Expert: - 10/19/2007

Question
I currently use a messenger ti pearl 15# ball. I am a cranker in need of some help. My average is a 189 and can consistently bowl 200+ in the first couple games..but when the lane dries out I cannot control the backend of my ball and split constantly. I am thinking of dropping to a 14# ball so i can throw it more. My problem is i do not want to go out and spend $150 and get a ball that is not going to work for me...i want a ball that will work in the more medium oil level....but won't fly off the handle when the lane dries up. any suggestions?

Answer
Do you know your ball speed and rev rate (not absolutely necessary but beneficial)?

Drill a milder reacting ball. Less core (or mild layout or both) will help with control when the front part of the lane, called "the heads," starts to lose the conditioner applied there to protect the lane.

Are you loyal to any particular ball makers? In the Columbia line, a mild ball like the Jazz can still hook a bunch for a cranker with a strong layout or dry enough lane. I've drilled medium balls, like Columbia's Dr. Jekyll, mild balls like Ebonite's Fire or Tornado, or Brunswick's Groove with very mild layouts that work well when there is a very defined oil line or a big track shot develops. Your speed and rev rate helps determines more of what might work best. But the volume of conditioner, lane surface, and strength (surface and layout) of your current ball all contribute info to help decide what might be your next best choice. Ball alone isn't the only solution. A weak ball drilled too strong will cause the same problems you are now experiencing.

Switching ball weight is often detrimental to your timing, not a recommended option.

All of the above will contribute to the information needed to make some recommendations. Also, your positive axis, axis tilt and rotation contribute to knowing your roll (helps watching you bowl).

Please let me know as much of the above, or run some of the questions by your current driller, or store operator where you bowl, and see what additional factors we can use to determine what are your best choices.