Best Bowling Ball for Left Handers

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Say you’re left-handed and you’re playing a casual game of bowling with your friends. If you get a low score, you can always blame it on the bowling ball since the ones you get at the bowling alley are usually drilled for right-handed bowlers. However, if you decide to play seriously or even go pro, those house balls may become a hindrance. That’s why we want to help you find the best bowling ball for left handers so that you can either start off playing with the right technique or improve your game by a lot.

From a layman’s perspective, bowling is a simple game where you throw a ball in an attempt to hit all the pins. In actuality, there are many factors to be considered, such as the lane conditions, coverstock, and the weight block of the bowling ball, all of which affect how you play the game. Therefore, lefties and righties play the game differently and strategize accordingly.

The holes on a bowling ball determine whether it is right or left-handed. Firstly, the spacing of the finger holes from the thumb holes in the two types is different and more convenient for its specified user. Secondly, the position of the holes with regards to the weight block located inside the ball should be considered while throwing the ball. The layout of the ball affects the techniques employed by each player, which is why left-handed players buy an undrilled ball and take it to a shop for it to be drilled to their specifications. 

This article delves into the best bowling balls for left handers and their features so that you can find one to your liking, whether you are a beginner or a pro. We also have some useful bowling tips for left handers who either want to know where to start or to improve their game.

In a Hurry? Here are Our Top Picks for Best Bowling Ball for Left Handers…

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball

Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball

  • New Era 139 Symmetric Core
  • Pearl Reactive
  • Light to medium dry lane condition

BEST FOR EXPERIENCED PLAYERS

Hammer Black Widow 2.0

Hammer Black Widow 2.0

  • Gas mask asymmetric
  • Solid Reactive
  • Medium to heavy oil lane condition

BUDGET PICK

Storm Ice

Storm Ice

  • Traditional 3-piece Core
  • Pearl Polyester
  • Any lane condition

Things to Consider When Choosing a Left Handed Bowling Ball

Coverstock Material and Thickness

The material of the ball dramatically affects the overall quality of the ball and its performance. Like the right-handed bowling balls, the left-handed ones are usually crafted of three primary materials: namely, reactive resin, plastic/polyester, and Urethane. All of these three materials come with their own sets of merits and demerits.

One of the most commonly used materials out of the three options is the plastic/polyester owing to qualities like ‘pocket-friendly’ and ‘shock-proof’ attributed to it. If you are a beginner and are looking for a bowling ball, one made of this material is one of the best options available in the market. The plastic balls help beginners to master the basics and greatly aids them during the learning phase. They don’t have much hook potential and will roll straight.

A ball made of resin enables users to better grip the ball, thus allowing them to control the ball while performing in different lanes efficiently. They tend to hook more than polyester balls. The resin ball works best on an oil-patterned bowling lane and moves quite smoothly. Balls fashioned out of this material are quite popular among bowlers because of their excellent performance and early release but are pretty expensive as well.

Balls made of Urethane are known for their control and durability and hence, are quite a favorite of professional bowlers. They come with excellent hook action and provide maximum friction.

Another critical factor that heavily affects the overall performance of the bowling balls is the thickness of the coverstock of the balls. It is important to go for a uniform thickness coverstock, enabling you to have greater control over the ball because the center of gravity will be stable. This also makes it easier to drill holes into the ball because with an uneven coverstock thickness you may notice that the bowling ball cracked between finger holes after being drilled into. It will also not last long owing to the non-uniform distribution of weight on the ball.

Drill Holes

One of the major dilemmas that every bowler faces while purchasing a new bowling ball is to choose between a pre-drilled or undrilled bowling ball. We suggest that you go for an undrilled bowling ball if you are a leftie. This is because left-handed bowler balls are usually equipped with different drill layouts and patterns. Hence, getting an undrilled ball will allow you to get holes drilled into the ball according to your measurements and comfort. This also enables you to drill bowling ball hole patterns according to your bowling style, thereby improving your performance and leading to fewer wrist injuries, which are generally caused due to improper gripping of the balls. Of course, the undrilled options are more expensive than the pre-drilled ones, but it is all worth it in the long run. It is also recommended to use a bowling wrist brace to reduce injuries.

