First Bowling Ball

[josh83]

Hi everyone

I am new to this forum. I just started in a bowling league about the beginning of November. I have a 89 average but my last 3 games were a 101 average. I am going to be getting my own Ball in about a week. I was just wondering what your thoughts are for a first ball. I have a feeling the pro at the pro shop will have me go with a straight shooting plastic ball. Which I have doubts with. My first doubt is cracking I have read many reviews where these plastic balls have cracked after 2 uses. My next doubt is I want a ball that will allow me for room for advancement I don't know if there is such a thing. But I don't want to buy a ball then my game improves over a few months and am already looking at another ball. One thing I will tell you is I feel very motivated to improve my average and game.

i hope that makes sense and looking forward to your thoughts. Thanks in advance:

[rv driver]

Welcome to the forum!

What weight are you throwing? What are the lanes at your house like? What's your throwing style/ball speed? Those are questions that are pertinent to receiving a decent answer as to what ball you should use. With an 89 average, it sounds like you don't yet have the fundamentals of your game developed. Might be best to begin with a plastic ball that could become a spare ball later on, while you develop your stance, balance, approach, swing, aim, speed, etc. Once those things are in place, you could step up to something like a Strike King, an Ascent, an Outcry, a Misfit -- some entry or step-up level reactive equipment that will help you develop a hook. Have your house pro watch you throw a few and make some suggestions.

But post your answers to the questions I asked, so we can begin to point you in the right direction.

And have fun here -- lots of good information and cameraderie. And have fun with your bowling!

[josh83]

Welcome to the forum!

What weight are you throwing? What are the lanes at your house like? What's your throwing style/ball speed? Those are questions that are pertinent to receiving a decent answer as to what ball you should use. With an 89 average, it sounds like you don't yet have the fundamentals of your game developed. Might be best to begin with a plastic ball that could become a spare ball later on, while you develop your stance, balance, approach, swing, aim, speed, etc. Once those things are in place, you could step up to something like a Strike King, an Ascent, an Outcry, a Misfit -- some entry or step-up level reactive equipment that will help you develop a hook. Have your house pro watch you throw a few and make some suggestions.

But post your answers to the questions I asked, so we can begin to point you in the right direction.

And have fun here -- lots of good information and cameraderie. And have fun with your bowling!

Thanks for your reply. I am throwing a 12 pound ball. My style/ball speed is a tough question for me to answer right now am not sure. The lanes look like they have a good amount of oil on them as to how much it's hard for me to say but I am smelling a pretty strong chemical smell as soon as I walk into the bowling alley. Hope some of that is helpful.

[rv driver]

Thanks for your reply. I am throwing a 12 pound ball. My style/ball speed is a tough question for me to answer right now am not sure. The lanes look like they have a good amount of oil on them as to how much it's hard for me to say but I am smelling a pretty strong chemical smell as soon as I walk into the bowling alley. Hope some of that is helpful.
I've never been in a house that didn't smell like oil. If you don't mind my asking, how old are you? What is your physical condition? The reason I ask is because most male bowlers throw 14-16# balls. Unless they're seniors, or have some physical limitation. I judge by your name that you're a guy, right? I throw 12# because I'm in my mid-50s and have arthritis and bursitis issues. I'd throw heavier if I could.

It makes a difference as to how the reactive balls will perform. When you read the specs on web sites, those specs are usually for a 15# ball. 12# balls can go longer or even hook more and still get less pin carry than their heavier brothers. If you are a hale and hearty younger guy, you really ought to look at throwing at least 14#, and if you're going to do that, you may as well go ahead and throw 15# (unless, as I say, there's a good physical reason for you not to). Again, I'd talk to your house pro, have him take a look at your game and make some recommendations. Until then, I think if I were you, I might go with a plastic ball until you get your game figured out. I started with a weaker reactive ball, but that's because I used to bowl seriously years ago, and already had my game down. It sounds like you're in a different place. You really might be less frustrated with a plastic ball, rather than trying to learn to control a reactive ball when you're also trying to establish your own muscle memory and get your basics under control.

But I'd defer to the more experienced people here. Rob, Mike, Bowl, whaddya guys think?

[bowl1820]

First, Unless it just happens to be defective, plastic balls don't crack after 2 uses. "many reviews"?

Also you can't tell how much oil is on the lanes by the smell.

A plastic ball is a okay place to start, you can get your fit worked out, get some consistency in your form and release first. Before spending more money on a "Better" ball.

The plastic ball would also serve later on as a "Spare" ball.

A entry level reactive ball is also a good place to start. It can give you some "help" with a bit more ball motion.

Something along the lines of a Ebonite Cyclone, Storm Tropical Breeze, Columbia 300 Scout, Brunswick Slingshot, DV8 Misfit.

As rv driver suggested moving up in weight if possible would be a good idea.

