Finally gave my Scandal Pearl a chance in Game 2...but it wasn't really carrying. Game 3 I was able to get back in my groove...but missed a single 9-pin in the 10th to pretty much screw the pooch.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.83 pins
Strikes: 46% (1 4-bagger, 4 turkeys, 3 doubles, and 8 singles)
Spares: 58% picked up

Single Pin spares: 68% (11/16)
Most common single pin leave: 10-pin (6x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (9/18)
Most common multi-pin leaves: full-rack, 3-10 baby split, 3-6, 4-6-7 split, and 2-5 (2x each)

Splits: 16% (1/6)

Average over 6 games: 193.17.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 201.33.

Gonna have to execute better tomorrow and do a better job of picking up single-pin spares. Me averaging > 195 isn't gonna make me any $$$...and I realistically need to average closer to 214.67+ to have a shot at some REAL $$$$.

Aslan

03-05-2017, 03:45 AM

Sweeps: Sam's Town (Las Vegas)

584 Series: 150-213-221
Game 1 I just wasn't carrying much...but I could have gotten into the 180s had a I actually made more spares than I missed.

Game 2 was good...but a 4-7-10 split in the 9th kinda ruined things.

Game 3 one of my teammates decided to make a side bet with the opposing team...so I had to step it up a notch. A missed single 6-pin in the 2nd frame was my only open.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 53% (1 5-bagger, 1 turkey, a double, and 7 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (4/6)
Most common single pin leaves: 10-pin (4x each)
Also left a single 2-pin and 6-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4 and 2-7 baby split (2x each)

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 194.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 202.67.

:mad:

Well...it's been awhile since I had that feeling in my gut...where I seriously questioned whether I ever wanted to bowl again...and this afternoon....it came back.

Did I do better than I did last fall when I swept in Vegas? Sure.
Did I bowl about 9 pins above my average? Sure.
Did I win $60 in brackets and $10 in the skins bet? Yup.
Did I escape Vegas only losing $23 in gambling losses? Sure.

Does any of that matter? No...not really. This was supposed to be my best chance to win money bowling...it wasn't.

When I finally recover...it looks like it's time to just take about 1000 practice shots at corner pins until my knee and elbow are sprained and my thumb falls off...or until my spare ball cracks in half...whichever happens first.

Amyers

03-06-2017, 12:14 PM

Well I know it wasn't what you wanted but you out some good scores up over the weekend. Money is nice but making progress with your bowling is the real trick and it looks like your doing that.

Aslan

03-11-2017, 09:12 PM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

482 Series: 147 - 184 - 151

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.55 pins
Strikes: 32% (3 doubles and 4 singles)
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 57% (4/7)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x).
Also left a single 2-pin (2x), 3-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 42% (6/14)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 4-7 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 160.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 171.00.

No point for a summary. The lanes were really dry and I had to move way inside my comfort zone. The only good news is the other bowlers on the team held their own and took 2 out of 3, despite my miserable performance subbing. And, it'll help bring my average down to within reason.

Haven't bowled this bad since 11/29/2016.

Aslan

03-15-2017, 07:58 PM

Saturday Weekly Color-Pin Tournament: Older Brunswick Synthetics/dry

589 Series: 200-167-222

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 45% (2 4-baggers, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 1 single)
Spares: 58% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin and 9-pin (2x each)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (3/9)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4).

Average over 3 games: 196.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 200.00.

Didn't get much bowling in this week...so I decided to do the weekly color-pin tournament.

The lanes were REDICULOUSLY dry...probably because of the crazy hot weather we've had out here (78-82 degrees). They were really dry Friday...and just excessively dry on Saturday. I ended up standing left foot on 36-37 targeting 23. That's not even my "C-Game"...it's like a "D-Game". But, as RobM has preached...you have to play the way the lanes dictate. If I had a weaker ball with me...maybe I could have moved back out to the track with the 300A or urethane Big Blue Spare...but even if that found the pocket...carry would be a challenge.

In the end, I paid about $31...won about $39...including the 3rd game sidepot....which is saying alot since there were more than a few former PBA Regional guys there...but the big guns were having an even harder time on the dry lanes than I was.

Aslan

03-15-2017, 08:13 PM

Open Bowling/Practice: Fairly new synthetics, dry, narrow, short, THS

Thought I'd try out a few balls that I messed with the surface...but even the solid Rhythm surfaced to 3000/polished and the pearl Encounter with a polished 500...were both rolling out at about 30-40ft. I ended up just switching to the Track 300A for Game 3...there's really no point to playing these lanes without drastically changing my speed or adding a ton of loft. Just nuts.

512 Series: 143-180-189

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.50 pins
Strikes: 38% (3 doubles and 7 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin and 10-pin (2x).
Also left a single 2-pin and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 38% (5/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5-8 and 6-7-10 split (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/5)

Average over 3 games: 170.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 171.00.

Ughhhh....
This center is rediculous. I'm not a big "conspiracy guy" (other than regarding Motiv and the PBA)...but wow! I gotta think this pattern is either a greedy owner trying to save some pennies on oil...OR...they are trying to "help" their high-average wood lane bowlers who tended to be less hand/more speed...and would struggle on standard lane conditions.

The good news? I'll be sweeping against these guys this weekend in my last (at least for awhile) trip to Vegas. And, if they think they are AWESOME on whatever mess these lane conditions are...they are gonna have to get some practice in before sweeps Saturday or they're gonna have a rude awakening.

Aslan

03-16-2017, 02:53 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

582 Series: 216 - 199 (clean) - 167

A missed 10-pin in the second frame away from a clean game.

Game 2 I switched to the Innovate; but couldn't seem to carry. Kept things clean...but a rather hollow victory given I was sub-200.

Game 3 the tequilla kinda caught up with me...4-5 shots is apparently past my competitive limit. Good to know.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 42% (1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 5 singles)
Spares: 68% picked up

Single Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (6x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 194.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 204.33.

Turns out drinking tends to hinder bowling performance...at some point....and that point is between 1 and 5 shots of tequilla...

Aslan

03-17-2017, 12:08 PM

Pre-Sweeps Practice: The Orleans (Las Vegas)

Day 1 (Thursday) Practice.

Warm-Up: 224

529 Series: 146-182-201

Game 1 sucked. Game 2 shoulda been a higher score...but I wasn't getting any breaks. Lots of pocket hits...with ringing 10s and 7s...pins didn't seem as "light" as Sam's Town...but they seemed to bounce around more. Game 3 I chopped the 6 off a 6-10...which is really friggin annoying.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.72 pins
Strikes: 44% (1 6-bagger, 1 5-bagger, 1 double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 90% (9/10)
Most common single pin leave: 7-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 6-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 38% (5/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10, 3-10 baby split, and 1-2-4 (2x each).

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 4 games: 188.25.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 190.50.

I think carrydown was definitely a factor on these lanes. They hadn't been oiled in awhile and mostly just casual bowlers throwing plastic balls all day...because any miss more than 2 boards to the right wasn't coming back to hit the headpin. Gonna try to practice in the AM tomorrow on what should be more freshly oiled conditions.

A lady was watching me bowl and made a point to tell me I was a "really good bowler". Now, I love all compliments and thanked her...but it's really irritating that every time I practice...I either draw a crowd or get compliments like these...and the obvious response is, "well, you're apparently EASLY IMPRESSED." BUT, that would be rude....so I just usually thank the person and nod and try to smile.

Aslan

03-17-2017, 06:22 PM

Friday AM Pre-Sweeps Practice, The Orleans, LV

Warm-Up Game: 152
Decided not to use the Bullet Train. It's behaving weird and making a 'noise' as it rolls down the lane. I think it's "past it's retirement age".

519 Series: 182-166-171

Game 1 was a missed single-pin and a couple splits...including a 6-7 in the 9th.

Game 2 I only opened twice...but one was a chopped 1-3-6-9 in the 10th...so there goes that game.

Game 3...two more opens...in the 8th and 9th...so there goes that game...

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.48 pins
Strikes: 43% (1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 10 singles)
Spares: 54% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (2/3)
Most common single pin leave: 7-pin (2x)
Also left a single 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 52% (11/21)
Multi-pin leave: 1-2 (4x)

Splits: 33% (2/6)

Average over 4 games: 167.75.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 170.00.

The Orleans lanes seem harder than Sam's Town. At Sam's Town...I could play the Bullet Train or Reax Pearl up the track...no problems. But The Orleans seems to be a tighter shot. A 2-board miss right....you don't make it back to the pocket. If you pull the shot at all...you're gonna have split difficulties. And for some stupid reason...the 7-pin is annoying at this house!! I've never left so many 7-pins.

I should have just stayed in California....could have bought some strike ball tickets during the Saturday night color-pin tournament...make $150-200...save all this money. I haven't bowled worth a "POO" since I've got here.

I'm gonna try to move inside a little...maybe I can play the 11-14 area. Outside seems to burn out the ball....inside there's a "poo-ton" of oil and then the Reax (or Scandal Pearl...if I get around to trying it) reacts too abrubtly at the end and dives through the nose leaving me "split-issues".

RobLV1

03-18-2017, 06:42 AM

This is a great lesson to help you understand ball reaction! The Orleans uses a 37' pattern. When the ball encounters too much friction too soon, the core stands up early and the ball can't make it back to the pocket. The overall effect looks like there's a lot of oil that's keeping the ball from hooking, while the fact of the matter is that there is too much friction that is straightening it out. When you change to a very aggressive bowling ball and move in slightly, your ball retains the energy, but hooks early and dives through the nose. To overcome this on a shorter pattern, use the less aggressive ball and move into the oil with it. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised!

Aslan

03-18-2017, 07:51 AM

To overcome this on a shorter pattern, use the less aggressive ball and move into the oil with it. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised!
Unfortunately, I didn't really bring a weaker ball.

Pre-Sweeps PM Practice: The Orleans (Las Vegas)

Warm-Up Game: 167

511 Series: 155-188-168

Bad spare shooting in Game 1. Only one open frame in Game 2; but I couldn't carry. Same thing in Game 3...a couple opens, no carry.

657 Series: 214-223-220 (clean)

Finally found my line...realized I was struggling with some release issues. Smooth sailing from then on...a couple spare issues in Games 1 and 2...but fixed them by Game 3.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.87 pins
Strikes: 42% (2 4-baggers, 2 turkeys, 3 doubles, and 12 singles)
Spares: 68% picked up

Single Pin spares: 72% (16/22)
Most common single pin leave: 7-pin (6x)
Never left a single 1-pin nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 63% (12/19)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-6-10 (3x)

Splits: 33% (2/6)

Average over 7 games: 190.71.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 200.71.

I guess we'll see tomorrow whether Jeckyl or Hyde will show up when it matters??

RobLV1

03-18-2017, 08:52 AM

Why would you possibly go to another state to bowl in a money event without taking a full range of bowling balls?

Aslan

03-21-2017, 02:14 AM

Why would you possibly go to another state to bowl in a money event without taking a full range of bowling balls?
Well, I "did" bring FOUR. Granted, 3 have similar specs...but that's a whole other story...

Sweeps: The Orleans (Las Vegas)

610 Series: 181-203-226
Game 1 I was doing well...then missed a 4-pin in the 7th frame...and then mentally collapsed and missed a 6-10 in the 8th. I managed to strike in the 9th, but then opened on a 1-2-8-10 washout in the 10th.

Game 2 my only open was on a 2-10 split in the 5th...but couldn't run a ton of strikes together.

Game 3 I started with ANOTHER 1-2-8-10 washout (despite sending the 1-pin and 2-pin almost directly at the 10-pin)...but then I ran 5 strikes together and stayed clean to salvage a decent score.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.97 pins
Strikes: 50% (1 5-bagger, 2 turkeys, and 5 singles)
Spares: 62% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common single pin leaves: 10-pin (2x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 203.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 206.67.

What's interesting here, besides my big payday (read below), is that I really didn't bowl that much better than I did two weeks ago at Sam's Town. I think 2 weeks ago I averaged about 193...could have averaged 204 had I picked up more spares. This time, similar stats (first ball average and strike rate) but with much better spare stats. The scores in Games 2 and 3...were actually very similar this time versus 2 weeks ago...the main difference is the 181 this time versus the 150 first game from two weeks ago.

So, what is the difference in $$$$ ???
http://i1166.photobucket.com/albums/q616/Aslan2014/big_rooster_zpsbngawx8z.jpg (http://s1166.photobucket.com/user/Aslan2014/media/big_rooster_zpsbngawx8z.jpg.html)
HUGE!

Two weeks ago, I went into sweeps with a 182 average and rolled a 582 (about a 193 average).
I won $60 in brackets and $10 in a side bet = $70.

This time around, I entered sweeps with a 180 average and shot a 610 (203 average). I won:
$865 (brackets) + $455 (sweeps prize money) + $31 (tie for first place men's singles) + $200 (2nd place in Game 3 sidepot) + $10 (team event)
= $1561

So...WHAT THE HELLO HAPPENED!!??
(see follow-up post)

Aslan

03-21-2017, 02:21 AM

Well, MANY things happened.

1) I made my spares and at least shot a pin over my average in Game 1...which kept me alive in most brackets.
2) Our team was down one bowler and the team we were supposed to bowl against was a no-show...so we bowled unopposed. One bowler on the team bowls back-up up the middle. One bowler is a lefty. One bowler bowls thumbless and thus is nowhere near my line. So...I kinda had the line to myself.
3) This league bowls in a house with a rediculously stupid oil pattern. I can only describe it as a 32ft pattern between 14-36.
4) This league has some good, experienced bowlers...but not a ton of bowlers that bowl at multiple houses...on patterns that are more likely to mimic Vegas patterns.
5) Not very many bowlers had a "good day" on the lanes. When I bowled two weeks ago, the top bowler bowled a 695 scratch. There were a handful of bowlers with 650+ series. This time, my 610 was 5th highest (scratch).

Here are the final standings for the top 15 male bowlers that won money:
1) KC 658 + 33 = 691
tie
1) Aslan 610 + 81 = 691
3) RH 596 + 87 = 683
4) LH 631 + 39 = 670
5) JG 578 + 75 = 653
6) DM 554 + 96 = 650
7) MS 530 + 117 = 647
8) TH 582 + 63 = 645
9) JG 527 + 117 = 644
tie
9) BA 590 + 54 = 644
11) GP 507 + 135 = 642
12) PC 616 + 18 = 634
13) EM 552 + 81 = 633
14) TK 613 + 18 = 631
15) BS 564 + 66 = 630

So, lots of reasons that "helped" me win. As to what I did differently MYSELF:

1) I made my spares (for the most part).
2) I fixed my release issues when I practiced the night before. I tried to have a "free swing"...but with my hand more under the ball...tried to do it consistently.
3) I switched balls when it made sense. I actually spent much of the afternoon using a different ball on each lane. Normally I try not to do that...just because it annoys me to have to switch inserts each time...and have a slightly different feel each time...but in this case, with $$$$ on the line...I stepped outside my comfort zone and used the ball I really felt was the best ball for that lane at that time.

Was I POPULAR in the room following the sweeps event? Probably not. I was the only "sub" that was in the Top 15 and the only bowler that bowled above their season high scratch series (610 vs. 605). I had only 30 games in the league (as a sub)...one guy had the minimum 21...but everyone else was a regular with 57-75 games. In this league, a sub CAN bowl at sweeps IF:
1) They have at LEAST 21 games bowled.
2) They are a "6th man sub"...which means in this league I can only sub for the team that has me listed as their 6th bowler. Roaming subs cannot bowl at sweeps.

BUT...Devil's Advocate...
1) I also put more money and effort into bowling than any of those other bowlers do.
2) I show up on Thursday and practice, practice, practice...
3) I don't get wasted the Friday before sweeps.

If people are going to beeotch...maybe they should take my lead and treat sweeps seriously rather than treat it as an excuse to get drunk and lose money gambling. I lost $160 at the poker table...won $18 in a slot machine...but didn't have any alcohol the whole weekend and got in 15 games of practice.

Amyers

03-21-2017, 09:47 AM

Congrats bud. Looks like next years arsenal or knowing you 2021's arsenal is paid for. lol

NewToBowling

03-21-2017, 10:38 AM

Spend it on hookers and blow and record it

Aslan

03-22-2017, 06:29 PM

Spend it on hookers and blow and record it
That's only enough for like...a week's worth of hookers. I've never done blow...so I don't know how much that goes for.

But I think I'll just use it for expenses. I got a move coming up and a big tax bill...so that $1500 could pay for a couple months rent in the Midwest.

Congrats bud. Looks like next years arsenal or knowing you 2021's arsenal is paid for. lol
I try to switch arsenals once per year.

Currently I have an Ebonite Warning Sign I want to use (because it's been in the closet of destiny the longest). I have a DV8 Thug Life that I think might make a decent #1 ball or probably a skid/flip ball #3. I have a Track 706A that I think might be a good "dry lanes/wood lanes" option. My spare ball is holding up. So, I really need to just acquire a stronger Ball #1...heavier oil, longer patterns, fresh conditions type of ball to replace my Reax Pearl.

I was hoping to unretire the Bullet Train...maybe add some surface and use it as a #1 ball...but it's "rolling funny" right now so I think it's "dead". I could always keep using the Scandal Pearl...maybe add some surface and make it a ball #1...maybe move the Thug Life to #1 and leave the Scandal Pearl as #3. Maybe the Warning Sign would be a better ball #1...all "up in the air" at this point. But, I doubt I'll need to buy any new balls...still got 9 undrilled balls in the "closet of destiny".

But, it's early yet...once I get to the Midwest...I can tell you that the lanes are going to be different. I'm used to centers with 40-60 lanes...and most centers I've found in the Midwest are 6-24 lanes. I'm sure there are still a lot of wood lanes out there...something that has all but disappeared from California...so I may need to change my arsenal accordingly.

Amyers

03-23-2017, 09:33 AM

If your only bowling THS patterns the need for a true heavy oiler in minimal at best. Their is almost always dry boards outside to bounce off of. The Thug life is somewhat similar to your Reax pearl don't really think you'll see a huge difference between them and the Warning sign again it's close to them. I probably wouldn't drill both unless I was going to change the surface on the warning sign significantly. Track stuff I never see used but the 706a is rated as a medium oil ball probably useable for you as step down piece. For THS I'd consider 1. Scandal, 2. Thug Life, 3. something else, 4. 706A. For myself I'd pick something long and snappy to go in that 3 spot but those balls haven't seemed to work well for you. I'd go one of two ways for you. 1. Strong more surfaced ball maybe a OG Nirvana if you can find one on clearance or 2. move the 706a to 3 spot and pick up a true dry lane ball Rhino, outcast something of that ilk. good luck bud

Aslan

03-23-2017, 03:42 PM

If your only bowling THS patterns the need for a true heavy oiler in minimal at best. Their is almost always dry boards outside to bounce off of.
That has been very, very frustrating. As my release has improved, I've found that it's almost impossible to use some of the more aggressive equipment or balls with any degree of surface. To me, I look more at the "root cause" of the problem...which is the failure of the USBC and BPAA to standardize USBC patterns for sanctioned play. Until the USBC mandates that either USBC Red, White, or Blue patterns be used for sanctioned play...we're going to continue to see bowlers frustrate themselves by trying to throw Brunswick Nirvannas (because they see the pros throw them) on THS patterns that are so rediculously dry...the ball rolls out midway down the lane.

And alot of the pros and pro level coaches don't really understand this either....because they don't necessarily bowl in leagues in houses where this is going on. I think if some of these ball reps and even some of the magazine guys like RobM were to actually go bowl in Podunk, Mississippi or Buttscratch, West Virginia...on lane conditions that are wood lanes or a THS applied by a machine that you have to kick to get it to work...or even just regular houses outside of Vegas/Reno or outside of the USBC training center in Texas...I think many of them would be SHOCKED at how poorly and inconsistently THS conditions are in bowling. No other sports tolerate such deviations in such important factors related to their sport. Football has weather conditions and grass/turf...but the fields are all 100 yards and the field goal posts are standardized. Basketball floors are all similar and the baskets are at 10ft. NHL rinks are standard sizes and nets are standard sizes. In BOWLING...where the oil pattern has become literally the #2 factor in ball motion (behind release and ahead of ball technology)...there is absolutely ZERO standardization...ZERO attempts to mandate anything...and ZERO attempts to enforce anything. Rant over.

The Thug life is somewhat similar to your Reax pearl don't really think you'll see a huge difference between them
There is a lot of truth to that...and perhaps the Thug Life would be a good replacement for the Reax Pearl as a #1 ball in my progression.

...and the Warning sign again it's close to them. I probably wouldn't drill both unless I was going to change the surface on the warning sign significantly.
Actually, the Warning Sign is nothing like the Thug Life nor Scandal Pearl. It has a similar low RG...but it's a hybrid, with a much lower differential, and a much, much lower PerfectScale rating. It's a rather "unpopular" ball...and I'm very unsure whether it'll be useful. But, in fairness, I didn't really think the Innovate would be a very good ball and it's turned out to work rather well.

Using the Warning Sign, Thug Life, and Scandal Pearl WOULD allow me to keep the RG constant so I can continue to evaluate the other specs...BUT...
1) It's a Hybrid...which adds a variant to the equation.
2) I'm not sure I need to keep the RG constant to evaluate other factors at this point...because thus far with my current arsenal...I have been able to evaluate differential, ball manufacturer, Perfectscale, and "new" technology...and am fairly confident about how those factors affect ultimate ball performance. With my next arsenal(s), I'd like to start looking at things like RG and coverstock....which means I need to keep variables like manufacturer, age, Perfectscale, and differential constant.

Remember, the "point" of my arsenals is usually two-fold:
1) I want an arsenal that gives me a chance to score well.
2) I want an arsenal that I can learn something from.

And #2 is tricky (to say the least), because there are SO many specifications in a bowling ball, that most bowlers don't even bother to even try to understand them. And to truly evaluate the effects of these individual specs...is nearly impossible...because true scientific evaluation means you have to isolate ONE variable...and keep all other variables constant. Without a robot and my own lanes/oil machine...I can't keep those external factors constant...I can just try my best. And without my own bowling ball company and laboratory, it's almost impossible to keep all specs (other than the one being evaluated) constant. AND...#1 is to score well. I love LEARNING from my arsenals...but I HATE losing...and bowling SUCKS (for me) if I can't average 180+. So, until one of the ball manufacturers or the USBC hires me, I have to walk a bit of a "tightrope".

Track stuff I never see used but the 706a is rated as a medium oil ball probably useable for you as step down piece.
Never believe what the ball manufacturers say regarding what a ball is good for (heavy, medium, dry). That's just marketing fluff. The specs tell the story and the 706A is a:
1) PerfectScale = 179.7
2) Polished Pearl
3) RG = 2.53
4) older technology = 2012
5) manufacturer = Track

Given that combination of specs, and some minor feedback I got from an EBI staffer, this is probably not going to be a #1 nor #3 option...and probably a real stretch as even a #2 ball. However, given how dry/low-oil many patterns are these days...it might be a good ball to have in the bag.

For THS I'd consider 1. Scandal, 2. Thug Life, 3. something else, 4. 706A. For myself I'd pick something long and snappy to go in that 3 spot but those balls haven't seemed to work well for you.
I don't understand this logic. The Scandal Pearl and Thug Life are ideal skid/flip balls based on their specs. They could both also replace my Reax Peal as a #1 ball (if I want to keep throwing a strong Pearl as #1)...and both could fit as a #3 skid/flip to counter carrydown. But I definitely don't see any possibility of "balling down" from the Scandal Pearl to the Thug Life...unless I add surface to the Scandal Pearl or do some drastic drilling/layout options to the Thug Life.

I'd go one of two ways for you. 1. Strong more surfaced ball maybe a OG Nirvana if you can find one on clearance or 2. move the 706a to 3 spot and pick up a true dry lane ball Rhino, outcast something of that ilk. good luck bud
That's a more possible scenario.

The trouble with using "weaker" equipment to counter dry/low-oil conditions...is that it often times doesn't have the "pop" to carry. I can find the pocket with the Track 300A...it's a very, very weak ball...even on wood lanes, it's an option. BUT...it's not going to give me the angle and it's not going to carry consistently. I can still get into the 195-215 range...but I'm gonna need to be "johnny on the spot" regarding shooting 10-pins and 7-pins...or else I'm gonna likely be in the 170-190 range.

Aslan

03-23-2017, 05:01 PM

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

571 Series: 181 - 189 - 201

Game 1: X, split, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, X, 9 -.

More carry issues in Game 2. Would have been clean except for a 4-7-10 split in the 5th frame.

Game 3 I finally managed to run some strikes together; but I had a split in the 8th frame and missed 10-pin in the 10th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.06 pins
Strikes: 38% (1 4-bagger, 2 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 72% picked up

Single Pin spares: 84% (11/13)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (6x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 6-pin, nor 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 190.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 198.33.

Just couldn't seem to carry. Fortunately, my single-pin spare shooting was above-average...BUT...it kinda blows when your only two single-pin misses were both in the 10th frames.

