Expert: Chip Aki - 6/4/2008

Question
QUESTION: Chip: We always hear that one of the most important things when drilling a reactive ball is the distance between the pin and the pap, being a recommended measure 5" or more. Now, my pap is only 4" from my grip centerline meaning that if I have the pin located at 5" it will actually be at the left of my grip centerline.Wouldn´t that be a lefthanded drilling? I would like to have a ball with a late reaction on oily lanes, but my actual Hammer is going in a nice smooth arc. Can you suggest me something to improve?

ANSWER: If that is the correct measurement for your PAP,  you would be fine.  If you are not sure, I would check that measurement again.  Use the least flaring ball you have to find your PAP.  Some balls can change the measurement by over an inch.
What kind of hammer are you using now?
If you want a later reaction, go with a pearl coverstock or a ball with a higher RG rating.

Good luck,
Chip

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: You mean that if my p.a.p. is correct, having the pin at the left would be o.k.? I am actually using a Cherry Vibe as I did not want to spend too much on a new reactive ball cause in the past I had a plastic one. Now I would like to go on a Black Widow from Hammer or an Ultra Zone, but naturally I need to be sure before drilling such a ball to get the best from it.
Thanks a lot for your previous answer.

Answer
Do you not have a vertical measurement along with your horizontal measurement?

If you are not sure, and just want to be safe, you can place the pin above the fingers and probably be fine.  Most of these balls have a strong enough core that lets you be a little less fine with the measurements and still get the reaction you are looking for.

Talk to your ball driller and he can make sure the ball is laid out to get the reaction you are looking for.

Good luck,
Chip

Most of the ball layout sheets will place the pin above the bridge if the PAP is not known.