[josh83]

I am 31 years old and in decent physical shape. Before I joined the league I was using a 11Ibs ball then when I started someone suggested trying a heavier ball so I went to 12 Ibs. I could try a heavier ball but I won't want to push it as I do not want to injure myself. I have read that you should be able to bowl 3 games with out and pain or fatigue if you have any pain etc the ball is too heavy. 12ibs feels comfortable to me right now but I could possibly try a 13 Ibs or 14 Ibs but it doesn't Pay injure myself just so I can be throwing the weight of ball they suggest men should be throwing.

[rv driver]

I am 31 years old and in decent physical shape. Before I joined the league I was using a 11Ibs ball then when I started someone suggested trying a heavier ball so I went to 12 Ibs. I could try a heavier ball but I won't want to push it as I do not want to injure myself. I have read that you should be able to bowl 3 games with out and pain or fatigue if you have any pain etc the ball is too heavy. 12ibs feels comfortable to me right now but I could possibly try a 13 Ibs or 14 Ibs but it doesn't Pay injure myself just so I can be throwing the weight of ball they suggest men should be throwing.
Are you talking hand/wrist pain? If the ball is fit properly, you shouldn't get any pain from a 14# ball. Unless you're grossly out-of-shape. Plus, when the ball is fit to your hand, it will feel much lighter. House balls can make you sore because they're not custom fit to your hand.

[bowl1820]

I am 31 years old and in decent physical shape. Before I joined the league I was using a 11Ibs ball then when I started someone suggested trying a heavier ball so I went to 12 Ibs. I could try a heavier ball but I won't want to push it as I do not want to injure myself. I have read that you should be able to bowl 3 games with out and pain or fatigue if you have any pain etc the ball is too heavy. 12ibs feels comfortable to me right now but I could possibly try a 13 Ibs or 14 Ibs but it doesn't Pay injure myself just so I can be throwing the weight of ball they suggest men should be throwing.

Being 31 and in decent physical shape, a 12# ball is pretty light to be using. A 12# ball will have a lot of deflection off the pins. Whether you baby it down the lane or throw a rocket to the pocket.

Every ball will feel heavier than it should when the fit is not right. Once you get a properly fitted ball it will feel lighter. I use 15# ball with a fingertip grip, If I go over and pick up a 15# house ball it feels heavy compared to my personal equipment.

Here's a test to get a idea of what weight ball you could use.

Ron Clifton:
"The first thing I check when trying to pick a ball weight is the persons wrist strength. I have them hold the ball down by their side with their wrist relaxed. Then I ask them to cup their wrist forward. They should be able to hold that position for a slow count to 10 or the ball is too heavy."

http://www.bowl4fun.com/ron/TipGraphics/Relaxed2.jpghttp://www.bowl4fun.com/ron/TipGraphics/Cupped2.JPG

The test is from Ron Clifton's article "WHAT WEIGHT BALL? COULD 14 LBS BE YOUR "SWEET WEIGHT"?
http://www.bowl4fun.com/ron/tip14.htm


Another method is this from the bronze coaching manual.

"One method is to have your athlete use the balls on the storage racks. The athlete needs to place the palm of the bowling hand facing the ceiling at about waist high. The forearm of the bowling arm is in a position that is 90 degrees from the torso of the body.
When placing a ball in the palm of the hand, look for a ball that will slightly push the hand downward. If the athlete has no problem holding a ball, it is too light. Conversely if the athlete has difficulty maintaining the hand and forearm at the 90 degree position it is too heavy. The ball that seems slightly heavy in most cases will feel fine once the ball has been drilled with the proper fit. "

[josh83]

Are you talking hand/wrist pain? If the ball is fit properly, you shouldn't get any pain from a 14# ball. Unless you're grossly out-of-shape. Plus, when the ball is fit to your hand, it will feel much lighter. House balls can make you sore because they're not custom fit to your hand.


I am not having any pain with the 12lbs. But am worry if I go with. 14Ibs i will because it may be to heavy and it's not worth injuring yourself over. I am in ok shape. But people have there limits. I have been told though that I have a weak wrist. I will leave it to the pro at the pro shop to determine if 12 is or is not the right weight.

[josh83]

Bowl1820 that may be true but until am fitted with my own ball I would have no way of knowing.

[Hendu71]

What speed are you throwing 12 pound house balls? Most centers display approximate MPH.

[josh83]

What speed are you throwing 12 pound house balls? Most centers display approximate MPH.

Hendu71 I really wish I could tell you that but I have no way of knowing there is no display that tells me how fast the ball goes.

[rv driver]

I am not having any pain with the 12lbs. But am worry if I go with. 14Ibs i will because it may be to heavy and it's not worth injuring yourself over. I am in ok shape. But people have there limits. I have been told though that I have a weak wrist. I will leave it to the pro at the pro shop to determine if 12 is or is not the right weight.
Well, ultimately, only you know what you're able to throw, and far be it from me (who throws 12#) to tell you that you should throw heavier. Have you tried to throw 14#? I'm no doctor or athletic trainer, but I don't think a 31 year old man could injure himself bowling with a 14# ball, unless there's some physical limitation. If you're simply throwing the ball wrong, I think you'd stand as great a chance of injuring yourself with 12# as you would with 14#.

