Expert: stevie lange - 1/8/2005

Question
I have been trying to perfect a hook ball for months - to no avail.  My cousin told me that you can by balls that are weighted for a hook enabling the bowler to just roll it straight and it will hook according to the weight.

Beyond that, what is the proper technique, weight shift, footwork, arm, wrist and hand action, etc that creates the spin?

Thank you for your time and assistance.

Answer
Hi Christopher,
Unfortunately it would take 2 days to answer all your questions. First let me say there are two types of cores in the balls that are produced today. assymetrical and symetrical. The off balance that is created by a assymetrical core is what your cousin is talking about. This is usually located by a mark on the ball called a mass bias. However this measurement is used for fine tuning. Different pin placements (THE MAJOR PIN), will have a more dramatic effect on ball reaction than the mb. A good place to start with the basics is this site http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/kennmelvin/kWelcome.htm
take your time and check out all the info. . they have video on different releases that will visually show you how to hook a ball. also go to storm bowling products website and check out there tips. around page 8 or 9, they have a short video on proper wrist and forearm technics. hope this helps.
stevie