Yes, it is possible to redrill a bowling ball. This process involves removing the existing finger and thumb holes and drilling new ones in a different configuration.
This can be done to adjust the fit of the ball to the bowler’s hand or to change the ball’s reaction to the lane. It is important to note that a professional with the proper equipment and experience should only be redrilling a ball.
Improper drilling can damage the ball and affect its performance. Additionally, redrilling a ball may void any existing warranty on the ball.
This article will discuss redrilling a bowling ball, why a bowler might choose it, and the potential benefits and drawbacks.
Table of Contents
What is Redrilling a Bowling Ball?
Redrilling a bowling ball removes the existing finger and thumb holes and drills new ones in a different configuration. This process is performed by a professional with proper equipment and experience.
The goal of redrilling a ball is to adjust the fit of the ball to the bowler’s hand or to change the ball’s reaction to the lane, improving the performance and comfort while bowling.
It’s important to note that redrilling a ball may void any existing warranty on the ball, and the process must be done by a professional to avoid damaging the ball.
Why Would a Bowler Choose to Redrill Their Ball?
There are several reasons why a bowler might choose to redrill their ball. Some of the most common include:
- Improper fit for the bowler’s hand: The size and shape of a bowler’s hand can change over time, or the bowler may have received a ball that needs to fit correctly. Redrilling the ball can adjust the fit to the bowler’s hand for improved comfort and performance.
- Changing the ball’s reaction on the lane: A bowler may want to change how the ball reacts on the lane, for example, making the ball hook more or less. This can be achieved by drilling the ball differently, which can be done through redrilling.
- Updating an older ball’s drill pattern: As bowling technology evolves, newer drilling patterns may become available to improve the ball’s performance. Bowlers may redrill their older ball to update it with the latest technology.
- Personalization: Some bowlers like a unique drill pattern that no one else has, so they might redrill their ball with a unique pattern.
It’s important to note that redrilling a ball should only be done by a professional with the proper equipment and experience to avoid damaging the ball and to ensure the best results.
The Process of Redrilling a Bowling Ball Step by Step
The process of redrilling a bowling ball typically includes the following steps:
Step 1
Inspection: The ball is inspected for any damage or imperfections before drilling.
Step 2
Removing the existing drill pattern: The finger and thumb holes are removed using a drill press or milling machine. This process is called “plugging,” and a professional driller does it.
Step 3
Measuring and marking: The bowler’s hand measurements are taken, and the new holes are marked on the ball. This is a crucial step to ensure the new holes are drilled in the correct location and size.
Step 4
Drilling the new holes: The new holes are drilled using a drill press or milling machine. The professional driller uses specific tools and techniques to ensure the holes are drilled straight and to the correct size.
Step 5
Sanding and buffing: After drilling, the ball is sanded and buffed to remove any rough edges and give it a smooth finish.
Step 6
Final inspection: The ball is inspected for imperfections or issues before being returned to the bowler.
The process of redrilling a bowling ball typically takes about 1-2 days, depending on the complexity of the new drill pattern and the availability of the professional driller.
Read More: How Much Does It Cost To Drill A Bowling Ball?
What Equipment is Needed for Redrilling?
The equipment needed for redrilling a bowling ball includes:
- Drill press or milling machine: This is the primary tool used to remove the existing holes and drill new ones. It must be precise and powerful enough to drill through the hard composite material of a bowling ball.
- Plug cutter: A specialized tool to remove the existing finger and thumb holes.
- Drill bits: Different sizes and styles of drill bits are used to drill the new holes to the correct size and shape.
- Measuring tools: To take the bowler’s hand measurements and mark the location of the new holes.
- Sanding and buffing tools: To smooth out any rough edges after drilling.
- Cleaning supplies: To keep the ball clean during the process.
It’s important to note that using the proper tools and equipment is crucial to ensure the best results and to avoid damaging the ball. Additionally, only a professional with the proper knowledge and experience should handle the redrilling process.
How are the New Holes Drilled?
The new holes in a bowling ball are drilled using a drill press or milling machine. A professional driller typically does the process with the proper equipment and experience. The steps for drilling the new holes include the following:
- Marking the new hole location: The new holes are marked on the ball based on the bowler’s hand measurements and the desired drill pattern.
- Setting up the drilling machine: The drill press or milling machine is set up with the appropriate drill bit for the new hole size and shape.
- Drilling the new holes: The professional driller carefully aligns the ball with the drill bit and begins drilling. The speed and pressure applied to the drill must be controlled to avoid damaging the ball.
- Checking the hole size and shape: The driller checks the size and shape of the hole as it is drilled to ensure it meets the desired specifications.
- Drilling additional holes: The process is repeated for each new hole that needs to be drilled.
It’s important to note that drilling new holes in a bowling ball is a precise process and requires the proper equipment and experience to ensure the best results. Drilling new holes incorrectly or with the wrong equipment can damage the ball and affect its performance.
Read More: How Much Weight Does a Bowling Ball Lose After Drilling?
How Long Does the Process Take?
The process of redrilling a bowling ball typically takes about 1-2 days, depending on the complexity of the new drill pattern and the availability of the professional driller.
The time it takes to redrill a ball can vary depending on how many holes need to be drilled and how complex the new drill pattern is. The process will take less time if a bowler wants a simple drilling pattern with few holes. However, the process will take longer if the bowler wants a more complex pattern with multiple holes.