Ask the house pro. He can make sure you're throwing the right way. If you end up with a 12#, that's OK, you just have to realize that a lot of 12# equipment has a generic core, rather than the one the ball specifies, because the weight has to be taken away somewhere, and that's usually with the core (which is a major player in the ball's reaction). I've had a heck of a time finding 12#ers that don't have just a generic core. Good luck, man!

[josh83]

Well, ultimately, only you know what you're able to throw, and far be it from me (who throws 12#) to tell you that you should throw heavier. Have you tried to throw 14#? I'm no doctor or athletic trainer, but I don't think a 31 year old man could injure himself bowling with a 14# ball, unless there's some physical limitation. If you're simply throwing the ball wrong, I think you'd stand as great a chance of injuring yourself with 12# as you would with 14#.

Ask the house pro. He can make sure you're throwing the right way. If you end up with a 12#, that's OK, you just have
to realize that a lot of 12# equipment has a generic core, rather than the one the ball specifies, because the weight has to be taken away somewhere, and that's usually with the core (which is a major player in the ball's reaction). I've had a heck of a time finding 12#ers that don't have just a generic core. Good luck, man!

Rv driver Thanks for your help I will consider trying the 14 pound ball and see how it goes on Monday when I bowl with the league. I am going to the pro shop on dec 13 to get my own ball. Just curious would it be too much of a jump for me to start out with something like a Storm Tropical Breeze which is an entry reactive ball and then I'd have somthing to advance on.

[larry mc]

entry level 15 lb ball . my 15 year old niece throws 15 .. if u r 31 and in decent health u will have no problem,,,, when u get a ball drilled for u it will feel lighter

[josh83]

Thanks Larry I will consider a 15Lbs ball :)

[Bradski9]

11 to 15 will be a big jump, after you throw your 15 lb ball that is fitted to your hand for a while it won't feel like 15lb. I am a skinny 18 yr old and I use 15 lbs xD

[larry mc]

yeah a 15 lb will be a world of difference in your carry

[rv driver]

Rv driver Thanks for your help I will consider trying the 14 pound ball and see how it goes on Monday when I bowl with the league. I am going to the pro shop on dec 13 to get my own ball. Just curious would it be too much of a jump for me to start out with something like a Storm Tropical Breeze which is an entry reactive ball and then I'd have somthing to advance on.
The Breeze is a great ball -- not a lot of reaction, but enough to give you an idea what a reactive ball is going to do.

[Hendu71]

The advice I've heard is your ball should be 1/10th your body weight (up to 16 lbs) if you do not have any injury. If you have weak wrists, I would try a basic wrist device (~$15 kind) and I would try a house ball that's comfortable, then add 1lb, because a ball specifically drilled for you is going to be much more comfortable than a house ball.

I'm 43, not in exactly great shape, and I throw a 15lb one.

If you don't know your ball speed, have a friend use a stop watch from the time your release until the time the ball hits the pins. Then use a ball speed calculator like this

http://www.csgnetwork.com/bowlingballcalc.html

[fortheloveofbowling]

Never heard that one before. Pete weber probably weighs 130 max soaking wet. The ball weight should be judged by what you can effectively throw without having to muscle it or causes you physical problems up to the point you determine what carries the best for you.

[josh83]

Never heard that one before. Pete weber probably weighs 130 max soaking wet. The ball weight should be judged by what you can effectively throw without having to muscle it or causes you physical problems up to the point you determine what carries the best for you.

That's what I have read. it's probably something the pro at that pro shop can help me determine. Then again I understand why it's better to throw a heavier ball.

[josh83]

this is what it says in bowlingball.com about selecting the proper weight:

Shopping for proper weight

Average adult male usually bowls with a: 14-16 lb. ball
Average adult female usually bowls with a: 10-14 lb. ball
Juniors: 1lb. of weight per year of child's age, i.e. 8 yrs old = 8-lb. ball
Buy the heaviest ball that you can comfortably use while maintaining a proper speed. Heavier balls don't always knock down more pins. The impact of the bowling ball thrown would be speed times the mass. Ex: You would be better off with a 14 pound ball thrown 16 mph than a 16 pound ball thrown at 13 mph.
Be cautious of exceptions in size and physical ability; If you are larger/heavier than average, go up in weight; If you are smaller or have limiting physical features, stay lower in ball weight

[bowl1820]

The advice I've heard is your ball should be 1/10th your body weight (up to 16 lbs)

The 1/10th your body weight is a old chestnut, it was really used more for picking a weight for a child's ball than a adult.

[Perrin]

I'll throw my hat in the ring as well. :) I agree with near everyone that you should at least consider a heavier ball.

As for what ball to choose... Brunswick Strike King, DV8 Outcast (replaced misfit), 900 Global Boost, columbia 300 Scout, Ebonite Cyclone, Pyramid Path Rising, Roto Grip Scream/Shout... every company has an entry level line.
Most pro-shops seem to have a deal with a particular Brand that you can get their stuff for a few bucks cheaper.

