Expert: - 7/29/2009

Question
i have a follow-up qs to one of Chip's replies on pin position:
in what direction/s are the different pin positions away from the cg? is this direction universally/commonly adopted by all/most ball mnufacturers? and is it accurate to say that each manufacturer will have multiple sub-models per ball they produce because of these different pin positions?

thx alot!

Answer
Ian,
When you look at a ball, the surface identifiers are there to help you position the core in an advantageous way for it's owner. The basic identifying marks on a ball are Center of Gravity (CG) and pin (locates the top of the ball's weightblock) and Mass Bias (MB) locator pin/graphic (for a high performance/asymmetric ball).

You'll find the pin in a range of locations, referenced by the distance from the CG, from pin-in (0-2 inches), pin-mid (2-4 inches), and pin-out (4+ inches). Also, some balls are produced with Pro pins (6+ inches). The mix, of how many of each, is planned by the manufacturer (with an occasional oops/mistake).

If I understand your question, when a manufacturer produces a run of a particular ball, some molds produce pin in balls, some mid pin, some pin outs, some pro pins. Your perception of the pin, in relation to the CG (and MB), is created when the engraving is added in one of the last steps of the finishing process. There is no particular orientation, because out of a mold the only identification you'll find is the pin (and MB locator pin on a high performance ball).

Most bowlers are right handed. So most balls look to be set up (engraving orientation) for right-handers. The CG mark (indentation and/or engraving) isn't added until the ball is weighed. Just prior to the rest of the engraving.

I hope I understood your question. Please write back if you would like follow up info. Thanks for the question. Good bowling.