FAQ's
Q. What Am I Getting For The Cost?
A. There is nothing wrong with comparing costs, but make sure you are comparing apples to apples. The "cheapest" price could actually be more expensive in the long run. Top of the line balls are expensive and a poor layout or fitting can turn a $20 or $30 savings into a $50 or $60 expense, or worse yet, the entire cost of the ball!
Here are some questions and observations you need to think about when purchasing a ball.
* How much time is spent measuring my hand for the proper fit? * Is the ball layout done professionally or by a guess?
* Am I getting a first quality ball or a second or just what is left in inventory?
* Do the pin placement and top weights match my needs?
* Is the work guaranteed if I need adjustments later and for how long?
* Is the ball properly weighed before and after drilling to make sure it complies with USBC specs?
* Are the extra holes drilled to maximize performance when balancing is done?
* What is my positive axis point?
* Can the ball driller accurately duplicate thumb ovals?
* What about equipment warranties?
* Can any two or more balls be drilled to fit the same? If you check spans and pitches, are they the
same?
* Does the ball driller know how to measure for the modern grip or are they stuck in the '70's with
over-stretched spans and outdated pitches?
At Bowler X Pro Shop we do these things and more. The price you pay at our shop may be as low or lower than anywhere else, but what if it does cost a little more? It's certainly up to you to decide on value versus cost. We would suggest that you buy a ball based on the total value of performance, price, comfort and service both before and after the sale. After all, why do you purchase new equipment? If it is to improve your bowling, how many pins are you willing to sacrifice for not having the best fit and layout?
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Q. What about purchasing a ball on the internet?
A. We are happy to drill any ball for you. However, be aware that many balls sold on the internet may not be first quality or you may not get the pin placement and top weights that you want. Do not be fooled by "Pro Pin" balls. These are balls with pin placements that are too long for most layouts. If you do purchase your ball on the internet, be sure to pay the extra fee for insurance in case the ball cracks during drilling. Remember, no two balls are made alike for pin, weight, color, size or surface imperfections. Also, in many cases, by the time you order the ball, pay for the shipping and the extra insurance, your final cost after it is drilled is really no different than if you had purchased it from the pro shop in the first place.
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Q. What if my grip on a ball that you drilled doesn't feel right even weeks or months after I had it drilled?
A. Bring it back and we will evaluate and change it if necessary at no charge to you. Most bowlers have a range of spans and grip layouts that can be correct and comfortable. Any pro shop that claims they can drill the perfect grip the first time every time is not being truthful. Remember, every ball driller has their opinion about how a ball should be drilled. Sometimes we let the opinions of the customer influence our work. Many bowlers can pick up almost any balls that fits their fingers and roll it okay for awhile. We drill grips that allow you to roll well for as many games as possible at the greatest comfort. We guarantee our work!
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Q. My span and grip felt great for years, but I think it has changed. Do you re-measure for spans and grips periodically?
A. Yes. Hands can and do change over time. New ideas and drilling techniques can improve your fit. We recommend that these adjustments be made when needed.
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Q. Do you recommend a spare ball?
A. Yes, in most cases. Some bowlers can roll their strike ball effectively at all spares. The advntages of having a spare ball are that it hooks less and takes the lane conditions almost completely out of play. It also saves a lot of wear and tear on your much more expensive high end balls.