[josh83]

So at the least a 14 Ibs or 15? would you say? as you probably read I am using a 12lbs currently. I'm just afraid am going to be pressured in to some spare plastic ball. The ball I have in mind is Storm Tropical Breeze or Brunswick Strike king.

[Perrin]

So at the least a 14 Ibs or 15? would you say? as you probably read I am using a 12lbs currently. I'm just afraid am going to be pressured in to some spare plastic ball. The ball I have in mind is Storm Tropical Breeze or Brunswick Strike king.

from an ease/time perspective 15 is what most pro-shops stock the most of. that's the 'standard' weight anymore but if it's not comfortable by all means use the weight that works for you. I bowl with a guy that throws a 12 lb conventional grip ball..

If you want a Breeze or Strike King just don't let the pro-shop talk you into plastic.

Another topic that you may or may not have considered is if you go with a conventional or finger-tip drilling.
That is another subject alot of people have solid opinions on.
I believe that if you plan to in the future use fingertip then you should start with a fingertip drilling.
others feel that you should always start with conventional, learn the basics, then switch to fingertip.

[Hendu71]

Starting with a plastic ball is not bad. A reactive ball is not going to save you from bad aiming, and I know this from experience. You are going to need a plastic ball eventually, the house balls won't cut it, plus you'll probably want to have a plastic ball with the same overall feel as the reactive in your hand for consistency. A house ball can't touch that. I know people want reactives first because they like seeing a cool-looking hook, but converting spares and being able to throw straight is every bit as important.

[josh83]

You were all right. Thank you. I tried a 14lbs house ball tonight when I bowled with the league and it was fine no problems. I think it even help my game.

If it weren't for all your suggestions about going to a heavier ball I would of never done it.

Thank you :)

[Jaescrub]

You might look into getting both. The prices of good starter equipment reactive and plastic are real low. Some pros shops might even do a package deal if you ask.

[josh83]

You might look into getting both. The prices of good starter equipment reactive and plastic are real low. Some pros shops might even do a package deal if you ask.

That would be nice :) You might get better deals in the U.S then we do here in Canada. But yeah if it's the right price I would differently do that. I would like to try and keep it under $200.00.

[Jaescrub]

Should be easy at that plastic drilled up should only be about $80 at most. The maxim has new styles out so the old ones here are being marked down.

[josh83]

I have some doubts about maxim. I read reviews that they have cracked open. I have also read that Ebonite has had some issues with their coverstocks

[Jaescrub]

White dots are tried and true. A lil more money :/

[ALazySavage]

I haven't really seen anything on the Maxim cracking, especially after so few uses. Just don't leave it out in freezing temperatures and then immediately try to bowl with it. Also, there is a one-year warranty on Ebonite equipment so that would cover that issue (as long as the crack isn't in the bridge of the fingers).

[Amyers]

Both my daughters started with Maxims not bad for the money. I think the cover stock problems you hear about ebonite are more related to their reactive balls or at least the ones I have heard have been

[Mike White]

White dots are tried and true. A lil more money :/

Maybe if you include the years they weren't owned by Ebonite, but now there isn't really much difference between a T-Zone, Maxim, and White Dot.

[Mike White]

I haven't really seen anything on the Maxim cracking, especially after so few uses. Just don't leave it out in freezing temperatures and then immediately try to bowl with it. Also, there is a one-year warranty on Ebonite equipment so that would cover that issue (as long as the crack isn't in the bridge of the fingers).

Most of the cracking I see in plastic balls is related to rolling the ball over the fingers/thumb.

[josh83]

I will see what the pro recommends. I am hoping he well recommend something like the Storm Tropical Breeze. My average goes up every time I bowl with the league I get a little better I now have a 95 avg. if I remember clearly before it was a 85. Don't know if that means anything.

[rv driver]

I will see what the pro recommends. I am hoping he well recommend something like the Storm Tropical Breeze. My average goes up every time I bowl with the league I get a little better I now have a 95 avg. if I remember clearly before it was a 85. Don't know if that means anything.
A Breeze is definitely a step up from a plastic ball. Plus they smell good.

[Perrin]

A Breeze is definitely a step up from a plastic ball. Plus they smell good.

Saves you from having to buy an air freshener for the bag..... Just make sure whatever one you get is a scent you can deal with..... for instance I hate the smell of Vanilla so any ball with that scent would drive me nuts.

[josh83]

Saves you from having to buy an air freshener for the bag..... Just make sure whatever one you get is a scent you can deal with..... for instance I hate the smell of Vanilla so any ball with that scent would drive me nuts.

Do pros at the pro shops after they have watch you bowl do they usually give you one recommendation of which ball to get or a number options. I just feel reluctant to go with a spare ball I don't feel like am getting the best bang for the dollar. I feel like if I go with a tropical breeze at least it gives me a room for advancement so when I am at the stage I can hook the ball I don't have to run out and buy another ball. Don't know if that makes sense.

