Expert: Chip Aki - 8/11/2006

Question
I really want to throw a better hook i really have none at all some say my ball wasent drilled for it. Im new to bowling avrage is 150 but i have 200 games now and then. I think its i dont have enough back end. I can see if my hook was stronger id get more pin action. Is it my ball or me ? i talked to the pro shop guy hes stuck on that i dont need a new drill pattern but he never saw me throw a ball before he made taht one. it was a used ball he pre drilled for me. I dont want to waste a bunch of money and time any information would help. I have also tried the underhand football spiral trick just cant get it off right.

Answer
If you really want to get your game better, spend some money on a coach as opposed to a new ball.  A new ball may increase your reaction some, but learning a better release will make much more of a difference.  Once the release improves, you will see a much larger change in ball reaction between equipment as well.

The drill pattern on a ball is a fine tuning option.  It can change the breakpoint shape, but surface will change the overall hook the most.

Good luck,
Chip