Bowling is a fun, exciting, and social sport that appeals to all people of all ages and skill levels. For a seasoned pro or a beginner, bowling has distinct equipment. Specifically, the bowling ball.
Now, if you’ve been bowling with house balls for a while, that’s ok. However, if you’re starting to bowl on a more consistent basis, you may decide it’s time to put the house bowling ball down and invest in you a custom ball. But then the next question is, where to buy it from. Then you silently wonder do bowling alleys sell bowling balls?
Let’s find out!
Contents
- 1 Do Bowling Alleys Sell Balls?
- 2 Do Bowling Alleys Sell Used Bowling Balls?
- 3 What Else Do Bowling Alleys Sell?
- 4 Where Is the Best Place to Buy a Bowling Ball?
- 5 Does Quality of Bowling Balls Matter?
- 6 How Much Does the Average Bowling Ball Cost?
- 7 What Do Bowling Alleys Do With Old Bowling Balls?
- 8 Are Used Bowling Balls Good?
- 9 How Do I Choose a Bowling Ball?
- 10
- 11 Related Articles
Do Bowling Alleys Sell Balls?
Yes! Bowling alleys do sell bowling balls, and they have a different variety of balls available. The place within the bowling alley that sells bowling balls and other bowling equipment is called a Pro Shop. Most pro shops carry balls from major manufacturers, including Brunswick, Storm, and Ebonite.
Also, they also have a range of weights and sizes to suit all types of bowlers, from children to adults. In addition, as a new bowler deciding to purchase your very own ball is a big deal, and a pro shop is right where you want to be to receive personal attention and guidance.
Do Bowling Alleys Sell Used Bowling Balls?
While you can buy new bowling balls at your local pro shop in the bowling alley, it is less common to find used balls for sale. This is because most bowlers prefer to buy their own balls and have them drilled to fit their hand size. That said, some pro shops may sell used balls.
The selection is probably limited, and the balls may not be in the best condition. In addition, you won’t use the old finger holes, so you’ll have to have them plugged. Then for an additional fee, the used ball will need to be redrilled to fit your hand.
Also, most bowling alleys prefer to donate used balls to local charities or schools rather than sell them. So, if you are looking for a used ball, it is probably best to check with your local thrift store, consignment shop, or online retailer where people sell their personal items.
What Else Do Bowling Alleys Sell?
In addition to bowling balls, most pro shops in bowling alleys also sell other bowling items, such as:
- Bowling shoes
- Shirts
- Pants
- Gloves
- Bags
- Towels
- Finger tape
Where Is the Best Place to Buy a Bowling Ball?
The best place to buy a bowling ball is a pro shop. A benefit of buying a bowling ball from a bowling alley is that the knowledgeable staff can provide you with insight into selecting the right ball for your skill level and style.
They can also offer advice on how to care for your ball and tips on improving your game. Helpful staff for a new bowler is useful and personable and makes a new bowler feel comfortable with their investment purchase.
Additionally, buying a bowling ball from a bowling alley is often more convenient than ordering one online. When you buy a ball online, you must wait for it to be shipped to you, which can take several days or weeks. If you buy a ball from a bowling alley, you can start using the ball that day.
No matter where you buy your ball, be sure to have it drilled to fit your hand size. This will ensure that you get the best possible performance and comfortable fit from your ball. A pre-drilled ball is akin to a house ball with pre-drilled finger holes.
Does Quality of Bowling Balls Matter?
The quality of a bowling ball can affect your performance.
Higher-quality balls are usually made from better materials and have a more consistent surface. This can help you to achieve a straighter and more predictable roll. Of course, the price is not always the best indicator of quality.
In some cases, you may be able to find a high-quality ball for a lower price. It is important to do your research before you make a purchase. Additionally, the quality of your ball is not as important as having it drilled to fit your hand size.
A well-fitted ball will perform better than a high-end ball that is the wrong size for you. It’s like having on cute shoes that are too big or a nice suit that’s too tight.
How Much Does the Average Bowling Ball Cost?
The average bowling ball costs between $50 and $150. However, you can find balls for as little as $40 or $100, and some high-end balls can cost more than $200. When buying a ball, it is important to consider your skill level and budget.
Beginners may want to start with a less expensive ball, while more experienced bowlers may want to invest in a higher-quality ball. No matter what your budget is, be sure to have your ball drilled to fit your hand size and the right ball weight.
What Ball Should a Beginner Bowler Buy
If you are new to bowling, it is best to start with an inexpensive ball. You can find entry-level balls for as little as $40 to $80. These balls are usually made from polyester or plastic and do not have the same high-quality construction as more expensive balls.
