Expert: Chip Aki - 9/20/2003

Question
I had a Hammer Turbo Diesel drilled by the Pro Shop the other day and he drilled an extra hole on the side of my ball.  He explained why he did this, but I still don't understand.  Would you mind explaining why this extra hole (approximately 3/4" in diameter) was drilled?  He said something concerning the weight of the drilling of the ball.  I would appreciate it, and thank you for your time.

Answer
Sometimes when looking for an exact ball reaction, the CG will be placed too far from the center of the span for the ball to weigh out legal on a dodo scale.  The additional hole is drilled to bring the ball back to ABC specifications.  Depending on the placement, size, and depth of the hole, it can make the balls potential greater or make the reaction a bit weaker.  It is really just a way to fine tune the ball a bit.

With some of the newer balls that have a mass bias locator, things have to be moved around to get the pin, the CG, and the mass bias where we want them to be.

Good luck,
Chip