[fortheloveofbowling]

Do pros at the pro shops after they have watch you bowl do they usually give you one recommendation of which ball to get or a number options. I just feel reluctant to go with a spare ball I don't feel like am getting the best bang for the dollar. I feel like if I go with a tropical breeze at least it gives me a room for advancement so when I am at the stage I can hook the ball I don't have to run out and buy another ball. Don't know if that makes sense.

The tropical breeze would be a good choice at your current level. That would save you some money and maybe you could use those extra dollars to find a certified coach in your area and get a few lessons. Money well spent for someone at a beginning level especially. Good luck to you.

[josh83]

The tropical breeze would be a good choice at your current level. That would save you some money and maybe you could use those extra dollars to find a certified coach in your area and get a few lessons. Money well spent for someone at a beginning level especially. Good luck to you.

I just hope the pro who watches me bowl agrees with you. Otherwise am probably stuck with a spare ball which I don't think is money well spent

[ALazySavage]

Some pro shop staff will watch you throw before they recommend a bowling ball, but there are going to be some difficulties in your exact situation. Since you would be using a house ball that doesn't fit your hand properly your release will not be the same as your release when you have a ball that properly fits (as some have expressed in this, ball feels lighter and you won't have to "grip" the ball). Typically what a pro shop person would be looking for is your PAP (the axis in which the ball rotates around when you throw it, this varies from bowler to bowler and is more for fine tuning...not what you should be focused on at this time).

Thus the main decision would be what level of ball you should get, this decision has already been narrowed down to either an entry level reactive ball (tropical storm, etc.) or a plastic ball. Also as stated previously stated you are going to want to throw either 14lb or 15lb. Personally, I would go with the entry level ball over the plastic ball. You can still pick spares up with an entry level ball, it is not going to take off so much that basic spares are going to become un-makeable and you will gain more area (miss room) on your strike shots. Essentially this will not be a make or break decision in your bowling development so I wouldn't worry too much about the specific ball you are getting, right now the most important part is getting a ball that fits properly and makes you happy.

If you decide to get an entry level ball (not plastic), there isn't going to be too much difference for you in this matter. For higher level bowlers there may be some brand loyalty or a specific aspect of the ball that will make a small difference, but since this is your first ball this shouldn't be an issue.

[Perrin]

Do pros at the pro shops after they have watch you bowl do they usually give you one recommendation of which ball to get or a number options. I just feel reluctant to go with a spare ball I don't feel like am getting the best bang for the dollar. I feel like if I go with a tropical breeze at least it gives me a room for advancement so when I am at the stage I can hook the ball I don't have to run out and buy another ball. Don't know if that makes sense.

Any pro-shop that won't discuss ball choice with you when you ask for their ideas I wouldn't go to. They should be not only able to suggest a ball but explain why they are suggesting it and offer options for you.

The problem is I don't know how you bowl.. if you are a low to medium rev guy and/or higher speed then I would say to start with the entry level resin. Breeze being a good example of the category. With bowling specs like that plastic won't do much if anything on a normal house shot. If you put a lot on the ball and even with plastic house ball are getting a good amount of hook then I would say go with the Plastic ball or you will likely struggle with right side spares.

Do you know any of your release specs? speed, revs, rotation?

[josh83]

Perrin I really wish i could answer your questions but i have no way of knowing. I could only estimate as to how fast the ball speed is when i throw and that would be somewhere between 13-15 but that's just a guess. Revs I have no idea couldn't even estimate. Rotation I don't even know what that is.

[josh83]

Some pro shop staff will watch you throw before they recommend a bowling ball, but there are going to be some difficulties in your exact situation. Since you would be using a house ball that doesn't fit your hand properly your release will not be the same as your release when you have a ball that properly fits (as some have expressed in this, ball feels lighter and you won't have to "grip" the ball). Typically what a pro shop person would be looking for is your PAP (the axis in which the ball rotates around when you throw it, this varies from bowler to bowler and is more for fine tuning...not what you should be focused on at this time).

Thus the main decision would be what level of ball you should get, this decision has already been narrowed down to either an entry level reactive ball (tropical storm, etc.) or a plastic ball. Also as stated previously stated you are going to want to throw either 14lb or 15lb. Personally, I would go with the entry level ball over the plastic ball. You can still pick spares up with an entry level ball, it is not going to take off so much that basic spares are going to become un-makeable and you will gain more area (miss room) on your strike shots. Essentially this will not be a make or break decision in your bowling development so I wouldn't worry too much about the specific ball you are getting, right now the most important part is getting a ball that fits properly and makes you happy.

If you decide to get an entry level ball (not plastic), there isn't going to be too much difference for you in this matter. For higher level bowlers there may be some brand loyalty or a specific aspect of the ball that will make a small difference, but since this is your first ball this shouldn't be an issue.

The thing is I don't know that its really my place to make that decision especially if it goes against what the pro recommends.

