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Best Bowling Balls for String Pinsetters: A Comprehensive Guide
If you are an avid bowler or just starting to get into the sport, you may have heard about the recent trend of bowling alleys using string pinsetters instead of traditional freefall pinsetters. While this change may seem insignificant, it has a significant impact on the type of bowling ball you should be using. In this article, we will unravel the mystery of string pinsetters and recommend the best bowling balls to use with them.
What are string pinsetters?
String pinsetters, also known as C-1 pinsetters, are a more modern version of traditional freefall pinsetters. In conventional pinsetting systems, the pins are held on a plastic mat, and the machine uses freefall technology to sweep away the fallen pins and reset the remaining ones for the next frame. On the other hand, string pinsetters use strings instead of plastic mats to hold the pins, and the machine pulls the strings to remove the fallen pins and reset the remaining ones.
This new system allows for a more efficient and quieter set up, eliminating the need for a pit and decreasing the overall noise level in the bowling alley. The use of strings also reduces the damage to bowling balls, making them last longer.
How string pinsetters affect bowling balls?
The shift towards string pinsetters has had a significant impact on the type of bowling balls being used. Traditional bowling balls are designed to work with the freefall technology of older pinsetting systems, where the ball must go through the pins and hit the pin deck for a strike. However, with string pinsetters, the pins are lifted from the deck, meaning the ball does not have to go through the pins for a strike. This change in pin action requires a different type of bowling ball to optimize performance.
Furthermore, the strings in string pinsetters can cause friction and wear on the coverstock of bowling balls. Therefore, it is essential to choose a durable and robust bowling ball to withstand the repetitive use on string pinsetters.
Top Bowling Ball Brands for String Pinsetters
After thorough research and testing, we have compiled a list of the top bowling ball brands that work best with string pinsetters. These brands have improved their technology and design to provide optimal performance on string pinsetters.
1. Storm
Storm is one of the most recognized and trusted brands in the bowling community. They have a wide range of bowling balls suitable for all types of bowlers, including those who use string pinsetters. Storm’s balls are designed with a strong and durable coverstock, making them resistant to the wear and tear caused by string pinsetters. Additionally, their balls have a medium flare potential, which is ideal for string pinsetters as it allows for more control and predictability.
2. Hammer
Known for producing high-performance bowling balls, Hammer is another top choice for string pinsetters. Their balls have a strong asymmetric core design, which provides a consistent and predictable reaction on the lane. They also have a wide range of coverstock options, allowing bowlers to choose the one that best suits their style of play and the conditions of the bowling alley.
3. Brunswick
Brunswick is a brand that has been around for over a century and is a favorite among many professional bowlers. Their bowling balls are known for their versatility and performance on all types of lane conditions, including those with string pinsetters. The balls have a symmetrical core and a strong reactive coverstock, making them ideal for the repetitive use on string pinsetters.
4. Roto Grip
Roto Grip is a brand that continuously pushes the boundaries of bowling ball technology. Their balls are designed with a unique core and coverstock that work together to provide exceptional hook potential and hitting power. This makes them an excellent choice for string pinsetters as they can generate the necessary power to knock down pins without going through them.
5. Motiv
Motiv is a relatively new brand in the bowling industry, but it has quickly gained a strong following among bowlers. They offer a range of bowling balls that are specifically designed for string pinsetters, with covers and cores that can withstand the repetitive use on the strings. Motiv’s balls also have excellent pin action, providing bowlers with a consistent and reliable reaction on the lanes.
Bowling Ball Coverstock and Core Considerations
When choosing a bowling ball for string pinsetters, there are a few key factors to consider. These include the ball’s coverstock and core design, as they greatly impact its performance and durability on string pinsetters.
Coverstock
The coverstock is the outer layer of the bowling ball, and it is crucial for its performance on string pinsetters. It is recommended to choose a bowling ball with a reactive resin coverstock, as it provides a strong and durable surface for the repetitive use on strings. Pearl coverstocks are also suitable for string pinsetters as they have a polished finish, reducing the friction with the strings.
Core Design
When it comes to the core, it is essential to choose a ball with a low flare potential. This means that the ball will not hook as much, providing better control and consistency when hitting the strings. A symmetrical core design is also ideal for string pinsetters, as it produces less torque on the pins, reducing the chances of damage to the ball.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use any bowling ball with string pinsetters?
A: No, traditional bowling balls are not recommended for string pinsetters as the strings can cause excessive wear and damage to the coverstock.
Q: What is the ideal type of coverstock for string pinsetters?
A: Reactive resin and pearl coverstocks are recommended for string pinsetters.
Q: Do I need to clean my bowling ball more often when using string pinsetters?
A: Yes, the friction from the strings may cause buildup on the coverstock, requiring more frequent cleaning.
Q: Is it necessary to use a specific weight for bowling balls on string pinsetters?
A: There is no specific weight requirement for bowling balls on string pinsetters. It is recommended to choose a weight that you are comfortable with and allows you to maintain control and accuracy.
Conclusion
As more and more bowling alleys make the switch to string pinsetters, it is essential to choose the right bowling ball to optimize your performance. Brands like Storm, Hammer, Brunswick, Roto Grip, and Motiv have all proven to be excellent options for string pinsetters, with their durable coverstocks and core designs. Additionally, considering the type of coverstock and core design when choosing a bowling ball is crucial for its performance on string pinsetters. We hope this guide has helped in your search for the best bowling ball for string