Kinda stuck in the middle. When my release is "great", I can move inside and the ball will come back into the pocket and carry. When my release is "below-average", any attempt to move inside results in the ball 'barely' getting back to the pocket and I don't carry. But, if I move out to the track...all of my balls in my arsenal are way too strong and they burn up way too early....thus resulting in the same carry issues. If I grab the Track 300A...try to throw something weaker up the track...same problems...it won't burn up...but it doesn't have the 'pop' to carry.

Amyers

03-24-2017, 11:27 AM

That has been very, very frustrating. As my release has improved, I've found that it's almost impossible to use some of the more aggressive equipment or balls with any degree of surface. To me, I look more at the "root cause" of the problem...which is the failure of the USBC and BPAA to standardize USBC patterns for sanctioned play. Until the USBC mandates that either USBC Red, White, or Blue patterns be used for sanctioned play...we're going to continue to see bowlers frustrate themselves by trying to throw Brunswick Nirvannas (because they see the pros throw them) on THS patterns that are so rediculously dry...the ball rolls out midway down the lane.

And alot of the pros and pro level coaches don't really understand this either....because they don't necessarily bowl in leagues in houses where this is going on. I think if some of these ball reps and even some of the magazine guys like RobM were to actually go bowl in Podunk, Mississippi or Buttscratch, West Virginia...on lane conditions that are wood lanes or a THS applied by a machine that you have to kick to get it to work...or even just regular houses outside of Vegas/Reno or outside of the USBC training center in Texas...I think many of them would be SHOCKED at how poorly and inconsistently THS conditions are in bowling. No other sports tolerate such deviations in such important factors related to their sport. Football has weather conditions and grass/turf...but the fields are all 100 yards and the field goal posts are standardized. Basketball floors are all similar and the baskets are at 10ft. NHL rinks are standard sizes and nets are standard sizes. In BOWLING...where the oil pattern has become literally the #2 factor in ball motion (behind release and ahead of ball technology)...there is absolutely ZERO standardization...ZERO attempts to mandate anything...and ZERO attempts to enforce anything. Rant over.

I agree mostly with this. Bowled last night in a short little spring league of youth adult bowling with my kids. Asked the owner what the shot was he replied that it was the remains from the previous night reoiled with a mini machine from 10-10 for 30ft. You can imagine how fun that was.

Actually, the Warning Sign is nothing like the Thug Life nor Scandal Pearl. It has a similar low RG...but it's a hybrid, with a much lower differential, and a much, much lower PerfectScale rating. It's a rather "unpopular" ball...and I'm very unsure whether it'll be useful. But, in fairness, I didn't really think the Innovate would be a very good ball and it's turned out to work rather well.

your probably correct on the warning sign what I should have said are the core characteristics are somewhat similar. I tend to agree with Rob that differential for average bowlers is rather much useless and the difference between a hybrid, solid, and pearl are about the same as the weather outside. The real factor is the surface which is compounded surface which will put the play closer to a pearl. At the end of the day the real determining factor will be the cover and it will be noticeably weaker than the thug or reax.

Using the Warning Sign, Thug Life, and Scandal Pearl WOULD allow me to keep the RG constant so I can continue to evaluate the other specs...BUT...
1) It's a Hybrid...which adds a variant to the equation.
2) I'm not sure I need to keep the RG constant to evaluate other factors at this point...because thus far with my current arsenal...I have been able to evaluate differential, ball manufacturer, Perfectscale, and "new" technology...and am fairly confident about how those factors affect ultimate ball performance. With my next arsenal(s), I'd like to start looking at things like RG and coverstock....which means I need to keep variables like manufacturer, age, Perfectscale, and differential constant.

I generally try not to continue with bad ideas.

Never believe what the ball manufacturers say regarding what a ball is good for (heavy, medium, dry). That's just marketing fluff. The specs tell the story and the 706A is a:
1) PerfectScale = 179.7
2) Polished Pearl
3) RG = 2.53
4) older technology = 2012
5) manufacturer = Track

Given that combination of specs, and some minor feedback I got from an EBI staffer, this is probably not going to be a #1 nor #3 option...and probably a real stretch as even a #2 ball. However, given how dry/low-oil many patterns are these days...it might be a good ball to have in the bag.

We equate our balls a little differently my 1-4 are based more off of length and cover stock strength than the order I use them in. By my thinking the 706 has the highest RG and weakest cover of the bunch thus it's a 4 for me. I tend not to put much stock in what oil the ball companies recommend either but with the rg, surface, and likely hood that it's a weaker cover the bet that it will be best suited to lower oil levels in comparison to the other mentioned balls is very high

I don't understand this logic. The Scandal Pearl and Thug Life are ideal skid/flip balls based on their specs. They could both also replace my Reax Peal as a #1 ball (if I want to keep throwing a strong Pearl as #1)...and both could fit as a #3 skid/flip to counter carrydown. But I definitely don't see any possibility of "balling down" from the Scandal Pearl to the Thug Life...unless I add surface to the Scandal Pearl or do some drastic drilling/layout options to the Thug Life.

This is one of those spots you and I always have a communications break down. Neither the scandal or the Thug Life are "ideal" skid/flip balls the Thug Life is much closer than the Scandal Pearl to being that. The Scandal Pearl is a very strong pearl designed to read the midlane skid/flip balls ignore the midlane and make a left turn upon exiting the pattern. The Thug Life is much closer to skid flip but really hits more of a tweener role the rg is a little low, the cover a little strong, and a little more surface than you'll see on a true skid flip ball.

Skid/flip balls usually follow a common thread, Polished finish, High RG 2.52+, and strong but not to strong of cover. (There are exceptions to every rule) Think High Road Pearl, 900 Global Respect, and Radical Ridiculous Pearl. Watch a few videos of those balls and where they start to read the lane then watch a video of the Scandal Pearl where it reads the lane you'll see the difference in about 10 seconds.

The reason the Thug Life is a step down from the Scandal Pearl is simply the Thug Life has a higher RG and a weaker cover than the Scandal Pearl it's going to go longer.

The trouble with using "weaker" equipment to counter dry/low-oil conditions...is that it often times doesn't have the "pop" to carry. I can find the pocket with the Track 300A...it's a very, very weak ball...even on wood lanes, it's an option. BUT...it's not going to give me the angle and it's not going to carry consistently. I can still get into the 195-215 range...but I'm gonna need to be "johnny on the spot" regarding shooting 10-pins and 7-pins...or else I'm gonna likely be in the 170-190 range.

I've noticed this same thing myself and I no longer try to move in and ball down. My Rhino (my weakest ball or #4) sees much more use at the start of a set now than at the end. It allows me to start the game straighter and ball up more and move in as the game progresses. Generally I play 11-7 if that shots there I'm going to have a big night with that ball.

Aslan

03-25-2017, 04:46 PM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

497 Series: 186 - 184 - 127

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.48 pins
Strikes: 30% (3 doubles and 4 singles)
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 7-pin (3x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 4-pin, nor 5-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 53% (7/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5 (2x)

Splits: 100% (1/1)

Average over 3 games: 165.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 175.00.

Deja Vu all over again. Same as 2 weeks ago, but with better spare shooting.

Tried all kinds of things...all kinds of moves inside out of my comfort zone...tried to focus on my form and release...just couldn't seem to find anything that was able to carry. And, by Game 3, I had no line left. Maybe I moved in too soon/fast....hard to say. Maybe I'll go to the weekly tournament tonight to get some practice in.

Aslan

03-26-2017, 05:12 AM

Saturday Weekly Color-Pin Tournament: Older Brunswick Synthetics/dry

578 Series: 186-165-227 (clean)

Coudn't get the Reax Pearl to work right in Game 1. I was standing 31 and targeting 21...couldn't get the shot to work. Hit the pocket in the 9th frame and left an 8-10 split...cost me $1. Not much carry.

Switched to the Innovate in Game 2...moved back to the 11-board...standing 25...seemed to be working okay...but the Innovate also wasn't carrying...and I couldn't make the spares like I could in Game 1.

Game 3 I switched to the Scandal Pearl and was able to run some strikes together and keep things clean. Had I entered the sidepot, I'd have easily won it with a 227.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.82 pins
Strikes: 42% (1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 5 singles)
Spares: 73% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin and 10-pin (3x each)
Also left a single 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (8/12)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2).

Average over 3 games: 192.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 196.33.

Didn't get much bowling in this week...so I decided to do the weekly color-pin tournament. Scores were almost exactly the same as last week. This week I tried to move drastically inside in Game 1...but I just don't have the hand to play that shot. I resurfaced the Innovate to 3000 abralon, buffed and polished...thinking it might go a little further in the dry conditions...but I didn't notice much of an effect in the 9 frames I threw it.

Aslan

03-30-2017, 03:47 PM

Wednesday League Night: low-medium oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

585 Series: 200 - 189 - 196

Game 1 wasn't "bad"...but two opens on single-pins...after spending time last weekend practicing spares...was quite a blow to my confidence.

Game 2 was a chopped 3-6-10 away from a clean game...but couldn't run the strikes together.

Game 3 I chopped a 2-4-5 (my nemesis) in the 2nd frame...then a Big 4 split in the 7th...that was enough to derail me and ruin my shot at a 600 series.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.19 pins
Strikes: 62% (2 4-baggers, 3 doubles, and 6 singles)
Spares: 25% picked up

Single Pin spares: 25% (1/4)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (3x).
Also left a single 4-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 25% (2/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 195.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 207.00.

Gotta make your spares. I've been scoring consistently in the first 3 weeks....216, 199, 167, 181, 189, 201, 200, 189, 196...but I'm frustrated that I'm sort of on the "edge" of maybe getting my game to the next level...and I can't seem to quite get over the top. And with a 193 average...I don't have a lot of room for error without hurting the teams I sub for...so there's more pressure to deal with.

Aslan

04-01-2017, 06:50 PM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

643 Series: 176 - 257 - 210

Game 1 I only had one mis-step...a missed single 10-pin in the 5th...but I couldn't really run the strikes together.

Game 2 I opened with a 2-8-10 split...then it was a strike in every frame except the 4th...including a rare 8-bagger...which is either a personal best or tie for my personal best.

Game 3 started with a 4-6 split...but I was clean the rest of the way until my only other mis-step of the series...a missed 2-5 conversion on the 3rd shot of the 10th frame.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.29 pins
Strikes: 55% (1 8-bagger, 1 turkey, 2 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 4-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 214.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 218.00.

First solid series since early February and finally a good series, subbing in this league, in March. I missed two weeks due to Vegas sweeps for a couple different leagues...and the other two weeks I failed to even hit 500.

Sort have had my line to myself....which appears to be a big advantage in this league where the lanes are older and transition quickly. I was able to stay within 3 boards of my original target, within 6 boards of my starting position (feet), and was able to use the Reax Pearl for all 3 games.

Also a good night financially...

Expenses:
$5 sub fee
$1 mystery score
$5 card game
$24 brackets
$6 beverages
$6.75 in tips
$20 VISE IT insert

= $67.75

Winnings:
$60 in brackets

So...almost one of those rare nights ya come home with more money than you left with....but one of my VISE inserts broke and I decided to get a new one as I've been bowling quite a bit and the broken one is the next size up that I may need as temperatures are rising, etc... But, $7.75 for 3 games of bowling and a new VISE insert is a pretty good bargain, so I'll take it.

Aslan

04-02-2017, 06:01 PM

Saturday Weekly Color-Pin Tournament: Older Brunswick Synthetics/dry

519 Series: 172-177-170

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.66 pins
Strikes: 40% (1 turkey, 2 doubles, and 7 singles)
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (2x)
Also left a single 7-pin, 8-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 57% (8/14)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-8 and 3-6 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/3).

Average over 3 games: 173.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 179.00.

Could never get dialed in...couldn't seem to run any strikes together...and I was bowling with some of the most annoying folks in recent memory. So, overall, a waste of time. Bowling lesson this morning (Sunday) couldn't have come early enough.

J Anderson

04-02-2017, 06:18 PM

Could never get dialed in...couldn't seem to run any strikes together...and I was bowling with some of the most annoying folks in recent memory. So, overall, a waste of time. Bowling lesson this morning (Sunday) couldn't have come early enough.

I usually enjoy having one or two annoying bowlers on the pair. It takes a lot to get me riled up so most of the time these pests don't bother me, but the other bowlers will get thrown off their game

Then again, I might be one of those really annoying people;)

Aslan

04-06-2017, 01:44 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

589 Series: 187 - 211 - 195

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.74 pins
Strikes: 44% (2 turkeys, 3 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 64% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (3x).
Also left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, 7-pin (2x), and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 197.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 201.33.

Last week I struck a ton, but couldn't make my spares. Tonight, I couldn't run anything together...but made my spares.

I've been scoring consistently in the first 4 weeks....216, 199, 167, 181, 189, 201, 200, 189, 196, 187, 211, 195...but I'm still a bit frustrated that I'm sort of on the "edge" of maybe getting my game to the next level...and I can't seem to quite get over the top.

Aslan

04-08-2017, 05:43 PM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

574 Series: 218 - 172 - 184

Chopped a 2-5-8 in the 2nd frame of Game 1...otherwise a solid game.

Game 2 I switched to the Innovate...and as usual...it was squirrelly and jumped around. Add in some sub-par spare shooting = recipe for disaster.

Game 3 I switched to the Scandal Pearl...but spare shooting was still suspect.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.58 pins
Strikes: 45% (1 5-bagger, 4 doubles, and 2 singles)
Spares: 58% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (2x).
Also left a single 2-pin, 7-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 58% (7/12)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5-8 (2x)

Splits: 66% (2/3)

Average over 3 games: 191.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 197.67.

Won enough in brackets to cover my brackets entries and card game and didn't affect my average...plus the team I subbed for needs a sub for the next 5 weeks due to a bowler on their team having surgery...so now I got a spot locked up every Friday.

Gotta figure out the Innovate though. It was fairly reliable early on...but most recently it's been erratic and disappointing. I only have the Bullet Train and Track 300A as other options...hate to drill the Ebonite Warning Sign at this point...the 706A cracked...and the Thug Life won't help in that position in the progression...ughhhh....

Aslan

04-08-2017, 07:51 PM

Practice: 247 (clean)-202

Low-Ball (spare shooting practice): 60 (+ about 74 if you add in the penalties for guttering and the spare penalties)

The purpose of practice was to see if I should continue using the Ebonite Innovate as my #2 ball...or maybe give the previously retired Columbia Encounter a try. The Innovate performed very well...standing with my left foot around 23-28 and targeting 11-15. The Encounter also did well, but wasn't quite as smooth. I think I'll stick with the Innovate.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.35 pins
Strikes: 60% (2 4-baggers, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 1 single)
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common single pin leave: 2-pin (2x)
Also left a single 5-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (2/4)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 2 games: 224.50.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 225.00.

I must be doing something right. Whenever I practice, there's at least one nearby bowler that stops bowling and watches me practice. Spare shooting wasn't great though. I don't strike enough to be a bad spare shooter...so that needs to get better.

Amyers

04-10-2017, 11:37 AM

Have you resurface the innovate? My suggestion has always been just to move to the Scandal as your second ball if it's working in the third game it should work just a well or better in the 2nd.

Aslan

04-11-2017, 06:18 PM

Have you resurface the innovate? My suggestion has always been just to move to the Scandal as your second ball if it's working in the third game it should work just a well or better in the 2nd.

The current strategy (Rob, close your eyes...it involves some degree of preconceptions)...is to start out with the strongest ball...all be it a Pearl....but a ball with a low RG, a very strong core and cover, and a higher differential. On fresh conditions...this finds the pocket and carries.

As the lanes break down, the Innovate is a ball with a low RG and strong core...but it's a weaker cover, lower differential...and it allows me to stay in that general area as the lanes transition.

The 3rd ball, is designed to combat carrydown. As plastic and urethane balls push oil down to the breakpoint...I need a STRONGER ball to battle that carrydown. The Scandal Pearl is very similar to the Reax Pearl I start with...just a slightly weaker cover and a lower differential...but much stronger than the Innovate.

IF I decided to skip the Innovate in this process...it's "possible" that the Scandal Pearl...with a slightly weaker cover and slightly lower differential...would allow me to stay in the same area and still carry. BUT...I have a feeling it'll be too strong if there isn't enough carrydown at the breakpoint.

As Rob has sort of criticized in the past...the downside to having an arsenal designed to play in one area of the lane...is it doesn't give me the option to really change my line. If I move outside of 9...all 3 of these low-RG balls will react too early. If I try to play Rob's favorite "inside line"...the balls just don't have the surface to pull that off. And to change the surfaces...would make them impossible to use in the 11-14 board area that gives me the best shot at this house.

I'm going to bring my entire arsenal with me to Concourse tonight...rather than try to use the 300A all night. Maybe I can move inside a little...add a little loft...and use the arsenal as it's designed. I probably won't get 21 games in this league before I move...but it'd be nice to get a decent series in at this house which I haven't really had since early December 2016 when I managed a 605 series. That's not a 'great' series...but 'decent' given I rolled it with a Track 300A...released in 2012 with a sub-160 PerfectScale....a ball that might be stronger than a Scout Reactive, Storm Mix, or Tropical Breeze...maybe a little weaker than an Ebonite Cyclone.

Amyers

04-12-2017, 10:29 AM

Aslan

04-12-2017, 04:32 PM

Well first off of all your balls the Scandal has by far the strongest cover. Not really even close. The Reax may have a little stronger core and has more surface so it maybe a little earlier than the Scandal Pearl but the scandal most likely still covers more total boards.
The Scandal Pearl is the newest ball (and cost me a bu**load of money)...BUT...it's a Hammer (i.e. EBI)...and the Reax Pearl is a Radical. On the hierarchy of strength...Radical is #1...EBI is toward the bottom. Now, Hammer is the stronger of the four EBI brands...but generally Radical is always going to have the stronger, earlier reaction.

Now, that's my "theory"...but to add creedence to your theory...the Scandal Pearl has the highest PerfectScale score and has thus far been a "monster" for me. Would it be a "monster" if I pulled it out on fresh? Probably not. The Reax is a really powerful ball...the Radical cover and high differential core quickly allow you to 'forget' that it's a Pearl ball. The biggest deficiency in the Scandal Pearl isn't the cover...which is a great cover and a strong cover...but it's the 0.047 differential...which is 0.007 lower than the Reax Pearl. Many 'ignore' differential as a "minor thing"...but thus far...it's probably the one spec that I can point to that can really give good insight into how strong a ball is or will be.

And, that's why in the Motiv incident...I disagreed with the Motiv supporters that said, "Oh...who cares about differential...it doesn't really mean anything." If you want damning evidence...watch the two Motiv guys in the competitions where they won (with a major asterisk in my book) those two titles. Watch the ball motion as it enters the pin deck compared to the other competitors. It was NOTICEABLE that the Motiv balls were doing something that the other balls weren't.

So, how do you define cover strength? You claim the Scandal Pearl has the strongest cover...what do you base that on.

I bowled in the days when carry down actually existed. Carry down was small areas of the lane where oil had been tracked down by plastic and urethane balls. The ball would enter it's hook phase slide a tiny amount then hook again often causing the ball not to finish well and sometime hit very light.
I've noticed that same type of reaction...not just from carrydown...but from a ball that develops a track. My Innovate is HORRIBLE concerning the development of a track. 1-2 games...and there's a noticeable track. Once that track is on the ball...it does the same thing you described for carrydown...it looks like it's going to hook...then skids a little...then starts hooking again. So, a lot of my troubles right now...is I'm battling two problems with the Innovate...carrydown...and the ball developing a track. It's no surprise...than when I switch to the Scandal Pearl...I usually do much better. But, like I said, switching from the Reax to the Scandal when the lanes transition...especially at the house I bowl at...where the lanes transition quickly...I don't see that working...the Scandal and Reax are just too close in strength...if one is rolling out...the other will likely roll out as well.

In modern bowling where at most you have 3-4 people using that kind of equipment who are most likely spraying ever where from 15-5 are going to create an area that you can use is completely laughable. Carry down was never at the break point anyway on most THS shots the break point is at 6-10 area a plastic ball isn't going to be in that area at 45 feet or so anyway. If it existed in the first place it would be an area your ball hit as the ball hooked to the pocket. It also wouldn't matter which ball you threw if you hit it the ball is going to slide thus messing the shot up if there happened to be enough oil to effect the roll of the ball in the first place which is unlikely at best.

That makes sense. But remember, the issue of "carrydown" is controversial because it highly, highly depends on the bowlers you are bowling against. If I'm bowling in a scratch league...you're right...the only "carrydown" is on the lines of plastic balls heading towards corner pins....and won't likely affect ball motion at the breakpoint. In that respect, Rob's data he referenced in the carrydown thread...is completely accurate and carrydown is a minimal factor. But...in a standard mixed, handicap league...there are times you'll face bowlers with one guy using an oil soaked, older resin ball, one gal using a snap lock up the middle, and two gals throwing Columbia WDs all over hell's half acre. If those WDs are taking out the 6-9-10 on their firs shot...then the 4-7-8 on their second shot (which I see a LOT)...carrydown is absolutely going to be a factor.

But...back to the original issue....

If I skip the Innovate...I'm essentially going to run out of options by sometime in Game 2...because the lanes transition so fast. The Scandal Pearl is too strong (which you agree) for it to be a realistic "ball down" option from the Reax Pearl. Surfacing won't help...these balls are already polished pearls.

The lanes are far too dry and the pattern too narrow and the lanes too old...to move outside...nor do I have a RG, weak option to pull that off. I have a 900 Global Bullet Train with a 2.55 RG...but it's an S79 cover...and I think it's "spent" based on ho many games it has on it and how it behaved in Vegas last month. I have the ultra-weak Track 300A...but all that does is give me a weaker version of the Innovate...I still can't move outside of 10 with it. And if I go with the Track 300A, urethane, or plastic up the outside...there's no "pop" and no power and no carry.

I'd love to take Rob's advice and move "inside"...but the shot just isn't there on the THSs I bowl on. If it IS there...I need an arsenal with different specs to take advantage of it...because as strong as the Reax Pearl and Scandal Pearl are...they are ultimately still polished pearls...and they aren't going to hook in the oil....unless I sand them. Rob has said in the past that "pearl, hybrid, solid" doesn't mean much...and I think there's some truth to that...especially when you start sanding the balls. If you sand a pearl and hybrid to 800 abralon with no buff nor polish...I think you'll see the same reaction...or very similar. If I "sand" the balls...and try to move inside...I don't have a ton of "hand"...and ultimately I'm trying to "force my will" on the lanes, rather than let the lanes dictate where I need to play them.

Sorry for the length...ball technology is a very complicated subject...and a subject where there are really no "experts" that can off 'hard' facts regarding balls. I like Rob's work with the Bowling Journal...he's done some interesting studies himself. But, bowling technology is just so complicated and every manufacturer seems to put their priority on "marketing"...so it's hard to get any real hard comparative data from the sources. Which...is why we're left with these boring, long-winded, ramblings about arsenals...because we're just grasping for straws in the dark.

It's kinda like cars...does a bigger engine make a car go faster? Yes....and No.
Because, a "bigger" engine is heavier...so now the weight impacts the speed.
So, "lighter" cars are faster? Yes, and No.
Because, a "lighter" car with a smaller engine isn't going to automatically be faster than a heavier car with a bigger engine.
And then you get into all the factors like suspension, fuel input, aerodynamics, and tires. Every time you "tweek" something...it can have a net effect that is positive, neutral, or negative.

Just like the healthcare negotiations in Congress. You give one group their cookie and they agree to vote Yes...then another group changes their vote from Yes to No. You go back to the second group and offer them a cookie, they go back to a "Yes" vote...then the initial group changes their vote back to "No".

Aslan

04-13-2017, 12:01 AM

Tuesday Night League: newer synthetics, dry, short, THS

543 Series: 145-184-214 (clean)

Game 1 I was all over the place...trying to change up some things to get a better grasp on the conditions in this center. Then missed a 10-pin in the 10th...just a horrid performance. I think I tried 3 different balls during this game...just ridiculous.

Game 2 I settled in with the 300A, but that missed single-pin in the 10th just mentally killed me...and I missed 3 out of 4 single-pins. The 300A...as usual...just had NO carry. Two strikes, three 9 -. So, I put it away and got the Innovate back out... X, X, 9 /, X, X, X.

Switched to the Scandal Pearl on the final strike of Game 2...and managed to keep things clean...with some decent carry.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 48% (1 turkey, 4 doubles, and 5 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 3-pin, nor 5-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5 and 2-4-5-7-8 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 181.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 195.33.

Last time I bowled in this league, I shot a 178-149-214. Tonight I shot a 145-184-214. Last time I had no carry and a ton of splits...but shot spares well. This time, more carry, no splits, but ridiculous spare shooting. I blame my argument with Chip about 2-handers shooting spares...it seems like my spare shooting is getting better...usually solid...but whenever I talk about 2-handed/thumbless bowlers being bad spare shooters...I ***k up. (I almost typed a bad word by accident).

