Who Drills Holes in Bowling Balls: A Practical Guide
Discover who drills holes in bowling balls, how the process works, and how to choose the right pro shop or independent driller to achieve a precise, balanced grip.
Who drills holes in bowling balls is a term that refers to the professionals and equipment used to create finger holes in bowling balls to achieve a precise, comfortable grip. The process emphasizes fit, balance, and core alignment.
The Role of the Driller: Who Do This Work
Bowling ball drilling is performed by trained professionals who work in pro shops, bowling centers, or independent drilling studios. The person who drills the holes is more than a hole borer—this technician translates a bowler’s hand size, grip style, and lane conditions into a precise hole pattern. The goal is to create a comfortable grip, a natural release, and balanced weight distribution. According to Drill Bits Pro, the best results come from staff who follow standardized measurement procedures, verify finger sizes with proper gauges, and use calibrated drilling equipment. In many facilities, you’ll find a dedicated fitting process that includes finger sizing, span measurement, and trial grips with temporary inserts before final drilling. Some players also work with calibrated independent drillers who tailor the fit for unusual grips or corrective issues after an injury. When you’re choosing where to get holes drilled, look for certifications, a reproducible process, and a willingness to explain each measurement step to you. The right driller will listen to your preferences and offer options to optimize comfort and ball performance.
Understanding Finger Hole Geometry
Finger hole geometry goes beyond simply picking a size. A drilled bowling ball must accommodate three digits while respecting the ball’s internal core to maintain tracking and stability. The position of each hole affects grip depth, finger feel, and release timing. Drillers adjust the pitch of each hole—how far forward or back it sits relative to the palm—to fine tune release and ball rotation. Span, the distance between the holes across the hand, influences how easily a bowler can grip and release the ball without cramping. Finally, the hole radii determine how snug the fingers sit, which impacts comfort and control over the track. Understanding these concepts helps bowlers communicate their needs clearly and helps the driller translate them into a fit that minimizes fatigue during long sessions.
Tools, Machines, and Techniques
Modern drilling work combines state of the art equipment with time tested hand skills. A typical shop uses computerized drilling rigs that guide the drill bit to exact coordinates, along with a selection of hole sizing reamers to tidy the final edge. Drillers might also use plugs and epoxy to temporarily seal existing holes for measurement or to repair damaged shells. Finger inserts, such as urethane or synthetic options, can be used during fitting to simulate final grip without committing to the hole size. Sanding tools and polishing wheels are used after drilling to create a smooth edge and consistent finish. The goal is to preserve the ball’s structural integrity while achieving a precise grip that matches the bowler’s hand geometry. The process often begins with a dry run, where the driller checks alignment and balance before finalizing the holes.
The Measurement Process: Getting the Fit Right
Precision in measurement starts with the bowler’s hand assessments. A driller will typically measure finger diameter, finger length, and span between the index and ring fingers, then compare those numbers to a standardized fit chart. Grip type matters: a fingertip grip requires less depth than a traditional full-finger grip, and changes in grip can alter track and release. The driller then uses specialized gauges to determine appropriate pitch and depth for each hole. After initial holes are drilled, temporary inserts or test grips let the bowler test the feel. Adjustments are common at this stage, and a good driller will explain why a change is needed and how it affects balance and release, before finalizing the holes.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Even small errors in measurement or drill alignment can lead to a grip that feels off or a ball that tracks poorly. A common issue is holes that are too shallow or too deep, which can alter finger leverage or create uneven balance. Misalignment of the axis can shift the ball’s track and make it uncomfortable to hold for extended periods. Inadequate edge finishing can rub against the fingers, causing irritation. A careful driller will verify each hole’s position against the ball’s core orientation and confirm grip comfort with the bowler’s feedback, documenting any changes for future sessions. Staying present during the measurement phase helps ensure that the final result matches the bowler’s expectations and playing style.