[rv driver]

The thing is I don't know that its really my place to make that decision especially if it goes against what the pro recommends.
At this point in your game, you really can't go wrong with a Tropical Breeze. Only thing you need to worry about is color/scent (Storm balls are scented -- a different scent for each different color scheme). Go to www.stormbowling.com and take a look. There are currently five color schemes in the Tropical line (and I think the black/cherry is a hybrid coverstock!). I think the blue one is melon(?); the teal/orange is chocolate/orange; the purple/gold is cinnamon, or some pastry; the pink/purple is (I think) birthday cake; the black/cherry is cherry.

[josh83]

At this point in your game, you really can't go wrong with a Tropical Breeze. Only thing you need to worry about is color/scent (Storm balls are scented -- a different scent for each different color scheme). Go to www.stormbowling.com and take a look. There are currently five color schemes in the Tropical line (and I think the black/cherry is a hybrid coverstock!). I think the blue one is melon(?); the teal/orange is chocolate/orange; the purple/gold is cinnamon, or some pastry; the pink/purple is (I think) birthday cake; the black/cherry is cherry.


Thanks RV driver I feel better about this now. After doing some more research my bowling style is: Stroker. Anyways thanks again. :)

[rv driver]

Thanks RV driver I feel better about this now. After doing some more research my bowling style is: Stroker. Anyways thanks again. :)
The Breeze is a good stroker ball, and if you develop into something else, the ball is reactive...

[josh83]

Great! Hopefully they will have them in stock when I go Saturday Lol

[mc_runner]

I'd just say when you walk into the pro shop that you're just getting into bowling and wanted an entry level reactive ball, and that you think the Breeze is a good ball to start with. Chances are the pro will agree with you anyway on the ball choice :)

[josh83]

I'd just say when you walk into the pro shop that you're just getting into bowling and wanted an entry level reactive ball, and that you think the Breeze is a good ball to start with. Chances are the pro will agree with you anyway on the ball choice :)

I hope so. The the whole question of whether he we'll agree with me is driving me crazy. Even if it's a another entry level like the strike king that would fine too.

[rv driver]

I hope so. The the whole question of whether he we'll agree with me is driving me crazy. Even if it's a another entry level like the strike king that would fine too. I seriously don't think any PSO is gonna refuse to sell a beginner an entry-level reactive ball.

[Sourtower]

My friend's first bowling ball was a Storm Tropical Storm. 3 bowling balls later, he's using it as his spare ball. The Pro shop owner isn't going to disagree with you about buying an entry level ball to start out with. What he/she might suggest though, is to move up in weight. Most reactive resin bowling balls under 14 lbs have a pancake core compared to their 14-16 lb counterparts. Just some food for thought.

[Sourtower]

Josh83, one thing I'd like to know is what is your definition of a 'spare ball?'

[josh83]

Josh83, one thing I'd like to know is what is your definition of a 'spare ball?'

A bowling Ball for throwing straight to get spares.

[josh83]

I have tried a 14 lbs house ball at the bowling alley and it was fine so yes I will at least go 14lbs

[Sourtower]

A bowling Ball for throwing straight to get spares.

So by your definition, you can use any bowling ball for a spare ball, which you have to remember. I'm sure once you go see your pro shop owner, and you reassure him that you have at least some knowledge, that he won't try to steer you the wrong way. I've only ever once encountered a pro shop owner who I felt wasn't looking out for my best interest, and I simply never stepped into that pro shop again. These guys want to see you improve and they also want your business. Pick their brain and always ask why they would recommend something other than what you were thinking. They have a wealth of knowledge to offer, and if they are able to build up good rapport with you, then you'll be ready later on to come back and buy other bowling equipment to help you on your way.

I always look back to when I went earlier this year to buy my 2nd bowling ball (1st with finger tip drilling). I went into a new pro shop and immediately started looking at the high end bowling balls thinking that's what I needed to start bowling better. The pro shop owner said to me that he wouldn't refuse to sell me any bowling ball, but wanted to get to know why I wanted it and my bowling experience. After picking his brain for 30 min I decided to get a less expensive ball but it was more for my style and it worked for me. I've been going to that same pro shop ever since.

[Hendu71]

Eh, I don't know if I'd go that far. Yes, I can throw a reactive ball and get no hook. I can, if I set my mind to it, get a little hook from my plastic ball. But there's less margin of error there.

[josh83]

I'm not really sure if this entry level ball but am starting to think about maybe getting the Ebonite Cyclone I find the colour pattern on this really cool. I just don't know if it's to much of a step up for me at this point. Anyone have any feedback for this ball in comparison to the Storm Tropical Breeze.

http://www.ebonite.com/products/balls/lower-mid-performance/cyclone-red-purple-yellow

[Amyers]

Cyclone is stronger than the breeze but is still manageable ball. If you like it I would go for it one of my issues with the breeze is that's its a very (I know Rob hates this term) weak reacting ball. Not that is a bad thing if you play on drier conditions or have ha high rev rate but most entry level bowlers buy one and 6 months later they are looking for a new ball. The Cyclone is more middle of the road and you may find that if fits what you want longer.

