Using Tape to snug up the fit.

[tumblebug1949]

I went out and bowled a couple of games this afternoon and after reading a couple of articles on the use of tape, I tried it.

Until learning the proper use of tape on youtube, I didn't realize the different uses for the white and black versions.

My ball needs two layers of the white textured tape under the thumb or one layer of the white under the thumb and one layer of the smooth black tape on the back side of the thumb.

Each layer of tape take up a little space. Use just enough to making the ball fit perfect. The white tape I got had a textures surface for a little better grip. The packaging stated that the white tape could also be purchased smooth or in an extra rough texture.

The black tape is for a somewhat different purpose than the white. It is smooth and is meant to be placed to fit against the back side of the thumb. It is meant to take up space but also provide a smooth release of the thumb.

I was surprised at how well these items worked. My Storm Reign and T-Zone spare ball were only recently drilled. When things are normal, the grip is about right. When it is cold out or dry, and my thumb is a little smaller, the tape does wonders.

If you decide to try some, be aware that the pre-cut tape comes in different widths. I got the widest, being 1 inch. I figures if I wanted 3/4 inch or smaller, it would be easy to cut.

Happy bowling

[v33dubfox]

It is also a good idea for those (like me :P) that have some difficulties to keep the thumb straight. You can add a piece of tape every now and then so that you can get used to keep your thumb straighter. When I re-began bowling last year, I had no tape in the ball. Now, if I use that old ball, I have something like 3 or 4 tapes in it if I want to be comfortable.

[tumblebug1949]

I have heard of that v33dubfox. Bending the thumb at the first joint can lock it in the ball. If nothing else, it can keep it from releasing at the right moment. As far as the number of pieces of tape used, I have heard of 8 pieces being layered in the thumb hole of a ball. I am not too sure it would not be better to have the thumb hole plugged and re-drilled if it takes that much tape to get it to fit.

I also read a review from an individual stating that the black tape made by a certain manufacturer would not stick and kept peeling off. As it turned out, he was trying to adhere the tape to his finger instead of the ball. I guess that is part of the reason I decided to write the post on bowling tape. There is at least some tape out there that is made to adhere to the skin. I think it goes by the name "Second Skin". It was made to adhere to the base of the thumb nail and continue down the thumb, covering the back of the first joint. It is supposed to prevent blisters.

Oh, for those that may decide to try using tape, a tooth pick or paper clip may be useful to help position the tape in the correct spot. The ends of the tape are also cut differently. One end is square and the other is rounded. The square end is supposed to go in first. There is at least one youtube video demonstrating the application of tape. You may save yourself some time if you view this before hand.

Anyway, I found the white and black bowling tape quite useful and would encourage others to try it. Nothing like a snug fit on the ball.

Good Bowling
Tom

[littlelegs]

I have to admit to being someone with 8 pieces at the moment in one of my balls. I have a valid excuse though - as I've posted before I love using Ron Cs magic carpet (extra thick tape with a 'pile' to it that has some give in it) and was silly enough to run out. Some more is on the way but until then the thumb hole's packed with tape to get the right fit. Oddly enough it works but even so I'll be glad to get rid of it all and just have one piece of carpet in..

[StormGirl]

i read on Ron c's website that the max number of tapes shouldn't exceed 5 and you should always have at least 2-3 for are to flow through and not create a suction cup effect when you insert your thumb

[littlelegs]

i read on Ron c's website that the max number of tapes shouldn't exceed 5 and you should always have at least 2-3 for are to flow through and not create a suction cup effect when you insert your thumb

Makes sense. As I say I only have loads in the one ball at the moment as I'm totally out of his particular tape and nothing else is close to being that thick. Usually I have one piece of his magic carpet in and one piece of 'normal' black tape simply as I like the feel that way. To prevent the suction happening I usually get my driller to put in a small air hole although now I've switched to the magic carpet suction isn't really possible.

[10-in-the-pit]

Will the magic tape get ruined for those of us that soak our bowling balls to clean out the oil? I have tape in my ball as well and the white tape does not get affected by the bath but the black tape doesn't do as well.

[littlelegs]

I've had it survive a soak but as I don't do it too often couldn't say if this would be the case every time. Certainly the backing seems a lot stickier than normal black tape and slightly stickier than white tape so I'm thinking yes. It'd probably be best to shoot Ron a quick email to ask. I'd imagine contact details are published on the site. One thing you would have to do is make sure you give it plenty of time to dry out though as having a 'pile' to it it'll hold moisture for longer than normal tape.

[DanielMareina]

First of all, if you need 5 pieces of tape, your ball isn't drilled properly. 0-3 pieces is a good fit. Secondly, bending your thumb at the first knuckle isn't good for a release. If you need to bend the knuckle to hold on to the ball, you either need a tighter fit, or more away pitch in the thumb. To get a smooth and proper release, your thumb should be straight and pressing equally across the entire thumb (not just the pad of the thumb).
As for white and black tape to tighten fit, I personally use 1 or two pieces of tape in the front of the thumb hole, and like to use Turbo thumb tape on the back of my thumb instead of tape on the back of the hole. Not only does it mean that you can change balls, and still use the same one piece of tape, but I feel like it gives a more even release than skin does. I never bowl without the tape on the back of thumb.

[tumblebug1949]

Thanks for the information Daniel,

I am new and just learning about the different products. I like the idea of the tape being on the thumb so none or not so much is needed in the different balls you are using. I looked the "Turbo" brand website and they do have quite a wide selection. And in varying amounts, should you want a little or a lot. Again, thanks for the info.

Tom