Weight of the Ball

One of the essential features that you need to take into consideration while choosing a left-handed bowling ball is the weight of the ball. It would be best if you remember to get one that is well suited to your abilities to provide ease and comfort while playing. While a heavy ball might result in weariness, a lightweight ball will significantly impact your game while playing. The weight of the bowling balls ranges from six to sixteen pounds. The ones that fall between 6 and 10 lbs. are generally suitable for children, beginners, and the elderly. In comparison, the ones that weigh more than 10 lbs. are used by adults, where women may prefer a range from 10 to 14 pounds, and men may prefer 14 to 16 pounds.

The lightweight balls are quite easy to play with, but they tend to miss the targets, which might end up being quite frustrating. This can be avoided by using heavy balls, but it can be a little difficult to handle the heavy ones and everyone cannot manage them. Therefore, you’re better off choosing one that is quite compatible with your bodyweight and strength.

Best Beginner Bowling Balls

Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball

Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball
  • RG: 2.54
  • Differential: 0.032
  • Symmetric core
  • Coverstock: Pearl Reactive
  • Finish: 3500-grit Polished
  • Recommended Lane Condition: Light to medium dry

If you’re looking for an entry-level ball that you can continue to use long-term, the Pyramid Path Rising provides the economy in terms of price but with high performance. It is easy to handle and allows players to use a wide range of styles, be it varied ball speeds or revolution rates.

This ball is engineered to provide the perfect balance of hook and length, which is more evident if drilled for a lefty. It provides a predictable motion on medium to medium-dry lane conditions and it’s the high RG score that allows it to rev up nicely even in dry lane conditions.

It features the brand’s New Era 139 symmetrical core to help provide consistency and great flexibility in terms of drilling holes in the perfect positions to suit your comfort level. 

The Pyramid Path Rising has a Reactive Pearl coverstock with 1500 Grit Abralon/Factory Finish polish for a medium flare potential. This gives it an aggressive backend reaction with enough strength to carry down the lane. It also creates a good hook motion – enough to get around the corner and keep you going into an intermediate level. This is also possible because of its relatively durable material.

Pros

Lots of options for hole drilling to suit your playing style.

Very high quality for an entry level ball.

Can be used by beginners as well as continue on to an intermediate level.

One of the few that performs well on dry lane conditions.

Cons

Beginners will need extra practice to get used to its aggressive backend reaction.

Not the best hook if drilled for right handers.

 

 

Storm Ice

Storm Ice
  • RG: 2.69
  • Differential: 0.006
  • Core: Traditional 3-piece Pancake
  • Coverstock: Pearl Polyester
  • Finish: 3500-grit Polished
  • Recommended Lane Condition: Any

The Storm Ice ball is an excellent choice if you are an entry-level or recreational player. It is economical, yet it does not compromise on quality. The pearl polyester coverstock is durable enough to handle the rougher bowling of a left-handed beginner. The surface is smooth, reducing its hook potential, but is ultimately favourable if you are looking for a predictable shot. This is why its is commonly used to shoot spares, even by pros, as it makes it easier to hit the seven or ten pin.

The RG is on the higher side, meaning that the ball travels longer and has a later roll. Additionally, the low differential, low rev rate, and 3500-grit polish result in low flare and friction making this ball more suited to clean, precise shots.

The symmetrical 3-piece pancake core adds to the length of the shot and gives you more freedom when drilling the holes suitable to your left hand. Furthermore, the Storm Ice bowling ball is relatively unaffected by the lane conditions. This feature is especially great if you don’t intend on adding a lot of balls to your arsenal or if you aren’t experienced enough to notice lane conditions or oil transitions.

Pros

Suitable on all lane conditions.

Smooth and precise shots

Affordable, yet good quality.

Flexible regarding placement of holes.

Cons

Limited range of shots due to low flare.

