It is important to remember that just because a ball works on one type of lane condition or for a particular bowler does not mean it is the right choice for you.

BEFORE I BEGIN on this topic, I would like to make one thing clear, although I do have some personal ball preferences (and have been sponsored with some bowling equipment) it is my intention to remain as impartial as possible and simply deal with the facts. The bottom line is if you purchase any good quality ball you will probably like it. Very few people don't like the newer equipment - especially if you have been using older or rental bowling balls.

Some of the choices you will have to face include COVER STOCK, WEIGHT BLOCK, CG/ PIN/ cg, HOT SPOT, RG and DRILLING LAYOUT.

These topics are covered in detail in BEGINNER and ADVANCED drilling techniques. For the average league bowler all you really need to be concerned with is the COVER STOCK and the CG/ PIN.

COVER STOCK - as a basic guide remember this, the faster you bowl (or the longer the oiling pattern in your centre) the SOFTER you need the cover-stock. The slower you bowl, or the shorter the oiling pattern in your bowling centre the HARDER you need the cover-stock.

Cover stock still remains the greatest influence on how much a ball will grip the lane and subsequently hook and roll-out.

That is only really of interest if you are buying a ball over the internet or somewhere other than you are going to get it drilled. SPECIFICALLY ask for a "MEDIUM PIN", as a PIN IN (less than 2 inches) or PIN OUT (greater than 4 inches) have less drilling options available.

REMEMBER - cover-stock is the greatest influence on a ball, the PIN and CG simply help to fine-tune the ball to the bowler. If you need a ball that grips more, you will be better off getting a soft cover stock and PIN IN than you would getting a hard cover stock with a MEDIUM PIN or PIN OUT.