Used finger inserts/grips until about 12 years ago, then started switching my arsenal back to them over the last few months, and now having some
2nd thoughts and considering plugging and removing them---- but not sure if that's the right move either.
On the positive side (of adding the grips):
*Increased revs - still a low rev bowler, but has helped
*better angle to the pins and better carry
*increased ability to pick up some spares that would be virtually impossible (for me) without the grips (4-6 splits and 6-7-10, etc.)
*No dropping of the ball (even with perfect drilling and comfortable fit, would sometimes have a brain cramp and start losing the ball before delivery was finished
*faster start and increased confidence (was a notoriously slow starter without the grips
*Many more higher games (has increased my ceiling, if not my average, as far as high games go
On the negative side:
*tendency to "carry" or hold onto the ball too long, resulting in unintentional lofting or yanking to the left (am right-handed), especially when in pressure situation. Without grips, tended to be cooler under pressure and even if i DID tense up, you can't squeeze the ball much without the grips, so didn;t affect the delivery as much.
*tendency to start fast and hot (3 or 4 bagger), but to fade toward the end of game (probably due to gripping the ball too tightly or just throwing too hard (knowing I don't have to worry about coming out of it too early, as I did without grips).
*shoulder soreness is increasing. Am an old fart (low 60's) and shoulder was already sore before the switch, but seems to be under more stress since putting grips in the ball. No pain or disconfort while delivering the ball with OR without the grips. But everyday soreness (rotator cuff?) afterward is higher since using the grips on most balls.
So... these are my subjective observations, and it ---of course--- is/was a subjective decision to be made. But am interested in opinions from the group as to whether some of these plusses/minuses are actual factual differences (especially regarding the perceived pain effects).
Or if it's all still just about personal preference and I'll just have to give it more time.
Thanks in advance for any and all input (even if you think I'm nutz and say so).