Amyers

04-13-2017, 12:06 PM

The Scandal Pearl is the newest ball (and cost me a bu**load of money)...BUT...it's a Hammer (i.e. EBI)...and the Reax Pearl is a Radical. On the hierarchy of strength...Radical is #1...EBI is toward the bottom. Now, Hammer is the stronger of the four EBI brands...but generally Radical is always going to have the stronger, earlier reaction.

I know this is one of Robs statements and in some ways I agree with it. It is very true that Brunswick brand equipment tends to hook in the oil somewhat compared to storm. But taking it so far as to think that one ball is simply stronger than another due to brand name is taking it too far. Also this is something you consider before buying the ball once you own it this crap goes out the window. You own both which is stronger? If you don't know by now you got issues.

Now, that's my "theory"...but to add creedence to your theory...the Scandal Pearl has the highest PerfectScale score and has thus far been a "monster" for me. Would it be a "monster" if I pulled it out on fresh? Probably not. The Reax is a really powerful ball...the Radical cover and high differential core quickly allow you to 'forget' that it's a Pearl ball. The biggest deficiency in the Scandal Pearl isn't the cover...which is a great cover and a strong cover...but it's the 0.047 differential...which is 0.007 lower than the Reax Pearl. Many 'ignore' differential as a "minor thing"...but thus far...it's probably the one spec that I can point to that can really give good insight into how strong a ball is or will be.

Differential controls how quickly the ball spins up. I've thrown low differential equipment and high differential equipment and I can't really tell much difference but that's me personally. The layout also effects the differential also and could easily tweak this more than .07 anyway. If you think you can tell a difference more power to you but personally my guess is any difference your seeing has way more to do with cover strength, surface, and drilling than it does with the differential.

So, how do you define cover strength? You claim the Scandal Pearl has the strongest cover...what do you base that on.

Personal observation mostly. I've seen the Reax, Reax Pearl, Scandal, and Scandal pearl in action. The scandal I've personally watched out perform asymmetrical heavy oil balls on long patterns tells me the cover is dang strong if it's turning over well when other balls thrown in the same area don't. If you prefer other sources though I believe BTM rated the scandal as the hook leader before Radical introduced their newest monsters.

I've noticed that same type of reaction...not just from carrydown...but from a ball that develops a track. My Innovate is HORRIBLE concerning the development of a track. 1-2 games...and there's a noticeable track. Once that track is on the ball...it does the same thing you described for carrydown...it looks like it's going to hook...then skids a little...then starts hooking again. So, a lot of my troubles right now...is I'm battling two problems with the Innovate...carrydown...and the ball developing a track. It's no surprise...than when I switch to the Scandal Pearl...I usually do much better. But, like I said, switching from the Reax to the Scandal when the lanes transition...especially at the house I bowl at...where the lanes transition quickly...I don't see that working...the Scandal and Reax are just too close in strength...if one is rolling out...the other will likely roll out as well.

I see two good possibilities here that are much more likely than carry down.
1. Your not getting enough surface under the polish for the ball to get a consistent reaction. Try 500 grit with polish over it. when applying the polish don't use to much or to much pressure.
2. What your seeing is over/under reaction not carry down (very likely). The solution for this is usually additional surface to blend out the shot but it's really not an option with your current line up the other option is to switch to a stronger ball usually moving in.

That makes sense. But remember, the issue of "carrydown" is controversial because it highly, highly depends on the bowlers you are bowling against. If I'm bowling in a scratch league...you're right...the only "carrydown" is on the lines of plastic balls heading towards corner pins....and won't likely affect ball motion at the breakpoint. In that respect, Rob's data he referenced in the carrydown thread...is completely accurate and carrydown is a minimal factor. carrydown is absolutely going to be a factor.

Our situations may be different I only bowl one mixed league on Saturday nights and even on it (36 teams) I've only seen 5 people bowling with plastic as their primary ball. Most of the women that I bowl with are either higher average or have made the switch to modern balls even if they don't know what to do with them. My issue wasn't that carry down is impossible (even if I do think its unlikely to be a factor) its that you stated you had to wait for carry down to occur to use the Scandal. If there's enough oil to effect the roll of the Innovate or Reax or any other ball you throw its going to effect the roll of the Scandal also. Carry down if it exists isn't something you can playoff of its an area that you have to avoid. I know people get confused by this but patterns do not get longer as the night moves on they get shorter. People seem to believe that a 40 ft patterns turns into a 43 ft pattern by game 3 this simply is not so and even if it did that is not carry down. Carry down is in the area your ball crosses as it hooks to the pins not at the end of the pattern. If your feeling like the pattern has lengthened its because the ball is burning up not because the oil pattern is going farther down the lane.

If I skip the Innovate...I'm essentially going to run out of options by sometime in Game 2...because the lanes transition so fast. The Scandal Pearl is too strong (which you agree) for it to be a realistic "ball down" option from the Reax Pearl. Surfacing won't help...these balls are already polished pearls.

Aren't you the one who has been posting that your current progression is Reax, Innovate, and Scandal? If the scandal is useable in game three why isn't it useable in game 2+3? If you were having to switch to the Innovate for game three then yes you have an argument but if your using it in game 3 anyway what real difference does it make when you start? Possible you might deplete some head oil a little earlier but nothing a 2-1 move left shouldn't accommodate.

The lanes are far too dry and the pattern too narrow and the lanes too old...to move outside...nor do I have a RG, weak option to pull that off. I have a 900 Global Bullet Train with a 2.55 RG...but it's an S79 cover...and I think it's "spent" based on ho many games it has on it and how it behaved in Vegas last month. I have the ultra-weak Track 300A...but all that does is give me a weaker version of the Innovate...I still can't move outside of 10 with it.

Moving right on most THS patterns once your lined up is a fools errand period.

I'd love to take Rob's advice and move "inside"...but the shot just isn't there on the THSs I bowl on. If it IS there...I need an arsenal with different specs to take advantage of it...because as strong as the Reax Pearl and Scandal Pearl are...they are ultimately still polished pearls...and they aren't going to hook in the oil....unless I sand them. Rob has said in the past that "pearl, hybrid, solid" doesn't mean much...and I think there's some truth to that...especially when you start sanding the balls.

In this situation polished balls are what you need if your making 2-1 adjustments the break point is the same. Yes you are keeping the ball in the oil slightly longer but your not trying too hook the ball in the oil your throwing the ball to the same dry spot as you were before. Remember THS Patters are > shaped If your standing on 20 aiming at 12 the balls break point is 8 and you make a 2-1 adjustment to standing on 22 aiming at 13 the break point is still 8. Move 3-1 it becomes 7. Now if you make 1-1 adjustments your break point becomes 9 from the original point. If you are making this type of adjustment then yes eventually you will need more surface to get the ball to turn over because you've moved deeper into the > of the pattern.

As far as hand goes I don't know where your rev rate is currently. You maybe using too much speed as you move inside if the ball doesn't make it back at 16 will it at 15? For me I move up on the approach and slow me feet down doesn't really mess with my timing that way. I also bring my pinky in beside my ring finger as it promotes me getting around the ball more. There is some combination of break point and speed that will allow you to play with a target of around 15. you don't necessarily have to hook the lane as long as the ball turns over and you flush it your going to carry most shots. Try targeting 15 and just move your feet to adjust the break point. Start your breakpoint at 6 and adjust your feet to move it in you will find there are multiple lines that will reach the pocket.

Aslan

04-14-2017, 02:33 PM

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

506 Series: 180 - 186 - 140

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.52 pins
Strikes: 42% (2 turkeys, 1 double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 42% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (3/4)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Also left a single 4-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (5/15)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-8-10 split (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/6)

Average over 3 games: 168.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 172.67.

Tough night having to bowl on the high side of the center. Made all my 10-pins...but 15 multi-pin spares...just couldn't find a line that allowed me to consistently find the pocket. Just when I'd get dialed in, I'd start diving through the nose...make an adjustment...wouldn't work...switched balls...had to get dialed back in...doubled...lost the line...got it back...turkey...then I lost it again.

The lanes on the high side transition SO fast...and it didn't help that both me and the other guy on the team (I was subbing) were targeting around 12 at the arrows. He stood further left and had a lower ball speed...less angular...so I didn't think it would be an issue. But, it was a tougher night than usual...so something was off. Six splits certainly doesn't help...including THREE 2-8-10s...which I rarely leave.

Aslan

04-14-2017, 03:20 PM

You own both which is stronger? If you don't know by now you got issues.
I use "brand" kinda like drilling layout...it's a "tiebreaker". In other words, of all the ball specs...those are the two I factor in LEAST. From my testing/analysis:
1) Coverstock/Surface
2) PerfectScale
3) Differential
4) RG
5) Age
6) Brand/Manufacturer
7) Drilling Layout

For me, drilling layout simply battles the manufacturer/brand/age of the balls. The Reax Pearl and Scandal Pearl are drilled pin up to keep them from reacting too quickly. The older, weaker Innovate is drilled pin down...to help get it moving/hooking sooner.

As to my personal observations...I feel the Reax Pearl is stronger than the Scandal Pearl. Not by 'much'...I would say a half-board at the target and a board with my feet. Comparatively, the Innovate seems to be a 1-2 board left with my target AND 1-2 board move right with my feet...which I guess would be a 4-board difference resulting in a straighter line.

It's harder for me to say "definitively" because:
1) They are so close.
2) I usually bring the Scandal Pearl out much later in the series when the lanes have transitioned...to battle carrydown. While carrydown isn't a problem when lanes are fresh and your breakpoint is 6-8 at 45ft...as lanes transition and your breakpoint moves in...carrydown can become a problem. If I used the Scandal Pearl on fresh...I could literally just swap the Reax Peal into the #3 spot...but I think the Scandal Pearl will be a little weaker on fresh and I think the Reax Pearl will be more of a risk of over-reacting than the Scandal Pearl.

If you prefer other sources though I believe BTM rated the scandal as the hook leader before Radical introduced their newest monsters.
It's a GREAT ball. I love it. I call it my "good ball" because it seems like when I finally take it out...I usually do quite well. BUT...there are also times like last night where the lanes just transitioned too quickly and were too dry...and there just wasn't enough carrydown (or any).

1. Your not getting enough surface under the polish for the ball to get a consistent reaction. Try 500 grit with polish over it. when applying the polish don't use to much or to much pressure.
I've been trying to change up my surfacing a bit....trying to do something to battle the almost immediate track developing on the Innovate. Normally, when the track develops, I hit it with 2000 abralon, buffing compound, then resin polish. However, I thought maybe the resin polish was leading to or contributing to the track development (since it's not technically bowling ball polish). So, most recently I hit it with 2000 Abralon and then buffing compound without the polish. I can't tell if it helped or not...because the Innovate was unusable last night.

Aren't you the one who has been posting that your current progression is Reax, Innovate, and Scandal? If the scandal is useable in game three why isn't it useable in game 2+3?
It's usuable in Games 1 and 2 if I replace the Reax with it. It's essentially the same ball as the Reax Pearl. "Could" I use it as a ball down option from the Reax Pearl? Maybe. But as you mentioned...it's a very strong ball. If the lanes are transitioning, I need to ball down to something to let me stay in that same area despite the transition. The Scandal Pearl isn't weak enough...and according to some measurements...even stronger than the Reax Pearl.

If you were having to switch to the Innovate for game three then yes you have an argument but if your using it in game 3 anyway what real difference does it make when you start? Possible you might deplete some head oil a little earlier but nothing a 2-1 move left shouldn't accommodate.
The progression is designed for a 3-game series in a drier house that transitions quickly. The problem with a progression system like mine, is it limits many of my options outside of these conditions.

For conditions that are even shorter/drier, I've had to drill up the 300A because the Reax Pearl and Scandal Pearl are useless on those conditions. For longer series...like a tournament or something....it's also not ideal because there's not enough carrydown in those situations...so I almost need to replace the Scandal Pearl with the 300A. Fortunately, I haven't had too many situations of heavy/medium oil...but for slightly slicker conditions...I can usually start out targeting 7-9 instead of 11-12...and that usually works.

As far as hand goes I don't know where your rev rate is currently. You maybe using too much speed as you move inside if the ball doesn't make it back at 16 will it at 15? For me I move up on the approach and slow me feet down doesn't really mess with my timing that way. I also bring my pinky in beside my ring finger as it promotes me getting around the ball more. There is some combination of break point and speed that will allow you to play with a target of around 15. you don't necessarily have to hook the lane as long as the ball turns over and you flush it your going to carry most shots. Try targeting 15 and just move your feet to adjust the break point. Start your breakpoint at 6 and adjust your feet to move it in you will find there are multiple lines that will reach the pocket.

I try not to change hand position, speed, or loft. The "trick" when I move inside is actually to resist the urge to make those kinds of changes subconsciously. I HAVE had to add a little bit of loft in the Tuesday league...there's just no choice given how short the pattern is and how dry. But doing so really messes with my timing.

Aslan

04-15-2017, 01:28 AM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

514 Series: 161 - 171 - 182

Game 1 I was either striking or leaving weird multi-pin spares. Not one double.

Game 2 I switched to the Innovate. 4-6 split in the first frame, then clean until a missed single 4-pin in the 7th. Then another 4-6 split in the 10th.

Game 3 I switched to the Scandal Pearl...kept things clean except for a 5-7 split in the 4th and a 4-7-10 split in the 7th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.82 pins
Strikes: 42% (1 turkey, 1 double, and 9 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 41% (5/12)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-6-10 and 4-6 split (2x each)

Splits: 16% (1/6)

Average over 3 games: 171.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 175.33.

Geesh.

This has been a week to forget...

Aslan

04-19-2017, 03:35 AM

Tuesday Night League: newer synthetics, dry, short, THS

587 Series: 181-161-245 (clean)

Game 1 I couldn't find carry. Opened on a 6-7 split in the 4th and then a missed single 2-pin in the 9th.

Game 2 was very similar, but I opened on a 4-7 in the 10th...my 3rd open of the game.

Had the front 5 in Game 3 before losing carry again in the 6th. But, I picked up my spares and finished solid.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.03 pins
Strikes: 43% (1 5-bagger, 3 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 72% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 2-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, and 6-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 60% (6/10)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 4-7 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 195.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 199.67.

Tried a new progression tonight. Left the Reax Pearl home and started with the Scandal Pearl. I could only use it for a little over half of Game 1...and switching to the Innovate was problematic...lots of little adjustments to get back to the pocket. Used the 300A for the last half of Game 2 and first couple shots of Game 3.

The 300A was finding the pocket...but the strikes were essentially just spills...so I switched back to the Innovate to give me a little more bite downlane...but after 2-3 shots...the Innovate was back to burning up... Just, no good options at this center. The Reax Pearl is almost unusable. The Scandal Pearl is too strong. The Innovate only works if there's some carrydown or I have the line to myself...transition just seems to kill it. And the 300A finds the pocket and hits like a soggy donut.

Aslan

04-20-2017, 03:08 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

Pre-Game Warm-Up: 154-175
Was standing around...got there too early...so I thought I'd just do a couple warm-up games. Game 1 was miserable...but, it was really just warm-up...trying different targeting locations, etc...

606 Series: 217 - 222 (clean) - 167

Game 1 I had some spare shooting issues, otherwise it was solid:
9 -, X, 9 /, X, 9 -, 9 /, X, X, X, X X X.

Game 2 the spare shooting improved, but couldn't run as many strikes together...mainly during the 4-frame period I was switching balls from the Reax Pearl to the Innovate. But, I'll take a clean game anyday:
X, X, 8 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, X, X, 8 /, 9.

Game 3 I made a bad shot in the 2nd frame and couldn't convert the 1-2-4-6-10. Only a four strikes. Missed a 10-pin in the 7th...and that earned me a 2nd in 3 of the 5 brackets I was alive in.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.06 pins
Strikes: 50% (1 6-bagger, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 73% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (4x).
Also twice left a single 2-pin and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 100% (1/1)

Average over 3 games: 202.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 213.33.

The single-pin spare shooting was bugging me...and the 167 was actually better than the score indicates...only 2 open frames.

Post-League Practice: 216
Decided to roll one more game and work on staying inside the ball on my shots. Missed a 10-pin in the 10th frame...otherwise it would have been clean.

Low-Ball Practice: 55 + 10 (gutter penalty) = 65
Given my single-pin spare shooting disaster tonight and missing the 10-pin at the end of practice...I decided another game of low-ball was in order. Shot my best-ever low-ball score...so...just need to translate it into league play.

Aslan

04-22-2017, 02:08 AM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

658 Series: 175 - 216 - 267 (clean)

Game 1 I couldn't carry. Found the pocket quite a bit...only missed the pocket a few times...but only 2 strikes; the rest spares. Score would have been higher...but my only open was 2-10 washout/split in the 10th frame.

Game 2 I started to lose the pocket...but found it again in the 8th frame and switched to the Scandal Pearl...allowing me to run some strikes together to salvage the 216. A chopped 3-6-10 in the 5th frame was my only open.

Game 3 I had the front 8. I made a "slight" (0.5/0.5 board) move left...to try and stay ahead of the pattern changing...not a big enough move to really change anything...and just as a pin was about to roll into the 10-pin...the pin setter came down and knocked the 10-pin over. :mad: So, next shot in the 10th...another 10-pin...so for the second time at this center (probably the 4th time sanctioned)....I have achieved my league high score of 267. :(

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 51% (1 8-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 1 double, and 3 singles)
Spares: 85% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (7/7)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x).
Also left a single 7-pin and 9-pin (2x each).

Multiple Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 219.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a

Obviously, I'm happy with the result. I've thrown 8 in a row 1-3 times before...but I think this is my first front 8...so the thought of my first 300-game was certainly on my mind once I got past the first 5 strikes.

I would have won "mystery score" and approximately $200...but when I paid the guy to sub...he didn't ask me if I wanted to add a dollar for mystery score and I was too pre-occupied at the time to notice he gave me back $15 (instead of $14...$5 sub fee + $1 mystery score).

Won $36 in brackets...which after food, drink, sub fee, brackets, and card game...made it about a $30 night instead of a $55 night.

Not sure if 295 handicap will be enough to make the High Scores part of the score sheet...but, we'll see on Friday.

This was a GREAT confidence booster going into an amateur tournament on Sunday. 587 Tuesday at the tougher center, 606 Wednesday, and 658 tonight...that's better than last week's 543, 506, 514 disaster.

The Innovate is still questionable though. It's developing a track so fast that I keep having to touch up the surface after almost every use...and that's getting old. It 'could' be...that it's an older ball and the coverstock doesn't hold up as well as my other two balls. Or, it 'could' be that I tend to use the Innovate more often...usually the end of Game 1 through till early in Game 3 (20-29 frames). While the Reax Pearl I tend to use for 2-8 frames and the Scandal Pearl I tend to use as many as 12 frames or as few as 0-1 frames...depending.

And, once it develops a track...it acts "goofy"...kinda like my old Melee Jab used to act. It skids a little too far...sometimes snaps...sometimes doesn't snap...rather unpredictable and erratic.

Timmyb

04-22-2017, 07:12 AM

Nice bowling. You seem to be like me, and do better on low oil.

Aslan

04-22-2017, 06:28 PM

Nice bowling. You seem to be like me, and do better on low oil.

Not always.

I do better when I "settle down". Alot of time, first game, I'm "trying" too hard. By Games 2 and 3...I've tired a little and settled into a line....and as long as I don't overthink things and make too many adjustments...I do well.

But...it's one night...I've thrown 267s before...no biggee. SOMEDAY...maybe I can throw a 268 or higher during sanctioned play. Stranger things have happened.

Timmyb

04-24-2017, 08:29 PM

My high sanctioned score forever was 266 until this year, and I popped 279 twice. Somewhere along the line that game is going to come....

Aslan

04-26-2017, 07:38 PM

My high sanctioned score forever was 266 until this year, and I popped 279 twice. Somewhere along the line that game is going to come....
Thanks for the encouragement.

I keep telling myself...."Iceman has THREE perfect games...and he bowls like a drunk flamingo."
You GOTTA stay positive!

Tuesday Night League: newer synthetics, dry, short, THS

511 Series: 195-175-141

Only 1 open frame in Game 1, but no consistent carry. Same thing in Game 2...but one more open frame. Game 3, I didn't strike at all; four opens and the rest spares.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.36 pins
Strikes: 24% (1 5-bagger, 3 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 65% picked up

Single Pin spares: 90% (9/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (8x).
Also left a single 2-pin and 3-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (6/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-3-6-9 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 170.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 174.33.

Just struggled like hell(o) tonight. Way, way, way too many flat 10s...and changing balls to the Innovate didn't work...then changing to the 300A seemed to make things even worse. And on this garbage pattern...that ends right about the start/middle of the tracers...and is just horribly light volume outside of 11...there's just no error room. Guys with a lot of speed....and weak, symmetric equipment....that were used to the wood lane shot that used to exist....they do fine. But standard speeds (or less) and newer/stronger equipment is a disaster. I found an inside line that "sort of" worked with the Scandal Pearl. No miss room...especially on the outside where a 2-board miss will result in the ball hooking left of the 2-pin...but it worked for me a couple times....which is more than I can say about getting anywhere near the track/11-board.

And, the 300A helps me get some distance...gives me a symmetric option to calm things down...but it hits with such little power...ya end up shooting 10-pins the rest of the night.

Next week; I'm gonna try to move a little more inside....maybe start with the Reax Pearl...same progression as at the Wednesday/Friday center. I just gotta figure out how to get the ball to the breakpoint with any energy left. Maybe I gotta go "nuclear option" and use loft and/or speed...which is a habit I've been trying to keep from re-adopting...but ughhh....miserable night. Spare shooting, I can't complain...at least about my single/10-pins...but everything else was "blah"...at best.

MICHAEL

04-27-2017, 01:14 AM

WHAT did you say I bowl like!! I just started my summer league, 207, 237, 232! I will do the math for you, man that has had way more lessons then his bowling brain can comprehend! LOL 225 average... on new lanes!

You do need to be taught to respect your seniors,,,, I would be glad to give you a lesson! I have 4 perfect games, not 3! Remember I had Never bowled until I retired at 62! Then only found
out about sanctioned leages when I turn 64. Now 68, and 4 300, and a 834! Come on Man..... Come on man!!! All of my scores are "Not of the Lady Kind!" LOL

Drunken Flamingo? You are getting me FIRED UP! I could crush you on any lanes with a Mickey Mouse tube sock tired over my eyes!

Aslan

04-27-2017, 05:13 AM

Drunken Flamingo? You are getting me FIRED UP! I could crush you on any lanes with a Mickey Mouse tube sock tired over my eyes!
Well, in my defense, I thought "A Penguin with Vertigo" was a bit too harsh.

And no...I've seen you bowl with both eyes open...and that didn't go well...via the falling down and everything...so, please, let's not blindfold you. That would be cruel.

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

630 Series: 193 - 213 - 224 (clean)

Game 1 the Reax Pearl was pretty much dialed in. Just a couple spare shooting issues.

Game 2 started out miserable...3 opens over 5 frames as I tried to figure out how to play the Innovate with the non-polished 3000 Abralon surface I put on it...but a 6-bagger salvaged my 200+ game and helped win my team the point.

Game 3 I started losing my line with the Innovate....took a couple frames to adjust to the Scandal Pearl...then mostly strikes to close things out.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.34 pins
Strikes: 57% (1 6-bagger, 1 hambone, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 5 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 77% (7/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 3-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, and 4-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 25% (1/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 210.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 217.00.

Now I have yet another team asking for my phone number "in case they need a sub" because apparently by performance has impressed them...as well as my being at least mostly responsible for the 10-2 record over the last 3 weeks....helping them move from 20th to 13th (this week), and probably around 10th next week.

Lost the card game with a four-of-a-kind (10s) to four-of-a-kind (Jacks). Missed Mystery Score by 3 pins. Was out of every bracket by Game 2. No strike ball. So, out $34 for tonight despite a decent effort.

I've been experimenting with the surface of the Innovate and battling track development. I tried a 2000 polished, a 1500 polished, and now a straight 3000 finish. When I finally made the switch from the Reax Pearl to the Innovate...it took me awhile to get dialed back in...and I ended up just throwing the Innovate up the 13-14 board, almost straight into the pocket. Without the polish...there wasn't much angularity to the shot. Gonna give up and put it back at 2000 polished....or maybe 1500 polished.

J Anderson

04-27-2017, 10:17 AM

Are these teams that want you to sub going to pay for your travel costs from wherever you wind up in the midwest?

Aslan

04-29-2017, 03:17 AM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

617 Series: 186 - 219 - 212

Two missed 10-pins, back-to-back, pretty much ruined Game 1.

Game 2 I started with a 1-2-4-10 washout and got a pocket 7-10 split in the 5th. And, once I switched to Scandal Pearl in the 7th...I was able to run 4 strikes together to finish strong.

Game 3 the Scandal Pearl was just destroying the pins. My accuracy wasn't spot on...but I had some miss room and some luck. I finally started making my single pins...but then missed ANOTHER 10-pin in the 9th. :mad:

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.09 pins
Strikes: 58% (1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 5 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x).
Also left a single 2-pin, 7-pin, and 6-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (2/4)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 205.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 217.33.