[josh83]

Cyclone is stronger than the breeze but is still manageable ball. If you like it I would go for it one of my issues with the breeze is that's its a very (I know Rob hates this term) weak reacting ball. Not that is a bad thing if you play on drier conditions or have ha high rev rate but most entry level bowlers buy one and 6 months later they are looking for a new ball. The Cyclone is more middle of the road and you may find that if fits what you want longer.

So in a way it sounds like I'd be getting more bang for the dollar with the Cyclone then the Breeze. The lanes that I play on have quite a bit of oil I know with the house balls I can see oil all over them after a few games

[Amyers]

So in a way it sounds like I'd be getting more bang for the dollar with the Cyclone then the Breeze. The lanes that I play on have quite a bit of oil I know with the house balls I can see oil all over them after a few games

Seeing oil rings on the ball is normal and can't really tell you how heavy the pattern is. Now if there are no rings on the ball it can tell you the lanes are very dry. The amount of oil on the lanes really can only be judged by bowling on them. Some lanes have more friction built into them than others. So a high friction house with medium oil might play lighter than a low friction house with less oil. Once you get experienced you will be able to tell the difference.

[Sourtower]

I'm not really sure if this entry level ball but am starting to think about maybe getting the Ebonite Cyclone I find the colour pattern on this really cool. I just don't know if it's to much of a step up for me at this point. Anyone have any feedback for this ball in comparison to the Storm Tropical Breeze.

http://www.ebonite.com/products/balls/lower-mid-performance/cyclone-red-purple-yellow

Definitely take a look at bowlingball.com - They have a feature that allows you to compare 3 bowling balls at once side by side. Here are links to similar bowling balls with similar prices to the Cyclone that you were looking at:

http://www.bowlingball.com/products/bowling-balls/ebonite/10252/cyclone-redpurpleyellow.html - Different colors available
http://www.bowlingball.com/products/bowling-balls/storm/10245/tropical-breeze-hybrid-blackcherry.html - Different colors/scents available others are pearl coverstocks
http://www.bowlingball.com/products/bowling-balls/roto-grip/10838/rumble.html - This is the bowling ball I bought for my brother when he started bowling
http://www.bowlingball.com/products/bowling-balls/hammer/11797/burgundy-hammer.html
http://www.bowlingball.com/products/bowling-balls/dv8/11775/outcast-mango-tango-with-free-sack.html - Different colors available

These are just a few examples, as there are a lot of different bowling companies.

[josh83]

Just curious what does it mean when a Bowling Ball has a "Strong Backend"

[Hendu71]

It means it hooks more at the end of the lanes. More hockey puck, rather than banana shape hook. I have a 15 lb cyclone. If I throw slow it will hook pretty well, when I get upwards of 18MPH it barely hooks at all. My wife throws a 12lb one, probably throws 12 MPH but man does she have a killer hook with that thing. And of course lane conditions play a part too. It's a good ball for the price.

[Mike White]

It means it hooks more at the end of the lanes. More hockey puck, rather than banana shape hook. I have a 15 lb cyclone. If I throw slow it will hook pretty well, when I get upwards of 18MPH it barely hooks at all. My wife throws a 12lb one, probably throws 12 MPH but man does she have a killer hook with that thing. And of course lane conditions play a part too. It's a good ball for the price.

More hockey puck?????

[rv driver]

More hockey puck?????
The bigger the hockey puck under the coverstock, the bigger the hook, I'm guessing...?

[Sourtower]

It means it hooks more at the end of the lanes. More hockey puck, rather than banana shape hook. I have a 15 lb cyclone. If I throw slow it will hook pretty well, when I get upwards of 18MPH it barely hooks at all. My wife throws a 12lb one, probably throws 12 MPH but man does she have a killer hook with that thing. And of course lane conditions play a part too. It's a good ball for the price.

I believe he meant to say hockey stick. The ball goes straight down the lane like the top part of a hockey stick and then it hooks into the pocket like the lower part of the hockey stick.

[rv driver]

I believe he meant to say hockey stick. The ball goes straight down the lane like the top part of a hockey stick and then it hooks into the pocket like the lower part of the hockey stick.
I like my answer better...

[Sourtower]

Just curious what does it mean when a Bowling Ball has a "Strong Backend"

http://shop.bowlersparadise.com/blog/2014/05/22/specs/ - Some bowler's terms you will become familiar with very soon

[Sourtower]

I like my answer better...

Indubitably...

[Hendu71]

LOL... yes. Hockey stick is what I meant to say.

[Sourtower]

LOL... yes. Hockey stick is what I meant to say.

Thought so. I use the same reference when trying to explain to my friend that he shouldn't be throwing his Hyper Cell which rolls early and has a banana shape roll like his Mastermind Genius, which is Hybrid and has a hockey stick shape to its roll.

[josh83]

Went to Pro shop today and there was only one choice so I ended up with a DV8 Misfit in neon Yellow 14 LBS and finger tip grip. The person at the pro shop said he thinks these were better then the cyclone although i was really hoping to get the Ebonite Cyclone.

http://dv8bowling.com/balls/misfit-pearl/

[Sourtower]

Went to Pro shop today and there was only one choice so I ended up with a DV8 Misfit in neon Yellow 14 LBS and finger tip grip. The person at the pro shop said he thinks these were better then the cyclone although i was really hoping to get the Ebonite Cyclone.

http://dv8bowling.com/balls/misfit-pearl/

Interesting. Do you like the color? Let us know how you like the ball.

