Expert: Chip Aki - 10/8/2007

Question
QUESTION: In on of your responses, you mentioned matching the coverstock to the lanes.  I have two balls that I use, an Ebonite SmashTime and a Columbia Action.  For a full roller, can you tell me which ball should I use if I wish to play the outside line on med oil.  I know the Action is considered a high performace ball but I'm not sure about the Ebonite.

ANSWER: I would shine up the Smashtime and try that one.  It should not roll as early as the Action.

Good luck,
Chip

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Ok, when you say shine it up, do you mean polish it?  I have had the local pro shop guy polish it with a pad to dull it up.  I know it won't roll as early but I'd like it to roll a little earlier than it has

Answer
Having a ball with a dull finish is best for heavy oil, or if you want to control the backend reaction of the ball on a fresh condition.  That type of finish will make the ball roll sooner if that is what you are looking for.  
If both balls have the out of box finish, they should both be dull.  I would expect the action to roll sooner than the smasthime.  
Usually for the outside lines, a polished ball will retain more hitting power and back end reaction.

Chip