Thumb Pitch

[LadyW]

All my former equipment was drilled with 0 front to back and 0 lateral thumb pitch.  I never felt completely comfortable in them.

This year, I decided to do some experimenting based upon things I've read on this site.

I redrilled a 13 with 1/8 forward and a 14 with 1/8 lateral under palm.

The 1/8 forward feels a little too relaxed and I appear to be getting out of the ball faster.  I seem to be getting more roll on the ball.

The 1/8 lateral feels pretty comfortable.  I seem to be able to stay in the ball a little longer but sometimes feel like I may be topping it a little.
This ball feels a little heavy to me so I'm not sure if I can judge it properly.  I noticed since changing the pitch that I have almost eliminated any washout shots.  In addition, my strike % has gone up.

Both of these pitches feel more comfortable than the 0 pitch drilling.

Since each ball is a different weight I'm not sure which way to go.

I was thinking of trying 1/16 lateral on my new 13.

What affect, if any, does thumb pitch have on ball release and reaction?

All your comments would be appreciated.

Thank you.
---------------

LadyWannabe

[LuckyLefty]

Before I would know to even go anywhere I would be interested in the following.

1. What is your span pre these changes?
2. How do you normally throw ball, perfectly, drop or hang?
3. What are current pitches pre these changes?
4. What is current most used weight?
5. How do you test on the coke bottle test?
6. How do you throw ball and what would you like to change about it?

REgards,

Luckylefty

[solid9]

The 1/8 forward will help with a free arm swing, since you won't have to grip the ball to throw it. The lateral will help you get around the ball, which may be why you are topping the ball.
  Check with your driller and explain what you feel is happening, then drill up your new ball according. I don't think I would have too many balls with different pitches in my bag.

Edited on 9/26/2003 2:02 PM

[LadyW]

LuckyLefty

My knowledge is limited, so please bear with me.

1)  4 1/8
2)  Tough call -- perfectly - I doubt it
                  drop it - sometimes but rarely
                  hang - sometimes when I'm trying to back off that headpin
                         but not usually
3)  as stated, 0 pitch
4)  14 this last year - Fuel
    13 prior - Dominator - still use it now and then
5)  thumb towards middle finger
6)  Be more specific.  In terms of what?

In addition, I have very small fingers and last year changed to lady's lifts
which made a huge difference since my bridge is now closer together.

I'm told by my pro shop that I'm releasing both balls fairly well.

[LuckyLefty]

4 1/8 by the Bill Taylor school of thought calls for 0 forward reverse.

If dropping slightly forward if hanging add reverse from this 0 position.

Lateral pitch via Bill Taylor should be 1/8 right for a righthander.

These should work great!

REgards,

Luckylefty
PS question 6 above wondered if you wanted more sideroll or less?

Also interesting is if the ladies inserts!  I get more lift and revs from those too!  About 1!