 

 

Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball

Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball
  • RG: N/A
  • Differential: N/A
  • Core: Symmetrical
  • Coverstock: Polyester
  • Finish: High gloss polish
  • Recommended Lane Condition: Dry

The last on the list of best beginner bowling balls is the Brunswick Tzone Deep Space bowling ball. This ball is a perfect choice for you if you plan on being a straight shooter. If not, this ball would still be an economical choice for your second ball, one that helps you rack up those spares. The ball has a very predictable response, and the hook potential is really low. These features are especially advantageous if, as a beginner, you don’t want to focus too much on the more complex aspects of the game such as the flare or friction, and would much rather use a ball that rolls precisely where you throw it.

The ball rolls smoothly on dry lanes due to its polyester coverstock. The material is durable and does not require as much attention as some of the other materials on the market. The high gloss polish makes the ball visually appealing while also lengthening the shot. Brunswick’s high gloss polish is also available separately so you can keep your Brunswick Tzone ball as shiny as ever. As for the interior of the Brunswick Tzone, it’s relatively simple with its symmetrical core, which gives you a lot of options for the placement of holes that suit your left hand.

Pros

An economical choice.

The response is predictable.

Low maintenance.

Great for dry conditions or unpredictable oil patterns.

Cons

Can’t handle very rough bowling without minor damage.

Doesn’t perform well on oily surfaces.

 

 

Best for Experienced Players


Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball

Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball
  • RG: 2.524
  • Differential: 0.030
  • Core: Symmetric Lightbulb
  • Coverstock: Pearl Reactive
  • Finish: 500 SiaAir / Royal Compound / Royal Shine
  • Recommended Lane Condition: Light to medium dry

If you don’t want to spend a lot on a ball, the Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball is one you should go for. It comes at a very affordable price and is one of the best balls in this price range. In addition, it is not highly sensitive to the lane conditions and provides for a great hook.

This ball can be used both as a primary and a spare ball. It has the traditional lightbulb core. This symmetry will allow you to get either fingertip or conventional holes drilled just right at your pro shop in order to preserve its balance as well as take advantage of its medium aggression. Beginners can use conventional grips for more control, but those who have progressed a bit can get fingertip grips to generate more power for the hook on dry to medium lane conditions.

This ball has a pearl reactive coverstock. It is definitely not a straight ball. If you develop a good hook shot, it will cut or spin almost around a foot from the pins. However, with a reaction strength of 30, the ball is smooth, easy to throw, and grips the lane efficiently for amazing length. It even shows consistent performance in different weight ranges (10-16 lbs). This ball will help you in increasing your point average. With its highly attractive look and affordable price, it is highly recommended.

Pros

One of the best at its price.

Attractive look and multiple color options.

Predictable rolling line in medium and dry conditions.

Excellent lane length

Cons

Not recommended for competitive bowlers.

Not for oily conditions.

 

 


Pyramid Antidote Solid Bowling Ball

Pyramid Antidote Solid Bowling Ball
  • RG: 2.55
  • Differential: 0.054
  • Core: Symmetric
  • Coverstock: Solid Reactive
  • Finish: 2000 Grit Abralon
  • Recommended Lane Condition: Medium to heavy

If you want a ball that knocks down the corner pins removing the need for a spare ball, the Pyramid Antidote Solid Bowling Ball should be your go-to ball. It is able to do so because of its highly predictable reaction.

It has (what Pyramid calls) the Antidote Core – New Era 149 symmetric core, which provides excellent lane length and continuation. It hits the pins strongly and has very low deflection. In addition, the ball has the 2000 Grit Abralon/Factory Finish Polish, making the ball smooth and highly reactive. Even the solid reactive coverstock provides a solution for medium to heavy oil lane conditions.

It also hooks and flares impressively. This ball is highly recommended for left-handed bowlers with the strong wrist cranking style of bowling. It is also recommended if you are shifting to the reactive resin bowling style. It transitions beautifully from a hook into a controlled roll.

The ball stands out with its swirls and color combination and looks great while moving down the lane. This ball has a lot to offer compared to its pricier competitors in the market.

Pros

Great control.

Strong back-end reaction and hook.

It stands out while rolling.

Highly predictable.

