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  • Equipment and SpecsAboutUSBC takes seriously its commitment to the sport by striving to uphold bowling’s integrity and credibility with new, innovative and cutting-edge research studies to help improve your game and the sport as a whole.To ensure that our success on the lanes is determined by skill and not by the crutch of technology, The USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification’s team of research engineers tests bowling balls, pins, lane surfaces and oils to make sure that they meet standards set by the organization before they may be used in USBC-certified leagues or tournaments.The USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification department invests significant resources into a continuous, behind-the-scenes effort to make sure that—no matter what center you’re bowling in across the country or around the world—your bowling experience is as fair as it is enjoyable. The research team’s studies on the motion of bowling balls, for instance, earned recognition as a presentation topic at the 2008 ASQ Fall Technical Conference, normally an event for the likes of MIT, Boeing, and Intel. Bowling is making a name for itself with the big boys thanks to its research scientists.Read More
  • Harry the RobotRobotHarry the robot retires Even robots need a rest sometimes. That’s why Harry, our ball-throwing robot, is retiring after ten years and thousands of shots as one of the most important members of the USBC research staff. We owe Harry huge thanks for all the knowledge he has helped us gain about bowling balls and lanes. The new robot that will be replacing Harry has some big shoes to fill, and we think he’s got what it takes. Our new ball-throwing robot will be bigger and stronger and will have several abilities that Harry didn’t have, such as mimicking a wider variety of styles and throwing the ball with great accuracy and more revs.But there is one thing that our new robot still needs: a name. That’s where you come in. We’re having a contest to see who can come up with the best name for our new robot. Follow the link below to submit a name and have a chance at winning our grand prize, a three-day, two-night trip to USBC Headquarters in Arlington, Texas for a tour of our International Training and Research Center, bowling lessons with some of the USBC’s best bowlers and coaches, free passes to the Six Flags amusement park, a more!Click here to enter .
    Click here to download the full rules and conditions .    Read More
  • Equipment and SpecsAbout UsExperts in their field
    The USBC Specifications and Certification team includes six full-time research engineers and technicians. The professional staff members have more than 80 years of experience in the industry and many of them are highly competitive bowlers.    The research engineers hold degrees ranging from Bowling Center Management to B.S. and M.E. degrees in disciplines such as chemical engineering, mechanical engineering from top nationally-ranked colleges such as Purdue, University of Wisconsin, and UC Davis. The team members also have an inside understanding of bowling, having achieved numerous perfect games and various levels of USBC coaching certification.The research team is led by USBC Technical Director Steve Kloempken, who has a varied and extensive background in the bowling industry as an athlete, coach and administrator.The former technical director and marketing director for Storm Products, Inc. from 2000-08, Kloempken’s list of accomplishments includes: developing and presenting more than 40 seminars on bowling ball design, reaction and drilling; generating 10 different types of technical ball drilling instructions; attaining certification on the StormPro Digital Coaching System; and authoring articles in more than 15 publications.As an athlete, the two-time Team USA member (1991, 1994) shined on the international stage in 1991 as a two-time gold medalist in the Federation Internationale des Quilleurs World Championships and U.S. Olympic Festival. Kloempken helped Wichita State University to three straight Intercollegiate Bowling Championship titles from 1993-95. The right-hander has rolled several USBC certified perfect games and a USBC certified high series of 820.In addition, Kloempken is a USBC Silver coach, an International Bowling Pro Shop and Instructors Association Level II certified technician and a BWAA member. From 1998-2000, Kloempken served as the Pro Tour Consultant for Storm.Kloempken has a B.A. degree in Business Administration from Wichita State and a M.A. in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.Dave Nestor is a senior technician in the USBC Specifications and Certification department. Nestor, 44, of Parkersburg, W.Va, has received extensive training from the International Bowling Pro Shop and Instructors Association, is a USBC Level II coach and has more than 20 years of experience in pro shop and bowling center management and operations. He is also an accomplished bowler who has rolled nine USBC-certified 300 games and six USBC-certified 800 series.Nestor will perform testing and research of bowling equipment and products to understand their influence on scoring. He also will compile, analyze and interpret bowling databases formed from lab and field testing, assist in the development of new testing equipment and assist in the composition of new testing procedures needed to support equipment testing and research.Donald Benner is a test engineer with USBC USBC Specifications and Certification. The 2008 