Where to Get Bowling Ball Drilled: Best Options & Costs

By Sarah Miller · October 13, 2040

Get your bowling ball drilled at a certified pro shop, where trained technicians use precise measurements to customize fit and improve performance. Many bowling centers, sporting goods stores, and specialty retailers offer professional drilling services.

Why Proper Bowling Ball Drilling Matters

Having your bowling ball drilled correctly is essential for comfort, control, and maximizing your scoring potential. A well-drilled ball matches your hand size, finger span, and grip style, allowing for consistent release and reduced risk of injury.

Key Benefits of Professional Drilling

Custom fit based on your hand measurements
Improved ball reaction and pin carry
Reduced hand fatigue and strain
Longer lifespan for your bowling ball
Optimized for your unique throwing style

Where to Get a Bowling Ball Drilled

Several reliable options exist for getting your bowling ball professionally drilled. Choosing the right location depends on expertise, convenience, and equipment quality.

Bowling Center Pro Shops

Most bowling alleys have an on-site pro shop staffed by certified technicians. These shops specialize in bowling equipment and are often the most convenient option.

Sports Retailers with Pro Services

Major chains like Dick's Sporting Goods and Modell's offer drilling services in select locations. Their staff may not be as specialized as dedicated pro shops but still provide solid results.

Specialty Bowling Pro Shops

Independent or regional pro shops focus exclusively on bowling gear. They typically employ highly experienced drillers and use advanced fitting systems such as Flex Fit or Dual-Sensor analysis.

Online Ball Purchases with Drilling Options

Retailers like BallFanatics, TurboBowlOnline, and BTM Pro Shop allow you to buy a ball online and select custom drilling specs. The ball is drilled before shipping using your fingertip measurements.

Location Type	Avg. Cost (USD)	Wait Time	Technician Certification	Measurement Tools Used
Bowling Center Pro Shop	$40–$60	Same day or next day	USBC Certified (85%)	Finger gauges, span rulers
Sports Retailer	$35–$50	1–3 days	Varies (50% certified)	Basic templates
Specialty Pro Shop	$50–$80	1–2 days	IBPSIA or BTM Master (90%)	Flex Fit, digital scanners
Online Order + Drilling	$45–$70	5–10 business days	Pro Shop Affiliated (100%)	Paper fitting kits, video guides

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that specialty pro shops and bowling center shops offer the highest technician certification rates and better measurement tools, leading to more accurate fittings. While online options provide convenience, they rely on user-submitted measurements, which can introduce error if not done carefully.

How the Drilling Process Works

Understanding the steps involved helps ensure you get the best fit.

Step-by-Step Drilling Procedure

Hand Measurement: Technicians measure span, pitch angles, and hole sizes.
Grip Selection: Choose between conventional, fingertip, or semi-fingertip grips.
Layout Design: Determines ball reaction based on your rev rate and lane conditions.
Drilling: Precision machines drill holes according to your specs.
Finishing: Holes are smoothed and polished for comfort.

What to Bring When Getting Your Ball Drilled

Your bowling hand (obviously!)
Existing ball (if available) to analyze current fit
Knowledge of your preferred grip style
Fitting sheet (if transferring from another shop)
Desired layout recommendation (if advised by a coach)

Frequently Asked Questions About Bowling Ball Drilling

Can I drill a bowling ball myself at home?

No, drilling a bowling ball requires specialized equipment and expertise. Attempting it at home can damage the ball, create unsafe cracks, and void warranties. Always use a certified pro shop.

How much does it cost to get a bowling ball drilled?

Prices typically range from $40 to $80, depending on location and complexity. Basic drilling starts around $40 at bowling centers, while premium shops with advanced layouts may charge up to $80.

Is it safe to reuse old holes in a bowling ball?

No. Reusing old holes weakens the ball’s structural integrity and affects its balance and performance. USBC rules prohibit balls with more than three holes (for fingers and thumb), and any additional plugs or re-drills may make it non-compliant.

How long does it take to get a ball drilled?

Most pro shops complete drilling in 30 minutes to one hour if done in person. Some may require same-day drop-off due to workload. Online orders with drilling take 5–10 business days including shipping.

Do all pro shops offer the same quality of drilling?

No. Quality varies significantly. Look for IBPSIA-certified or BTM-ranked pro shops. High-end shops use digital fitting systems and follow strict layout protocols, resulting in superior accuracy and ball motion consistency.