However, they are a good option for bowlers who are just starting out. Additionally, many of these balls come in bright colors and fun designs. This can help to make the game more enjoyable for beginners.
Here are a few entry-level bowling balls that we recommend:
Brunswick TZone
A great option to consider is the TZone Deep Space bowling ball by Brunswick. A plastic ball that is great for straight line bowling. The Brunswick TZone Deep Space is not to be overlooked. It's also a great entry-level bowling ball for beginners trying to get a handle on different lane conditions.
Ebonite Maxim
What Type of Bowler Should an Intermediate Bowler Buy
If you are an intermediate bowler, you may want to consider a higher-quality ball and plastic ball for spares. These balls are usually made from urethane or reactive resin and provide a step up in performance from entry-level balls. You can expect to pay between $90 and $150 for a high-quality bowling ball.
Here are a few intermediate-level bowling balls that we recommend:
Hammer
Motiv
What Type of Bowler Should an Advanced Bowler Buy
If you are an expert bowler, you will want to choose a ball that is made from high-quality materials and provides the best possible performance. These bowling balls are made from reactive resin and provide maximum hook potential.
These are good choices for experienced bowlers who are looking for the best speed, hook potential, and pin action.
These balls usually cost between $130 and more.
Motiv
Hammer
What Do Bowling Alleys Do With Old Bowling Balls?
When bowling balls get too old or damaged, they are usually taken out of service and replaced. However, some bowling alleys may sell their old balls at a discount. Sometimes the bowling balls are donated.
If you are interested in buying an old ball, you should call the bowling alley ahead of time to ask about their policy for discontinued balls and if they have any for sale.
Are Used Bowling Balls Good?
Used bowling balls can be a good option for bowlers on a budget. However, it is important to inspect the ball carefully before you buy it. Look for cracks, chips, or other damage. These problems can affect the ball’s performance.
You should also ask about the ball’s history. Find out how long it was used and how it was cared for. Or you can look up the serial number and find the manufacture date. Finally, make sure that the ball is the right size for you.
A bowling ball that is too small or too large can be difficult to control. If you do buy a used ball, we recommend taking it to a professional to have it cleaned and inspected before you use it.
How Do I Choose a Bowling Ball?
Choosing the right bowling ball is important, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by thinking about your skill level. If you are a beginner, you will do better with an entry-level ball.
If you are an experienced bowler, you may want to choose a high-quality ball. Next, consider your budget. Bowling balls can range in price from $40 to $250. Finally, think about your style of play.
If you are a power player, you will need a ball that hooks hard. If you are a control player, you will need a ball that doesn’t hook too much. Also, consider the weight, coverstock, and core of the ball as they will all affect its performance.
The weight should be comfortable for you to lift. The coverstock should be durable and provide good traction on the lane. And the core should provide the right amount of hook potential for your style of play.
Where Can I Sell Used Bowling Balls?
Websites like eBay and Craigslist are good options. You can also check with your local bowling alley to see if they’re interested in buying used balls. Never discard in the trash.
What Is the Best Way to Store Bowling Balls?
The best way to do this is to keep the ball in a cool, dry place.
Don’t make the mistake of storing your bowling in the garage. Avoid storing the ball in direct sunlight or in a place where the temperature gets too hot or too cold. If you’re not using your bowling ball, it’s important to store it properly.
How Heavy Is a Bowling Ball?
Most bowling balls range from 6 to 16 pounds.
The weight of a bowling ball depends on the size and material. Most balls range from 6 to 16 pounds.
Related Articles
Bowling alleys do sell bowling balls. However, the selections may night be as vast as online. However, going to a pro shop that caters to league bowling is a good indication of the type of inventory that can have.
If you’re looking for a specific type of ball, it’s best to buy it from a specialty store or online retailer. Or, you can always ask the pro shop to order it. Used bowling equipment can be a good option for bowlers on a budget, but it’s important to inspect them carefully before you buy.
Finally, if you’re not using your ball, make sure to store it in a cool, dry place.
Kira Byrd, a Certified Fraud Examiner, holds a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. With a passion for bowling from her childhood, Kira has poured her expertise and personal experiences into creating and nurturing Bowling For Beginners. Kira’s mission is to meet new bowlers where they are and guide them toward consistently achieving higher scores. With a focus on skill development and strategic techniques, she empowers readers to take control of their game and unlock their true potential.
Bowling For Beginners embodies strict editorial integrity, ensuring reliable and unbiased information. Kira’s commitment to delivering valuable insights and practical strategies is reflected in every article. Here’s an explanation of our editorial policy and how we get money.