It’s also worth noting that redrilling a bowling ball is time-consuming and requires a professional with the proper knowledge and experience to ensure the best results and avoid damaging the ball. Therefore, planning and making an appointment with a professional driller well in advance is essential to avoid delays.
What are the Reasons for Redrilling a Bowling Ball?
There are several reasons why a bowler might choose to redrill their ball. Some of the most common include:
- Improper fit for the bowler’s hand: The size and shape of a bowler’s hand can change over time, or the bowler may have received a ball that needs to fit correctly. Redrilling the ball can adjust the fit to the bowler’s hand for improved comfort and performance.
- Changing the ball’s reaction on the lane: A bowler may want to change how the ball reacts on the lane, for example, making the ball hook more or less. This can be achieved by drilling the ball differently, which can be done through redrilling.
- Updating an older ball’s drill pattern: As bowling technology evolves, newer drilling patterns may become available to improve the ball’s performance. Bowlers may redrill their older ball to update it with the latest technology.
- Personalization: Some bowlers like a unique drill pattern that no one else has, so they might redrill their ball with a unique pattern.
- Fixing the ball: Sometimes, a bowler may have received an imperfection or an error during the drilling process, and redrilling the ball is the best way to fix it.
It’s important to note that redrilling a ball should only be done by a professional with the proper equipment and experience to avoid damaging the ball and to ensure the best results.
What are the Potential Benefits and Drawbacks of Redrilling?
There are both potential benefits and drawbacks to redrilling a bowling ball.
Benefits:
- Improved performance on the lanes: Redrilling a ball can adjust the fit of the ball to the bowler’s hand and change the ball’s reaction to the lane, which can lead to improved performance and increased accuracy.
- Increased comfort while bowling: A ball that properly fits the bowler’s hand will be more comfortable to hold and throw, leading to better control and less fatigue.
- Personalization: Redrilling a ball can allow a bowler to have a unique drill pattern tailored to their specific needs and preferences, leading to a more enjoyable and personalized bowling experience.
Drawbacks:
- Voided warranty: Redrilling a ball may void any existing warranty on the ball.
- Risk of damaging the ball during the redrilling process: If the process is not done correctly or if the wrong equipment is used, the ball can be damaged, affecting its performance and lifespan.
- Cost: Redrilling a ball can be costly, as it requires the services of a professional driller with the proper equipment.
- Time-consuming: Redrilling a ball can take several days, which may be inconvenient for the bowler.
It’s essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully before deciding to redrill a ball. It’s also recommended to seek professional advice from a driller to help you decide what’s best for you.
FAQs Questions About Can you Redrill a Bowling Ball?
Can you redrill a bowling ball multiple times?
It is not recommended to redrill a bowling ball multiple times as this can weaken the structure of the ball and affect its performance. Redrilling should only be done when necessary and by a professional with the proper equipment and experience to avoid damaging the ball.
Can you redrill a bowling ball with a different weight?
No, changing a bowling ball’s weight by redrilling it is impossible. The weight of a bowling ball is determined by the amount and type of materials used in its construction and cannot be altered by drilling new holes.
Is it necessary to redrill a new bowling ball?
Not necessarily; a new bowling ball should come with a set of pre-drilled holes that are appropriate for most bowlers. However, if the bowler finds the ball uncomfortable or doesn’t perform as expected, redrilling the ball to adjust the fit or change the reaction on the lane may be necessary. It’s recommended to seek professional advice from a driller to help you decide what’s best for you.
Last Thought
In conclusion, redrilling a bowling ball is a process that involves removing the existing finger and thumb holes and drilling new ones in a different configuration.
This process can be done to adjust the fit of the ball to the bowler’s hand, change the ball’s reaction to the lane, and improve performance and comfort while bowling.
However, it’s important to note that redrilling a ball should only be done by a professional with the proper equipment and experience to avoid damaging the ball. Additionally, redrilling a ball may void any existing warranty on the ball.
The reasons for redrilling a ball include Improper fit for the bowler’s hand, Changing the ball’s reaction on the lane, Updating an older ball’s drill pattern, Personalization, and Fixing the ball.
It’s essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully before deciding to redrill a ball and seek professional advice.
In summary, redrilling a bowling ball can be a great way to improve your game, but it’s essential to research and make sure you’re making the right decision.
Hello everyone, I’m Sonjay Chowdhury.
Bowling for Beginners is a resource I made to help new bowlers learn the basics of the game, whether they’re just starting or hoping to make it as a professional.
I’m an aspiring bowler with a strong passion for the game. I started playing the game at a very early age, and it’s been an integral part of my life ever since.
The start was not as easy as many hurdles to becoming a professional bowler. However, if you’re passionate about something and have the guts to work your way, then there’s nothing in the world that can stop you.
However, I eventually overcame the barriers, and right now, I’m a member of many prominent bowling clubs around the country. For me, bowling isn’t just a hobby; It’s instead a passion that’s embedded in my veins.
I’ve chosen to commit a good deal of my time to assist anyone interested in learning to bowl. If your objective is to bowl more strikes and increase your scoring average, or if you want to learn more advanced techniques and skills, I have enough resources for you as well.
I hope everyone who wants to bowl may learn to like it.
Happy Bowling!