I bowled well...but my accuracy was off. I would have stayed and played some low-ball...to try and work on the spare shooting...but I kinda "tweeked" my knee in the 2nd game and was worried that practicing on it might injure it further. It seemed okay in Game 3...and seems okay now. Maybe I'll stay off it (from bowling) until Wednesday...hopefully it's nothing.

Aslan

05-04-2017, 02:20 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

641 Series: 172 - 213 - 256 (clean)

Game 1 I had some trouble pushing my shot to the right...not sure why. Won the card game...but got knocked out of 5 of my 6 brackets. :(

Game 2 was actually a really good game. The only two opens were splits...including a pocket 7-10 split in the 6th frame that cost me 23 pins when it broke up my 7-bagger. Same score (213) in Game 2 as last week...but a much better game overall. The 2000 polished surface on the Innovate worked much better than the 3000 non-polished surface I tried last week.

Game 3 I pulled a couple shots...but made my spares...and managed 9 strikes over 10 frames. 275 handicap was enough to take the 3rd game sidepot.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.15 pins
Strikes: 61% (1 hambone, 3 turkeys, 2 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (3/3)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left a single 4-pin, 6-pin, and 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-8 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 213.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a

It was a mentally taxing night. I was subbing on a team with a couple former PBA regional guys...so I guess I felt like I had to "bring my A-Game" or risk being embarrassed in front of guys that have (at least) bowled at that coveted "next level".

I have been watching a lot of PBA50 and PWBA recently so I guess I was trying to stay really focused and do all the little things regarding balance, release, etc...

The Innovate with a 3000 non-polished surface that I tried last week failed miserably...but going back to the 2000 polished surface worked out much better. Still frustrated with track development though...causing me to need to resurface this ball every 1-4 games.

I'm happy with the scores...and happy that I performed well in front of guys that have bowled at the next level....BUT...I actually am disappointed with my overall performance. There were no 7-pins nor 10-pins...so I wasn't really tested with my spare shooting. Only 1 non-split that I chopped....converted 5...but I wasn't really "tested". And I definitely benefited from the THS tonight. At least a handful of strikes that were very weak. Nice to get "breaks"...but I'm ready to raise my game to the next level and stop relying on the THS to help me out. At the same time...I also had a couple bad breaks...including a stone 8-pin on a great shot and a pocket 7-10 split on what seemed like a very good shot...so, it cuts both ways I guess.

And...I really want to finish the month as one of the top 11 bowlers (out of 128 regulars and 12 subs) in the league...I entered the night tied for 11th...I 'may' have moved up to tied for 10th...but with less than a month left in California...it's gonna be hard to get to the 198-199 level I'm aiming for.

But...hey...between a card game, a bracket, and a sidepot...I probably broke even...maybe even paid for my dinner.

And, I suppose I should thank 2-handed phenom Chip (from this site)...for lighting a fire under my {tush} by mocking me and calling me a "170 average bowler"...I guess I figure it's time to start silencing some of the "critics".

vdubtx

05-04-2017, 11:33 AM

Nice shooting Aslan. That is a far cry from the 300 or 400 series that you were putting up a long time ago. :cool:

Aslan

05-05-2017, 02:15 AM

Nice shooting Aslan. That is a far cry from the 300 or 400 series that you were putting up a long time ago. :cool:

Thanks.

Yeah. Looking back on my 139 average in 2013, when I got my first ball and started bowling...I would have never thought I'd be approaching the high 190s less than 4 years later. But, as much as it's a credit to my own intensity and work...it's also a testament to this site and input from guys like yourself, Bowl1820, and everyone else...and it's a real testament to the value of coaching. I don't spend $150/month on coaching because I have $150/month and nowhere else to spend it.

I gotta try to do as much as I can in the limited time I have left...because high level bowlers all eventually "lose it" when their bodies can no longer endure. I outbowled 2 PBA regional players last night...but MOST of that was because their bodies no longer allowed them to play at the high level they used to be able to perform at. I have no dillusions that someday I will in that boat as well.

Tony

05-05-2017, 10:23 AM

Based on the opinion you've expressed on bowling THS,
maybe the appropriate congratulations should be something more like;

Nice work, you suck less than you used to, keep it up ! lol

mc_runner

05-05-2017, 01:59 PM

Nice shooting - good string of series there!

Aslan

05-06-2017, 05:34 AM

Nice shooting - good string of series there!
Thanks!

Based on the opinion you've expressed on bowling THS,
maybe the appropriate congratulations should be something more like;

Nice work, you suck less than you used to, keep it up ! lol
That's about right.

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

648 Series: 177 - 235 - 236

Was running late and missed practice...so I had to figure the shot out on the fly. I started WAY too far outside...playing the 9-10 boards and standing right of center. It wasn't a bad game, per se...a 4-6-7 split in the 1st frame and Big Four in the 4th frame...but a missed 10-pin in the 9th was what really did me in.

Game 2 my only open was a chopped 3-6 in the 2nd frame.

Game 3 I was able to continue to use the Innovate...never needed to switch to the Scandal Pearl. Only open was an embarrassing miss on a single 9-pin conversion...of course, in the 9th frame...so that really bit me in the %#*.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.35 pins
Strikes: 64% (2 5-baggers, 1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 58% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leaves: 9-pin and 10-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 4-pin, 7-pin, and 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 216.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 223.67.

POSITIVES
- First multi-234+ series in this league...first one since 5/6/2015...and that one was bowled at the easier AMF center.

NEGATIVES
- A fair amount of those strikes were not "textbook" by any means. Had I been bowling on a non-THS condition...I wouldn't have been nearly as successful. I was consistently missing a couple boards right of target for some reason.
- The team lost all 3 points...not really my fault...the team was down a bowler and neither of the two teammates hit their average the entire night. Meanwhile, the other team bowled out of their minds in Games 2 and 3. But, still. If I'm going to get to the next level, I need to be able to carry the team...even when they aren't bowling well.
- Single-pin spare shooting was improved over last week...but still sub-par. No excuse for missing a 9-pin in the 9th...and both missed single-pins were in the 9th frame...very "anti-clutch" of me.
- The 177 in the first game knocked me out of all 5 brackets...no point in getting in brackets if I'm gonna bomb in the first game.

Something 'may' have happened in Game 3. It seemed like I "flipped a switch" and suddenly raised my game to another level. I don't recall feeling that way previously. I was focused...VERY focused. And when I was in that mindset...the only way I could "miss" was when the lanes started to transition. I honestly felt like I was going to shoot 290...and had the lanes not started to transition in the 8th frame...I would have. Now I gotta see if I can replicate that feeling next week.

J Anderson

05-06-2017, 01:55 PM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

648 Series: 177 - 235 - 236

Was running late and missed practice...so I had to figure the shot out on the fly. I started WAY too far outside...playing the 9-10 boards and standing right of center. It wasn't a bad game, per se...a 4-6-7 split in the 1st frame and Big Four in the 4th frame...but a missed 10-pin in the 9th was what really did me in.

Game 2 my only open was a chopped 3-6 in the 2nd frame.

Game 3 I was able to continue to use the Innovate...never needed to switch to the Scandal Pearl. Only open was an embarrassing miss on a single 9-pin conversion...of course, in the 9th frame...so that really bit me in the ***

NEGATIVES
- A fair amount of those strikes were not "textbook" by any means. Had I been bowling on a non-THS condition...I wouldn't have been nearly as successful. I was consistently missing a couple boards right of target for some reason.
- The team lost all 3 points...not really my fault...the team was down a bowler and neither of the two teammates hit their average the entire night. Meanwhile, the other team bowled out of their minds in Games 2 and 3. But, still. If I'm going to get to the next level, I need to be able to carry the team...even when they aren't bowling well.
- Single-pin spare shooting was improved over last week...but still sub-par. No excuse for missing a 9-pin in the 9th...and both missed single-pins were in the 9th frame...very "anti-clutch" of me.
- The 177 in the first game knocked me out of all 5 brackets...no point in getting in brackets if I'm gonna bomb in the first game.

Something 'may' have happened in Game 3. It seemed like I "flipped a switch" and suddenly raised my game to another level. I don't recall feeling that way previously. I was focused...VERY focused. And when I was in that mindset...the only way I could "miss" was when the lanes started to transition. I honestly felt like I was going to shoot 290...and had the lanes not started to transition in the 8th frame...I would have. Now I gotta see if I can replicate that feeling next week.

Welcome to middle aged hand eye coordination. I occasionally have those days where everything is two boards right or two boards left. I can usually adjust for it.

Some times one bowler can carry a team but in a league with handicaps only a sandbagger can consistently bowl enough pins over average to carry a blind and two under performing teammates.

No place worse than the ninth frame to miss a single pin spare, or leave a split, or miss any spare for that matter.

Now that you've felt that "flipped a switch" feeling maybe you'll be able to get back to the zone more often.

Aslan

05-06-2017, 05:44 PM

Welcome to middle aged hand eye coordination. I occasionally have those days where everything is two boards right or two boards left. I can usually adjust for it.
It's kinda like 'drift'...it's not a big deal if it's done consistently. BUT...the reason for two 9-pin leaves and a 4-pin...was that I actually hit my target on those shots. People may ask, "Then, why didn't you change your target two boards right?" Well...because if I changed my target two boards out...and missed THAT target two boards right...I'd had even bigger problems.

Some times one bowler can carry a team but in a league with handicaps only a sandbagger can consistently bowl enough pins over average to carry a blind and two under performing teammates.
True I suppose. The first bowler had a 112 average and I don't think she broke 300. The other teammate had a 128 average and he probably didn't break 350.

I'd like to think I bowled one of the better series last night....but a 142 average bowler had a 600-610 series last night...810-820 handicap series. Hard to beat that when I'm only getting 26 pins of handicap per game.

Aslan

05-10-2017, 04:31 AM

Tuesday Night League: newer synthetics, dry, short, THS

574 Series: 187-210-177

Missed a single 4-pin in the 8th frame of Game 1 and then a 1-2-7-8-10 washout in the 10th.

Game 2 would have been clean had it not been for a 4-6-7 split in the 7th.

Game 3 was a 3-6-9-10 in the 1st frame, a 1-2-4-10 washout in the 4th, and another missed single 4-pin in the 9th. :mad:

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.84 pins
Strikes: 43% (3 turkeys, 1 double, and 3 singles)
Spares: 64% picked up

Single Pin spares: 77% (7/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 191.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 198.00.

Just a really tough shot. No matter where I threw my ball, there wasn't a drop of oil anywhere on it.

Normally, I'd have skipped the Reax Pearl...no sense throwing a strong ball on dusty boards...but I guess I'm so frustrated and confused regarding the shot at this center that I just said, "screw it". I managed to find a shot standing left foot around 27 and targeting 12-14 at the arrows...but a 1-board miss was liable to leave a 9-pin and a 2-board miss (or more) was left of the headpin. A pulled shot...even so much as a board...was through the nose.

I should have switched balls on the right lane midway through the 2nd game....but was able to push my shot a bit past the arrows and continue throwing the same ball (Reax Pearl) on the pair. I finally balled down to the Innovate midway through Game 3...almost more of frustration and curiosity than anything.

Single-pin spare shooting was not ideal. Two missed 4-pins...and had the lanes not been so dry on the outside that my plastic ball hooked a bit...I'd have missed at least 2 of the 3 10-pins.

I got to witness my first Dutch 200 in person...a sub on the opposing team. But the team lost 3 of 4...so, poo.

Aslan

05-11-2017, 02:38 AM

Amyers

05-11-2017, 09:50 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

592 Series: 201 - 212 - 179

My shot held up for most of Game 1...but only so much I could do with an inconsistent release. Game 2 was more of the same...mostly good shots...with some bad ones sprinkled in. Moved inside a little too quickly and in Game 3 I paid the price. Usually the Scandal Pearl and Game 3 are my strengths...but the opposite tonight.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.09 pins
Strikes: 54% (2 hambones, 1 turkey, 2 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (7/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin and 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 2-pin, 6-pin, and 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 25% (2/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 197.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a

A decent outing...but not very consistent. :(

Not bad especially if you weren't really on. Better than my outing last night. Had a sports pattern tournament shot 141-244-158. First game I just could couldn't throw the ball, second game switched lanes found my line immediately, last game switched lanes I could get the ball to the 1-3 pins but never could find an angle that worked but no strikes an open on a chopped spare and a split makes it look like you bowled like crap when you really didn't

Aslan

05-13-2017, 01:54 AM

Not bad especially if you weren't really on. Better than my outing last night. Had a sports pattern tournament shot 141-244-158. First game I just could couldn't throw the ball, second game switched lanes found my line immediately, last game switched lanes I could get the ball to the 1-3 pins but never could find an angle that worked but no strikes an open on a chopped spare and a split makes it look like you bowled like crap when you really didn't

Still...a 244 on a sport pattern is pretty impressive!

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

614 Series: 205 - 184 - 225

Two opens really ticked me off...and a first ball gutter in the 10th cost me 29 pins...but we won the game and I made it to round 2 in 7 of 9 brackets.

Game 2 I switched to the Innovate...but my recent surfacing experiment resulted in the ball not hooking much at all. Made finding the pocket a challenge and carry nearly impossible. Finally moved back outside and adjusted my line to the point I could strike...but it was only enough to barely salvage a 184...only a few more pins than I needed to benefit the team (more pins than the person I was subbing for minus 10). Cost me 4 of 7 brackets though.

Game 3 I switched to the Scandal Pearl...but I was so far back outside...it took some time to get lined back up. Struck 7 times to close out the game. Took the pressure off the team's anchor and won me all 3 brackets.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.82 pins
Strikes: 50% (1 7-bagger, 1 hambone, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 1 single)
Spares: 62% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 4-pin and 7-pin (2x each).

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 204.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 211.00.

POSITIVES
- Helped the team take all 3 points.
- Spent $46 (including tips) and made $54 in brackets...so I made money bowling.

NEGATIVES
- Was looking forward to facing off against the team's anchor; the highest average bowler in the league (218) and a former PBA regional player...but he didn't show. I don't bowl quite as well without being 'pushed' by someone.
- The surfacing experiment on the Innovate was a disaster. Had to move my target 2-3 boards right and 4-6 boards with my feet just to get back to the pocket...and there was virtually no carry when I finally did.

Instead of re-surfacing the Innovate to 2000 and then using Brunswick buffing compound; then resin polish...I switched the Brunswick buffing compound with Storm Phase 3 Ball Polish. Made the ball quite a bit shinier...and far less 'bite' downlane. I'm gonna have to experiment further to figure out how to use the Storm polishes.

Aslan

05-17-2017, 04:57 PM

Tuesday Night League: newer synthetics, dry, short, THS

497 Series: 156-132-209

A 4-7-10 split in the 5th, a 4-6 split in the 7th, then a 1-2-4-8 washout in the 9th...pretty much led to a horrible Game 1. Game 2 was more of the same...a 1-2-4-7 washout in the 2nd, a 1-2-4-6-10 super washout in the 3rd, a 4-6-7 split in the 6th, a 5-7 split in the 7th, then a 3-6-7-10 split in the 10th...led to one of the lowest games I've thrown as far back as I can remember.

Turned things around in Game 3...only open was a 3-10 baby split in the 6th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.38 pins
Strikes: 31% (1 turkey, 1 double, and 5 singles)
Spares: 55% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (6/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin (3x).
Also left a single 6-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 35% (5/14)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/6)

Average over 3 games: 165.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a

I can't believe how difficult it's been to figure out this shot. Granted, I don't bowl here every week...usually 18-48 games per year. But still...I should have figured it out by now.

Any miss right...by more than a board...the ball comes slamming back through the nose. Trying to straighten out the line...same thing. If you get too far outside...like right of 12...the ball starts hooking before it gets to the first set of tracers...just past midway down the lane. And with the pattern playing very short (the oil machine stops at the far tracers)...and very light volume...a miss left doesn't hold...you'll go through the nose with a > 1-board miss left as well.

I tried to use the new "shiny version" Innovate...which barely hooked at my Wednesday/Friday center...and I couldn't keep it right. I tried the Track 300A...and it barely moved at all. Switched to the Scandal Pearl and moved inside a bit...but I needed to be exact or it would go through the nose.

And it wasn't all pattern. My timing was off in Games 1 and 2...seemed to miss right 3-4 boards on almost every shot...and paid the maximum penalty when I did.

Oh well...probably my last Tuesday night league in California...I wish it would have went better...but I just gotta forget about it and take some of the lessons learned...timing, etc... and bounce back tonight. I'm already booked to sub for a team tonight and a team Friday...then I 'might' have another Wednesday opportunity...might not...depending on when I get things packed up.

Aslan

05-18-2017, 01:43 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

570 Series: 186 - 197 - 187

Couldn't seem to find much carry in Game 1. Switched to the Innovate in Game 2 but it took me 3-4 frames to adjust my shot. The shot quickly went away and midway through Game 3 had to switch to the Scandal Pearl. Things went well after that, as they usually do when I make the move to the Scandal Pearl.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 51% (1 hambone, 2 turkeys, 2 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 58% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 190.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 194.00.

Well...I guess I can say I was consistent. And...I struck out in both games 2 and 3. And, the team took 2.5 points. And, it was my old team I subbed for in the start of the season and we had a good time.

But...when you have a 196 average...ya gotta do better than just "being consistent".

Tony

05-18-2017, 11:07 AM

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

570 Series: 186 - 197 - 187

Couldn't seem to find much carry in Game 1. Switched to the Innovate in Game 2 but it took me 3-4 frames to adjust my shot. The shot quickly went away and midway through Game 3 had to switch to the Scandal Pearl. Things went well after that, as they usually do when I make the move to the Scandal Pearl

This might be a silly question but if things usually go well when you move to the Scandal Pearl, what happens if you start with it, and use it as much as you possibly can?

Another question, it seems like you use mostly pearl / polished balls as I used to do, what has been your experience with dull balls ?

I was amazed to find in spite of what I've heard, that switching to a dull ball and throwing a more direct line, has been successful.
Prior to that all indications were that those balls would dive into the nose too much and make me move way way left, now if I keep it in the oil for longer down the lane I don't experience that.

Aslan

05-18-2017, 02:37 PM

This might be a silly question but if things usually go well when you move to the Scandal Pearl, what happens if you start with it, and use it as much as you possibly can?
Not a silly question. Amyers has suggested the same thing.

The answer is a bit long-winded (as my answers tend to be)...but it has to do with my progression system.

There are essentially TWO ways of approaching an "arsenal":
1) The benchmark/gut instinct system.
2) A "progression" system.

The first is more common and easier to understand...a bowler just has a variety of bowling balls, kinda knows what his/her "benchmark" ball is, and when lanes transition (or they get a gut feeling), they can move to a different ball and perhaps a different area of the lane.

The "progression" system starts with your strongest ball and works toward a weaker ball (as the lanes transition). The progression system is useful for bowlers that don't want to resort to their "B-Games" or "C-Games"...and they can generally stay in one area for most of the night. However, there are two types of "progressions"; the difference being whether or not you encounter "carrydown".

"Carrydown" is when oil is pushed up the lane, rather than simply soaked into balls. Carrydown used to be a significant factor in bowling and is less so now due to resin tending to "soak up" oil rather than push it around. While many modern bowling experts (like RobM) have all but dismissed the idea of "carrydown"; many pros still consider carrydown a factor and carrydown can be a factor if there are a number of bowlers not using reactive resin balls. Whether the pros that still believe in "carrydown" do so because even pro bowlers tend to stubbornly hold on to outdated ideas...or because it's still a factor...is an open debate.

So, regarding your question, being someone that considers carrydown a factor that I have to take into account....my progression isn't simply: strongest, weaker, weakest. My progression needs to be: strongest, weaker, stronger. In other words...I have to "flip" ball #2 and ball #3..because I need to not only battle transition, but also battle carrydown that usually develops after the lanes start to transition.

Another question, it seems like you use mostly pearl / polished balls as I used to do, what has been your experience with dull balls ?
There's two reasons why my arsenal is entirely polished Pearls:
1) Most lanes I bowl on tend to be drier. Without surfaced balls....I'd have a problem bowling on some longer/higher volume patterns and would have to make surface adjustments. But, the only house anywhere near me that would even come close to being medium oil would be Irvine Lanes and I hardly ever bowl there.
2) I set up this arsenal attempting to keep some things constant so I could evaluate other specs/factors. So, all of these balls are pearl covers and have a 2.49 RG. And, although I've been experimenting lately with the surface, I usually surfaced each of them with Crown Factory Compound so they'd have similar surfaces (although different underlying surfaces).

I was amazed to find in spite of what I've heard, that switching to a dull ball and throwing a more direct line, has been successful.
Prior to that all indications were that those balls would dive into the nose too much and make me move way way left, now if I keep it in the oil for longer down the lane I don't experience that.
I'm not opposed to using duller equipment...but earlier in my bowling "journey" I attempted to surface my way to success and learned the lesson of "balls rolling out"....a concept that was new to me at the time. Essentially, by trying to put a ton of surface on the balls and throw them on a THS...I got the opposite result that I was looking for...balls that didn't really hook at all...because they rolled out well before the pocket.

Like I said above...if I bowled on synthetics that put down heavier volumes or longer patterns...or in a sport/experience league...given my stroker classification...I'd certainly need to expand my arsenal to include some solids/surfaced balls.

The other factor to consider is the "mental side" of the game and confidence. We all have balls in our arsenals that we aren't necessarily confident in. In my first arsenal it was the Columbia300 Encounter. In my previous arsenal it was the Columbia300 Dark Encounter. In this arsenal it's the Ebonite Innovate. The Innovate "serves a purpose" as a sort of "band-aid" to get me from the Reax Pearl that I know I can throw well; but it's just too strong to use for more than 1-2 games...unless I want to spend the rest of the night shooting 10-pins. But I can't just skip the Innovate and go to the Scandal Pearl...because if there isn't any carrydown....the Scandal Pearl behaves alot like the Melee Jab I used to throw...and it'll get really "jumpy". And. some of that becomes "mental" where in the back of your mind you're thinking "Uh oh....I gotta switch to the Innovate....this is gonna suck." Then, you subconsciously do things like "try to make it hook" or try to put more hand in it, etc...

A long answer...but, as you saw in the other progression/arsenal discussion threads...a complicated topic.

Tony

05-18-2017, 09:13 PM

Not a silly question. Amyers has suggested the same thing.

The answer is a bit long-winded (as my answers tend to be)...but it has to do with my progression system.

There are essentially TWO ways of approaching an "arsenal":
1) The benchmark/gut instinct system.
2) A "progression" system.

The first is more common and easier to understand...a bowler just has a variety of bowling balls, kinda knows what his/her "benchmark" ball is, and when lanes transition (or they get a gut feeling), they can move to a different ball and perhaps a different area of the lane.

The "progression" system starts with your strongest ball and works toward a weaker ball (as the lanes transition). The progression system is useful for bowlers that don't want to resort to their "B-Games" or "C-Games"...and they can generally stay in one area for most of the night. However, there are two types of "progressions"; the difference being whether or not you encounter "carrydown".

"Carrydown" is when oil is pushed up the lane, rather than simply soaked into balls. Carrydown used to be a significant factor in bowling and is less so now due to resin tending to "soak up" oil rather than push it around. While many modern bowling experts (like RobM) have all but dismissed the idea of "carrydown"; many pros still consider carrydown a factor and carrydown can be a factor if there are a number of bowlers not using reactive resin balls. Whether the pros that still believe in "carrydown" do so because even pro bowlers tend to stubbornly hold on to outdated ideas...or because it's still a factor...is an open debate.

So, regarding your question, being someone that considers carrydown a factor that I have to take into account....my progression isn't simply: strongest, weaker, weakest. My progression needs to be: strongest, weaker, stronger. In other words...I have to "flip" ball #2 and ball #3..because I need to not only battle transition, but also battle carrydown that usually develops after the lanes start to transition.

There's two reasons why my arsenal is entirely polished Pearls:
1) Most lanes I bowl on tend to be drier. Without surfaced balls....I'd have a problem bowling on some longer/higher volume patterns and would have to make surface adjustments. But, the only house anywhere near me that would even come close to being medium oil would be Irvine Lanes and I hardly ever bowl there.
2) I set up this arsenal attempting to keep some things constant so I could evaluate other specs/factors. So, all of these balls are pearl covers and have a 2.49 RG. And, although I've been experimenting lately with the surface, I usually surfaced each of them with Crown Factory Compound so they'd have similar surfaces (although different underlying surfaces).

I'm not opposed to using duller equipment...but earlier in my bowling "journey" I attempted to surface my way to success and learned the lesson of "balls rolling out"....a concept that was new to me at the time. Essentially, by trying to put a ton of surface on the balls and throw them on a THS...I got the opposite result that I was looking for...balls that didn't really hook at all...because they rolled out well before the pocket.

Like I said above...if I bowled on synthetics that put down heavier volumes or longer patterns...or in a sport/experience league...given my stroker classification...I'd certainly need to expand my arsenal to include some solids/surfaced balls.

