Expert: Chip Aki - 10/21/2007

Question
Chip,
    I've been reading some of your answers to other folks questions.  You mention often that coverstock is the major factor in ball reaction.  I've been struggling with bowling in heavy oil conditions for some time now.  I have a Brunswick Ultimate Inferno bowling ball that I use in these conditions. (16 lb.)  My shot often comes up weak on the back end in heavy oil conditions.  I requested a strong back end set-up when I got the ball drilled at a well known pro shop in the area.  Can you give any advice on drilling set-up or a better brand ball to be using in heavy oil conditions?

           Thanks,
           Ron

Answer
This type of reaction that we look for is one that sometimes just cant be done.  A ball for heavy oil with tends to lend itself for a weak backen reaction.  In order for a ball to work in heavy oil it needs to get into a roll to stop the skidding.  Going into a roll sooner will lessen the back end reaction or make it much smoother.  We get one part of the reaction we are looking for which is to stop the ball from skidding, but we lose the strength at the breakpoint.  About the only thing to try is to alter the surface of the ball.....such as go to a 1000 grit abralon pad and see what happens.  You might also try a ball with a pearlized particle coverstock to create a sharper breakpoint.

When the PBA is on their heavy oil patterns, they have trouble getting the ball to turn the corner too.

Good luck,
Chip