Whether you’re new to bowling or an experienced player, having a properly drilled bowling ball is crucial to improving your game. Drilling a bowling ball customizes it to fit your hand size and grip style, enhancing your control, accuracy, and overall performance. However, understanding the costs involved in bowling ball drilling can be a little confusing, especially for beginners.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about drilling a bowling ball, including costs, the benefits of getting your own ball drilled, and how you can save money. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect when drilling your bowling ball, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player.
Table of Contents
What is Bowling Ball Drilling?
Services for drilling bowling balls Make finger holes in the balls you’ll use to play.
Bowling ball drilling refers to the process of making precise holes in the ball to fit your fingers and thumb. It involves creating customized finger holes that align with your unique hand shape, allowing you to grip and release the ball with comfort and consistency. The ball is drilled based on your measurements, such as finger span and grip pressure, ensuring that it fits your hand perfectly.
There are two types of drilling:
- Basic Drilling: This is when standard, pre-measured finger hole sizes are drilled into the ball. It’s usually a quick process and suitable for casual or beginner bowlers.
- Custom Drilling: This involves taking detailed measurements of your hand to create a precise, personalized fit. Custom drilling is recommended for more serious or competitive bowlers.
Read More: What is Drill Press Swing?
How Much Does Drilling a Bowling Ball Cost?
The finger holes on a bowling ball should be pre-drilled or customizable when you buy one. There are no additional expenses for drilling if you opt for the pre-drilled option because it comes standard without any customized drilling and is already included in your total.
The cost of drilling a bowling ball can vary depending on where you go, the level of customization, and the type of ball you have. Below are the typical costs involved in the drilling process.
Drilling services at your local pro shop often fall into two categories:
- Services for basic drilling
- Services for custom drilling
Cost of Basic Drilling
For most bowlers, basic drilling is an affordable option, especially if you’re just getting started. Basic drilling typically costs between $30 and $50 at most pro shops. This price often covers drilling for standard grip holes without any specialized measurements.
Who is this for?
- Casual or beginner bowlers
- Players who want a general fit without customization
- Those who are using house balls or pre-owned balls
Cost of Custom Drilling
If you’re a more advanced bowler or want a personalized fit, custom drilling is the better option. The price for custom drilling can range from $50 to $150 or more, depending on the complexity of the fitting. Custom drilling requires detailed measurements of your hand, including finger span, hand flexibility, and grip style, ensuring that the ball perfectly matches your hand and playing style.
Who is this for?
- Competitive or advanced bowlers
- Players who want a customized fit for maximum control
- Anyone purchasing a high-end bowling ball
Beginner Drill Cost
As a beginner, you may not want to spend a lot on custom drilling right away. Many bowling pro shops offer beginner packages that include the ball and drilling services for around $60 to $100. This price often includes basic drilling, but some shops may offer discounted custom drilling for beginners.
Advance Player Drill Cost
For advanced players, the investment in a custom-fitted ball is worth the cost. You may be looking at a total cost between $100 to $200 for custom drilling services, especially if you require specific modifications or multiple sets of finger inserts for added comfort. Pro shops that specialize in advanced player fittings also often include digital scans of your hand, adding to the precision of the drill.
Additional the Charges
In addition to the basic and custom drilling costs, there can be additional charges for the following:
- Finger inserts: Small inserts placed in the finger holes for added comfort and grip. These can cost between $10 and $20.
- Thumb slugs: Thumb slugs help improve your thumb release by offering a smoother surface, costing around $15 to $25.
- Balance holes: Some bowlers choose to add balance holes for more control, which can cost an extra $20 to $30.
- Plugging and redrilling: If you’re redrilling an existing ball, you may need to pay for plugging (filling in the old holes), which can cost $40 to $60.
What Are the Advantages of Drilling My Own Ball?
Drilling your own bowling ball, or having it professionally drilled to your specifications, offers several benefits that can improve your game and give you an edge on the lanes.
Modification
One of the main benefits of having your bowling ball drilled is the ability to modify it to suit your playing style. You can customize the grip, finger hole size, and even the weight distribution to better control your ball’s motion. Custom drilling also ensures that you avoid discomfort or injuries caused by using an ill-fitting ball.
Own the Game
With a ball that’s drilled specifically for your hand, you can truly take ownership of your game. A custom-drilled ball will allow for smoother releases, better accuracy, and improved hook potential, making it easier to perform consistently.
Prosperity
A well-drilled bowling ball can last you many years, making it a good long-term investment. By investing in a high-quality ball and ensuring it’s properly fitted, you’ll see improvements in your game that can lead to better scores and greater success on the lanes. This can ultimately save you money in the long run, as you’ll be less likely to need frequent replacements.
How Can Save Money
If you’re looking to save money while still getting the benefits of a custom-fitted ball, here are a few tips:
- Buy a beginner’s package: Many pro shops offer packages that include the ball and basic drilling, which can be more affordable than purchasing everything separately.
- Use finger inserts: Instead of paying for a custom drill, you can use finger inserts to achieve a more comfortable grip at a lower cost.
- Look for deals: Some shops offer discounts on drilling services when you purchase a ball through them.
Warp Up
Drilling a bowling ball is an important step toward improving your performance on the lanes. Whether you opt for basic drilling or invest in a custom fit, having the right ball in your hand can make all the difference in your game.
- Basic drilling is perfect for beginners or casual players, offering a quick and affordable option.
- Custom drilling is ideal for more serious bowlers who want to maximize control and accuracy.
- Additional charges for inserts, slugs, and balance holes are common, but they can enhance the fit and feel of your ball.
When you take the time to properly fit and drill your ball, you’ll find yourself bowling more consistently, with greater control and confidence. By understanding the costs and benefits of bowling ball drilling, you’ll be better prepared to make the right choice for your game and your budget.
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