The other factor to consider is the "mental side" of the game and confidence. We all have balls in our arsenals that we aren't necessarily confident in. In my first arsenal it was the Columbia300 Encounter. In my previous arsenal it was the Columbia300 Dark Encounter. In this arsenal it's the Ebonite Innovate. The Innovate "serves a purpose" as a sort of "band-aid" to get me from the Reax Pearl that I know I can throw well; but it's just too strong to use for more than 1-2 games...unless I want to spend the rest of the night shooting 10-pins. But I can't just skip the Innovate and go to the Scandal Pearl...because if there isn't any carrydown....the Scandal Pearl behaves alot like the Melee Jab I used to throw...and it'll get really "jumpy". And. some of that becomes "mental" where in the back of your mind you're thinking "Uh oh....I gotta switch to the Innovate....this is gonna suck." Then, you subconsciously do things like "try to make it hook" or try to put more hand in it, etc...

A long answer...but, as you saw in the other progression/arsenal discussion threads...a complicated topic.

The lanes here are flooded with oil to med oil judging by comments from local kids returning home from other area's. They don't see many people in those area's using the higher powered balls, that a commonly used around here. Last night my buddy said he was throwing the same line his last game (227), as he was using in the singles at the USBC open back in March. He shot 650 or something there.

I'm glad my system is less complex, start in practice with the ball that usually works good, it it works in practice throw it in the game until I can't and switch to something else depending on what's happening. Last night I used the Hustle RIG for every single shot, spares included.

Given the success of the advice I've seen from Amyers, I would probably follow it and see what happens.

Aslan

05-19-2017, 05:40 PM

I'm glad my system is less complex, start in practice with the ball that usually works good, it it works in practice throw it in the game until I can't and switch to something else depending on what's happening. Last night I used the Hustle RIG for every single shot, spares included.

Given the success of the advice I've seen from Amyers, I would probably follow it and see what happens.

There is a downside and upside to each system.

For example, the downside to the "benchmark/gut" system is:
1) You have to be very aware of what is happening...and why...AND you need to know exactly what your equipment does.
2) It is most able to adapt to new conditions (centers, houses, conditions), yet that adaption takes some time.
3) You have to be able to consistently change lines, speeds, rpms, footwork, etc...

While I'm sure there are a good number of high average bowlers that are able to do those things, the vast majority of bowlers cannot. Then, the benchmark/gut system becomes sort of "trial by error/guessing"...which is going to really screw up a game and series.

For me, personally, I would have to not only gain a much better grasp on exactly what is going on (ex. wrong angle versus wrong ball versus burning out, where it is exiting the pins, etc...) with the shot...but I'd have to find a way to play inside 3rd arrow consistently, I'd have to develop a 3-step and 5-step approach option, and I'd have to work on developing 1-2 more hand positions that I could consistently turn to. I would also need to approach my arsenal in an entirely different fashion...because I'd need much more variability in my equipment in regards to things like RG, surface, covers, etc...

One thing to consider, and I know I risk insulting the All-Stars you bowl with, is that even the pros have a limited knowledge about equipment. That's why they have ball reps watching every shot, every ball motion, and recommending options. If the pros have trouble understanding how/when/where to play the lanes...imagine the difficulties of the average bowler. If you leave a flat 10-pin and can tell, with certainty, that it was because the ball had burned out (versus the angle being slightly off, the shot having a touch too much loft, a touch too much speed, a touch too little hand, etc...)...I'd venture to say you are in the top 2% of all bowlers.

I get asked all the time, by lower level bowlers and a few higher level bowlers, "what am I doing wrong?" The problem with this question is:
1) If it's a higher level bowler, they usually don't really want the answer...they are going to do whatever they are going to do regardless. I bowled a PBA Regional guy Wednesday and after 2-3 strikes...I left a 4-9 split. He asked if I hit my target and I replied, "yes". He then said that my shot didn't have the same arc as my previous ones. He was essentially suggesting I aim a little more right and get the ball out to the right a bit more. But, I already knew what I was going to change...because a 4-pin, 9-pin, or 4-9 split is always a 1-1 move inside.

Was he right or was I? I dunno. On the next shot, I moved 1-1 inside but missed 3-4 boards right and left a single 2-pin. Maybe I was right and the ball burned out. Maybe he was right and the move inside negated the beneficial effects of my miss right. Hard to say on a miss.

2) If it's a lower level bowler...my response is always:
a) Did you hit your target?
and
b) Where were your feet on the approach?

Most of the times, to my frustration, the answers are:
a) I dunno.
and
b) I don't really look at where I'm standing.

Thus...I can't really help very much.

Aslan

05-20-2017, 03:10 AM

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

673 Series: 224 - 229 - 220

Took awhile to get settled in. I had practice, but for some reason by the time I started rolling for real...needed to make an adjustment. Got dialed in by the 7th frame and struck out.

Struck two more times in Game 2 before switching to the Innovate. Took me a couple frames to adjust my line after the ball change...then 5 more strikes. Should have been 8 in a row, but I left a stone 8 on the first shot of the 10th.

Game 3 I switched to the Scandal Pearl. My shots weren't as crisp, but the Scandal Pearl was alot more forgiving. A miss right could usually make it's way back to the pocket and a miss left usually hooked enough to go brooklyn.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.17 pins
Strikes: 68% (1 6-bagger, 1 5-bagger, 1 turkey, 4 doubles, and 2 singles)
Spares: 72% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (2/2)
Left a single 7-pin and 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 224.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a

POSITIVES
- Helped the team take 2 of 3 points from the 3rd place team.
- Spent $62 (including tips) and made $110 in brackets and the card game...so I made money bowling.
- First time I've ever rolled 3 games of 220 or higher in sanctioned play.

NEGATIVES
- Had a chance at a 700 series...couldn't pull it off.
- Had a chance at 690 (personal best)...couldn't pull that off.
- Had a chance at 675 (best performance in this league to date)...couldn't pull that off.
- Got knocked out of the scratch bracket by 4 pins...otherwise would have been 6 for 6 in the finals and made another $6-$18.
- No clean games...1 open per game on 2 splits and a chopped 2-4-5-7-8.

Polished the Innovate using Storm Step 2, instead of Storm Step 3...still needed to move 2:1 right when I balled down from the Reax Pearl...but better than before...and an easier transition from the Innovate to the Scandal Pearl when the time came.

Tony

05-20-2017, 10:49 AM

Nice series !

In your reviews of the new area have you discovered the oil volumes typically used as compared to your current area ?

Aslan

05-20-2017, 03:10 PM

Nice series !

In your reviews of the new area have you discovered the oil volumes typically used as compared to your current area ?

Thanks.

No...I've found that such information (patterns, volumes, etc...) is virtually impossible to get unless you have a personal relationship with the center handyman. In an ideal World...every center would be forced to post the pattern in a public area for everyone to view...but I've yet to see that...anywhere.

My only hope is that the lanes where I'm moving are a close proximity and synthetic. I can adapt to slightly higher oil volumes and longer patterns...and it's highly unlikely I'll experience a truly "heavy oil/long pattern" house. But, wood lanes would be problematic and require me to reassess my arsenal. Not to mention, wood lanes are terrible in terms of preparing a bowler for tournaments, etc... since tournaments/regionals/USBC Opens are almost never done on wood lanes.

Tony

05-21-2017, 10:24 AM

Thanks.

No...I've found that such information (patterns, volumes, etc...) is virtually impossible to get unless you have a personal relationship with the center handyman. In an ideal World...every center would be forced to post the pattern in a public area for everyone to view...but I've yet to see that...anywhere.

My only hope is that the lanes where I'm moving are a close proximity and synthetic. I can adapt to slightly higher oil volumes and longer patterns...and it's highly unlikely I'll experience a truly "heavy oil/long pattern" house. But, wood lanes would be problematic and require me to reassess my arsenal. Not to mention, wood lanes are terrible in terms of preparing a bowler for tournaments, etc... since tournaments/regionals/USBC Opens are almost never done on wood lanes.

You might not find all the information you're looking for but you might come across something that gives the lane types and scoring systems if your lucky.
It says VAL lanes has 36 lanes and newer AMF SPL11 lanes and Uncle Bucks claims to have custom "dock" wooden lanes....

Aslan

05-21-2017, 07:42 PM

You might not find all the information you're looking for but you might come across something that gives the lane types and scoring systems if your lucky.
It says VAL lanes has 36 lanes and newer AMF SPL11 lanes and Uncle Bucks claims to have custom "dock" wooden lanes....
Mainly I'm just worried about the wood lanes situation. The midwest, smaller centers, older centers...much more likely to come across wood lanes. And wood lanes would probably be a dealbreaker at this point. There's just not enough high level tournaments that are still played on wood lanes to make it worth my while to adapt my game and arsenal to those conditions.

As for scoring and stuff like that...I could care less. New scoring, old scoring...I'd be perfectly happy with manual scoring.

Tony

05-21-2017, 08:27 PM

Mainly I'm just worried about the wood lanes situation. The midwest, smaller centers, older centers...much more likely to come across wood lanes. And wood lanes would probably be a dealbreaker at this point. There's just not enough high level tournaments that are still played on wood lanes to make it worth my while to adapt my game and arsenal to those conditions.

As for scoring and stuff like that...I could care less. New scoring, old scoring...I'd be perfectly happy with manual scoring.

I certainly don't claim to know all the lanes in Des Moines, but also living in the Midwest a lot of the wood lanes places around me updated over the past 10 to 20 years or so. I would have to drive over 30 minutes to find a house with wood lanes, and there are at least 7 or 8 centers closer to me than that one. There might not be as much to worry about as you remember from prior visits to the Midwest, seems the AMF reps hit the bigger cities pretty good.

Aslan

05-24-2017, 02:43 AM

Tuesday Night League: newer synthetics, narrow THS

566 Series: 179-183-204

Missed a 7-pin in the 4th frame and then chopped a 2-4-5 in the 9th. No carry to speak of.

Switched to the 300A for Game 2, but still no carry. Only open was a single 8-pin in the 7th.

Opened in the 1st frame of Game 3; chopping a 4-7. Opened again in the 6th on a single 9-pin...but managed to put 4 strikes together to salvage the 204 and help the team take at least one point on the evening.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 38% (1 hambone, 1 double, and 7 singles)
Spares: 73% picked up

Single Pin spares: 78% (11/14)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (6x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, nor 5-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: N/A

Average over 3 games: 188.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 199.67.

Another frustrating Tuesday night. A miss right was left of the headpin. A miss left was a 4-pin or 4-7 or 6-10. I was 6 for 6 on 10-pins...but a strike rate under 40% is exhausting. Some really nice pocket shots that left a stone 8-pin...a couple 9-pins. One of my better pocket hits actually left a 4-7...somehow??

The Reax Pearl was useless in practice so I switched to the Innovate after a couple frames. The Innovate was too erratic. The Track 300A allowed me to find the pocket...but there's just no carry with that ball. The Scandal Pearl turned out to be my best option...but I had to throw it perfectly...and even then it was only 65/35 that I'd strike.

J Anderson

05-24-2017, 08:24 AM

Have you ever run into a condition where the Track carried? If not why do you keep trying it? Looks like you would do just as well throwing a White Dot or a Maxim.

Tony

05-24-2017, 09:41 AM

Have you ever run into a condition where the Track carried? If not why do you keep trying it? Looks like you would do just as well throwing a White Dot or a Maxim.

I wonder if it's being stuck in the system, start with this ball, switch to this ball next, then to the next ball in the predetermined order of progression.

Besides the Track ball never working....
It seems the ball mentioned as working most of the time is the Scandal Pearl, I asked why not just use it the whole night......

We all have balls that never seemed to work that well or balls that become the go-to ball at least for a period of time, personally I give away the balls that
don't work for me and use the balls that are working.

Rather than sticking with a predetermined progression of balls, it seems more advantageous to use the ball that works on the lanes that day.

I know some guys that want to use all the balls in their bag, personally I don't care, if a ball is working, I'll use it all night.

Everyone has to do their own thing, whatever works for them is good, it just pays to adapt as you learn what works and what doesn't work for your game.

Brite1

05-24-2017, 10:45 AM

I wonder if it's being stuck in the system, start with this ball, switch to this ball next, then to the next ball in the predetermined order of progression.

Besides the Track ball never working....
It seems the ball mentioned as working most of the time is the Scandal Pearl, I asked why not just use it the whole night......

We all have balls that never seemed to work that well or balls that become the go-to ball at least for a period of time, personally I give away the balls that
don't work for me and use the balls that are working.

Rather than sticking with a predetermined progression of balls, it seems more advantageous to use the ball that works on the lanes that day.

I know some guys that want to use all the balls in their bag, personally I don't care, if a ball is working, I'll use it all night.

Everyone has to do their own thing, whatever works for them is good, it just pays to adapt as you learn what works and what doesn't work for your game.

I would have to agree with Tony here. I understand you have a progression that you want to use, but it seems that you are consistently having issues when using this progression. Seems like you are fighting against something that isn't working because that's what you think you "should be doing". As Tony said, everyone should do their own thing and what works for them, but it seems like maybe you'd benefit from an attempt to change it up. Maybe give tony's suggesstion(using the Scandal Pearl right away and possibly the whole night) a try. What's the worst that will happen? You either have one bad night and can then put that test to bed or it could end up working out. Just a thought.

RobLV1

05-24-2017, 11:09 AM

Here's the problem with the "progression" concept. I will use my own preferences as an example. I like to start with the Fanatic BTU to take advantage of shim that the THS gives us in the track area. When that area starts to dry up, either over-hooking or burning up, I like to switch to my Rocket Ship and move about 5 and 3 left. When that starts to go away, I like to jump another 3 and 2 left and switch to the Code Black. I continue with the Code black until I reach the end of my comfort zone, and then ball down to the Fight until that no longer works. At that point, I will move back right about five boards, and go back to the BTU, making sure to be more up the back of the ball. I don't have a whole lot of carry, so my spare shooting better be really good.

This is what happens in a perfect world, but, as we all know, the world is rarely perfect! What happens when everyone else on the pair is starting on the track area? BTU at the beginning is out the door! What happens when my original line goes away and my "usual" move puts me smack dab on top of someone else? Rocket Ship stays in the bag and I go directly to the Code Black, or the Fight, depending on where others are playing at the end of the pattern.

A "progression" is like a pair of handcuffs that keep you from listening to what the lanes are telling you. Not listening to the lanes is like not listening to your wife; it rarely ends up well!

Amyers

05-24-2017, 11:12 AM

Tony

05-24-2017, 11:33 AM

I would have to agree with Tony here. I understand you have a progression that you want to use, but it seems that you are consistently having issues when using this progression. Seems like you are fighting against something that isn't working because that's what you think you "should be doing". As Tony said, everyone should do their own thing and what works for them, but it seems like maybe you'd benefit from an attempt to change it up. Maybe give tony's suggesstion(using the Scandal Pearl right away and possibly the whole night) a try. What's the worst that will happen? You either have one bad night and can then put that test to bed or it could end up working out. Just a thought.

He indicated that I wasn't the first to suggest it, Amyers had previously said the same thing, I don't remember what exactly he said about why, I think it was something about that wasn't the right time / fit for that ball.
For me even if it didn't work one time doesn't mean it won't another. I have had nights I've thrown a single ball all or most of the night, it depends on how it's performing and besides me and how I'm rolling the ball,it's also the lane and the other players on the lane that make a difference. Other nights, same lanes,

Brite1

05-24-2017, 11:42 AM

He indicated that I wasn't the first to suggest it, Amyers had previously said the same thing, I don't remember what exactly he said about why, I think it was something about that wasn't the right time / fit for that ball.
For me even if it didn't work one time doesn't mean it won't another. I have had nights I've thrown a single ball all or most of the night, it depends on how it's performing and besides me and how I'm rolling the ball,it's also the lane and the other players on the lane that make a difference. Other nights, same lanes,

Ah yeah my bad. I hadn't looked back far enough to see that Aymers suggested it first. I see he replied just before you though. Either way, I agree with both of you. And all I'm saying is I would think it's worth giving it a try. Again worst that happens is Aslan finds out it doesn't work. If that's the case, he can always go back to trying his progression. On the other hand it could work out and be the magic solution to put him over the top!

Tony

05-24-2017, 11:48 AM

I suggested this same thing back a while ago and fear of getting to deep for him to be able to play the area he wants to play was the reasoning behind sticking to the progression. I don't agree and think he should try it. I also believe aslan has stumbled upon what types of balls that work for him over the last two seasons. From what I've been able to tell lower to mid rg equipment with strong covers and less surface. Just my thought be interesting if he sees a similar conclusion.

I know he's spoken many times about carrying all pearl balls, so I suspect he does. I was also in a zone where I was primarily using pearl balls, and found with some experimentation on surface changes, to my surprise that other surfaces worked for me too, I mentioned this might be something to consider if the new locations he plays use more oil on the house pattern.

RobLV1

05-24-2017, 12:26 PM

Tony

05-24-2017, 12:28 PM

Timmyb

05-24-2017, 05:32 PM

I have a friend who is a very, very good bowler. He is a past ABC Nationals all-events Champion. He is very old school in terms of bowling balls, preferring to stick with one ball and continuing to move left (yes, he has the rev rate to do it!). One night, after he shot 260-280-200, I suggested that the reason that he averages 23 pins lower the third game than he does the first is his refusal to change balls, he responded, "Rob, I had 540 turning. What was I supposed to do, change balls?" I replied, "Being that hindsight is always 20/20, I think the obvious answer is Yes!"

I typically do better in the third game, so that doesn't hold true for everyone.

RobLV1

05-24-2017, 06:16 PM

I typically do better in the third game, so that doesn't hold true for everyone.

It just means that you had the wrong ball in your hand for the first two! In a great majority of cases, any pattern of disparity in average between games can be traced to either missed moves or missed ball changes.

Tony

05-24-2017, 06:33 PM

I have a friend who is a very, very good bowler. He is a past ABC Nationals all-events Champion. He is very old school in terms of bowling balls, preferring to stick with one ball and continuing to move left (yes, he has the rev rate to do it!). One night, after he shot 260-280-200, I suggested that the reason that he averages 23 pins lower the third game than he does the first is his refusal to change balls, he responded, "Rob, I had 540 turning. What was I supposed to do, change balls?" I replied, "Being that hindsight is always 20/20, I think the obvious answer is Yes!"

Yes, no doubt, the results prove in his case he should have, I did the same thing last week 236 / 223 / 201 .....first couple balls in the 3rd I said, should change balls, got the other ball out of the bag and set it on the table......but never used it. Hindsight again says, should have changed

Aslan

05-24-2017, 08:01 PM

IMaybe give tony's suggesstion(using the Scandal Pearl right away and possibly the whole night) a try. What's the worst that will happen? You either have one bad night and can then put that test to bed or it could end up working out. Just a thought.
I actually tried that. In this particular center (Tuesday night)...I thought maybe I'd start with the Scandal Pearl, then the Innovate, then the Track300A. My thought process was that maybe the Reax Pearl was just too strong for such a shorter/narrow pattern. It didn't work well. [195 (Scandal Pearl)-175 (Innovate)-141 (Track300A)]

I also believe aslan has stumbled upon what types of balls that work for him over the last two seasons. From what I've been able to tell lower to mid rg equipment with strong covers and less surface. Just my thought be interesting if he sees a similar conclusion.
Correct. I've not found lanes, outside of Vegas, where I can really use more surfaced equipment in the 5-12 board area. And I just don't have the rev rate to move inside the 15-board nor the lower speed I'd need to accomplish that. My attempts with higher RG equipment has been mixed. The Bullet Train (2.55) never really worked well for me. The Slingshot worked well...but like the 300A...it's an entry level ball with a weak cover and core. Unfortunately, there aren't a lot of really good, newer balls out there with higher RGs. It seems like every ball that comes out has a 2.48-2.50 RG.

Besides the Track ball never working....

Have you ever run into a condition where the Track carried? If not why do you keep trying it? Looks like you would do just as well throwing a White Dot or a Maxim.
When you're playing on wood lanes or very dry synthetics...or very narrow patterns or low oil volumes...alot of the newer equipment is just too powerful. I've used a Hammer Big Blue Spare ball before on the Tuesday night lanes...some success. I thought the Track 300A would give me a little more 'bite' than resorting to the Big Blue Spare. I used to have a Brunswick Slingshot and it actually worked well on those type of conditions...but it cracked...so I thought the 300A would be a decent replacement.

The 300A helps me get to the pocket....doesn't over-react...but it's an entry-level ball...and like the Big Blue Spare and the use of a Maxim or WD (as you suggested)...the problem is carry. I shot at 14 single-pins last night. :mad:

I would have to agree with Tony here. I understand you have a progression that you want to use, but it seems that you are consistently having issues when using this progression. Seems like you are fighting against something that isn't working because that's what you think you "should be doing". As Tony said, everyone should do their own thing and what works for them, but it seems like maybe you'd benefit from an attempt to change it up.
Actually, the progression system has vastly improved my game compared to my previous "Benchmark system". It's taken alot of the "guesswork" out of the process. If I get enough practice shots in...I can usually tell whether I'll be able to start with the Reax Pearl or not. On Wednesdays and Fridays...and in Vegas...I can usually start with the Reax Pearl. On Tuesdays...usually I can't.

The move to the Innovate (ball 2 in the progression) has been the stumbling block...because it's more erratic and less reliable than the Reax Pearl or Scandal Pearl. The Innovate is older technology and an Ebonite ball...so it's not as "powerful"...but it has a low RG and if I get some hand in it...it will jump into the pocket...alot like the Melee Jab RobM gave me a year ago...but not as powerful as the Melee Jab. The Innovate also has a tendency to develop a track (non-oil)...almost immediately...and once it gets a track on it...it's even more erratic.

The Scandal Pearl is designed to be my "skid/flip" ball...despite it's more symmetric core and mid-range differential. It's a very strong ball...but doesn't hook too early the way the stronger Reax Pearl does. It's designed to come out when there's "carrydown" and I need a little more power on the backend. I've had a lot of luck with it...probably the best ball I've ever thrown. It's just too strong to ball down to...and too similar to the Reax Pearl. In other words, if the lanes are transitioning to the point the Reax Pearl is burning up....then they've transitioned too much for me to use the Scandal Pearl as well.

The Innovate is 'supposed to' help me manage the transition while I wait for carrydown to develop. Sometimes...the Innovate is ineffective and I quickly switch to the Scandal Pearl....sometimes carrydown never really occurs and I end up not even using the Scandal Pearl.

Concerning Rob's comment...I think I'd need to know where RobM starts out playing, what his rev rate is, and what his speed is. He talks about making a 5:3 move left and another 3:2 left. That's an 8:5 move left over 1-3 games. I usually move...at MOST...9:6 left over the course of 3 games...but that would be EXTREME for me. Generally, I only move 2:4 left (total) over 3 games.

When I move inside of 14 (at the arrows)...and my feet get to the 30-board area...I just have too much speed and not enough hand for the ball to make it back to the pocket. And there's just too much oil in the middle for me to straighten that line out and essentially throw a straight shot up the 15-board directly into the pocket.

Like I've explained before, my progression system is currently designed to allow me to play in the 11-14 board (at the arrows) area for an entire series (3 games) on the lanes I ususally play (Wednesdays/Fridays). These lanes are very synthetic...but they are very old and transition quickly. The shot (pattern) isn't particularly challenging...but players who throw one ball and never move...struggle quite a bit. Even with nobody on top your line...you have to be able to move...or change balls.

My criticism of a "benchmark" or "observation" system....is it's very difficult to know what is going on with the ball. A miss right can mean many things:
1) Your angle is off.
2) Your release is off.
3) You're throwing it too hard.
4) You need more surface.
5) The line is transitioning and you need to move inside.
6) You're too far inside (in the oil) and need to move outside more.

I don't know very many people, if any, that can consistently tell which of those IS the issue when they leave a flat 10-pin or a 2-pin combo. Some have much better ideas than others...but guessing wrong can often make the problem worse. I've left a 2-pin before, thought my ball was burning out, moved left...left a 2-4-5...moved back right....left a 2-pin again...etc... By the time I realized the ball wasn't burning up and my angle was just too steep...one game was in the books and I was shooting 170-189. I try to figure this kinda stuff out in practice...but 5-15 minutes...with 3-9 other bowlers taking turns...sometimes throwing 2 shots each...sometimes I only get 2-4 shots in practice.

Well...time to go give Wednesday night a go. Thanks for all the input! I've been averaging 195 in the Wednesday/Friday house....so I'm not "struggling" per se. I'm just annoyed that I haven't figured out the Tuesday center. I want my game to be able to adapt to multiple conditions...not be a one-dimensional bowler that can only bowl at one house. And while I've moved my 168 average at the Tuesday center in 2013...to a 182-184 average in 2017...as I keep getting better, my expectations keep getting higher.

Timmyb

05-24-2017, 09:51 PM

It just means that you had the wrong ball in your hand for the first two! In a great majority of cases, any pattern of disparity in average between games can be traced to either missed moves or missed ball changes.