Materials, Safety, and Hygiene Considerations
Drilling a bowling ball involves removing material from a hardened cover stock and, in some cases, the resin or urethane layers near the holes. A professional keeps dust containment and uses appropriate PPE to protect the bowler and the shop staff. Cleaning and sanitizing hands and inserts between fittings helps prevent skin irritation and cross contamination. Some shops offer single-use inserts for hygiene reasons, while others recommend cleaning and reusing inserts with proper sanitization. The driller also follows safety protocols for machine operation, including safeguarding against kickback and ensuring that the ball is securely clamped during drilling. You should expect offered guidelines about handling the ball shell and an explanation of how to dispose of any waste from the process.
Maintenance, Plugging, and Re-Drilling Options
If a hole needs reopening or realignment, most good shops can plug the existing hole with a resin and refinish the surface before re-drilling. This approach preserves the ball’s cover stock and minimizes the risk of core damage. Re-drilling is sometimes recommended when finger growth or grip changes occur, or when measurement data indicates a different arrangement would improve comfort or performance. In some cases, upgrading to a different grip style or inserting a plug system can offer a balance between stability and flexibility. While plugging and re-drilling are routine in many shops, it’s important to discuss the implications with the driller, including potential effects on resale value and ball performance.
Putting It All Together: From Measure to Match
With measurements in hand and a clear plan, the final step is to translate data into a drilled pattern that feels natural and balanced. A skilled driller will verify the ball’s axis, ensure the hole pattern aligns with you personal release, and confirm the fit under real playing conditions. After the holes are drilled, the ball is cleaned, finished, and tested with a few practice throws. Minor adjustments — such as adding inserts or tweaking pitch slightly — are common before the final build is accepted. When you walk away from the fitting, you should feel confident that the grip is comfortable, the ball tracks in a predictable path, and the release feels controlled. This is the result of careful measurement, precise drilling, and a collaborative approach between bowler and driller, guided by industry best practices.
Got Questions?
What qualifications should a bowling ball driller have?
Qualified drillers typically have formal training in fit measurement and a track record with consistent results. Look for shops that follow standard procedures and use calibrated equipment. A discussion about measurement steps and rationale helps ensure you’re in capable hands.
Look for trained technicians with proven measurement methods and certified equipment. Ask to see their process and why they choose specific holes.
Should I drill holes at a pro shop or independent driller?
Both options can be excellent. Choose based on credentials, equipment quality, and the driller’s ability to tailor the fit to your hand. A reputable shop or driller will explain the plan and show measurements before drilling.
Both are good choices if the driller is qualified and communicates clearly about measurements and fit.
Can finger holes be adjusted without re drilling?
Sometimes inserts or minor grip adjustments can improve comfort, but significant changes to alignment or balance often require re drilling. A careful driller will discuss options and risks before proceeding.
In some cases you can tweak fit with inserts, but big changes usually need re drilling.
What is the difference between fingertip and conventional grips?
Fingertip grips use the fingertips for more control and quicker release, while conventional grips use more of the finger joints for stability. The choice affects how the ball releases and how comfortable the grip feels during play.
Fingertip grips give quicker release and control; conventional grips emphasize stability.
Is it safe to drill holes in a used bowling ball?
Yes, it can be safe if the ball’s core and cover stock are intact and the driller assesses for any damage. A professional should inspect the ball before drilling to avoid compromising safety or performance.
A professional should inspect the ball first to ensure it’s safe to drill.
What factors influence the fit besides hole size?
Grip style, span between holes, pitch, ball weight balance, and core orientation all influence the final fit. A capable driller will consider these factors and discuss how changes affect track and release.
Grip style, hole spacing, pitch, and balance all shape the final fit and release.
Top Takeaways
- Get measured by a certified driller with a calibrated rig
- Understand pitch, span, and radii that shape grip comfort
- Test grips before final drilling to ensure true release
- Prioritize hygiene and safety when selecting a shop
- Discuss plugging and re drilling options for future grip changes