A well-maintained bowling ball is more than just equipment—it’s an investment in your game. Over time, bowlers often need to adjust or repair their balls due to wear, changes in finger sizes, or evolving techniques. One of the most effective ways to extend the life of your bowling ball is through bowling ball plugging and redrilling, a process that restores performance and ensures comfort. At Rain City Bowling Supply in Tacoma, Washington, our pro shop specializes in expert services that keep your bowling balls performing at their best.
Why Bowling Balls Need Plugging
Bowling balls endure repeated stress with every throw, which can affect both the surface and the finger holes. Over time, the holes can become worn or improperly sized due to finger growth or changing grip preferences. This is where bowling ball plugging and redrilling comes into play.
Plugging involves filling the existing holes with a durable material, allowing the ball to be redrilled to fit your current hand size and grip style. Without this process, bowlers risk discomfort, reduced control, and even injury. Plugging also allows you to adjust your ball for different playing styles, such as switching from a conventional grip to a fingertip grip. For competitive bowlers, maintaining precise hole dimensions is essential for accuracy, while recreational bowlers benefit from improved comfort and a smoother release.
Materials and Tools Used in Plugging
The quality of materials and tools directly affects the success of bowling ball plugging and redrilling. High-quality plugs are typically made from resin or plastic compounds that are strong, durable, and fully compatible with the ball’s coverstock.
Professional pro shops like Rain City Bowling Supply use specialized tools, including:
- Drills and hole cutters: Precision tools designed to remove old plugs and shape new holes accurately.
- Plugging compound: A resin-based filler that bonds seamlessly with the ball, preventing cracking or chipping.
- Sanding and finishing tools: These ensure the plug is flush with the ball’s surface, maintaining balance and smoothness.
Using the right materials ensures that the ball retains its original performance characteristics while adapting to the bowler’s needs.
Step-by-Step Plugging Process
Understanding the plugging process can help bowlers appreciate the precision involved in professional services. Here’s a general overview:
- Assessment: The ball is examined for wear, surface damage, and hole sizing issues. This step ensures the appropriate plug material and technique are used.
- Removing Old Plugs: Using precision drills, the old holes or plugs are carefully removed without damaging the ball’s core or surface.
- Applying Plug Material: High-quality plugging compound is inserted into the hole, filling it completely.
- Curing: The plug material is allowed to harden, ensuring a secure and long-lasting bond.
- Redrilling: The ball is drilled to match the bowler’s current hand size and grip preferences, ensuring comfort, balance, and accuracy.
- Finishing Touches: The ball is sanded and polished to match the original surface texture, preserving its performance characteristics.
Each step requires precision and skill to avoid misalignment, air pockets, or uneven surfaces that could affect ball performance.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
While bowling ball plugging and redrilling may seem straightforward, mistakes can compromise performance. Common errors include:
- Incorrect hole placement: Misaligned holes can affect the ball’s rotation and trajectory.
- Using low-quality plugs: Cheap materials may crack or separate over time, leading to uneven weight distribution.
- Over-sanding: Removing too much material can change the ball’s balance and overall feel.
To avoid these mistakes, it’s important to rely on professional services. Pro shops like Rain City Bowling Supply have experienced staff who understand the nuances of ball dynamics, hand sizes, and drilling angles, ensuring every plugged and redrilled ball performs as intended.
How Professionals Ensure Quality Results
Professional pro shops follow strict standards to maintain the quality and performance of your bowling ball. At Rain City Bowling Supply, the process begins with a thorough assessment of your ball’s condition and your personal grip requirements. Using advanced tools and precise drilling techniques, our technicians ensure that the plug and redrill maintain the ball’s balance and integrity.
Moreover, quality control involves testing the ball for weight distribution and surface smoothness. These steps are especially important for competitive bowlers, where even minor imperfections can affect lane performance. Professionals also provide guidance on care and maintenance, helping you get the most out of your plugged and redrilled ball.
Benefits for Recreational vs. Competitive Bowlers
Both recreational and competitive bowlers benefit from bowling ball plugging and redrilling, albeit in different ways.
- Recreational Bowlers: For casual players, plugging allows a ball to fit comfortably after finger size changes or wear. It ensures smooth releases, reduces hand fatigue, and extends the life of a favorite ball without needing to buy a new one.
- Competitive Bowlers: Precision is key for competitive players. Redrilled holes optimize release angles, spin, and overall ball reaction on the lane. Plugging also allows bowlers to modify their equipment for different lane conditions or to adapt their technique, ensuring consistency and peak performance in tournaments.
In both cases, professional plugging services provide long-term value, protecting your investment and enhancing your overall bowling experience.
Conclusion
Your bowling ball is more than just equipment—it’s a tool that can elevate your game when properly maintained. Bowling ball plugging and redrilling is an essential service that restores worn holes, improves comfort, and maintains optimal performance. Whether you are a casual bowler enjoying weekend league play or a competitive player striving for tournament success, professional plugging ensures your ball continues to deliver precision, control, and durability.
