To answer the original question, I'd say that at least $20 savings would be the deciding factor.  

For me, most shops don't have what I'm looking for in my weight (14lb), so they have to order it.

I have 30-45 minutes to drive to the shop, another 30-60 minutes of hanging out, shooting the breeze and catching up and finally getting the ball ordered.

Then I have to wait a couple of days for the ball to arrive, drive another 30-45 minutes to the shop, spend another 60-90 minutes for them to either a) pull measurements off existing equipment, b) find my drill sheet, or c) remeasure me, discuss the layout, drill and adjust the fit.

Or, I can go on-line and order the ball and take it in to be drilled.

Of course I have my own drill press now, so I can just do it myself.  I'm still learning, so I still give business to the local shops on new stuff.  For the most part it is hard to beat the local prices - rarely see anything over $210 drilled, although they all charge for inserts and slugs.

The use the Black Widow as an example, I believe the shops are selling them for $195.  Add another $15 for inserts and slugs, so that's $210.  If I buy it on-line it's $120-130 shipped, and another $10 for inserts and slug ($2.50 per insert and $5 per slug).  I'm just using Buddie's as an example.

So, I have $128.50 for ball, and $10 for inserts and slugs.  That's $138.50.  If I drill it myself (because doesn't everybody have their own drilling equipment?) I've saved around $70 (actually it's less because I forgot about tax at the local shop).  Now, since most don't have their own drilling equipment, let's say I take it to the shop to drill.  That's $60 for the drilling (no tax).  I don't know if there is additional charge for installing my own inserts and slug (never tried that or asked about it), so I'm down to saving $10 and that first trip to the shop.  Not really worth it to order on-line for me.

Savings are even less (or actually negative) on the mid-price and entry level balls!  Most BVP type balls are $140-150 drilled, and I think Power Grooves are right around $100 (or less) drilled.

It's really only worth it when the ball is discontinued and/or heavily discounted.

Much better deal for me is to buy used balls as the local shops only charge $40-50 for a complete plug and re-drill, or $20 for just the thumb.

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Edited on 7/27/2007 7:20 PM

When a pro shop owner becomes merely a "ball peddler" he's on his way to frustration and selling cars or something.  We need to be much more nowadays.

Give the customer a reason to want you to be profitable, so you'll be around for years to come taking care of their bowling needs.  


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notclay

Lane Carter, Strike Zone Pro Shops - Salt Lake City, Utah

"The problem is no that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise and thinking that having problems is a problem." ~ Theodore Rubin