The Left is Frustrating – Part 2

I ended my last article discussing how ball speed could be a factor in causing the ball to go left of target and/or the headpin. How many times have you uttered or heard uttered, “I let up on that one,” as the ball dives into the headpin to leave a mess?

A small change in speed, up or down, may be needed based on ball reaction and lane conditions. Practice changing speeds on different conditions and with different equipment. If you are serious, you will probably want to write down the outcome of each shot so you know how each piece of equipment will work at different speeds on varying conditions.

Does ball weight really matter that much?

Like it or not, ball weight does matter for pin carry and this has been confirmed in the past through many studies. I remember reading that the difference in pin carry from 16 pound equipment to 14 pound equipment could be about 14 percent. That was about ten years ago. With today’s improvements in surface and core, those figures may have changed. Many bowlers, especially seniors, have reduced the weight of the ball they are using.

Current advances in technology and the increased knowledge displayed by ball drillers have made this possible without seriously affecting the ability to score. When reducing the weight of the ball, ensure timing remains the same and the finish remains solid. I have seen many bowlers go to a ball that was two pounds lighter and initially have many problems with timing and accuracy.

Use a ball that you can comfortably handle without strain. Don’t be embarrassed about having to reduce the weight of the ball. I’m sure you know that not all bowlers on the Pro Tour use 16 pound equipment. The Senior Sun Bowl was just completed in The Villages with 149 of the best senior bowlers in the world. The most popular weight was the 15 pound ball followed by 14 pounds. There were very few pieces of 16 pound equipment. There are bowlers who have gone to lighter equipment and due to lack of pin ...

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