[josh83]

Interesting. Do you like the color? Let us know how you like the ball.

At first I was hesitate about the color but I have come to like it. The thing is there are no pro shops near me there all outside the city so it was either this or wait and who knows how long it would be until I would get to one. On the other hand the ball is great it took me a few throws to get use to to it as I have always used conventional grip with the house ball. It's a big difference to have a ball that fits properly my game is already better. I got a strike or 2 in the first couple minutes after the ball was drilled.

I am pleased with it :) I am curious to hear people thoughts though.

[fortheloveofbowling]

I think it is cool looking and i have seen several people use it and seems like a good ball. Good luck with your game!

[Perrin]

At first I was hesitate about the color but I have come to like it. The thing is there are no pro shops near me there all outside the city so it was either this or wait and who knows how long it would be until I would get to one. On the other hand the ball is great it took me a few throws to get use to to it as I have always used conventional grip with the house ball. It's a big difference to have a ball that fits properly my game is already better. I got a strike or 2 in the first couple minutes after the ball was drilled.

I am pleased with it :) I am curious to hear people thoughts though.

I have the regular Misfit(orange/Blue) and quite like it. If they would have had the pearl when I bought mine I would have likely gotten it instead. :)

I've seen the Pearl thrown and it is exactly as described; Pearl Coverstock entry level ball.

[josh83]

I have the regular Misfit(orange/Blue) and quite like it. If they would have had the pearl when I bought mine I would have likely gotten it instead. :)

I've seen the Pearl thrown and it is exactly as described; Pearl Coverstock entry level ball.

I like it now myself. The thing is with it being such a light color ball it shows all the dirt from the ball return but it seems to come off with the cleaner I bought. On the the other hand I bowled my best game yet in the league tonight in the 3rd game I scored 116 that's my highest since bowling in the league :) and the fact that I now have a ball that actually fits me is probably a big reason to having a better game. My average is 96 I hoping by the time the league is done for the summer I will have at least a 120 average.

[Perrin]

I like it now myself. The thing is with it being such a light color ball it shows all the dirt from the ball return but it seems to come off with the cleaner I bought. On the the other hand I bowled my best game yet in the league tonight in the 3rd game I scored 116 that's my highest since bowling in the league :) and the fact that I now have a ball that actually fits me is probably a big reason to having a better game. My average is 96 I hoping by the time the league is done for the summer I will have at least a 120 average.

Great job. Having a ball that fits you properly will make it a lot easier to advance your game.

The fact that it shows all the lanes/return dirt and whatnot is the only complaint I have heard of on this ball. another thing that can help you wil your goal would be to get in a few games of practice 1-2 times a week if you can.

[mike_thomas93]

First bowling ball I've owned is an old Columbia backyard bully. Threw that in high school when I was on the team. Then later my junior year, I got a Brunswick avalanche. I got it for free just by filling out an application and meeting the requirements. I enjoyed throwing both those balls.I really had a gragreat time those years:)

[Jaescrub]

I like it now myself. The thing is with it being such a light color ball it shows all the dirt from the ball return but it seems to come off with the cleaner I bought. On the the other hand I bowled my best game yet in the league tonight in the 3rd game I scored 116 that's my highest since bowling in the league :) and the fact that I now have a ball that actually fits me is probably a big reason to having a better game. My average is 96 I hoping by the time the league is done for the summer I will have at least a 120 average.

Great news! You will get there the biggest advise I can give you is watch every shot. Keep your eyes on where you aim and where the ball hits the lanes. After you hit your mark watch the reaction the ball gives you. Learn to keep an eye on what your ball is doing. It makes it easy to adjust if you know what your ball is doing at all parts of the lane.

[Blacksox1]

I like it now myself. The thing is with it being such a light color ball it shows all the dirt from the ball return but it seems to come off with the cleaner I bought. On the the other hand I bowled my best game yet in the league tonight in the 3rd game I scored 116 that's my highest since bowling in the league :) and the fact that I now have a ball that actually fits me is probably a big reason to having a better game. My average is 96 I hoping by the time the league is done for the summer I will have at least a 120 average.

Good luck with the new equipment.:D

[fortheloveofbowling]

I like it now myself. The thing is with it being such a light color ball it shows all the dirt from the ball return but it seems to come off with the cleaner I bought. On the the other hand I bowled my best game yet in the league tonight in the 3rd game I scored 116 that's my highest since bowling in the league :) and the fact that I now have a ball that actually fits me is probably a big reason to having a better game. My average is 96 I hoping by the time the league is done for the summer I will have at least a 120 average.

That is great that the ball is working out for you. The goal you set sounds like a good one. It is important as you progress to set goals that are attainable in a reasonable amount of time. If there is certified coaching available in your area you might consider that. Good luck to you!