Expert: Chip Aki - 9/28/2007

Question
QUESTION: I have been around the game quite some time and to date can not find the proper weight configuration to get a roll out effect. I have a simple enough game I use my index finger as my guide to the target I wish to utilize and rotate my fingers through my swing. The problem is that I get more of cutting effect for pin action. I have tried many pin locations in order to get a roll out effect on the ball, to  date no such luck. For most of my bowling life I have had to change hand positions in order to get a more desirable result, rarely getting the chance to bowl naturally. I am not talking about really dry conditions, more the intermediate ones with a lot of back end flip. For the record most resins do not work in my game do to an abundance of flair which usually clips my finger holes or thumb hole - sometimes 5-6 inches. Any assistance you could provide would greatly be appreciated. My main concern is that even though I have tried different pin locations I seem to get the same end result in the medium dry conditions. Heavy oil and dry conditions are easily addressed. I truly hope you can provide some helpful guidance to my dilemma.

ANSWER: You can drill a ball and place the mass bias in your track.  This will help the ball to "set" on the backend.  You could also take a lesser hooking ball and lightly sand it.  This will round off the shape of the breakpoint and give you a bit more control.
The more side rotation you have, the sharper the breakpoint shape of your ball will be.  Going up the  back the ball will also lessen the backend reaction as well.

Good luck,
Chip

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

QUESTION: Chip,
     Are you referring to an axis weight drilling?

Answer
No.  Axis weight would still be more violent on the backends if kept in the oil, and would roll out in the dry.  The pin would be to the right of the ring finger in the 1:30 to 2:00 o'clock position.  That should place the mass bias in your ball track.  Do not do this with a No Mercy or Shift or even some of the stronger mass bias balls.  You might be better off to use a symmetrical type core.

Chip