University of California-Davis graduate earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering while also competing for the Aggies' varsity bowling team, which placed third at the 2007 USBC Intercollegiate Team Championships. Benner, 23, will now work alongside USBC's other highly trained Equipment Specifications and Certification team members to ensure that the national governing body remains on the cutting edge of industry innovation. Benner's many responsibilities include: compiling, analyzing and interpreting bowling database(s) formed from testing in the field, assisting in the design and development of testing and research equipment and assisting in research that examines bowling equipment and products to understand their influence on scoring.Paul Ridenour is a research engineer with the Equipment Specifications and Certification team. Ridenour, 30, is involved with a variety of USBC testing and research responsibilities including lane surfaces, lane oils, bowling balls and bowling pins. The Dyer, Ind., native, earned a B.S. degree in chemical engineering from Purdue University in 2000 and a Master's in mechanical engineering at Purdue University-Calumet. Ridenour, who completed an engineering internship this past summer at Pacific Scientific-Energetic Material Company in Chandler, Ariz., was a graduate research assistant and teaching assistant at Purdue-Calumet. Ridenour is an accomplished bowler who has a 227 high average and one 300 game to his credit.Nicki Mours is a test engineer with Equipment Specifications and Certification team. The 2008 University of Wisconsin Platteville graduate earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Nicki also has interned with the USBC for the past three summers working on various projects including entry/exit angles, surface roughness, and various aspects of the Ball Motion Study. She is a Level 1 certified coach, and has a high game of 290 and series of 701. She competed collegiately for four years at both UW Madison and UW Platteville.Lanna Longorio is a research chemist with the Equipment Specifications and Certification Team. Lanna is a native Texan and graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.Jason Milligan is the USBC Equipment Specifications and Certifications department’s Test Technician. In that role, he performs all testing for bowling ball approvals and serves as the liaison between bowling ball manufacturers and the USBC Equipment Specifications and Certifications department. He assists in the research of bowling equipment and products to understand their influence on scoring and helps develop new testing equipment and procedures needed to support testing and research.Milligan, 34, of Barstow, Calif., has over 20 years of experience in pro shop operations and has drilled equipment for bowlers ranging from beginners to elite PBA/PWBA titlists and Team USA members. He has achieved a great deal of personal success on the lanes as well, winning two PBA Regional titles, notching several USBC-certified perfect games and a rolling a high series of 812.Read More
  • Equipment and SpecsContact UsLane and Center Certification Concerns
    Steve Boyle
    Steve.boyle@bowl.com    General Questions
    Webmaster
    webmaster@bowl.com
 
 
EQUIPMENT & SPECS FEATURES
  • USBC Equipment Specifications and Certifications Committee adopts new bowling ball specification as part of continuing effort to reestablish bowling’s credibilityThe USBC Equipment Specifications and Certifications Committee has adopted a new specification for all bowling balls approved for competition on or after July 1, 2010. The new specification will raise the allowable lower-limit radius of gyration (RG) measurement to 2.460 inches up from 2.430 inches.Raising the lower-limit RG specification will delay and weaken overall ball motion, thereby decreasing the amount of inherent aggressiveness bowling ball manufacturers can infuse into their bowling ball product lines.This specification change, and others that have been recently adopted, which include Surface Roughness – Ra, lane surface hardness and lane conditioner viscosity, is aimed at reestablishing player skill as an equally if not more important factor than technology in determining bowling ball motion.“Our sport incorporates a multitude of variables relating from the ball to the bowler to the lane and beyond. This new RG specification should be supported by league and tournament players alike because it is another step that USBC is taking to bring results back in line with player performance,” USBC Technical Director Steve Kloempken said. “We will continue addressing this issue and investigating possible specification changes until we get back to the point where player skill is as important as, if not more important than, technology in determining success on the lanes.”The realization that a new lower-limit RG specification was needed came about after USBC Equipment Specifications and Certifications team members conducted exhaustive analysis of the Ball Motion Study, a two-year, joint research venture conducted by USBC in cooperation with bowling ball manufacturers.The study, which can be read in its entirety on USBC’s bowl.com Web site, examined and ranked how 18 different variables affect bowling ball motion. The study was completed in March 2008. Since that time, the USBC Equipment Specifications and Certifications Committee has evaluated the results and used the findings to establish and/or modify specifications limiting a bowling ball’s Surface Roughness - Ra and, now, lower-limit RG standard.All bowling balls approved before the deadline will be grandfathered in under the current RG specifications, making them legal for future USBC-certified competition. The specification change will only apply to balls approved on or after July 1, 2010.