Didn't say I bowled bad the first two, just better in the third. If you look at my scores from the past season, there's not a big disparity between 1 and 3. I'd chalk it up to being inconsistent as hell the first game, and settling down after. I miss spares in the first game, but rarely in the third. I also give credit to a couple of beers by then......

Tony

05-25-2017, 08:44 AM

I actually tried that. In this particular center (Tuesday night)...I thought maybe I'd start with the Scandal Pearl, then the Innovate, then the Track300A. My thought process was that maybe the Reax Pearl was just too strong for such a shorter/narrow pattern. It didn't work well. [195 (Scandal Pearl)-175 (Innovate)-141 (Track300A)]

Correct. I've not found lanes, outside of Vegas, where I can really use more surfaced equipment in the 5-12 board area. And I just don't have the rev rate to move inside the 15-board nor the lower speed I'd need to accomplish that. My attempts with higher RG equipment has been mixed. The Bullet Train (2.55) never really worked well for me. The Slingshot worked well...but like the 300A...it's an entry level ball with a weak cover and core. Unfortunately, there aren't a lot of really good, newer balls out there with higher RGs. It seems like every ball that comes out has a 2.48-2.50 RG.

When you're playing on wood lanes or very dry synthetics...or very narrow patterns or low oil volumes...alot of the newer equipment is just too powerful. I've used a Hammer Big Blue Spare ball before on the Tuesday night lanes...some success. I thought the Track 300A would give me a little more 'bite' than resorting to the Big Blue Spare. I used to have a Brunswick Slingshot and it actually worked well on those type of conditions...but it cracked...so I thought the 300A would be a decent replacement.

The 300A helps me get to the pocket....doesn't over-react...but it's an entry-level ball...and like the Big Blue Spare and the use of a Maxim or WD (as you suggested)...the problem is carry. I shot at 14 single-pins last night. :mad:

Actually, the progression system has vastly improved my game compared to my previous "Benchmark system". It's taken alot of the "guesswork" out of the process. If I get enough practice shots in...I can usually tell whether I'll be able to start with the Reax Pearl or not. On Wednesdays and Fridays...and in Vegas...I can usually start with the Reax Pearl. On Tuesdays...usually I can't.

That's the main thing here, improvement, and it's great that the progression system has helped your game improve. It's difficult to tell over time exactly what contribution different factors play in improving, I'm sure with your extensive stat keeping that you can see area's of improvement like better spare shooting that wouldn't have much to do with progression, so it's a little easier for you to see what improvements you've made over time.

The idea with the scandal pearl was starting with it, as you did, but also was to stay with it for the whole 3 games, if possible, and don't switch off of it for another ball
because it's time to, but continue to use it until you can't move deep enough, can't carry / score with it any longer.
After the 195 with it, was it still working, could you have stayed with it into game two, and beyond ?

Amyers

05-25-2017, 09:46 AM

That's the main thing here, improvement, and it's great that the progression system has helped your game improve. It's difficult to tell over time exactly what contribution different factors play in improving, I'm sure with your extensive stat keeping that you can see area's of improvement like better spare shooting that wouldn't have much to do with progression, so it's a little easier for you to see what improvements you've made over time.

The idea with the scandal pearl was starting with it, as you did, but also was to stay with it for the whole 3 games, if possible, and don't switch off of it for another ball
because it's time to, but continue to use it until you can't move deep enough, can't carry / score with it any longer.
After the 195 with it, was it still working, could you have stayed with it into game two, and beyond ?

Tony kind of nailed my question here. Looks like the only thing this shows was changing to the other two balls was a mistake.

Aslan

05-25-2017, 05:31 PM

I'm sure with your extensive stat keeping that you can see area's of improvement like better spare shooting that wouldn't have much to do with progression, so it's a little easier for you to see what improvements you've made over time.
Actually, as hard as it is to believe...my spare shooting started at 72% and is presently 72%. Overall spare shooting has improved from 52% to 61%.

The main improvement has been strike rate...which has improved from 32% to 49%.

However, this is another area where stats can be misleading. When you have a 32% strike rate, you shoot at a LOT of spares...so you're % is likely to be lower and you're shooting mostly at multi-pin spares (because you can't hit the pocket). As I've improved, I now leave almost the same # (130 vs 170) of single-pin spares...primarily corner pins...but I leave < half the # of multi-pin spares.

My single-pin spare shooting IS improving...regardless of the %...because lately I've been more in the 78%-100% range. Mainly, I need to "stay down" in my shot and not "lift up". If I focus and stay down...I've been doing pretty well. Even on the "misses"...I now "barely miss" when I miss. Before, I might dump the ball in the gutter 15ft in front of the 10-pin.

The idea with the scandal pearl was starting with it, as you did, but also was to stay with it for the whole 3 games, if possible, and don't switch off of it for another ball
because it's time to, but continue to use it until you can't move deep enough, can't carry / score with it any longer.
After the 195 with it, was it still working, could you have stayed with it into game two, and beyond ?
In that particular series...I left a flat 10-pin in both the 7th and 8th frames of game 1. I felt the lanes had transitioned enough to make a ball change.

Unfortunately, the Innovate just wasn't working at all...so I switched to the 300A in the 5th frame of Game 2. Unfortunately, that worked well on one lane but not the other...then in Game 3 it didn't work on either lane.

Aslan

05-25-2017, 06:31 PM

Tony kind of nailed my question here. Looks like the only thing this shows was changing to the other two balls was a mistake.
Possibly. I could have tried to move further inside...maybe played with the loft a little...but I have a feeling moving further inside would have just led to leaving 2-pins instead of 10-pins.

Wednesday League Night: low-oil synthetics, older brunswick lanes

566 Series: 191 - 200 - 175

The first game wasn't awful...but when the lanes transitioned...I suffered the maximum penalty...a 4-9 on one side then a 4-10 on the other. Add to that a rare miss at a 3-pin in the 9th....and there went Game 1.

Game 2 I started to suffer from a head cold....I guess my cold medicine had started to wear off. I was a bit dizzy and off-balance...lost my accuracy...but my only open was a chopped 3-6 in the 5th.

More of the same in Game 3. Finally made the move to the Scandal Pearl in the 9th frame...but the new surface I put on it was a bit more aggressive than expected and I left the Big 4.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.20 pins
Strikes: 54% (3 turkeys, 2 doubles, and 6 singles)
Spares: 46% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 3-pin (3x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin, and 10-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 28% (2/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 188.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 196.67.

I guess I have the excuse that I had one of the worst head colds I've ever experienced. Regardless of the scores, I was inconsistent and inaccurate. The Reax Pearl held up for all of Game 1 and most of Game 2. My last Wednesday league night in California didn't go quite the way I had hoped...but oh well.

Brite1

05-26-2017, 07:51 AM

Possibly. I could have tried to move further inside...maybe played with the loft a little...but I have a feeling moving further inside would have just led to leaving 2-pins instead of 10-pins.

Why not actually give it a try then rather than just going off of what you feel is going to happen. It would be harder for anyone to argue with you if you have solid evidence as opposed to just a feeling. And my other suggestion would be, that if you do give it a try, go into it with an open mind. I feel that if you try it with a preconceived notion that it isn't going to work or your going to get a certain result, it will affect the way you throw.

If you do give it a try, I hope it works out for you!

Aslan

05-26-2017, 01:18 PM

Why not actually give it a try then rather than just going off of what you feel is going to happen. It would be harder for anyone to argue with you if you have solid evidence as opposed to just a feeling. And my other suggestion would be, that if you do give it a try, go into it with an open mind. I feel that if you try it with a preconceived notion that it isn't going to work or your going to get a certain result, it will affect the way you throw.

If you do give it a try, I hope it works out for you!

I don't know what IT is.

Have I tried a "benchmark" system? Yes.
Have I tried throwing the Scandal Pearl out of the gate rather than use is 3rd in the progression? Yes.
Have I tried moving inside (rather than make a ball change)? Yes.
Have I tried playing with my loft? Yes.

It's a double-edged sword concerning "feelings". Many bowlers argue with me when I talk about systems and progressions...that they just "trust their gut" and base their changes on "observations". It's possible that as I get better, I'm more inclined to trust my observations and gut feelings rather than rely on a more systematic approach. However, the flip side is...when we rely on our gut feelings and observations...we run the risk that those observations and feelings could be wrong.

I'm actually much more open to changes than most bowlers. I've made numerous changes to my game, used input from a variety of coaches and peers, and routinely challenge myself concerning my systems and arsenal selection. While my progression system comes under fire quite a bit on this site...it was initially implemented by a PBA coach...and reinforced by a PBA Hall of Famer. Same with the concept of "carrydown"...I'm certainly interested in Rob's take on carrydown and his research/analysis...but more than one current PBA pro has cited "carrydown" as a factor in their decision/progression process. That doesn't mean Rob is wrong...bowlers tend to take a LOT of time to change their preconceived notions...even those bowlers at the highest level. And Rob, in some ways, is at the cutting edge of bowling technology questions...more so than even many PBA pros. BUT...you have to weigh ALL input...and many times that input is going to conflict.

And given how the sport has become SO dependent on oil patterns...sometimes certain advice is valid on some conditions...but not so much on other conditions. The USBC tends to release material on proper technique, form, and decision-making...but how many of the bowlers in your league actually bowl using the form/technique/decision-making preached by the USBC? Bowling is a frustrating sport...as a teacher...because there's SO many ways to get that round object to hit that 1-3 pocket...that many times you hear things like, "there is no 'right' way to bowl". Even the Great Iceman...with his numerous 300 games and his 834 series...claims coaching is over-rated and almost useless...because it's all about natural ability. Lots of different strokes...for lots of different folks.

Aslan

05-26-2017, 01:30 PM

Amyers

05-26-2017, 01:45 PM

I don't know what IT is.

Have I tried a "benchmark" system? Yes.
Have I tried throwing the Scandal Pearl out of the gate rather than use is 3rd in the progression? Yes.
Have I tried moving inside (rather than make a ball change)? Yes.
Have I tried playing with my loft? Yes.

It's a double-edged sword concerning "feelings". Many bowlers argue with me when I talk about systems and progressions...that they just "trust their gut" and base their changes on "observations". It's possible that as I get better, I'm more inclined to trust my observations and gut feelings rather than rely on a more systematic approach. However, the flip side is...when we rely on our gut feelings and observations...we run the risk that those observations and feelings could be wrong.

I'm actually much more open to changes than most bowlers. I've made numerous changes to my game, used input from a variety of coaches and peers, and routinely challenge myself concerning my systems and arsenal selection. While my progression system comes under fire quite a bit on this site...it was initially implemented by a PBA coach...and reinforced by a PBA Hall of Famer. Same with the concept of "carrydown"...I'm certainly interested in Rob's take on carrydown and his research/analysis...but more than one current PBA pro has cited "carrydown" as a factor in their decision/progression process. That doesn't mean Rob is wrong...bowlers tend to take a LOT of time to change their preconceived notions...even those bowlers at the highest level. And Rob, in some ways, is at the cutting edge of bowling technology questions...more so than even many PBA pros. BUT...you have to weigh ALL input...and many times that input is going to conflict.

And given how the sport has become SO dependent on oil patterns...sometimes certain advice is valid on some conditions...but not so much on other conditions. The USBC tends to release material on proper technique, form, and decision-making...but how many of the bowlers in your league actually bowl using the form/technique/decision-making preached by the USBC? Bowling is a frustrating sport...as a teacher...because there's SO many ways to get that round object to hit that 1-3 pocket...that many times you hear things like, "there is no 'right' way to bowl". Even the Great Iceman...with his numerous 300 games and his 834 series...claims coaching is over-rated and almost useless...because it's all about natural ability. Lots of different strokes...for lots of different folks.

You don't really think what your doing now is a scientific process do you? As far as I can tell for some reason your using the ten pin to justify your ball changes there are many causes for a flat ten. Personally a 8 pin or 4 pin is a better indicator that you need to adjust than flat 10. I've also rarely seen the good bowler who's leaving flat tens adjust to a weaker cored/covered ball as a solution usually it's just the opposite. The adjustment for a flat 10 is less than a ball change anyway unless your leaving them because you've moved deeper into the lane than what the ball can handle in which case you would go to a more aggressive ball. normally on a flat ten I will move my feet a board left to straighten my line get the ball out of the dry a little. Often a flat ten is also a sign of a ball that was released without good rotation also.

No matter what your using as reasoning to adjust your using your gut to tell you that's the reason that happened and this is the answer. The only difference with you is you've premade the decision of what your going to do even if your eyes are telling you something completely different.

J Anderson

05-26-2017, 02:22 PM

The IMPORTANT thing...is my head cold is starting to clear up...I got one more league night in California...which means I have ONE more shot to get my 835 series before leaving for the MidWest.

To be honest...I'd settle for my first 700 series...or even my first sanctioned 690 series. Three 300-games would be nice...to set a target I doubt even Iceman could reach...a back-to-back 300 game would be great...to prove to Iceman that even a 'sub-par bowler' like myself can attain such a feat. But, ONE 300-game would also be nice. Or, even my first sanctioned 268 game would be nice. I mean, if I get a 268-268-268...that's an 804 series AND a triplicate! That's arguably MORE impressive than a few 300-games and an 834 series.

But, if I can't shake the head cold...it's gonna be rough. Wednesday it felt like my head weighed an extra 13 pounds and the boards I was targeting all blurred together. :eek:

One of the problems with bowling in this era is that, as you said in your previous post, scoring is too dependant on the oil pattern. Back in the 70s and early 80s, while someone without a lot of skill might get lucky and roll a 279 or even a 300, your average tended to be a true reflection of your skill. By the late 80s with a little skill and the right ball you could hook the ball like Mark Roth without honing your skill to nearly that level. Now we're so dependant on having the right ball for the lane condition that we're hard pressed to hit anywhere near our averages whe our equipment doesn't match up. Too many bowlers have come to equate stringing strikes with bowling well. While that has become the dominant factor in winning, there are other facets to the game.

Given my mini rant about scores being inflated, my advice is that you use John Wooden's standard for success for your last outing in CA. Don't judge yourself by Ice's 834. Be the best Aslan that you can be. You may not have a big series in you tonight, especially if you're still dealling with a cold. You can still put 100% of your focus into each shot. You can commit 100% to each adjustment that you make. You can use that overthinking mind of yours to figure out how to play and adapt to the lanes conditions. Once you've made up your mind you can shut it down and just execute the shot.

Tony

05-26-2017, 02:43 PM

Actually, as hard as it is to believe...my spare shooting started at 72% and is presently 72%. Overall spare shooting has improved from 52% to 61%.

The main improvement has been strike rate...which has improved from 32% to 49%.

However, this is another area where stats can be misleading. When you have a 32% strike rate, you shoot at a LOT of spares...so you're % is likely to be lower and you're shooting mostly at multi-pin spares (because you can't hit the pocket). As I've improved, I now leave almost the same # (130 vs 170) of single-pin spares...primarily corner pins...but I leave < half the # of multi-pin spares.

My single-pin spare shooting IS improving...regardless of the %...because lately I've been more in the 78%-100% range. Mainly, I need to "stay down" in my shot and not "lift up". If I focus and stay down...I've been doing pretty well. Even on the "misses"...I now "barely miss" when I miss. Before, I might dump the ball in the gutter 15ft in front of the 10-pin.

In that particular series...I left a flat 10-pin in both the 7th and 8th frames of game 1. I felt the lanes had transitioned enough to make a ball change.

Unfortunately, the Innovate just wasn't working at all...so I switched to the 300A in the 5th frame of Game 2. Unfortunately, that worked well on one lane but not the other...then in Game 3 it didn't work on either lane.

One of the local High School coaches I bowl with one told me his solution for 10 pin leaves, he would adjust a 1/4 board one way or the other depending on how/where the ball was going off the back of the lane, usually within a frame or two be back carrying 10 pins.

I have seen him do it with much success. I have also seen other people use different adjustments, a few guys I know will move forward a few inches on their starting position, and others will adjust finger positions on the ball to attempt to solve the 10 pin leave.

Of course other players will make a ball change, as is typical in bowling you see some success and some failure with every method.

I guess the idea I have is if the ball is that close and I know it's usually my best performing ball, it seems reasonable to try some of the adjustments to solve it
before taking the more extreme option of a ball change, given the ball(s) you would be switching to have less potential for scoring than the ball you are using.

Aslan

05-26-2017, 07:04 PM

As far as I can tell for some reason your using the ten pin to justify your ball changes there are many causes for a flat ten.
It all comes down to WHY you are leaving the flat 10-pin:
1) Your line is too far to the left (or your angle is slightly off).
OR
2) The ball is burning out.

Now...the BIGGEST issue with bowling adjustments....is that depending on which of those is the culprit...the adjustments are EXACTLY opposite. If you're using a ball...and leaving flat 10s and 7s...but you're hitting your mark...which was striking for you just 1-2 shots ago...it's less likely that your line is off. In that case, it's more likely related to transition...and moving right or changing your angle...is just gonna make the ball burn out faster (because you're even more in the dry).

Thats why...its ABSOLUTELY a scientific approach. You find your line...by moving to the right (if you're leaving 2s, flat 7s, flat 10s). Once you find it...you have to watch your ball exit the pin deck. If it exits to the right of center...you may need to make a ball change soon. If it is exiting left of center, your line may be transitioning and you may need to make a move left soon.

If you don't strike...and leave a flat 10, 2-pin combo, flat 7...you may need to change balls. If you don't strike and leave a 4-pin or 4-9...you may need to move 1-1 left. If you go through the nose...you may need to move 2:1 left. And you don't change balls...until those moves left...start resulting in flat 10s, flat 7s, and 2-pin combos. It's a very scientific system.

...unless your leaving them because you've moved deeper into the lane than what the ball can handle in which case you would go to a more aggressive ball. normally on a flat ten I will move my feet a board left to straighten my line get the ball out of the dry a little.
That's a possible change...but I don't see why you wouldn't have started with the stronger ball to begin with when the oil conditions were fresh.

Often a flat ten is also a sign of a ball that was released without good rotation also.
Absolutely. Thats the biggest problem...there are about 8 reasons why you might leave a flat 10...many of them are release, timing, balance related. And how many of us hit our target =/- 0 boards every single time? The hardest part is trying to figure out whether the shot was "good enough" to adjust off of.

Don't judge yourself by Ice's 834. Be the best Aslan that you can be. You may not have a big series in you tonight, especially if you're still dealling with a cold. You can still put 100% of your focus into each shot. You can commit 100% to each adjustment that you make. You can use that overthinking mind of yours to figure out how to play and adapt to the lanes conditions. Once you've made up your mind you can shut it down and just execute the shot.
The good news is...once I leave a spare...the 900 series is off...so then I follow the exact advice you're giving. By Game 3...I've usually given up on 900, 800, 700, a chance at a 300, and I'm likely out of bracket contention...so it's time to just try to make each shot as good as I can make it...exactly what you're suggesting.

I guess the idea I have is if the ball is that close and I know it's usually my best performing ball, it seems reasonable to try some of the adjustments to solve it
before taking the more extreme option of a ball change, given the ball(s) you would be switching to have less potential for scoring than the ball you are using.
Those suggestions are all possibilities. Sometimes I simply move my eyes vertically (suggested by Susie Minshew in one of her BTM articles awhile back). Other people adjust where they stand. You can change your target a half board this way or that way. You can open up your angle a tiny bit. There's LOTS of things a bowler can do other than a ball change.

BUT...I would not recommend some of the changes you seem to go to related to physical changes (wrist position, rev rate, approach speed, loft, etc..) Changes to physical issues...tend to throw off timing. And if you're timing is off...it's all over. Pros can make these kind of adjustments...and sometimes we subconsciously make these minor adjustments as we release (if we're off balance for example).

But, a ball change SHOULD BE a minor change. Each ball should feel the same (same weight, same span, same insert, etc...)...so the bowler doesn't really feel any difference when going from one ball to the other. And, if you watch some pro events...you'll see that the athletes change balls a LOT. I didn't realize it when watching the TV show...but if you watch an event in person...you'll see players go through 2-3 different balls each game.

Contrary to popular belief...I'm actually not a big proponent of massive arsenals. I think too many bowlers change balls with very little reasoning as to why. Amyers may have a different reasoning for which ball to switch to than I do...and there's some value to maybe using a slightly more surfaced ball when lanes transition...if you believe that the oil isn't just soaking up...but being pushed to either side of the ball...; but at least I have a "reasoning" for when I change balls and when I don't (and change lines instead). You'd be surprised how many bowlers change balls for no other reason than; "well, that ball wasn't working...so I'll just try this one." I've watched bowlers switch to 2 different balls...for relatively no reason other than they were "missing"...then go back to the ball they started with.

We may disagree on exactly what progression to follow or what a certain leave means or should dictate (in terms of changes)...but I do think it's important to actually HAVE a plan. The plan certainly doesn't always work. And, until I can hit my target +/-0 boards...with a very consistent, quality release...the plan isn't going to be fully effective. But absent a "system"...you are just "guessing". And, if you've been bowling for 35 years...your guesses are probably good enough. But, if not...your guesses could be just shots in the dark.

Aslan

05-26-2017, 07:19 PM

...before taking the more extreme option of a ball change, given the ball(s) you would be switching to have less potential for scoring than the ball you are using.

Just to clarify...I don't really carry balls that have a "lesser potential of scoring". If you have balls in your bag that you don't have any confidence in...I'd recommending replacing them with balls you have more confidence in.

I've only had TWO balls that I've just had ZERO confidence in...and I got rid of both of them and replaced them with a better option.

There are always going to be balls you like better than others...some that you think, "wow, thats my favorite ball I've ever thrown"...and others that you're not as excited about...but they serve a purpose. There's no "better ball". New balls aren't "better" than old balls...they may be more aggressive and allow you to play further inside....but they're not "better" just because they're new.

I still see bowlers throwing 220+ games with Ebonite Cyclones and old Storm balls. If the bowler is good enough...he/she could probably throw a 200 game with a Columbia WD.

J Anderson

05-26-2017, 10:22 PM

I still see bowlers throwing 220+ games with Ebonite Cyclones and old Storm balls. If the bowler is good enough...he/she could probably throw a 200 game with a Columbia WD.

What do you mean "a 200 game"? Before my White Dot started to self destruct I shot a 600 series where all three games were between 200 and 215. A good bowler could probably average in the high 190s using nothing but a plastic spare ball.

Aslan

05-27-2017, 06:06 AM

What do you mean "a 200 game"? Before my White Dot started to self destruct I shot a 600 series where all three games were between 200 and 215. A good bowler could probably average in the high 190s using nothing but a plastic spare ball.
Well, then I guess you're a good bowler.

Friday League Night (subbing)
Older Brunswick synthetics: low oil synthetics

555 Series: 177 - 177 - 201

Game 1 I missed two single-pins. Game 2 I had some issues with splits. Game 3 was a combination of both. :(

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 45% (2 turkeys, 3 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 6-pin, 9-pin, and 4-pin (2x)

Multiple Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 185.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 196.67.

Well, not the spectacular finish to my California bowling career I had hoped for. I was actually more accurate, absent my head cold, but I wasn't as accurate on my spares as I usually am. I guess I need to practice my spare shooting when I get to the Midwest...along with adapting to the new conditions. On to the next chapter...

Tony

05-27-2017, 02:09 PM

Just to clarify...I don't really carry balls that have a "lesser potential of scoring". If you have balls in your bag that you don't have any confidence in...I'd recommending replacing them with balls you have more confidence in.

I've only had TWO balls that I've just had ZERO confidence in...and I got rid of both of them and replaced them with a better option.

There are always going to be balls you like better than others...some that you think, "wow, thats my favorite ball I've ever thrown"...and others that you're not as excited about...but they serve a purpose. There's no "better ball". New balls aren't "better" than old balls...they may be more aggressive and allow you to play further inside....but they're not "better" just because they're new.

I still see bowlers throwing 220+ games with Ebonite Cyclones and old Storm balls. If the bowler is good enough...he/she could probably throw a 200 game with a Columbia WD.

I understand, it just seemed in recent posts the scandal pearl was the ball you were using for most of your best scoring games. I have one ball now that I'm losing confidence in, having changed surface on it several times and have continued to struggle with it, so it could soon be gone. DV8 Outcast is the ball...
It would be only the second ball passed along because of that, the other one was so long ago, I can't even recall what it was.

Amyers

05-30-2017, 09:25 AM

Good luck with your move bud. Hope you find some great centers in your new area.

Timmyb

05-30-2017, 10:20 PM

Let me know when you get settled in, and maybe we could meet half way!

Aslan

06-12-2017, 07:12 PM

Summer Practice (low-oil synthetics)

562 Series: 190-173-199

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.82 pins
Strikes: 35% (3 doubles and 6 singles)
Spares: 80% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (10/10)
Most common single pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, and 4-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 60% (6/10)
Multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 4 games: 187.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a.

