Expert: Chip Aki - 6/2/2004

Question
I am a 200 avg bowler. I bowl on synthetic and wood lanes. I,d like to try to explain my style and ask if you could suggest a ball layout to fit me. My shot lies entirely between the 8th and 15th boards. I stand anywhere from the middle dot to between the 1st and 2nd dot. I don,t swing the ball. Where I put it down is about as far out as it gets. I throw straight down and in or even pull the ball to the pocket a bit. I don,t spot bowl but rather look at a particular pin. Usually anywhere from between the 1-3 to as far out as the 6 on rare occasions. I walk to the right on drier lanes and straight on oilier lanes. Rarely do I walk to my left. I throw about the top end of the slow speed with alot of wrist. I want a layout that will give me a smooth break to the pocket after I get down about 2 thirds of the lane
and a hard hitting ball on the biggest variety of lane conditions possible. Since I,m a big Ebonite fan you might be able to mention a good ball for my style too. Thanx and have a very nice day!

Answer
Probably the best ball for what you describe is the Vortex II black/blue sanded.  That has been a great ball for Ebonite for a long time and is still one of the favorites.  You may have to polish it depending on the land condition that you bowl on most often.

I would place the pin just to the right of the ring finger with the CG directly below the pin.  A small ballance hole may be needed, and if so, place it on your PAP.

Good luck,
Chip