Bowling ball weight block! When I was a kid, I used to wonder all the time, “What’s inside a bowling ball?”. I know, there are many of you who are new to this sport and still wonder what a bowling ball has on the inside. Well, as you can guess from the title, it is called weight block aka core. So in other words, the core of a bowling ball is its weight block.
So what is a weight block? What is its purpose? What difference does it make in balls’ motion and reaction? I, your friend, am here to answer all of your questions! So sit back, relax, and give this article a read.
What does a bowling ball weight block mean?
We all have seen how bowling ball rolls down the lane when they are released. From the look of it, you can tell that those things aren’t lightweight. Otherwise, it wasn’t possible to move something so strongly on a surface. Honestly, it’s basic physics. So what causes the ball to move that way? Yes, it’s the core which is also called weight block.
The bowling ball weight block comes in specific shapes. It can also have different materials and densities. The heavier the bowling balls are, the denser the materials are. Because every bowling ball core has its own particular shape, the weight is distributed throughout each ball in its own way.
The weight is the most obvious factor that makes sense to most bowlers, especially beginners. You can tell the weight of a ball just by holding it. Logically, the heavier it feels the heavier the weight block on the inside of the bowling ball.
What does a weight block do in a bowling ball?
One of the most important aspects every bowler needs to understand is the core of a ball. Before you roll your ball, make sure you know what kind of core it has on the inside and how the ball is supposed to perform from the start till the end of the lane. When you drill your bowling ball, you need to understand properly how the core is placed. No, you don’t have to bust open a bowling ball to know that.
Bowling is all about Physics. A meticulously-balanced and right-shaped bowling ball weight block is going to have the best-performing characteristics. If the weight block is very carefully designed and engineered, the projectiles will make the ball hook right on time and a bit inward. The spin you will give the ball will increase the friction with the help of the core and reach the pocket right next to the headpin.
Do remember this— balls with exotic cores need to be drilled properly. With proper drilling, the ball can turn stronger, which means, more hooks. If the drilled holes are placed in the wrong spot, it can make the ball weaker, which means less angular hooks and a weaker reaction. Depending on what weight block your ball has and the direction it points, you can enjoy various moves and reactions. That should be fun, don’t you think?
Types of bowling weight block and their purposes
Mainly, there are two types of weight blocks. One is the symmetrical core and another is the asymmetrical core. Well, you can tell by the name which is which. The symmetry of your bowling ball core affects the way your ball travels down the lane. Many advanced and pro bowlers swear by symmetrical-cored bowling balls over everything. They provide a stable and predictable, much more predictable than the asymmetrical ball.
Symmetrical bowling balls are also known to be consistent and have a reliable ball motion that every bowler needs. The controllability of a symmetrical bowling ball is much more appreciated than an asymmetrical bowling ball.
Asymmetrical cores can have any shape. The asymmetrical ball has a spot with higher weight distribution than another. In terms of performance, Asymmetrical-cored bowling balls provide a better angular motion and a defined ball journey. They respond to friction on the lane faster than symmetrical bowling balls. The breakpoint is also significantly sharp, but if thrown wrong, the asymmetrical weight block makes the ball go the wrong way.
Both weight blocks have their pros and cons and neither weight block is necessarily better than the other. Just like any other thing in bowling, each weight block is designed to serve specific purposes. Which one do you think will be the right one for you? For that, you need to practice a lot. Once you know that symmetrical weight blocks feel pretty easy-peasy, you can give asymmetrical bowling balls a try and see whether you like it or not. If you think you have the ability to control the crazy reaction of asymmetrical-cored balls, what are you waiting for? Become an expert in both kinds of bowling weight blocks.
FAQs Of Bowling Ball Weight Block!
What is a bowling ball weight block?
A bowling ball weight block is a core material placed inside the bowling ball to influence its motion and performance on the lane. Different weight block designs can affect how a ball hooks, rolls, and reacts to the lane conditions.
How does the weight block shape affect ball performance?
The weight block shape significantly impacts a bowling ball’s performance. Symmetrical weight blocks tend to provide smoother and more controllable motion, while asymmetrical weight blocks generate stronger and more angular reactions, creating hook potential.
What are the common weight block types?
The two main types of weight blocks are symmetrical and asymmetrical. Symmetrical blocks include pancake and symmetric shapes, while asymmetrical blocks include asymmetrical, high-differential, and low-differential designs.
Does the weight block’s placement matter in a bowling ball?
Yes, the placement of the weight block within the ball, known as the Mass Bias, can affect how the ball reacts on the lane. It determines the ball’s preferred spin axis and can be adjusted to match a bowler’s style or lane conditions.
How do I choose the right weight block for my bowling style?
The choice of a weight block depends on your bowling style, lane conditions, and desired ball reaction. Consult with a pro shop operator or a knowledgeable coach who can recommend a suitable weight block design and ball layout based on your needs.
Conclusion
That’s my two cents on bowling ball weight block, my friends! The basic facts I have put down in this article are very thoughtfully written. I know, coverstock type and its finish are important topics to know, but so are the weight blocks. Bowling ball weight block impacts your bowling significantly. Knowing what type of core provides what type of reaction and ball motion is paramount. Hence this short articulation. I hope this will be helpful enough for you to understand bowling better. Toodles! And, keep on having fun while bowling!
Passionate Bowler and Bowling Enthusiast
Jess Pinelli is a dedicated bowling enthusiast with a deep love for the sport that spans over 6 years. With numerous strikes, spares, and a few gutter balls under hes belt, he has honed his skills on lanes across the country. Pinelli’s journey in the world of bowling has been a remarkable one, from casual weekend games with friends to competitive league play and even a few local tournaments.
Driven by her passion for the game, Pinelli decided to channel her expertise and knowledge into the digital realm, becoming a prolific author on this bowling website. She’s your go-to source for everything bowling-related, from mastering the perfect hook to choosing the right bowling ball and even navigating the world of bowling etiquette.
When she’s not busy writing informative articles or reviewing the latest bowling gear, you’ll likely find Pinellis at her favorite local bowling alley, helping newcomers improve their game or enjoying some friendly competition with fellow bowlers. She firmly believes that bowling is not just a game but a community, and she’s committed to fostering that sense of camaraderie both online and offline.
2 responses to “Bowling Ball Weight Block: How It works?”
[…] So where do this symmetry and asymmetry come from? Well, when we talk about this, we mean the weight blocks and the cores. Not the coverstock, not the outer shape, just the cores. Based on the core type, […]
[…] to throw the heavy ball correctly. The performance of a weighted bowling ball mainly depends on its weight block. That is another big chapter to talk about. Anyway, what I’m trying to say is that the shape, […]