Oldass thread, but I finally started back bowling again about four months ago after about a 35 year layoff, and I wasn't that good before.
I got my first fingertip drill locally, at the only pro shop available within at least 50 miles, and it has been intradesting. I like the change for my hand, and I've had SOME success. But I'm pretty sure my thumb hole is way wrong, and a few revisits t the pro shop have not inspired confidence. They just waller out the edges more so the back of my thumb gets less friction, when it should be zero friction. They keep saying I have to learn to release a fingertip, but they have never watched me bowl.
It is really frustrating to have only one ball I can try for fit, and it cost me more money that I really wanted to spend to try it out.
I'm averaging 150 since the new ball about a month ago, not much difference in average. At times I get proper rev angle and a nice modest hook to the pocket. But I'm having to use too much grip pressure to hold the ball because of the thumb hold and the more I bowl the straighter it gets and the more inconsistent my release.
I wish there were a way to try some different pre-drilled balls. Otherwise, I wish there were a really great pro shop guy that can make sure I get a legit custom drill for my hand so I can progress.
Is it possible to get something close remotely and have a ball drilled and shipped? I have been tempted to find a used ball just for trying out different drills until I find something that feels right, then have a legit base layout to start with.
I actually rolled a few 200-plus games and some very close with house balls for the first three months of bowling every week. But it gave me tendon issues at the base of my fingers. I don't care about having a huge hook like is all the rage nowdays, but I would like to have some more control on the ball and a comfortable grip.