Been over a week since I bowled. First time bowling in Iowa. The center was a bit disappointing in terms of the facility and area. And, $5.50/game...yowsers!

The lanes didn't seem overly difficult nor overly easy...but I was a bit rusty. I'm used to bowling 2-3 times a week...haven't bowled in almost 2 weeks. The main difference at this center, that I noticed, was the spare ball was hooking quite a bit. Missing a 10-pin to the right required a pretty BAD miss right...I think I picked up a 10-pin that had I bowled at my old California house...I would have missed by over 10ft.

Aslan

06-12-2017, 07:21 PM

Summer Practice (low-oil synthetics)

589 Series: 245-134-210

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.77 pins
Strikes: 48% (1 8-bagger, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 2 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common single pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 4-pin and 6-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 30% (3/10)
Multi-pin leave: 6-10 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 4 games: 196.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 200.33.

Gave another center a try. Nicer interior...but also in a crappy neighborhood. Same dry lanes...same plastic, spare ball hook on the outside (into the 10-pin).

Aslan

06-12-2017, 07:29 PM

Summer Practice (low-oil synthetics)

633 Series: 214-199-220

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.33 pins
Strikes: 60% (1 7-bagger, 1 5-bagger, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 3 singles)
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common single pin leave: 4-pin and 10-pin (2x each)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, nor 3-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 25% (1/4)
Multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 4 games: 211.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 222.00.

Gave another center a try. Better interior and slightly better neighborhood. Not as much plastic ball hook (on the outside) as I noticed at the last two centers...pins seemed "light" though.

Amyers

06-13-2017, 10:23 AM

Good to see you've at least got three centers to choose from

Aslan

06-13-2017, 04:15 PM

Good to see you've at least got three centers to choose from

7 centers within 30 minutes.

One of them doesn't seem to serious...just Mickey Mouse nonsense. Unfortunately, that's the closest one.

I've tried 3 of the other 6 centers...got 3 more to try.

Also, looking at where the high average talent tends to bowl at...gonna try and get in the biggest/best leagues I can...see how things go...then maybe move on to sport shot/pba experience leagues.

J Anderson

06-13-2017, 04:53 PM

7 centers within 30 minutes.

One of them doesn't seem to serious...just Mickey Mouse nonsense. Unfortunately, that's the closest one.

I've tried 3 of the other 6 centers...got 3 more to try.

Also, looking at where the high average talent tends to bowl at...gonna try and get in the biggest/best leagues I can...see how things go...then maybe move on to sport shot/pba experience leagues.

I would normally advise you to jump right into a sport shot/PBA experience league. I've seen a number of high average house bowlers come away from a PBAX league like they've gone through the Total Perspective Vortex. You, on the other hand, no matter how good your scores are, always have some self criticism like you missed too many single pin spares. I don't think you'll have any problems dealing with the mental aspect a sport league, even if you wait a season to get better.

Aslan

06-13-2017, 07:27 PM

I would normally advise you to jump right into a sport shot/PBA experience league. I've seen a number of high average house bowlers come away from a PBAX league like they've gone through the Total Perspective Vortex. You, on the other hand, no matter how good your scores are, always have some self criticism like you missed too many single pin spares. I don't think you'll have any problems dealing with the mental aspect a sport league, even if you wait a season to get better.
I've set a target of a 202 average. If I can acheive that, which I should be able to in less than a season (195 now, averaging at least 2 pins higher on these lanes), then I think I'll make the move.

You're right though. I've bowled sport leagues before so I'm not going in with an inflated ego like most bowlers do. I averaged 149 both times I tried sport leagues in the past...about 20 pins lower than by THS average. If I can average 175-185 on a sport shot/PBA Experience shot....I'd have no problem with that.

The good news...is there appears to be 2-4 sport shot/PBA Experience leagues in the area...which is far better than my previous location. :)

Aslan

06-15-2017, 06:32 PM

Summer Practice (low-oil synthetics)

437 Series: 150-145-142
Just insanely poo-tastic. The Reax Pearl was hooking the lane...even with me standing with my posterior up against the ball return targeting 20 at the arrows. Switched to the 300A in Game 3...but it wouldn't move at all. :confused:

504 Series: 196-152-156
Figured carrydown might be the culprit...so I switched to the Innovate and moved back to the track. Managed to finally put a decent game together...but the line didn't last long. By the second game, my poo factory was back up against the ball return and I was targeting 17...not to mention they turned the lights out for cosmic bowling. :mad: Tried the 300A again in the 3rd game...tried to straighten the line out a bit...but it still wasn't moving for me.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 7.95 pins
Strikes: 29% (1 4-bagger, 3 doubles, and 9 singles)
Spares: 48% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 5-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin (2x each)
Never left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, 8-pin, nor 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (17/34)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 4 games: 156.83.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 165.83.

Gave another center a try. I asked the guy at the counter for a fresh lane and he said they hadn't been oiled since the night before. So, in other words...I was bowling on lanes that got fried in league play and then had cosmic bowlers throwing plastic balls on them till midnight.

So. my THEORY. is that the league play fried the midlane...and the cosmic bowling pushed oil down to the breakpoint. So, if you use a ball that is too strong or has too much surface...or you pull the shot...you'll be lucky to hit brooklyn. One of my pulled shots with the Reax Pearl took out the 7-pin clean. If you miss right...or ball down too severely (300A)...there's too much oil around the breakpoint and ball never reacts. I threw the 300A up 5-6 and it didn't make it back to the pocket.

The Innovate was able to work for awhile...because the surface was alot less than the Reax Pearl (4000 Abralon vs 2000/Step 2 buff/resin polish)...which allowed it to make it through the midlane. And, then it had alot more bite with a stronger cover and stronger/lower RG (2.49 RG VS 2.58 RG) core. Unfortunately, once the line started to transition...there wasn't much oil left in the middle until you got to the center of the lane.

Not a great day...and a pretty bad debut for this center...which now isn't very high on my list. It came in at 2nd (out of 6 possibles) and now I'd say it's probably in the 4th to 6th range depending on how the next two centers look.

MICHAEL

06-16-2017, 08:59 AM

So what is harder in your opinion Aslan,,,,,,,, day old bread,,,, or sporting patterns? LOL.... Maybe a new truly rough pattern for REAL MEN TO BOWL would be Day old used bread! LOL
If you want to put "THE" sport back into the league bowling, just put a house pattern down, then let a grade school class with the bumpers up roll a dozen games or so.

I swear, even a fresh house pattern can be very challenging as it proved to me last Wendsday. Some good bowlers on the league, and lanes I was on. NO ONE was able to get even close to their average!!! I think the house pattern varies VERY much, week to week, and its not at all the ((((easy piece of cake many claim!)))

Do we all have 230 or higher averages..... hell NO! Its a unique challenge each and every week! So says ICEMAN,,,, and I am a Bowling God!

http://i1243.photobucket.com/albums/gg546/imagine686868/Cima_da_Conegliano_God_the_Father_zps0af3b9ba.jpg (http://s1243.photobucket.com/user/imagine686868/media/Cima_da_Conegliano_God_the_Father_zps0af3b9ba.jpg. html)

Aslan

06-16-2017, 01:28 PM

So what is harder in your opinion Aslan,,,,,,,, day old bread,,,, or sporting patterns?

Actually, day-old burnt patterns with substantial carrydown are far, far more difficult than a sport pattern.

1) With a sport pattern, you KNOW what the pattern is supposed to be and how it's supposed to be played.

2) A sport pattern still has hold in the middle and a dry breakpoint.

Amyers

06-16-2017, 02:10 PM

Actually, day-old burnt patterns with substantial carrydown are far, far more difficult than a sport pattern.

1) With a sport pattern, you KNOW what the pattern is supposed to be and how it's supposed to be played.

2) A sport pattern still has hold in the middle and a dry breakpoint.

Especially in the summer. I'm not sure if its just a thing around here but the patterns put out in the summer even for the leagues tend to play drier. Not sure if it's because the building temp or that the lanes may not be oiled every day or that it's just really lower volume patterns but you can tell the difference.

J Anderson

06-16-2017, 03:22 PM

Especially in the summer. I'm not sure if its just a thing around here but the patterns put out in the summer even for the leagues tend to play drier. Not sure if it's because the building temp or that the lanes may not be oiled every day or that it's just really lower volume patterns but you can tell the difference.

Obviously not all centers do the same thing , but I think many if not most of them figure with fewer leagues in the summer and probably a smaller number of total games bowled per week, they oil much less often. Even with no games being bowled they may be losing some fraction of the conditioner to evaporation.

Aslan

06-16-2017, 06:13 PM

Summer Practice (wood lanes, 43ft THS pattern, moderate-heavy oil volume)

Warm-Up Game: 147
Gave myself a warm-up game on account of this being my first set on wood lanes in probably 4 years. Started out with the 300A thinking the lanes would play dirt dry...but they didn't seem that bad. Switched to the Innovate in frame 3 and took the rest of the time moving right and finding my line. I was SHOCKED at how far right I ended up playing...we're talking my "B-Game" of playing first arrow!! :eek:

588 Series: 226-181-181

Game 1 I started with the Reax Pearl...but in the 3rd frame it left a pocket 7-10 so I switched back to the Innovate and moved out near first arrow. Made a bad shot in the 6th frame...then left a pocket 10-pin in the 7th...but otherwise I was striking like crazy.

Game 2 I started losing my line...tried to stick it out with the Innovate but finally switched to the Scandal Pearl in the 7th frame. I moved 2:1 inside thinking the Scandal Pearl would be stronger...but it ended up being my only open of the game; a 2-8-10 split.

Game 3 I was able to stay in the same general area...struck more often...but a few opens on some bad shots.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.48 pins
Strikes: 45% (1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 8 singles)
Spares: 54% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (6x)
Also left a single 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (7/15)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-8-10 split (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 4 games: 183.75.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 186.00.

This was an interesting little 12-lane center with wood lanes and some old scoring equipment I'd never seen before.

The guy working the place was knowlegeable and gave me some league information. An old guy was watching me bowl. Friendly atmosphere...and it's nearby where I live without having to deal with Des Moines traffic. Not to mention...no league bowlers had a 200+ average there last fall...so I'd be one of the better bowlers in the center.

The downside is wood lanes. Even though I was able to adjust and am confident I could do well on those conditions due to the heavier volume of oil and medium/long pattern...LOTS of hold in the middle...wood lanes make you play differently and they don't prepare you very well for sanctioned play in tournaments or at other centers. If I did do a league at this center, which I'd like to, I'd almost HAVE to do a league at a center with synthetic lanes...if for no other reason than to:
1) Keep my synthetic game current.
and
2) See the difference between wood/synthetics will all things (skill level, bowler, arsenal) being kept constant.

I always though Amyers and other were full of it when they talked about playing outside on wood lanes. But, now I'm a bit more of a believer. On synthetics, outside of Vegas or sport patterns, I can never play outside of 10. Back on the old wood lanes I used to bowl on...I only was able to play outside of 10 because I had a very high speed, low revs, and weak equipment. But on THESE wood lanes...I was doing quite well playing 4-7 up and in.

Interesting.

Aslan

06-17-2017, 06:20 PM

Summer Practice (medium-oil synthetics)

Warm-Up Game: 191
Had 4 games...so I used the first one as a warm-up. This center forced me just a shade outside of 10...about 2 boards right of where I usually play. This center does a great job at lane maintenance and put a decent amount of oil down.

641 Series: 214-217 (clean)-210

Game 1 was very strong. Either a strike or 9 count on every first ball except the 5th where I pushed the shot 3-5 boards right and left a 1-2-4...which I chopped for my only open frame.

Tried sticking with the Reax Pearl...but after two frames in Game 2, I finally gave up and made the move to the Innovate...moved my line 2:1 outside...then another 1:1 outside...played up and in up the 8-9 board. Couldn't run many strikes together...but kept things clean.

Game 3 I was able to stay with the Innovate...but wasn't making as good a shots as Game 2. A 5-10 split in the first frame and a missed 4-pin in the 10th cost me a chance at a much better score. :mad:

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.30 pins
Strikes: 52% (1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 2 doubles, and 7 singles)
Spares: 80% picked up

Single Pin spares: 93% (14/15)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (6x)
Never left a single 1-pin nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 4 games: 208.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 211.00.

I can see why this is the place that most of the high-level talent in the area bowls. Doesn't look like much from the outside...but I nice place on the inside, well-lit, well-maintained, and they put a decent volume of oil on the lanes.

The problem is "distance". For a guy spoiled by having a bowling alley that he could hit with a spitball from his balcony...driving 30 minutes to the bowling alley is a downer. If fall league started next week, I think this would be my choice for one league and the other 30-min away center my choice for a second league. But...the two leagues I'm most interested in for this center have waiting lists and I'm not sure if they're handicap leagues. I want to get at least 6 more games in at each of the 6 centers before making any decisions. Still plenty of time before Fall/Winter.

Aslan

06-20-2017, 10:46 PM

Summer Practice (carrydown)

Warm-Up Game: 162
Had 4 games...so I used the first one as a warm-up. Never really found a good line to the pocket. Only a couple opens...but only one strike.

492 Series: 169-121-202

Early in Game 1 I moved out to the 5-board and started throwing the Innovate. Eventually I had moved all the way out to the 3-board...still couldn't seem to find a consistent line. :mad:

Game 2 I tried the Scandal Pearl for a couple frames...but still nothing...so I went back to the Reax Pearl and tried to move my line inside...throw straight up the 3rd arrow to the pocket. 3 splits and I didn't pick up ONE spare the entire game. :mad:

I finally got dialed in Game 3. Moved my angle outside a bit...laying down around 8-9 at the dots...throwing straight at the pocket. It was really the only shot that was there. There was no break downlane...not even out in the 1-5 area. Any attempt to play a hook shot just sent the ball well right and left 2-pin combos and washouts. Pulled shots never made it left of the headpin...usually resulted in splits.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.51 pins
Strikes: 25% (1 turkey, 1 double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (12/14)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 37% (6/16)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/5)

Average over 4 games: 163.50.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 169.50.

I asked the lady why the lane played so differently than last weekend and she said they hadn't oiled the lanes since the morning yesterday.

So, for all of those who don't believe carrydown exists...if it weren't for carrydown...I'd have been throwing my Track 300A for sure. Instead, I had to resort to throwing the Reax Pearl straight at the pocket and couldn't get movement...even outside of the 5-board.

This was disappointing. This center was in the lead for where I was planning on bowling this fall...it's a nice center that puts down a decent amount of oil. But, not oiling your lanes for over 24 hours is inexcusable. This wasn't a holiday weekend...no excuse other than a lazy center.

Why don't bowlers "practice" anymore? Why do they just show up on league night? THIS is why...because what's the point of practice if you're bowling on lanes that have no pattern...just carrydown?? Sure, you can work on timing and release...technique stuff....but what other sports do this to their participants? Do basketball hopes get lowered to 5 feet during practice? Do ice hockey players have to run around in their shoes? Do football players have to practice with Nerf balls? It's a joke.

Next time I return...I'll ask when they oiled their lanes last...and if it's > 24 hours, I'll ask that they oil a lane for me to practice on. Bonus points (customer service) if they do...loss of a potential league bowler if they don't.

Aslan

06-20-2017, 11:08 PM

Summer Practice: medium-oil synthetics

Warm-Up Game: 197 (clean)
Almost a Dutch 200. /, X, /, X. /, X, /, /, X, /, X.

535 Series: 122-215-198

No carry in Game 1. The guy had just oiled, so the conditions were fresh...but I think there was more oil down than I was used to. I ended up sticking with the straight shot...but there was some dry out there...so I could target around the arrows rather than the dots. But, 2 splits, a washout, and a couple single-pin misses did me in early.

Took a break after Game 1...just needed to gather my thoughts and settle down. The straight shot was there...I just needed to stay focused and stop trying to MAKE things happen. Made a 2-10 split in the first frame and would have been clean except for a missed 10-pin in the 3rd frame...all 9-counts or strikes from then on, and finally managed to find some carry.

Game 3 only had one open as well...a 4-6 split in the 2nd frame. But, I didn't find my carry until the 7th frame...one strike shy of Game 2 cost me the 200+.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.82 pins
Strikes: 38% (2 turkeys, 2 doubles, and 7 singles)
Spares: 69% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (9/12)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 64% (9/14)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4, 1-2-8, and 1-2-4-10 (2x each)

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 4 games: 183.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 191.25.

This place hadn't oiled their lanes since the night before...probably just before league play...so about 22 hours before. She put me on a lane that they had just oiled for league play...which was nice of her...but kinda poo-tastic for the team that now needs to bowl on the pair where I burnt a line one one of their lanes.

This place remains on the bottom of my list of potential centers for fall leagues...but if I did end up bowling here...I think I'd need to add some surface to my equipment...they put down a decent amount of oil on their THS and my pearls....even the non-buffed/non-polished Reax Pearl...just didn't seem to pick up and do anything until far too late.

Aslan

06-21-2017, 09:45 PM

Summer Practice: wood lanes

Warm-Up Game: 209
Rough start....the lanes played a good deal drier than when I played here last week. But once I got dialed in...smooth sailing from there on.

700 Series: 224-277 (clean)-199

Wasn't too consistent in Game 1. Struggled to keep the Reax Pearl from jumping inside and at times it seemed to hit weak...probably burning up. Switched to the Innovate in the 5th frame...but made a couple bad shots to ruin a pretty good game.

Game 2 the Innovate was just perfect for the lane conditions. Straight up the 9-11 boards....clean through the heads and mid-lane...nice, controllable move to the pocket on the backend. A couple lucky breaks...a couple big misses right that I had enough hand in to get the ball back to the pocket. One miss right left a 2-4-8....so no perfect game for me. The local that was watching me bowl gave me a hand though...nice to have a fan!

By the start of Game 3...seemed like the line was finally giving out...so I switched to the Scandal Pearl and finished strong. Only opens were a couple splits.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.30 pins
Strikes: 63% (1 6-bagger, 1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 4 turkeys, 1 double, and 1 single)
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (6/6)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 4-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 22% (2/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-3-9 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/5)

Average over 4 games: 227.25.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a.

Gotta love wood lanes! A miss right with some decent hand in the ball...and that baby comes back with a vengeance! And, the Innovate may be the weak point in the arsenal on synthetic lanes...but it's a great match-up for wood lanes.

This center only has 82 league bowlers and the highest average last season was 191. That's about half of one league back in Cali. It'd certainly be a change of pace...and having a chance at being one of the top 5 bowlers in a league just seems strange.

Still early. Right now this center is ranked 5th out of 6 options...but it's WELL ahead of option 6...and 1st though 5th are pretty close. Probably give the other 3 North Des Moines centers a try next week.

J Anderson

06-21-2017, 09:53 PM

Summer Practice (carrydown)
I asked the lady why the lane played so differently than last weekend and she said they hadn't oiled the lanes since the morning yesterday.

So, for all of those who don't believe carrydown exists...if it weren't for carrydown...I'd have been throwing my Track 300A for sure. Instead, I had to resort to throwing the Reax Pearl straight at the pocket and couldn't get movement...even outside of the 5-board.

This was disappointing. This center was in the lead for where I was planning on bowling this fall...it's a nice center that puts down a decent amount of oil. But, not oiling your lanes for over 24 hours is inexcusable. This wasn't a holiday weekend...no excuse other than a lazy center.

Why don't bowlers "practice" anymore? Why do they just show up on league night? THIS is why...because what's the point of practice if you're bowling on lanes that have no pattern...just carrydown?? Sure, you can work on timing and release...technique stuff....but what other sports do this to their participants? Do basketball hopes get lowered to 5 feet during practice? Do ice hockey players have to run around in their shoes? Do football players have to practice with Nerf balls? It's a joke.

Why don't bowlers "practice" anymore?

Because the league shot is on a relatively easy house pattern. We don't have to be good spare shooters because because we can string 3 or 4 strikes and make up for the open.
Because all I have to do to raise my average ten pins is to buy a new ball. (left over thinking from the late 80s early 90s)
Because if I don't bowl well it must be the fault of the guy who runs the lane machine. or the pins are "bad", or the approaches were too sticky or too slippery.........

Do basketball hopes get lowered to 5 feet during practice?

If this was the equivalent of 5' basketball hoops why didn't you shoot a 900 series? Sorry, I couldn't resist the cheap shot. I do get that you were trying to get a feel for the bowling center and not just working on your game, and there are times when you need a down lane reaction to work on certain things. I would think that after a game of not finding any sort of reaction you would have just picked one or two non lane dependent aspects to work on.

Timmyb

06-22-2017, 06:01 AM

Why don't bowlers "practice" anymore?

Because the league shot is on a relatively easy house pattern. We don't have to be good spare shooters because because we can string 3 or 4 strikes and make up for the open.
Because all I have to do to raise my average ten pins is to buy a new ball. (left over thinking from the late 80s early 90s)
Because if I don't bowl well it must be the fault of the guy who runs the lane machine. or the pins are "bad", or the approaches were too sticky or too slippery.........

Do basketball hopes get lowered to 5 feet during practice?

If this was the equivalent of 5' basketball hoops why didn't you shoot a 900 series? Sorry, I couldn't resist the cheap shot. I do get that you were trying to get a feel for the bowling center and not just working on your game, and there are times when you need a down lane reaction to work on certain things. I would think that after a game of not finding any sort of reaction you would have just picked one or two non lane dependent aspects to work on.

I practice as much as I can during the summer, on whatever lane condition is available. Last week, it was on lanes that hadn't been oiled in two days, I had never bowled there, and shot 665. During the summer here, there's just not enough traffic to warrant hauling out the lane equipment, or wasting the electricity. Found out this particular house will be shutting down the entire month of July. There are a couple of houses that are always open on the weekends, but you can't count on what shot will be there. A lot of times, you're the only person there.

Aslan

06-22-2017, 02:52 PM

Why don't bowlers "practice" anymore?
I would think that after a game of not finding any sort of reaction you would have just picked one or two non lane dependent aspects to work on.

I could talk ALL DAY about the need for the USBC to increase pattern difficulty and lower ball performance/specifications.

However, UNTIL those changes take place (if ever), it is not unreasonable to expect that a league bowler (or prospective league bowler in this case) should have some ability to practice on the conditions they will encounter during league play.

Your argument is essentially that bowling has become so easy...we don't need to "practice" anymore....just show up on league night and bowl. But, that is often also noted as one of the reasons the "sport" of bowling is in decline and is not on par with other sports.

Now, I 'somewhat' agree with your take...that if the pattern is so screwed up...ya might just want to work on some physical aspects of your game. The difficulty is how the sport has become SO pattern dependent. Examples;

- Let's say I notice the carrydown early and decide to work on my release. I throw the ball with a bad, suitcase release and it leaves the bucket. I throw the ball the next frame with what 'seems' to be an improved release...and it leaves the 3/4 bucket. I try harder and harder....try to put more and more hand into the ball...yet I continue to leave 2-pin combos.

- Let's say I want to work on my timing. Same problem. My timing is off....I miss and leave a 1-2-4-10 washout. I post a good shot and feel my timing was good...I leave a 2-4-5 3/4 bucket.

In the 'old days'...the bowler controlled the ball reaction. If you made a good shot....you got a good result. If you made a bad shot...you got a bad result. You could "practice"....anytime...anywhere. If the lanes hadn't been maintained very well or it was a holiday weekend and they hadn't oiled them....the shot was still similar enough that you could work on physical aspects of your game.

In that horrible practice session....I finally had to resort to a straight shot at the pocket...and just work on my timing, release, and accuracy. I couldn't tell if there was a problem with the release....per se. But, if the timing was off I usually pulled the shot...so I could see that. And, on a straight shot, I certainly could tell if the accuracy was off.

As disappointing as the afternoon was, it served a purpose. I am currently evaluating centers to determine where I want to spend two league nights a week for the foreseeable future (probably the next 4 years or so). The center I evaluated performed quite well during my initial evaluation...but horribly during the follow-up evaluation. I'll be giving it at least one more evaluation...maybe more...and this is how you weed out the good from the bad.

Unlike Timmyb, I won't waste my time nor money on a center that doesn't meet my standards. When I return to this center, I now know to ask them, "When were the lanes oiled last?" If the answer is, "I don't know."; that's a bad sign. If the answer is, "last Thursday"...I'm going to ask that they oil at least one lane with their standard league pattern so I can practice and get a feel for their league shot. It's likely they will say, "no". Not a problem....that limits my search from 6 centers to 5.

Bowlers have tolerated this laziness, stupidity, and lack of respect for the sport for far too long. And, we reward this behavior and reinforce it when we simply hand them our money and say, "oh well...I guess this is the most I can expect." The electricity it takes, time it takes, and amount of oil used to oil a lane is miniscule in comparison to the amount of money a league bowler will spend on a given league night...much less two league nights per week. A quality center, with quality management, and a commitment to league bowlers...will understand this.

J Anderson

06-22-2017, 06:18 PM

I wasn't really trying to argue that bowlers don't need to practice because the THS has made the game too easy. All my reasons for not practicing weremeant to be tongue in cheek.

