Expert: Russ King - 8/3/2006

Question
I am, and always have been a backup (reverse hook!) bowler. The 12lb ball that I used to have cracked down the middle, and now I have to get a new one. I think the brand that I last had was a Brunswick, but I'm not really sure. What I wanted to know was, for my particular bowling style, what would be the best ball for me.  

Answer
Backup bowlers usually throw a slow arc to the pocket. A 12 pounder in most REACTIVE balls do not use the so called HI-TEC weight block in them.I would guess that your cracked ball was a reactive resin (THEY DO THAT!I had 9 split on me!).If you want a long lasting ball that does hook but not a bunch, go with a URETHANE BALL. 1. They are very inexpensive on EBAY (Ebonite Maxim,Brunswick Groove,AMF Edge are some).2. You can change the surface (sand or shine) to get a long lasting change of reaction if you want. 3. They won't crack very often.If you want to go REACTIVE,Brunswick Groove Reactive is a good all around ball.You can get a real good deal also on reactive from EBAY.For a 12 pounder, I would not pay more than 75-90 bucks.Bring your old ball when you get your new one drilled.It is a good starting point for the ball driller to know what your grip was & the pitches you were used to.You can tell him how it felt so he can change anything that was not right.