ABC Bowling Balls Rules

The ABC (American Bowling Congress) merged with other leading bowling organizations, including the Young American Bowling Alliance, in 2005 to form the United States Bowling Congress (USBC.) The more than two million members of the USBC must adhere to a long list of stringent rules regarding the bowling ball used to compete in competition, whether local or national, in which they maintain an internationally recognized average.

  1. Markings

    • The USBC provides an "approved bowling ball list." Your ball must be on this list and have either the original or a re-engraving of the serial number on them. Additionally, make sure the original logo engraving, containing the balls manufacturer and model is on the ball. The available markings on bowling balls manufactured before January 2001 are subject to the discretion of an USBC official before use.

    Material

    • Your bowling ball should consist of a solid material, though pure metal or high-density materials are not accepted. Liquids or voids in the ball are prohibited, as well as any substance added to the ball designed to alter its weight or balance.

    Surface

    • The surface of your bowling ball is to remain uniform; therefore, any markings or grooves beyond normal wear and necessary identification markings are against the rules. It is also necessary to ensure that the whole surface of your bowling ball is covered when sanding or polishing. The surface should have no foreign materials on it and any device or mechanical aid you use in the grips of the ball may not extend beyond their intended place of use onto the surface.

    Weight and Hardness

    • While the USBC has no minimum weight requirements for the bowling ball you choose, the rules do not allow for balls that exceed a weight of 16 pounds. Changing the hardness of your bowling ball after manufacture is prohibited, as all balls, while in a room temperature ranging from 68 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit, must be no less than 72 durometer D.

    Cleaning

    • The USBC provides and continually updates a list of approved cleaners that you may use to clean a bowling ball. Cleaners not on this list or those that would affect the hardness of the ball, such as harsh chemicals, are not allowed. If a cleaner is used on a bowling ball, wipe the surface thoroughly to ensure that no residue remains before using the ball.

    Devices and Mechanical Aids

    • The USBC allows removable devices in the finger and thumb gripping holes of a bowling ball as long as they are on the approved list. These items, removed without altering the ball, lock into position while the ball is in use and can potentially help you with your grip, finger span or other positioning issues. If you have new holes drilled into your ball, you may insert a plug as long as you leave no interior spaces behind.

    Manufacturing and Drilling Specifications

    • Manufacturers of USBC approved balls must follow minimum and maximum requirements in regards to the circumference, diameter, hardness, radius of gyration, markings, center of gravity, restitution, friction and logo. When having your ball drilled per USBC specifications, the driller must adhere to a set number of holes permitted on the ball and the spacing between the holes to maintain the balance of the bowling ball, dependent on the weight of the ball. A center of grip is to be followed as well as the proper alignment and insertion of plugs.