Seriously, most league bowlers do not practice. I would suspect that most of these people are bowling as a social activity, and as long as their scor es aren't too embarassing, don't feel a need to improve.
Of those who do practice most seem to think just bowling a lot of games is enough.
Even with the kids in youth league only about a third stay after league to work with the coaches or come to the free bowling clinic on Wednesdays. And of those that do come to practice, only a third of them actually work the problems or weak spots in their technique.

Aslan

06-23-2017, 01:31 PM

I think "practicing" is the first step. "Better practicing" is the next step.

If we can't get conditions that mimic league or tournament conditions...and we can't meaningfully practice...thats pretty much the end of the line. Even if we CAN get conditions for practice...and get more people practicing...then we get to the "better practicing" side of things. That is going to be difficult as well....because many bowling practice techniques involve doing things on the lanes or the approaches...maybe setting up video cameras...setting up little targets/tape/towels ON the lanes. Will a center allow that? Will a center help by not placing a birthday party right next to you?

If they won't even put a THS pattern down every morning...expecting a center to go that 'extra mile' is almost dreaming.

Aslan

06-23-2017, 09:35 PM

Summer Practice: low-oil synthetics

Warm-Up Game: 190
The lanes were a little drier than last time I bowled at this center. Had to move around a bit trying to find the right line. Spare shooting wasn't good at all.

557 Series: 146-178-233

Abysmal spare shooting and bad shot-making in Game 1.

Game 2 was better than the score indicates. A couple splits and missed single-pin spares in both the 9th and 10th frames kinda ruined things.

Game 3 was even better. A spare in the first frame then a switch to the Scandal Pearl got me 7 strikes in the next 8 frames. Unfortunately, the line died out in the 10th and a 4-6-10 split ruined my 250+ bid.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.17 pins
Strikes: 47% (1 6-bagger, 1 turkeys, 4 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 42% picked up

Single Pin spares: 53% (7/13)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (9x)
Also left a single 3-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 25% (2/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 4 games: 186.75.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 203.25.

This center was one of the top contenders after round 1. Currently still in the running in 4th place. Tied for best in terms of the facility itself. Nice center, good staff, great bar. But, it's tied for worst in terms of distance and one of the 4 centers where the "area' leaves something to be desired.

Averaging 191 after 8 games...but yet to bowl on fresh conditions. Decent amount of oil; should be able to start just outside the track and work my way into around 13-14.

Aslan

06-23-2017, 09:51 PM

Summer Practice: dry synthetics

Warm-Up Game: 116
Couldn't keep the Reax Pearl from hooking into the 7-pin. Figured the lanes were fried, so I switched to the 300A in the 3rd frame. Still couldn't seem to make contact with the head pin. Ended up with a couple strikes...one brooklyn.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 6.64 pins
Strikes: 18% (2 singles)
Spares: 22% picked up

Single Pin spares: n/a

Multiple Pin spares: 22% (2/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 5-6 split (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2

Average over 1 game: 116.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a.

I bowled one game, then went up to pay. I asked the gal at the center when the lanes were oiled last and she couldn't recall. She said, "Well, the lanes on the other side were oiled last night....because we had a league." I pressed again, "But, when were the lanes over on this side oiled last?" She responded, "Ummm....probably like 4 days ago." FOUR DAYS!?? FOUR DAYS!!? What a JOKE!!

She went on to say that they don't really oil them in the summer...because none of the serious bowlers really bowl there during the week...only occasionally in leagues. She added, "If the more serious bowlers want to practice, they usually call ahead and we oil for them."

Really?? Hmmm. I guess I'll be testing that little policy. Next time I decide to bowl there...I'll make that phone call. If they actually DO it...that's a plus in terms of customer service for sure. If they don't....well, disqualification as a potential center for my fall/winter league play.

This center was one of the top contenders after round 1. Currently still in the running in 5th place...but really took a hit after today's waste of time.

Averaging 211 after 4 games there last time; my 2nd best performance...but we'll see if they put oil down for me when I call in the coming weeks. If they do, and the pattern looks good...this center could still be in the running. If not, this center will be disqualified from consideration.

Aslan

06-23-2017, 10:55 PM

Summer Practice: low-oil synthetics

Warm-Up Game: 170
The lanes were a LOT drier than last time I bowled at this center. I got there later in the afternoon/evening...so even if they oiled them in the morning...I wasn't gonna get a great pattern. But, it was the last of the 6 centers for Round 2 evaluation.

563 Series: 248 (clean)-131-184

Had to play 13-14...standing with my left foot nearly on 30...but I was able to keep using the Reax Pearl for the entire game. My timing and release were much better than usual...only two bad shots the entire game.

Had to switch to the Innovate in the 3rd frame and just wasn't carrying as well...nor making as good of shots. An open on a 1-2-4-7 washout in the 10th didn't help.

Game 3 was more of the same. Switched to the Scandal Pearl...but my shots were inconsistent.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 45% (1 5-bagger, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 10 singles)
Spares: 62% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 4-pin and 10-pin (3x each)
Also left a single 2-pin, 3-pin, and 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 57% (8/14)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7, 2-8, and 6-7-10 split (2x each).

Splits: 40% (2/5)

Average over 4 games: 183.25.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 190.50.

This center was also one of the top contenders after round 1. Currently still in the running in 2nd place. Probably the best in terms of lane conditions. Well lit, well-maintained, and seemingly oiled each morning. Nice center, good staff, good bar. But, it really took a hit in terms of the facility today. Both times I've went there, it's smelled like mildew. The pin setter kept 'forgetting' to put down a 10-pin. The scoring system scored incorrectly a couple times. Twice it 'forgot' to set the pins after a strike. And I needed my ball rescued a couple times. All of these things happen from time to time when bowling...but to have this many problems over the course of 4 games is a bit ridiculous.

Averaged 185 after 8 games...consistent scoring most likely due to the consistent conditions. Not a lot of oil, but I've yet to bowl on truly fresh conditions there.

MICHAEL

06-24-2017, 11:49 AM

What is practice??? Iceman never does any practice?? I bowl on my leagues, and honestly that's it! If I practiced WHO KNOWS what heights The Iceman could reach! Only the Gods know!

Aslan

06-24-2017, 01:39 PM

What is practice??? Iceman never does any practice?? I bowl on my leagues, and honestly that's it! If I practiced WHO KNOWS what heights The Iceman could reach! Only the Gods know!

And THAT...is why the next Aslan vs. Iceman Challenge will not go so well for you!

MICHAEL

06-24-2017, 07:50 PM

Ha,,,,,ha,,,,,, LOL,,,,, I hope you have looked at the scores I have been rolling lately and posting pictures of as proof! Practice is for the needy, not a God! Give me the gift any-day-vs-practice!

I do, a lot of mental bowling in my minds eye! Some times I will roll 10 to 20 games at a time, using nothing but my mind! In reality that's where its all at anyway! Think about what it would be like to practice without your mind. Its all there Aslan! Instead of wasting money on a fatal attempt to Beat The Iceman, why not just do as I do along with all the other bowling gods! "Bowl in your Mind!"

I do look forward to the day we meet again, and This Retired broken Down, Old Iron worker shows you who The REAL Bowling God is!!! Maybe this winter on the sacred Wood 6 lanes of Plattsburg! Half way between your place and mine. The highest game I rolled then on league was a 279! There has NEVER been a sanctioned 300 in its long 50 year history! Maybe you could be the first Aslan?

You keep on practicing, and I will keep on working out at the gym and doing mental bowling, then lets see who's, who's, DADDY!! LOL......

Mark My words I will roll another 300 soon on the Gladstone lanes! ( the lanes where I rolled the (277, and then 276) last week.... Then Iceman will have 3 different houses where he conquered the lanes and rolled yet another 300.

Aslan

06-27-2017, 06:59 PM

I do look forward to the day we meet again, and This Retired broken Down, Old Iron worker shows you who The REAL Bowling God is!!! Maybe this winter on the sacred Wood 6 lanes of Plattsburg! Half way between your place and mine. The highest game I rolled then on league was a 279! There has NEVER been a sanctioned 300 in its long 50 year history! Maybe you could be the first Aslan?

Well, I gotta say...these Midwest lanes are certainly a breath of fresh air!! I'm starting to see that "God Status" in the Midwest seems to take less practice than "God Status" in California (see below)! :eek:

Summer Practice: low-oil synthetics

Warm-Up Game: 180
Got there only an hour or so after the place opened...so I got lanes with a decent amount of oil on them. Actually had to move outside the track. A lot of 9 counts early on and single-pin spare shooting wasn't looking good early.

725 Series: 247 (clean)-200-278 (clean)

Switched to the Innovate in the last frame of warm-ups so I needed to make a few adjustments early. But, was able to put up a 6-bagger before missing right and leaving a 10-pin.

Kept playing 1st arrow...up and in...it was working well. By the middle of the game, I had to move between 1st and 2nd arrow. Couldn't keep things clean in Game 2 and thus missed out on my first ever clean series. :(

Game 3 I was playing around 7-8...which was a little more comfortable for me. Playing out in the 4-6 area makes me nervous and I end up pulling shots out of fear that a miss right puts me in the gutter. Made some good shots with decent and consistent speed...until a little bit too much of a miss right in the 10th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.25 pins
Strikes: 63% (1 9-bagger, 1 6-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 2 doubles, and 5 singles)
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 4-pin and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a.

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 4 games: 226.25.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 232.00.

I was going to take a week off from bowling...maybe hit the golf ball a bit today given that wet weather is on the way...but I just needed to roll that rock!!

I'm used to bowling 2-3 times a week...maybe mixing in a tourney or a practice from time-to-time. This hiatus from league play is KILLING ASLAN (<---using Iceman 3rd person speak)!!

Today was another trip to the 2 South Des Moines centers. Couldn't practice at the 2nd center due to them doing some unscheduled cosmic bowling...which, given they were already on the verge of elimination from contention for my league business...means the list of potential league homes for Aslan's Greatness is now down to FIVE!!!

The center I DID get to bowl at...almost putting up ANOTHER 300...and getting my SECOND 700+ series in ONE WEEK (thank you Midwest!)...is STILL in the lead for my league business. I stopped by the desk to get some league info...looks like they have a couple good leagues that I can take part in. Still giving FOUR other centers a shot at 1 or both of my league business...but it looks like this center is gonna get at least 1 of my league nights. It kinda sucks because this center is the furthest away from me of the six...but I gotta reward centers for taking care of their lanes, taking care of their centers, and having a strong commitment to league play. Fortunately, the two centers currently tied for 2nd place on my list are both the closest centers to my residence...so maybe I end up having one league close and one league further away...we'll see.

Aslan

06-29-2017, 07:25 PM

Summer Practice: low-medium oil synthetics

Warm-Up Game: 160
Was all over the place. Not sure why.

572 Series: 200-170-202

Had to move outside a bit more than I had planned. Was doing okay...but later in the game the shot really seemed to dry up so I switched to the Innovate.

The Innovate was just not matching up well. The line was very tight...and I just didn't have any miss room anywhere (left nor right).

Switched to the Scandal Pearl and tried to see if I could get a little more "umphh" on the backend...but it still wasn't there.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.77 pins
Strikes: 38% (1 4-bagger, 3 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (10/12)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin and 10-pin (3x each)
Never left a single 1-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 38% (5/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 4 games: 183.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 187.75.

I gave the #5 center another chance today...but nothing impressive...so I think it's almost eliminated from contention. I can't blame the lane conditions this time around...I just wasn't making good shots at ALL! Probably my worst bowling as far back as I can remember. I was amazed that I only missed 2 single-pins...they must have stood out in my mind because I somehow thought I missed like 7.

Gonna give the other two North Des Moines centers a try...maybe this weekend...maybe next week. Might have my league center candidates down to 4 sometime next week. Also looking to drill up the Thug Life and Ebonite Warning Sign next week...retire the Reax Pearl and Innovate. I probably got 204-240 games on the Reax Pearl and about 173-230 games on the Innovate. The Scandal Pearl I added to the arsenal later...only about 99-132 games on it so I'll keep it as the #3 ball in my progression. Not to mention, it's been my best ball...I've been striking at a 50% pace with the Scandal Pearl! I'll also keep the Track300A in the progression...I've barely even used that ball to date...maybe 10-20 games at most. This'll be the last of my 16lb equipment in the closet of destiny...might consider adding one more...maybe retire the Scandal Pearl and shuffle the arsenal a little...but at this point I'm fine with these options. After Fall/Winter league season, I'll probably make the move to my very anticipated 15lb arsenal featuring some much stronger equipment...maybe the combination of weight and ball strength will allow me to open up the lanes a little more. :cool:

Aslan

06-30-2017, 08:14 PM

Summer Practice: low- oil synthetics

Warm-Up Game: 172
The lanes were decent. Just wasn't making decent shots early on.

630 Series: 180-224-226

Game 1 I had a couple bad frames where I left splits....otherwise the shots were solid.

Game 2 the shots were much better...had either a 9-count or 10-count on the first ball every frame. A missed 7-pin in the 5th frame away from a clean game.

Game 3 was just like Game 1...a couple bad shots resulting in opens...but I was able to run a string of strikes together to salvage a decent score.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.14 pins
Strikes: 52% (1 6-bagger, 3 turkeys, 1 double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (8/12)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (5x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 28% (2/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 20% (1/5)

Average over 4 games: 200.50.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 211.75.

This center came in as #4 on the list. It's a bigger, nicer center...but a bit far away and not in the greatest area. But, the lanes have been in good shape all 3 times I've visited...so thats a big positive...and currently I have it at #2 on my list. Next time I visit, I gotta try and get some info on their fall leagues. They have more leagues than any other center...but I don't know the details of the leagues other than when they start, whether they are sanctioned, and the men/women make-up.

I DID notice on the way out the door...that they have a summer color-pin program where a strike when there is a red pin as the head-pin...wins you a free game of bowling! I didn't even see that sign until today! I could have had like 18 free games by now! I guess I should read the fliers when I'm walking in and out of the center from now on. :confused:

Aslan

06-30-2017, 08:39 PM

Summer Practice: dry synthetics

Warm-Up Game: 144
The lanes were really burnt. Looks like this center decided not to oil in the morning.

533 Series: 169-171-193

Games 1 and 2 I was just really struggling to find a good line to the pocket. Some of my shots were off...but some of the shots were decent and I just could NOT get right of the headpin.

I was mentally 'spent' by Game 3...but switched to the Track 300A just to see if a much weaker ball could give me a decent shot. It actually worked quite well...almost all 9-counts and 10-counts...unfortunately opened on a single 7-pin in the 10th frame.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.41 pins
Strikes: 36% (2 turkeys, 3 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 51% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 6-pin, 7-pin, and 4-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 55% (10/18)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-3-6 and 3-6 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 4 games: 169.25.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 181.25.

This center was tied for 2nd on my list coming in. The place is the closest serious center with synthetic lanes...it's a big center...decent website...decent facility...and a very friendly staff. The lady actually remembers my name and I only bowled there 3 times this month. After 3 visits, she's now asking me about joining a league there. The downside is the facility itself. I've had numerous problems with the pinsetters dropping pins and last time I had a ball return issue like 3-5 times over 4 games.

But, this is the first time I had issues with the lanes themselves...and thats a bigger deal. A center that doesn't oil it's lanes properly or frequently...is a sign of a center that really doesn't care. I think these folks that run this center are good people and really are trying hard to make this center a success. They might even be willing to bring the oil machine out for me to practice if I asked and they weren't busy. I just worry that the combination of the lane issues today and the persistent equipment issues...just really giving me a bad feeling about this center.

These lanes were really, really dry. It even made practicing single-pin spare shooting practice difficult, if not impossible, because the ball hooked away from the pin...even when thrown straight. I had to actually aim for the 1-2 boards, at the tracers, and let the plastic spare ball straighten out into the 10-pin. I made a perfect shot at the 4-pin that hooked into the gutter just before where the 7-pin would normally have stood. Just absurd. And there's no excuse for that. I'm sick and tired of the USBC whining about the decline of the sport of bowling...yet the few of us that actually take the sport seriously and actually try to PRACTICE (not just show up on league night)...we have to deal with this nonsense. It's just disappointing...especially because this center has fallen from tied for 2nd to a solid 4th...and it means I may have to do leagues at the centers that are the furthest away from me...despite this particular center having a really nice staff. :(

Aslan

07-13-2017, 10:21 PM

Summer Practice: wood synthetics

562 Series: 185-221-156

First time testing out the new Thug Life...probably the best ball I've ever thrown, in terms of initial results. The reaction was so angular...that I kept thinking I was going to miss the pocket...and suddenly the ball just turned and slammed into the pocket.

In Game 3 I tried out the new Ebonite Warning Sign...definitely the worst debut, in contrast to the Thug Life...I can remember. I couldn't play the same line as the Thug Life...was missing WAY right. I tried to move out to the track...still very little reaction. To make matters worse, it seemed like every one of my misses was some split or disasterous washout...no easy spares.

439 Series: 147-145-147

Decided to continue to work with the Warning Sign...ended up playing straight at the pocket...which was slightly better, but even pocket hits tended to leave 10-pins.

Game 2 was more of the same. Switched to the Scandal Pearl to see if I could figure out of the problem was the Warning Sign or the lines that I was playing. Still no luck...tried moving left and playing a bit more aggressive of a line...still not luck.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.54 pins
Strikes: 40% (2 turkeys, 5 doubles, and 10 singles)
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (6x)
Also left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, and 2-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 34% (9/26)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-8 and 2-4-8-10 split (3x each)

Splits: 10% (1/10)

Average over 6 games: 166.83.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 175.33.

Gave this center serious consideration for being one of the centers I bowl at come fall leagues...despite it being a rather small house with wood lanes. But, this is the second time I've tried to bowl there in 2 weeks...and one time it was closed and today it didn't open till 3PM. This is the problem with small, country centers...you can't really rely on them to be staffed and open. The lanes play okay...despite them being of wood construction....and it's a nice little center with a knowledgeable kid running it. And, the major selling point is that it's very close by...less than 15 minutes...in a decent area. I'm just worried that the lane conditions are going to be too unpredictable. One minute I'm shooting a 279 and 700+ series and the next minute I'm going for a 145-145-145 triplicate.

Not sure what the problem was. Might have been me being out of practice...having not bowled in almost 2 weeks...a LONG break in Aslan terms. Might have been the new arsenal...still trying to sort out the progression. The Warning Sign looks to be a challenging ball, just like the Innovate was...maybe even more so. And this is the first time I've thrown a DV8 ball despite having thrown Radical and quite a few Brunswick balls.

This progression was sort of 'haphazardly' put together...just a 'semi'-arsenal change replacing two of the four balls....mainly just to use up my stock of 16lb balls I still have left in "the closet of destiny." Ideally, I'd have replaced the Scandal Pearl with the Thug Life...I like the skid/flip properties of the Thug Life more than I like it as a "1st ball out of the bag." The Warning Sign should be a decent replacement for the Innovate...same manufacturer and similar release dates...almost identical specs. But, it adds a hybrid coverstock to a primarily pearl progression...and although the Innovate wasn't very popular...the Warning Sign was probably one of the least popular ball releases in history.

I'll be experimenting a lot with surface in this progression...trying to make everything 'fit' together. I changed the surface on the Thug Life immediately after it was drilled. The OOB surface was perfect for a #3 skid/flip ball...but I put a 3000 abralon surface on it to make it more useful as a ball #1 in the progression. I was worried it would dull the backend reaction...hook too early, lose power...but not based on how it performed this afternoon.

I'm thinking the 3000 surface on the hybrid cover of the Warning Sign will allow me to stay in the same place when I ball down...rather than move 1:2 right like I had to do with the polished Innovate. Might even let me change my strategy a bit and make a 1:1 move inside; stay in the oil more. But, so far...although it's early...the progression isn't firing on all cylinders. :(

Aslan

08-08-2017, 09:59 PM

Summer Practice: medium-oil synthetics

Warm-Up: 185

587 Series: 187-219-181

Game 1 I only opened on a couple splits. Game 2 my only open was a 1-2-4-6-10. Game 3 I had to switch to the Warning Sign and also had some spare shooting issues.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.14 pins
Strikes: 54% (3 turkeys, 2 doubles, and 7 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin and 10-pin (3x each)
Also left a single 9-pin and 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (4/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6-10 and 6-10 split (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 4 games: 193.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 199.00.

My single-pin spare shooting wasn't good. I stayed and played a game of lowball...didn't do that great. Apparently I can take some time off and get my strike game back rather quickly...but the spare shooting was rusty.

This center was in contention to be one of the centers that gets my league business...I figured one night of two. But, the league I was interested in is full...so I'll probably just do two leagues at the other center...as long as those don't fill up before I find a job. And then, of course, I have to hope I end up with a day shift job that will allow me to make it to a 6:00PM bowling night twice a week...don't know that yet. If the other center's leagues fill up, there are a couple other leagues at this center that would be acceptable.

This is only the second time throwing the new equipment. Same review as last time...the Thug Life is snappier on the backend...makes me nervous to see it gliding right...not knowing if it'll make the turn. But, it usually makes the turn and hits with authority.

The Warning Sign...not so glowing reviews. :mad: The Warning Sign should move sooner than the Innovate...but the Warning Sign doesn't seem to move at ALL. Going from the Reax Pearl to the Innovate I usually had to make a 1:2 move right...because the Innovate was just much weaker than the Reax Pearl. But, when going from the Thug Life to the Warning Sign...I actually have to move my target left about a half board...and move my feet 2.5 boards right...creating a very straight shot into the pocket. Not a huge surprise...of every ball I've ever purchased...the Warning Sign was the one I was least excited about. Gonna have to figure out how to throw it though...or it's gonna get retired early...and I don't really have a good 16lb option in that spot unless I unretire the Innovate.

Aslan

08-11-2017, 07:29 PM

Summer Practice: medium-oil synthetics

Warm-Up: 175

546 Series: 199-167-180

Game 1 I only opened on a couple splits. Game 2 my only open was a 1-2-4-6-10. Game 3 I had to switch to the Warning Sign and also had some spare shooting issues.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.52 pins
Strikes: 40% (1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 8 singles)
Spares: 62% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 6-pin, and 4-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 52% (9/17)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 4 games: 180.25.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 183.25.

My spare-shooting was better...but the strike rate and ability to string strikes together was brutal.

I mainly focused on accuracy because I was really struggling at hitting my target. Also focused on the other physical and timing related things...but missing 3-4 boards right was really frustrating me. Didn't pull many shots...so I think my timing was halfway decent...but I don't know why I was missing right, especially by so many boards, all of the sudden.

I used the Thug Life for all 4 games...didn't move much laterally. Perhaps I should have tried to straighten out my line and ball down...but I just didn't have enough feel for what was going on to be confident in any changes/moves.

Mentally I think my current "situation" is hampering me. Bowling is, in many ways, a "mental game"...and I'd be more "comfortable" mentally if I was preparing for league play that starts in a matter of 2 weeks. I'd like to know that I'm preparing for the next phase in my bowling career, as a high average bowler, in a new region, against new challengers, in a larger handicap league; where maybe I can take that next step to become a "league leader" or a bowler competing for the "high-average" position and perhaps the > 200 average (THS) phase of my career. I don't like this uncertainty where I don't know if I'll be bowling this Fall/Winter or where I'll be bowling this Fall/Winter.

But, after 4 weeks off...it was good to get some time in on the lanes this week.

Aslan

08-24-2017, 05:58 PM

Summer Practice: medium-oil synthetics

Warm-Up: 254

435 Series: 153-136-146

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 36% (1 8-bagger, 1 double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 44% picked up

Single Pin spares: 61% (8/13)
Most common single-pin leaves: 4-pin and 7-pin (4x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 5-pin, 9-pin, and 6-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 28% (4/14)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5-8 bucket (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 4 games: 172.25.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 186.75.

Just a miserable practice. I started out with good results...but my accuracy and timing was off...it was just good carry from the Thug Life.

Once that carry disappeared...I couldn't seem to open the lanes up. I'd move 1:2 inside, and leave a bucket. Then, move 1:2 right...and go through the nose.

I finally switched to the Warning Sign midway through Game 2...and that was an unmitigated disaster. The Warning Sign is quickly becoming my least favorite ball of all time. For a Hybrid with a 2.49 RG...this ball does NOT move. I had to move outside to inside of the 5-board just to see the ball make a noticeable move. I could put more surface on it...but then I risk it burning up.

The dang Ball #2 in my progression has always been a problem. First I couldn't get the Dark Encounter to work. Then the Innovate was challenging. Now the Warning Sign. I'd like to blame it on EBI...but honestly the Scandal Pearl (EBI) is one of the better balls I've ever thrown.

I think I just need more frequent practice. With my job search and writing in full swing...and my league bowling up in the air...and more family commitments...and a longer distance to the bowling center...I just don't have the time to practice the way I used to. I've been considering joining a couple leagues...just to stay active as a bowler and keep my skills in tact. But, if I join a league...then I'm committed...and should I need to move or take a job with problematic hours...I'd have to quit. Smarter to just wait this out and try to get in as much practice as I can.