Expert: Chip Aki - 11/30/2005

Question
Hello Chip,

I wouldn't be asking so many questions, but again, I am in Korea and we do have a bowling ally on the base, but I have little confidence in the so-called pro at the ally.

It seems that they pretty much carry only Columbia balls.  For the most part, the prices are pretty good with free drilling.  The only price that seems off is the ball you recommended : Scout/R Hi Flare Particle.  It is priced at $99 when the Scout/R Hi Flare is $61.  This is a list of the balls they have at the price range I want.  I don't mind spending on the high-end of the range if you think it is worth it.

Scout Reactive          - $60
Scout/R Particle          - $135
Scout/R Hi Flare          - $61
Scout/R Hi Flare Particle - $99
Drive          - $143
Power Drive          - $124
Over Drive          - $119
Wild          - $75
Panic          - $98
Messenger TI low rg       - $110

Again, some of the prices seem very odd.  I asked about this and was told that is how they are.  Can you take a look and recommend what to do.  Is Hi Flare better?  Is the Scout/R Hi Flare Particle that much better than the Scout/R Hi Flare?  

Please help.  I have the 183 average and have a modest hook with my old urethane ball, but want to bump it up this league season. I also work too hard to hook my current ball.  I am mainly concerned about league night bowling where they oil the lanes right before it starts.  

This is really great of you to help me.  Thanks so much.

Dave

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Followup To
Question -
Thought I was done asking questions, but a few more...

I went to some websites to order a ball and some of them ask what Pin Preference and what top weight I wanted while other websites didn't have these options, just ball weight.  should I worry about them?

Thanks for the help!  I am in Korea with the Army and we do have a bowling ally but I can't get the advice from a Pro Shop here so this website and you are great!

Dave


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Followup To
Question -
Sorry Chip, I should have asked this also:  My current urethane ball is 16 pounds (I weigh 185 pounds) and doesn't feel too heavy but I sometimes have trouble getting the lift and enough spin.  Is this a strength issue or the old urethane ball on oily lanes.  Should I get the new ball in 16 pounds with the new cover ball and will that take care of the spin?

Thanks,

Dave


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Followup To
Question -
Hello,

I have a 183 average and a urathene ball.  The leage a bowl in has consistantly oily lanes.  I want to get a new ball.  Can you help me with some suggestions?

Dave
Answer -
A couple of really good ball for a good price would be the Columbia Scout Hi Flare Particle and the Storm Hot Rod Super Sport solid.

Good luck,
Chip
Answer -
I rarely sell 16# equipment anymore. I sell mostly 15# equipment.  15# equipment is just easier physically to handle and you really wont lose any hitting power.

A little lighter weight may help you gain some control.

Good luck,
Chip
Answer -
The most versatile specs to ask for would be a 2-3 inch pin with 3oz top weight.

With this being your first ball of this type, you dont want to go with anything fancy.  Just place the pin near your ring finger and the CG just right of the center of your grip.

Good luck,
Chip

Answer
The difference between the 2 Hi Flare balls is the coverstock.  The particle has more traction than the reactive one, and is more suited to a heavy oil condition.  If you have high ball speed, the particle one may be better.

However, the WOW or the Panic sounds like a better deal price wise.

You can go to columbia300.com and check out each of those balls.

Good luck,
Chip

I hope this helps some :)