“One of the important things to consider is how research and this new specification benefits our members,” Kloempken said. “Between 2005 and 2008, we gathered critical knowledge and data from the Ball Motion Study. Using that data to modify current specifications like this is critical to educate our members and uphold the credibility of the sport. It is all done in an ongoing effort to balance player skill and technology, and you as a USBC member are a part of it.”For more information on this and other technical issues, visit the Equipment Specifications and Certifications area of bowl.com.Read More
  • Four Factors of the SportThe Specifications and Certification team plays an important role in managing and researching the four major factors or components of our sport that affect scoring: bowling balls, bowling pins, lane conditioning and lane surfaces.The team is currently involved in extensive research and testing on those components. One successful program to emerge during this research process is Sport Bowling, an optional level of USBC competition conducted on challenging lane conditions that was created in 2001 as a way to offer USBC bowlers a more competitive atmosphere and address scoring credibility issues within the sport.The Specifications and Certifications team plays a significant role in researching and testing oil patterns for use in Sport Bowling competition, which includes major tournaments worldwide such as the USBC Masters, USBC Queens, USBC Team Trials, all USBC Collegiate tier 1 events, Intercollegiate Team and Singles Championships and most Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour events.The USBC has formed a strong partnership with the PBA Through its efforts in the Four Factors and Sport Bowling. Continuing a focus on the “sport” aspect of bowling, USBC is working hard to bring excitement, knowledge, credibility, and fun to bowlers of all ages and ability levels through the stars of our sport—professional bowlers. USBC is teaming up with professional bowlers to create exciting programs to benefit bowlers, proprietors, pro shop operators and the entire industry called the PBA Experience, which is a part of USBC Sport Bowling.PBA Experience leagues allow bowlers to compete on any of the patterns (Chameleon, Cheetah, Shark, Scorpion, Viper, Earl Anthony and Dick Weber Championships, USBC Masters, U.S. Open, PBA World Championship, PBA Tournament of Champions) used for Lumber Liquidator’s PBA Tour events. Bowlers will get a sense of what the professionals experience when it comes to dealing with lane conditions and changing environments.The Specifications and Certifications team worked closely with the PBA and its players in 2006 to modify lane oil patterns for the Lumber Liquidator’s PBA Tour. Several top professional bowlers, including Walter Ray Williams Jr., tested patterns used on the PBA Tour in 2006-07 season—the same patterns used in PBA Experience leagues.These philosophies and ideas illustrate USBC’s research capabilities and the importance of growing and understanding the science and technology the sport of bowling. USBC is at the forefront of that type of forward thinking that addresses bowling as a high level sport.Read More
  • BallsBallsBall Motion StudyBy USBC Equipment Specifications TeamIn the past, bowling ball motion was examined using visual analysis. That analysis led to the conclusion that bowling balls go through three distinct phases of motion, skid, roll, and hook, in that order; however, that conclusion was proven inaccurate when USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification department researchers examined the results of the Bowling Ball Motion Study, which, through the use of equations and graphical data analysis, definitively proved that the actual progression is skid, hook and roll.The Bowling Ball Motion Study, which was a joint venture undertaken by USBC researchers and bowling ball manufacturers, arrived at these new conclusions by examining bowling ball path data generated by C.A.T.S. (Computer Aided Tracking System). This system tracked the paths of bowling balls as they rolled down a lane, taking precise measurements that allowed researchers to closely monitor and analyze every aspect of the three phases of ball motion.As the graph above clearly illustrates, the first phase of a bowling ball's path is mathematically linear, meaning it travels along a straight line moving away from the head pin. This phase is known as skid.As the ball continues down the lane, its path transitions into a curved shape. This non-linear, parabolic portion of the ball path is the hook phase.Finally, in the third phase, the ball migrates back to a linear path and begins rolling in a direct line toward the pins. This final segment is defined as the roll phase.In real-time, the true phase transition points can be very hard to see. For that reason, this video has been slowed down and notated to illustrate the instant in which the ball transitions from the end of one phase into the beginning of the next.So what's the take-home message for league or tournament bowlers who are not tracking and analyzing their ball paths via computer?First off, communication is crucial. Being able to talk to your teammates during league or tournaments, especially about what the bowling ball is doing, can