Cons

Needs to be cleaned quite regularly as it retains oil

 

 

Hammer Black Widow 2.0

Hammer Black Widow 2.0
  • RG: 2.50
  • Differential: 0.058
  • Core: Asymmetric
  • Coverstock: Solid Reactive
  • Finish: 500, 1000, 2000 Siaair Micro Pad
  • Recommended Lane Condition: Medium to heavy

This is the new version of the original Hammer Black Widow. The Hammer Black Widow 2.0 has a Gas Mask core (similar to its predecessor) with an outer core of carbon fiber, making it a heavy hitter. This ball finishes quite strong and is durable. It will destroy the pins if you are able to hit the pocket. It is just flawless when it comes to medium or heavy oil conditions because of its ability to provide traction. It even has the same reaction shape and color combination as the original ball.

It has the Aggression Solid coverstock with the Siaair finish. Even though it is aggressive, the ball rolls smoothly without reacting much in the mid-lane and manages a hard arc through the pins.

The ball manages to perform well in many conditions but is highly recommended for medium to heavy oil lane conditions, and since it uses the oil for lane reaction, you won’t need to wipe off the oil between shots. In fact, it can struggle a little on lanes with increasing friction.

This ball showcases a controlled line and provides for a lot of different angles to approach the pocket. If you are an experienced bowler who knows where your lines are and knows how to hook well, it is a must-buy. If you are a beginner, it might require a little time to adjust, but this ball is great for straight bowlers and certainly delivers the performance it promises once you have.

Pros

Can be used by experienced players.

No requirement of cleaning the ball in between shots.

Very smooth.

Great for straight bowlers.

Cons

For some beginner bowlers, it might take some time to adjust to.

Not the easiest to hook.

Not the best for lanes with increasing friction.

 


How to Tell a Left Handed Bowling Ball From Right

Up until a bowling ball is drilled with the finger holes and thumb hole, it is neither a left or right-handed ball. Like mentioned before, it is the spacing of the holes and the relation of the holes to the weight block of the ball that determines whether the ball was made for lefties or righties. You may observe that the ring finger is behind the middle finger in a left-handed bowling ball and is generally the last finger to leave the ball unlike a right-handed ball, where the middle finger leaves the ball last.  This placement of holes shifts the center of gravity slightly to the left of the thumb hole. Due to this, both balls roll differently and require different strategies while playing.

Now coming to the weight block i.e the core of the ball. The core position can be determined by the pin, which is visible on the ball’s exterior. Based on the core’s position, you may choose where to get the holes drilled. Drilling the holes closer to the core will result in a stronger hook, and as you go farther, the reaction weakens. This is why bowlers often prefer to buy undrilled balls and get them drilled by a pro shop. In most left-handed balls, the mass bias is found to be closer to the left of the thumb hole as it offsets the force and results in a greater hook reaction.

You may also want to get yourself good left handed bowling shoes because they will help you slide or brake properly before you throw the ball.

How to Drill a Bowling Ball for a Left Handed Player

If you decide to get an undrilled ball, it is best to get it drilled by professionals, especially if they are used to drilling holes for left-handed players. Getting it drilled according to your specifications puts you in control of where the holes are positioned regarding the ball’s weight block. You can also control the spacing and the size of the holes based on your hand and your preference. This allows you to have a better grip on the ball, and you can play better.

You may question whether it’s possible to drill it yourself, and the short answer is- it’s complicated. Drilling your ball goes farther than just putting holes in a ball. You would need detailed measurements of your hand and ball, knowledge of the pin and core positions, and how they affect the placement of the holes, and much more. This is why there are certification programs for drilling holes. It is also why workers at a pro shop require a lot of guidance and practice before becoming good at the skill. The equipment necessary for drilling is also in no way budget-friendly. Due to these factors, most bowlers opt to get their balls drilled at a pro shop.

Once the shop has the specs of the ball and your hand, they use it to set its layout based on your desired reaction (stronger or weaker). They then lay down the precise measurements and drill the holes. For left-handed bowlers, shops usually use the mirror image of the layout used for righties.

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