Conventional vs. Fingertip Grip Drilled Bowling Balls

Getting your first-ever bowling ball is an exciting moment for every bowler. It's a sign of commitment and dedication to the sport, and it also means you no longer have to use the house balls at the bowling alley. Even if you've been bowling for some time, getting a new ball can still bring a sense of excitement and eagerness to hit the lanes.

One of the most important decisions you have to make when getting a bowling ball is whether to choose a conventional grip or fingertip grip drilled ball. A "grip" refers to the way you position your fingers and thumb in the holes of a bowling ball. Your preferred grip dictates how your local pro shop will drill the holes in your new ball. But what's the difference between these two grips, and which one should you choose?

Conventional Grip

A conventional grip, also known as a "full finger" grip, is the traditional way of holding a bowling ball and the one that most beginners start with. In this grip, you insert all your fingers into the holes up to the second knuckle and push your thumb all the way in.

The Benefits

More Stability and Control

One benefit of a conventional grip is that it can provide more stability and control over the bowling ball. Inserting all your fingers into the holes creates a tighter fit, allowing for a better grip on the ball and more control over its trajectory.

Ideal for Beginners

For those who are just starting out in bowling, a conventional grip can be easier to adapt to than a fingertip grip. It offers a more natural feel since it mimics how we hold objects in everyday life.

Versatility

The conventional grip allows you to use different types of releases, such as the straight or hook release. This versatility can come in handy when bowling on different lane conditions or trying out new techniques.

The Drawbacks

Less Power and Revs

One of the main disadvantages of a conventional grip is that it can limit the power and revolutions you can generate in your shots. Since you insert your fingers fully into the ball, there's less room for them to rotate during release, resulting in lower rev rates and less hook potential.

Strain on Your Fingers

Inserting your fingers up to the second knuckle can also put strain on your fingers over time. This is especially true if you bowl frequently or for long periods.

Fingertip Grip

A fingertip grip, also known as a "semi-finger" or "short-span" grip, involves inserting only the fingertips into the holes. The thumb usually goes in all the way, but some bowlers prefer to insert it only up to the first knuckle for better control and release.

The Benefits

Increased Rev Rate and Power

If generating more power and revs in your shots is important to you, you may prefer a fingertip grip. With only your fingertips inserted into the holes, you have more room for finger rotation during release, resulting in increased rev rates and hook potential.

Less Strain on Your Fingers

Unlike a conventional grip, which relies heavily on your fingers to hold onto the ball, a fingertip grip puts less strain on them. This can be beneficial for bowlers who experience finger pain or discomfort with a conventional grip.

The Drawbacks

Less Stability and Control

Due to the reduced contact between your fingers and the ball, a fingertip grip can provide less stability and control over the ball. It may take some time to adjust to this grip and develop a consistent release.

Not Ideal for Beginners

The increased rev rate and power of a fingertip grip can be challenging for beginners to handle. It requires more finesse and skill to control, so it may not be the best choice for those just starting out in bowling.

Which Grip Should You Choose?

The decision between a conventional and fingertip grip drilled ball comes down to personal preference and playing style. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages; try out both grips and see which one feels more comfortable and natural for you. Some bowlers swear by one grip over the other, while others switch between grips depending on lane conditions or personal preference.

If you're a beginner, it may be beneficial to start with a conventional grip that helps you develop proper form and technique before transitioning to a fingertip grip. But more experienced bowlers may prefer the increased power and revs of a fingertip grip for competitive play.

How Do Pro Shops Drill the Holes According to Your Grip?

When you go to a pro shop to get your new bowling ball, one of the first things they'll ask is what kind of grip you prefer. Some shops might even have demonstration balls with different grips for you to try out and see which one feels more comfortable for you. Once you've decided on a grip, the pro shop will drill the holes accordingly.

For conventional grip, they drill all three holes (two finger holes and one thumb hole) in a straight line across the ball. This allows for equal weight distribution on each finger and makes it easier to control the ball's direction and speed.

For fingertip grip, they drill the two finger holes closer together and the thumb hole slightly further away. This creates a triangular shape that places more weight on the fingertips, which allows for a stronger grip and increased revolutions on the ball.

The grip style you choose for your new bowling ball can impact how comfortable and in control you feel on the lanes. It can also affect your performance and the type of shots you can make. Consider trying out both conventional and fingertip grips to see which one suits your bowling style best.

Once you decide which grip is right for you, head on over to a pro shop like Striking Results Pro Shop to get your new ball. We sell bowling ball, bag, and shoes combos in Georgia for beginners or anyone who wants to refresh their gear. We also offer custom fitting and drilling services. We can custom drill your ball based on your preferred grip to optimize its comfort and performance for your game. Stop by our pro shop today and get assistance from our knowledgeable staff, who can help you choose a ball, a grip, and any other accessories you might need.