be a huge advantage. Doing so will allow the bowler and his or her teammates to line up and play the lanes successfully.This information also comes in handy when communicating with a USBC-certified coach. A bowler's ability to accurately explain what his or her bowling ball is doing on the lane will allow the coach to suggest appropriate physical-game modifications that will help the bowler alter the way his or her ball moves throughout the various phases of ball motion.Lastly, this knowledge will aid in the communication between pro-shop professionals and bowlers. If a bowler can verbalize his or her desire to see a longer skid phase or a more-defined hook phase in their ball motion, the pro-shop professional will be able to adjust a drilling layout and surface preparation to meet what the bowler needs or wants to see on the lane.The USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification department has diligently examined every nuance of bowling ball motion in the hope that the understanding it has attained can be passed on to bowlers, who will use that knowledge to take their own games to new heights.Bowling ball:
    Circumference: 26.704 to 27.002 inches
    Diameter: 8.5 to 8.595 inches
    Weight: May not exceed 16 pounds; there is no minimum weight.    Read More
  • PinsUSBC is engaged in a new round of research intended to test the scoring impact of bowling pins with various specifications. USBC is testing bowling pin samples of different weights and centers of gravity submitted from pin manufacturers worldwide. USBC also is working with manufacturers to gather input about certain characteristics of bowling pins such as the base diameter, base radius and base attachment. The objective of the USBC Specifications and Certifications team’s research is to gather data from this analysis and compare the interactions of the pins with the other three System of Bowling components.Results from recent testing are in line with previous tests that support the conclusion that altering specifications of bowling pins may have too great an impact on many bowlers. For example, USBC is studying pins with lower centers of gravity than the current range of 5 40/64 inches and 5 60/64 inches and what effect that would have on bowlers of different ages.“So far the data indicates that lowering the CG of bowling pins would have a disproportionate impact on the averages of youth, senior and many women bowlers,” said USBC Technical Director Neil Stremmel. “Minor adjustments to bowling pin specifications, in conjunction with specification changes to bowling balls, may have the appropriate effect. Continued testing will give us more functional data.”Bowling Pin PermitsBowling Pin Permits 2009-2010
    The following is a list of trade names of tenpins submitted by bowling pin manufacturers in accordance with the requirements set forth under "Procedures for USBC Approval", of Bowling Pin Specifications. Manufacturers and distributors of these pins were advised that they are approved for USBC certified league and tournament play for the 2009-2010 season.
    Wood Core Pins
    Brand NamePermit Number
    AMFlash419
    AMFlite II323
    Bowl America420
    LindsF501
    Maple LeafF502
    Pinnacle391
    SI LineF508
    Switch412
    US Women's Open421
    ValckeF507
    VIAF503
    Strike Maker WSF505
    Strike Master UltraF504
    Synthetic Pins
    BlasterFS-4
    TwisterS-2
    Bowling Pin Permits 2008-2009
    The following is a list of trade names of tenpins submitted by bowling pin manufacturers in accordance with the requirements set forth under "Procedures for USBC Approval", of Bowling Pin Specifications. Manufacturers and distributors of these pins were advised that they are approved for USBC certified league and tournament play for the 2008-2009 season.
    Wood Core Pins
    Brand NamePermit Number
    Airforce389
    Amflite II323
    Amforce386
    B MAX415
    ClockF506
    Diamond Duramid 299330
    Eagle333
    LeafF502
    LindsF501
    Marines390
    MWRS339
    Navy388
    Pinnacle391
    Score King416
    Supreme398
    Switch414
    USBC300
    VIAF503
    Vultex II417
    WheelF500
    X MakerF505
    X MasterF504
    X Master418
    Synthetic Pins
    BlasterFS-4
    TwisterS-2
    Read More
  • Lane SurfacesUSBC researchers currently are concentrating on testing bowling balls, pins and lane conditioning aspects. The long-term plan calls for performing research into this System of Bowling component.One of USBC’s long-term goals of this research is to increase its members’ understanding and awareness of the System of Bowling through communication channels such as bowl.com and member magazines US Bowler and US Youth Bowler , surveys and studies and partnerships with the PBA and other industry entities.Future research plans include revising existing Sport Bowling lane dressing ratio specifications, testing how pin deck tilt affects scoring, studying potential changes in flat gutter specifications, conducting tests on lane surface coefficient of friction.Read More
