What's the most IMPORTANT measurement in bowling?
The Positive Axis Point

Bowling is full of numbers and measurements that can overwhelm anyone stepping into the sport. Layouts, axis rotation, axis tilt, ball speed, rev rate, and the list goes on. But before you drill your next bowling ball, there’s one measurement that matters more than any other: your Positive Axis Point, commonly known as your PAP.

What is a Positive Axis Point?

When you throw a bowling ball, there is a single point on the surface that initially does not rotate. This point acts like the ball’s axle (the center of its initial rotation), and that unique location is your Positive Axis Point.

Every bowler has a PAP, regardless of style, rev rate, or whether you use your thumb. For right-handed bowlers, the PAP typically sits to the right of the grip; for left-handed bowlers, it’s on the left.

While your PAP can reveal certain characteristics about your release, its primary purpose is simple: it allows your pro shop operator to place an accurate layout on your bowling ball.

How To Find Your Positive Axis Point

Any bowler can find their PAP with minimal equipment. Here’s a step‑by‑step guide:

You’ll Need:

• A bowling lane (you’ll throw 1–10 shots)
• A piece of colored tape (different color than the ball)
• A phone or camera
• A measuring tool (soft tape measure, clothing ruler, or a Pro-Sect)

Step 1: Throw a Shot

Throw a shot and do not wipe the oil off the ball. When the ball returns, you’ll see oil rings. Locate the point in the middle of the first oil ring closest to your fingers and/or thumb.

• Right‑handed bowlers: this point will be on the right side of the grip
• Left‑handed bowlers: on the left side

Step 2: Mark the Spot

Place a piece of tape on that point. Don’t worry about perfect accuracy yet. You’ll adjust it several times.

Step 3: Record Your Release

Set up your phone to record your release and the first 20 feet of ball motion. You do not need to record the pins.

Step 4: Throw Another Shot

Watch the recording. Your goal is to place the tape on the exact spot that does not rotate as the ball leaves your hand. If the tape spins, adjust its location and repeat.

Step 5: Repeat Until the Tape Is Stable

Once the tape stays still at release, you’ve found the positive axis point.

Step 6: Draw Your Horizontal Line

Using your measuring tool, draw a horizontal line from the center of your grip.

• Thumb bowlers: center of grip = midpoint between fingers and thumb
• No‑thumb bowlers: center of grip = midpoint between the fingers

Step 7: Measure Horizontal Distance

Measure from the center of grip straight across to the tape. This is your horizontal PAP measurement.

Step 8: Measure Vertical Distance

Measure straight up or down from the horizontal line to the tape. This is your vertical PAP measurement.

Example PAP Measurements

• 4.5" over, 1" up
• 6" over, 2" down
• 3" over, 0" up/down

These two numbers (horizontal and vertical) define your PAP.

Why Does it Matter?

Your PAP is essential for accurate ball layouts. Without it, every layout is a guess. Some guesses may work, but you lose the ability to fine‑tune ball motion and build a consistent arsenal.

Pro shops rely on PAP to correctly apply:

• Dual Angle Layout System
• Vector Layout System (VLS)
• 2-Handed Layout System (2LS)

Two bowlers can throw the same ball with the same layout, yet the pin may be in completely different places on the surface, all because their PAPs differ. PAP ensures the layout is applied correctly for your unique release.

Below is an image that showcases this point:

Final Thoughts

Your Positive Axis Point is one of the most important measurements you can know as a bowler. It directly affects how your bowling balls are drilled and how they react on the lane. If you want predictable, optimized ball motion, you need your PAP.

Because releases naturally evolve over time, it’s smart to re-check your PAP every few months. Small changes in your game can shift your PAP, and keeping it updated ensures your layouts stay accurate.

Positive Axis Point Frequently Asked Questions