Expert: Chip Aki - 11/21/2006

Question
I usually bowl with other people's bowling balls (using fingertip grips) and have managed around a 190 average.  I have just purchased a Black Widow Ball(not knowing much about buying balls)I didn't specify the pin placement.  I don't know what to ask for when I get the ball drilled and/or what kind of bowler I am.  Usually I like to see the ball roll down the lane around the second arrow on the right and break to the pocket on the back end.  I hit the pins hard with roughly a 18 mph ball speed and medium to high revs.  Please help me!
Mike

Answer
When you go into the pro shop to get the ball drilled, let the pro know what kind of ball you have been using up until now.  This will give him an idea on the layout needed and if he needs to go with a stronger layout or a weaker one.
He or she should be able to get a good reaction out of whatever pin and top weight the new ball has.  I usually ask for 3-4 inch pin and 2.5-3.5 for the top weight.  This allows for the greatest variety of layout options.
From what I have seen, the Black Widow is a very good ball.  Without knowing what you are using now, I cant really tell you what to expect, but you may have to play a different line than you are using now.  I would expect the new ball to hook a bit more than what you are using.

Good luck,
Chip