Knowledge Hub:
Bowling Balls
Bowling.com Pro Staff Posted: October 18, 2025
Last Updated: April 1, 2026
Quick Article Summary: In the Bowling.com Bowling Balls Knowledge Hub, find articles, guides, and reviews to teach you everything there is to know about bowling balls.
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This is the Bowling Balls Knowledge Hub, the perfect place to learn everything there is to know about bowling balls, from choosing a ball weight, to understanding cores and coverstocks, and learning how to get the perfect amount of hook. The articles below will get you on your way to becoming a bowling ball expert!
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I choose the right bowling ball as a beginner?
Start with a ball weight that is comfortable and roughly 10 percent of your body weight (up to 16 lbs maximum). Beginners usually choose an entry-level reactive resin ball with a symmetrical core and solid or hybrid coverstock for smooth, controllable hook. Popular affordable options include the Brunswick Rhino, Hammer Raw, or Storm Tropical Surge series.
2. What is the difference between plastic, urethane, and reactive bowling balls?
Plastic (polyester) balls have the lowest hook potential and are best for straight shots and spares. Urethane balls offer moderate hook and excellent control on drier lanes. Reactive resin balls create the strongest hook by gripping the lane better, making them the best choice for most league bowlers who want to develop a consistent hook and better pin carry.
3. How important is getting a bowling ball professionally drilled?
Professional drilling is extremely important. A properly fitted ball with the correct span, pitch, and grip (usually fingertip for hooking) dramatically improves comfort, consistency, release, and injury prevention. Poorly fitted house balls or self-drilled balls often cause pain, inconsistent shots, and slower progress.
4. How many bowling balls do I need in my bag?
Most beginners and casual league bowlers only need two balls: one reactive strike ball and one plastic spare ball. As you improve and bowl more often, build a small arsenal of three to four balls (benchmark reactive, stronger oil ball, weaker dry-lane ball, and spare ball) so you can adjust to different lane conditions.
5. What weight bowling ball should I use?
A good starting point is to choose a ball that weighs about 10% of your body weight, with a maximum of 16 lbs for adults. Most men start comfortably with 14–15 lbs, while most women begin with 12–14 lbs. The most important factor is control. The ball should feel comfortable in your swing without causing tension or fatigue in your arm or shoulder.
6. What is the difference between house balls and my own bowling ball?
House balls are usually made of plastic with a conventional grip and are designed for straight shots. Your own ball can be custom drilled to fit your hand perfectly (usually with a fingertip grip) and can use reactive resin coverstock for much stronger hook and better pin carry. Having your own ball is one of the biggest improvements most bowlers make early on.
7. Do I need a fingertip grip or conventional grip?
Most adult bowlers who want to develop a hook should use a fingertip grip (fingers inserted only to the first knuckle). Beginners and very young bowlers often start with a conventional grip (fingers to the second knuckle) because it feels more secure. Once you are comfortable bowling regularly, switching to a fingertip grip with your own reactive ball is highly recommended.
8. How much does it cost to get a bowling ball drilled?
Prices vary a lot, so just a ballpark, but professional drilling typically costs between $40 and $70 depending on the pro shop and whether you add inserts, a thumb slug, or other custom work. This is a one-time cost for a new ball and is well worth it for proper fit, comfort, and performance.
9. Can I use the same bowling ball for strikes and spares?
You can, but it is not ideal. Most experienced bowlers carry a plastic or urethane spare ball for straighter, more predictable shots on spares. Using your reactive strike ball for spares can cause over-hooking or inconsistent results, especially as the lanes break down during a game.
10. How do I know when it’s time to upgrade my bowling ball?
It’s time to upgrade when your current ball no longer reacts well on typical lane conditions, you notice less pin carry, or you want more versatility as your game improves. Most bowlers upgrade from their first entry-level ball after 6–12 months of regular league play when they are ready for stronger coverstocks or different core types.
