Bowler Types / Play Styles : Two-Hander

Written by:
Bowling.com Pro Staff
Posted: September 18, 2025
Updated: March 18, 2026
Bowling Balls Knowledge and Resources: What are the Best Bowling Balls for Two-Handers as of March, 2026?

Quick Article Summary: In-depth look at the Two-Handed bowling style, including unique equipment needs, recommended high-performance balls, and technique considerations for modern two-handers.

What is a Two-Hander? The "two-handed" bowling style is a relatively modern technique that has revolutionized the sport in recent years. Two-handers use both hands during the approach and release, generating extreme revs and speed without a thumb in the ball. They cradle the ball with both hands throughout most of the approach, removing their non-dominant hand just before release. This unconventional approach allows two-handers to generate significantly higher revolution rates (sometimes exceeding 600 RPM)!

Game Traits: Very high rev rate (500–700+ RPM), fast speed (17–22 mph), and a dynamic, angular hook. Jason Belmonte popularized this style, standing out with his unique mechanics.

What type of ball should a Two-Hander use?

What Works: Two-handers need asymmetrical cores for angularity and solid or hybrid reactive coverstocks to handle their high revs on medium to heavy oil. Heavier weights (15–16 lbs) maximize pin carry, and fingertip drilling enhances their spin-heavy release.

Why: Their extreme revs require balls that can handle oil and snap hard on the backend, with cores amplifying their natural hook. As of March, 2026, some customer favorite bowling balls that work well for a Two-Hander are: 1) Ebonite The One Ovation, 2) Hammer Black Widow 3.0 Dynasty, 3) Hammer Zero Mercy Solid, 4) Storm Ion Max, 5) DV8 Heckler, 6) Hammer Maximum Effect.

Top Bowling Balls For Two-Handers

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