Bowling enthusiasts often seek customized gear to showcase their unique style and improve their game. One essential piece of equipment is the custom bowling ball, but how much do they cost?
In this guide, we’ll explore the average prices for custom bowling balls and delve into the factors that affect these costs, such as material composition, weight, design options, and brand choices.
Let’s take a closer look.
How Much Are Custom Bowling Balls?
On average, custom bowling balls will cost you around $50 up to $400 depending on the level of customization you choose.
Entry-Level Options: $50-$150
Entry-level custom-made bowling balls typically range from $50 to $150, depending on the brand and material composition.
Plastic balls are the most budget-friendly option and can cost as low as $40, while urethane bowling balls may be priced between $75 to $150. These entry-level balls usually have fewer customization options than higher-end models but still offer decent performance levels for novice players.
Mid-Range Options: $150-$250
In the mid-range price point for custom bowling balls, you can expect to find high-quality options that offer a balance of performance and affordability. These balls usually fall between $150-$250 and are great for intermediate-level bowlers looking to upgrade their equipment.
In this range, you’ll find brands like Hammer, Storm, Ebonite, and Brunswick offering a variety of ball types such as reactive resin or urethane.
With these balls come added features such as multi-piece weight blocks or higher-performance covers that work together to give you improved accuracy, control, and power on the lane.
High-End Options: $250-$400
If you’re a serious bowler looking for the highest quality, high-end custom bowling balls can cost between $250-$400.
These premium options are typically made of reactive resin or particle materials that offer superior performance on the lanes compared to entry-level or mid-range options.
The weight range for these types of bowling balls is often wider than lower-priced options, from 12-16 pounds. When investing in a high-end custom ball, it’s important to consider what features will benefit your game most and ensure the ball is an appropriate fit for your skill level.
Factors That Impact The Cost Of Custom Bowling Balls
These factors include material composition, weight, size, design, and customization options, as well as the brand and manufacturer.
Material Composition
One of the most significant factors that impact the cost of custom bowling balls is their material composition. Bowling balls come in various materials, such as plastic, urethane, reactive resin, and particle – each offering a different performance level and affecting the overall price.
For example, plastic bowling balls are usually more affordable with prices ranging from $40 to $100 due to their basic construction and lower hook potential.
On the other hand, urethane bowling balls offer enhanced durability and better grip on oiled lanes compared to their plastic counterparts, making them slightly more expensive with prices between $75 and $150.
Reactive resin bowling balls are considered high-performance options due to their aggressive hook potential and exceptional lane traction; hence they can cost over $150.
Finally, particle bowling balls designed for professional bowlers offer advanced customization possibilities at higher price points – these can set you back upwards of several hundred dollars depending on design complexities or additional features like specialized logos or graphics embedded into the ball’s surface.
Weight And Size
As a bowler, finding the right weight and size for your custom bowling ball is crucial to ensure optimal performance. Generally, the heavier the ball, the more power it can generate, but it may also be more challenging to control.
Most bowling balls range from 6 pounds to 16 pounds in weight, with most players opting for a ball between 14 and 16 pounds.
In terms of size, regulation bowling balls have a diameter of approximately 8.5 inches and are designed to fit comfortably in your hand without slipping or losing control during play.
Some bowlers prefer smaller or larger balls depending on their unique preference or physical condition.
Design And Customization Options
As you might expect, the design and customization options you choose for your custom bowling ball can impact its overall cost. The more complex and intricate the design, the higher the price tag will be.
For example, if you’re looking to add a specific logo or picture to your ball, it will likely incur an additional expense. Similarly, choosing unique color patterns or finishes can drive up costs as well.
However, it’s important to note that while aesthetics can impact the overall price of a customized bowling ball, they shouldn’t affect its performance much.
Brand And Manufacturer
As with most products, the brand and manufacturer of a custom bowling ball can significantly impact its cost. Well-known and reputable brands such as Brunswick or Storm may charge a premium for their products compared to lesser-known brands.
Additionally, some manufacturers offer exclusive customization options that can come at an additional cost.
For example, high-end reactive resin balls from top-tier brands like Motiv or Hammer can range from $200 to $300 or more. On the other hand, mid-range customized bowling balls from less popular brands like Pyramid or Ebonite may cost between $150 to $200.
Additional Costs To Consider When Purchasing Custom Bowling Balls
Drilling And Finger Inserts
When purchasing a custom bowling ball, it’s important to consider the cost of drilling and finger inserts. Drilling refers to the process of creating finger holes that fit your specific hand size and shape.
This service can typically range from $20 to $50 depending on where you get it done.
It’s crucial to have properly fitting finger holes in your bowling ball as it affects your overall performance and comfort during a game. While most pro shops offer drilling services, be sure to compare prices and quality before making a decision.
Shipping And Handling Charges
Shipping and handling charges are often overlooked when it comes to buying custom bowling balls. These fees can add up quickly, especially if you’re ordering from out of state or internationally.
When selecting a custom bowling ball, look for companies that offer free shipping or discounted rates on orders over a certain amount. Some manufacturers may also have local dealers who can provide the ball at a reduced cost without additional delivery fees.
It’s also worth considering purchasing accessories like bags or shoes along with your customized bowling ball as this may qualify you for free shipping or discounts on overall purchases.
Maintenance And Repair Expenses
Taking care of your custom bowling ball can help prolong its lifespan and ensure that it continues to perform well. However, maintenance and repair expenses are also something to consider when purchasing a custom bowling ball.
Regular cleaning and polishing can be done at home with the right equipment, but professional services may be needed for more extensive repairs or adjustments. These services can range from simple resurfacing to complete refurbishments that involve replacing the cover stock, core, or both.
Accessories And Add-Ons
When purchasing a custom bowling ball, it’s important to consider additional costs for accessories and add-ons. Drilling and finger inserts are essential components that can add up quickly in terms of cost.
Shipping and handling charges are also important to factor in since they vary across manufacturers and suppliers.
Finally, maintenance and repair expenses should be taken into account as well. Over time, your bowling ball will require upkeep such as cleaning and resurfacing which can incur additional costs.
Overall, these added costs should be considered when budgeting for your perfect custom bowling ball.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having a custom-made bowling ball will cost you around $50 up to $400 on average depending on the level of customization you choose.
Remember to consider additional costs such as drilling, shipping, maintenance, and accessories. By finding the right balance between quality and cost, you can invest in a durable and high-performing bowling ball that meets your requirements while staying within budget.
Last updated on May 13, 2023
Devon Trout is a lover of all things bowling. His style is two-hand bowling, and he finds great joy traveling to new locations to test his skills. Devon is also a blogger and enjoys writing about his experiences as a traveler and bowler. He loves meeting new people and sharing stories with them and hopes to inspire others to explore the world around them.
