Like us on Facebook
Tweet @bowlingball
Follow @bowlingball
**ALL ORDERS PLACED BEFORE 4 PM ET WILL SHIP THE SAME DAY - FREE SHIPPING EVERY ITEM EVERY DAY**
Use and distribution of this article is subject to our terms and conditions
whereby bowlingball.com's information and copyright must be included.

How to Choose the Right Bowling Ball Differential for Optimal Performance

Written By: Keith Spear | Written On: Wednesday, February 28, 2007 | Updated On: Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Selecting the Right Bowling Ball Differential

Understanding Bowling Ball Differential

If you wish to determine how to select a bowling ball differential, there are a few factors to consider initially:

  1. 1. What is Differential of RG
  2. 2. Lane Oil Conditions
  3. 3. Choosing the right bowling ball

Understanding how to select a bowling ball differential begins with learning a little about differential of RG (radius of gyration). The core design of a given bowling ball will shape the ball motion of a ball while it is rolling down the lane. Within the core of any bowling ball exists measurements of mass distribution which influence a bowling ball in motion on the lane-surface.

The bowling ball differential of RG is one key measurement engineers use to identify the difference of the RG of a given bowling ball’s “X-axis” (weight block vertical measurement) compared to the RG of the “Y” or “Z” axes (weight block horizontal measurements). Simply put, differential of RG is an indicator of a given ball’s flare potential, which is a common rating used by the manufacturers in the advertising campaigns for new bowling ball releases.

Flare potential can be enhanced or diminished by use of various drilling patterns. For example, high differential balls have a high degree of track flare while low differential balls have low track flare. Length adjustments, known as skid control, are achieved by using various drilling patterns. It is important to realize that the differential or flare potential of any given ball should be an important consideration, followed by your choice of drilling pattern.

Low differential balls will encourage a mild hook potential from the break point to the pocket (for both left and right-handed bowlers) on the lane surface about two-thirds of the way down the lane. Medium differential balls will hook or arc modestly and more pronounced than low differential balls from the break point to the pocket, while high differential balls will hook more sharply on the back end of the lane.

Deciding on Ball Reaction

A good strategy is to decide how sharply you want the ball to react down the lane at the break point. For example, if the lane conditions you regularly encounter have a high volume of oil on the front end of the lane, a ball with low differential will prevent severe hooking action across the pocket down the lane. This allows for a straighter trajectory and better control over the ball’s path.

If lane conditions have medium to medium-heavy oil, then choosing a ball with medium differential RG will match well. Medium differential balls hook or arc decisively down the lane and work well when playing the second or third arrow in your targeting procedure. Players may find it beneficial in league games to adjust based on these typical lane conditions.

Dry or medium-dry lane conditions usually require playing increased angles closer to the center of the lane at the arrows out to the break point down the lane. A high differential ball will generally provide sufficient hook potential to help the ball recover on the back end, making it suitable for dry conditions where it needs a strong finish.

More About Differential of RG

The radius of gyration measures how mass is distributed within the core of a bowling ball. In practical terms, a low RG ball revs up quickly and is typically better suited for shorter or lower-volume oil patterns, while a high RG ball stores energy longer, suitable for longer and heavier oil patterns. A balanced approach to RG and differential can be vital to finding a good match with various lane conditions.

Why Flare Potential Matters

Flare potential, as mentioned, is a crucial factor to consider. High flare potential means the ball will move aggressively as it encounters the backend, providing a sharper hook angle into the pocket. For bowlers seeking a strong, hook-heavy performance on the backend, high flare potential is a major advantage. Conversely, if you need controlled ball motion, opting for a low flare potential will help keep the ball moving predictably down the lane.

Matching Differential with Your Bowling Style

Your bowling style is also important when selecting a differential. Bowlers who throw with a lot of speed may prefer a low RG, low differential ball to keep it from hooking too sharply. On the other hand, slower bowlers might look for a higher differential, giving them a better backend reaction to help carry pins. Matching the differential with your speed and rev rate ensures that the ball reacts effectively, reducing the chances of hitting the pocket at an unfavorable angle.

The Importance of Lane Conditions

Lane conditions can vary widely, and each condition can influence how a ball performs. For example, freshly oiled lanes will make a ball skid longer, especially if it has low differential, while drier lanes increase friction, causing high differential balls to hook earlier. Understanding how to adjust to these conditions allows bowlers to choose the appropriate differential and make necessary adjustments mid-game.

Click here to shop smart deals Need Help? Click here to access our contact information. Pyramid Performance Promo 2025
WeeklyContestText Click here to shop all Pyramid Bowling Balls