Dot markers on approach are not universally the same distance to foul lane?

**NewToBowling** · 03-11-2015, 04:30 PM

I know the dot markers are universally 5 boards apart. But from what I have heard they are not the same distance to foul lane from one bowling alley to another.

Is this true?

**bowl1820** · 03-11-2015, 04:56 PM

Originally Posted by NewToBowling

I know the dot markers are universally 5 boards apart. But from what I have heard they are not the same distance to foul lane from one bowling alley to another.

Is this true?

The rule:
Lane and Approach Markings or Designs
Lane and approach markings shall only be permitted in accordance with the following specifications:
"1. Measured from the foul line, a maximum of seven guides may be embedded in or stamped on the approach at each of the following points: 2-6 inches; 3-4 feet; 6-7 feet; 9-10 feet; 11-12 feet; and 14-15 feet. Each series of guides shall be parallel to the foul line and each guide shall be circular in shape and shall not exceed ¾ inch in diameter."

So yes there can be some variation in the markings depending on the lane brand. But it's pretty standardized now, The distance isn't the main thing to look out for, it's how many dot there are. (You mainly run into this with older lanes.)

Some lanes have 3 or 5 dots the others have 7, which can affect where you stand if your not paying attention. (say you always stand on the last dot to the left to shoot a certain spare. Whether there's 3,5 or 7 dots will make a difference there.) Just remember the middle dot is 20 so count your boards.