Returning to bowling should I get a lighter ball?

[Mstawicki1960]

I am just getting back into bowling after back surgery. I have an old 16 pound Columbia that is just too heavy and worn out. I am thinking I need about a 14 to 15 lb ball now. Any suggestions as I was a 200 plus average bowler with the old equipment ?

[LOUVIT]

Welcome to the site....You sound like me, after 25 years I came back and ended up with a 15 lb reactive ball. The old equipment doesn't work anymore. I am 6 months into my comeback and still learning.....I was afraid to go to a 14lb ball because from what I see at a slower speed they do not carry. How long was your layoff?

[1VegasBowler]

Welcome to the site....You sound like me, after 25 years I came back and ended up with a 15 lb reactive ball. The old equipment doesn't work anymore. I am 6 months into my comeback and still learning.....I was afraid to go to a 14lb ball because from what I see at a slower speed they do not carry. How long was your layoff?

I have 3 14 pounders and they have carry like nobody's business, and I'm low speed & low rev.

[JasonNJ]

I would say talk to your local pro shop and see if they have balls you can try out at different weights and see which one is most comfortable for you. From what I've seen there isn't much difference with carry between 14-16 pounds. Its all about getting the ball into the pocket at the correct angle and in the proper phase.

[stargell1]

I use both 14 and 15 lb balls. I see little if any difference in carry.