Question Im just starting out to drill my own bowling balls.I've purchased a drill press and ready to go.My question regards my thumb pitch,im currently 1/4 reverse and i use 1 1/4 slug in my thumb hole.Currently im practing drilling holes in old balls to get use to drilling ,and measuring out my span.but when i drill my specs,my thumb feels snug and alittle tight.Is that because im not putting a slug in there right now and once i do will that change the feel.Any answers will greatly help.Thanks
Answer I must say your question concerns me greatly. A qualified Pro Shop Professional must be an artist to fit the hand and a great business person to maintain inventory AND serve the customer in this economic environment. In addition, they must be really exceptional at conceptual thinking to understand how to lay a ball out to get the ball to do what the customer needs. Anyone can make holes in a ball. Knowing where to put them and at what angle and how deep so as not to change the core characteristics of the ball, etc. takes a true scientist. Majors in physics, counseling, marketing, business, and rocket science would be good things to have!
Fitting the hand is a true art that takes many years to learn. No hand is the same as another hand. Qualified Pro Shop Professionals are certified by the International Bowling Pro Shops and Instructors Association (http://www.ibpsia.com). They take many levels of classes as their skill increases and must meet their organization's strict recertification procedures. To measure and fit a person's hand, understand web length, skin texture, flexibility, and so many other things that go into that fitting regimen is an important part of the curriculum.
You are asking for trouble, I believe, if you just buy a press and start making holes. You have a responsibility to your customer to be competent in this profession and most importantly, to DO NO HARM. If you fit a person improperly, particularly a young person, you risk injuring them for life. It's not worth it. Get an education to learn to do it right. Build your reputation on good techniques and outstanding customer service.
You're in a shrinking market. Do you won the proper insurance to cover you if you make an error? What you are attempting is foolhardy without the education. I urge you to re-think your process.
