New member from Va

[Smitty89353]

Hello to all, my name is Rob Smith. I'm 18 years old and I have been bowling all of my life, but I have recently gotten into it about 2 months ago. I have learned some of the basic concepts of the game. I recently learned how to hook the ball correctly. My average right now is at 150. Thanks in advance for any advice because I do not know much about bowling.

[The Mayor]

Welcome Rob! Any questions you might have, don't hesitate to ask! At one point in time we've all had the same questions/issues that you'll go through while your bowling game progresses, so let us help in any way we can!

[Smitty89353]

Well actually I do have one question. I am looking for an affordable performance ball and my pro shop has 2 good offers. The have the Brunswick Karma or Karma pearl for 155$ including drilling, grips and thumb slug. They also have the Roto Grip Rising Star with the same deal for 150$. I haven't been able to talk to the guys at my pro shop about which one I should get because they have been away bowling in a USBC tournament. Could someone shed some light on which one is the better choice.

[The Mayor]

Well, will this be your first ball of your own? If so, the Rising Star would be the better option. It's a hybrid (part pearl/part solid), so you're getting the best of both. It's an awesome all-around ball and will actually give you a little more reaction than the other two. I really like the Karmas as well, but if you're only going to have one, the Rising Star it is.

[Smitty89353]

No, this will not be my first ball, it will be my third ball overall and my second strike ball as its called. I also own a Columbia white dot as a spare ball. Back to the topic at hand, you say its a hybrid so it is the better ball overall. Are they any downsides to this ball?

[The Mayor]

What other strike ball do you own? There are no downsides to the Rising Star as long as you understand it's strong points. This is a great medium oil ball. It's not designed to hook on the heaviest oil, but is a great all-around ball.

[Smitty89353]

Well since I have only been bowling seriously for about 2 months now, my pro shop suggested that I get an entry level ball to learn how to throw a hook properly. I use to just use my middle finger and my ring finger when I threw the ball. So I have a Brunswick slingshot that I use. I am going to be bowling with my brother and a friend in a fall league coming up tthis august that has a heavier oil pattern than the THS is. MY Slingshot works perfectly for me on house shots for my given talent level but when I bowl on the heavier oil pattern is does not work nearly as well.

[The Mayor]

Well the Rising Star definitely hooks more than the Slingshot (which I also like) and it would be a very nice step up. I think it's a great choice!

[Smitty89353]

Thanks you, I appreciate the help and advice. I will be sure to ask any other questions that arise.