Stephen, this is one (unsolved) mystery of modern life, and I guess everyone has a private philosophy to it?
Personally, you should at any rate know what ball reaction you want to have and for which condition the ball should be used. Having a good idea about this limits choice.
Some players stick to one manufacturer because this makes ball strength quite comparable. Manufacturers like Brunswick have a nice number system that makes ball choice quite easy.
Others (like me) have an arsenal and from time to time find gaps or replacements. I like to look at balls' numbers like RG and differential, as well as coverstock and core type to have a clue what they are basically designed to do (Skid/snap, roll, dry/oily lane, short/long patterns). IMHO it is always good to have a ball design that complements the condition you want to conquer with it. Therefore, it does not always have to be high performnce or state-of-the-art technology. I then just browse and shake the overwhelming choice to an evoked set of 2-4 candidates, do some snooping in online pro shops and forums, post questions when I am quite certain what I want and finally refine the choice to a ball. It is just legwork. Watching others throw that ball is also a great help.
Finally, I discuss the drilling for the desired reaction and condition with my pro shop, check pin distance and top weight to match with the desired ball reaction and to have a proper basis for the drilling. If you want a snappy layout, high top weight and a large pin-out comes handy (but is not a must - this is already fine-tuning) Good thing is that my pro shop supports me and leaves ball purchase either to me or they will order almost anything for me - which is great service.
With so many new balls around, having a marjet overview is a must if you want to chose by yourself. Sure, a pro shop is great help, and should always be consulted. But getting at least 2 seperate opinions about a ball is a serious recommendation. Just because an orb makes one player look great it most certainly will not do the same for you!
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DizzyFugu - Reporting from Germany
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Edited on 12/8/2006 5:50 AM