Expert: Chip Aki - 9/7/2006

Question
I am a curve bowler and have been using a finger grip on a 14# ball.  Been bowling with it for about 8 months or so and been having a thumb callous.  I asked a league bowler about it and he said that my finger to thumb span is too wide. Is this correct? should my thumb to finger grip be closer? since the holes have been drilled, what can I do? should I make the thumb hole a little wider by sanding it?  any suggestions is appreciated.  thanks

Answer
If you think your span may be too long, place your thumb in the thumb hole and lay your fingers over the finger holes.  The front edge of the hole should hit about halfway between the two finger joints.  Any longer than that and it may cause you some thumb problems.
If the span needs to be shortened, the thumb hole can be plugged.
IF you just want to make the thumb bigger, it can be worked out as well.  However this may cause you to squeeze the ball and may cause more thumb problems.

Good luck,
Chip