  • Lane ConditioningTesting continues in several areas regarding the measurement and application of lane conditioner (commonly referred to as “oil”), which is the liquid applied to wood and synthetic lanes. Lane oil has two purposes: to protect the bowling surface and affect the difficulty level of the game, depending on how it is applied.USBC is studying different technologies to measure lane dressing. Currently the amount and placement of oil on a lane is measured with tape that absorbs the oil and which is read by a computer analyzer. USBC continues to work with ENSCO, Inc. to develop a tapeless lane oil analyzer and reader system. In addition, USBC is working with another company to develop a device that measures the amount and location of friction on a lane. The amount of friction between a bowling ball and the lane surface dictates how much the ball will hook. The more oil there is on a lane, the less friction. This causes a bowling ball to skid, much like a car tire on an icy road.USBC also is considering changing the description of oil application from “units” to ratios and establishing a ratio-based lane dressing specification for USBC standard level competition by the end of the 2007-08 season. Currently, USBC rules require that at least three units of oil be applied to each board of a bowling lane to constitute certified competition. The amount of oil on a lane typically is expressed as a ratio comparing how much oil is applied to the inside boards (approximately between the second arrows on each side of the lane) to the amount of oil laid down on the outside boards (the channel to around board No. 10 on each side of the lane). For example, a lane condition with a 10:1 ratio means that there is 10 times as much oil in the middle of the lane than on the outside. The way in which oil is applied to a lane changes the difficulty level in bowling and is typically called an “oil pattern.”“Changing our terminology system to incorporate ratios to describe oil measurement and patterns may be more accurate and understandable,” Stremmel said.Multiple levels of play
    Regarding lane conditions in a general sense, USBC endorses the concept of multiple levels of play in bowling. The sport can take place as a recreation and on lane conditions in USBC-certified competition that allow for high and low scoring paces.    For example, standard USBC leagues often have lane conditions with as much as a 20:1 oil ratio which can result in a high scoring pace as the extreme differences in friction on the lane act to artificially steer bowling balls to the pocket. Lane conditions in USBC Sport Bowling events – which include most of today’s premier bowling tournaments, including all four of the Professional Bowlers Association majors – are at most a 3:1 ratio. This can result in a more challenging scoring environment because the absence of extreme differences in friction areas on the lane virtually negates the steering effect on the ball.“Multiple levels of the sport don't diminish credibility,” said USBC Chief Executive Officer Roger Dalkin. “They only define the type of competition. It is okay to have different levels such as Sport, standard and bumper bowling.”    Read More
  • Center CertificationIn addition to setting and enforcing specifications for bowling equipment, the team also helps uphold the credibility of the sport and makes competition fair by inspecting lane beds in bowling centers to ensure that they meet USBC standards.USBC local association officials visit bowling centers in their areas annually and use a variety of tools and instruments to perform a physical inspection of the lanes and their adjacent components such as the channels, channel depths, pin spots, and pin deck. Center inspections may begin April 1 and must be completed by Aug. 31.USBC rules state that bowling centers must renew their certification by Sept. 1 to host any USBC certified competition for that season.Associations also perform random inspections of the oil applied to lanes in bowling centers to ensure that they meet USBC guidelines for oil application. Sometimes referred to as conditioner, lane oil protects the lane surface and affects the difficulty level of the sport. Lane oil inspections ensure playing field uniformity per USBC guidelines so that USBC league bowlers in Maine are competing on lanes in the same shape as bowlers in California.Certify your center nowClick here to download an applicationRead More
  • Approved Ball ListThe approved ball list is updated weekly to allow manufacturers and bowlers know what balls are and are not approved for use.USBC Approved Bowling Balls
  • Acceptable/Non-Acceptable Ball Cleaners/PolishesAny cloth towel that is non-abrasive that doesn't modify the surface finish of the ball and contains no chemical additives will be acceptable for use during USBC certified competition.Here is a list of approved and not approved ball cleaners and polishes. For a product to be approved at anytime, the product must not soften the ball surface or leave a residue. If a product is not found on the list below, consider it to be NOT APPROVED either before, after, or during certified competition.In the past few years, many new polishes, which are designed to change the surface roughness of a bowling ball (the same as abrasives such as sandpaper, Scotch Brite pads, and Abralon pads), have been introduced in the market-place. These products, which contain solids or abrasives, are normally thick (high viscosity), paste with the consistency of car polish. Since they change the surface roughness of the bowling ball, these products may only be used before or after certified competition.As a reminder: If the surface of the ball is altered by sanding or polishing, the entire surface of the ball must be sanded or polished in the same manner.Ball Cleaners/Polishes

    Approved Anytime

    ProductManufacturer
    2EZ2 Strike Bowling Ball Cleaner
    2EZ2 Strike Bowling Ball Clean-N-Shine
    Ball Conditioner
    Tacky & Clean
    Atomic Ball Cleaner
    Cleaner/Rejuvenate
    Snap Back
    Cherry Cleaner
    Oil Magnet
    Instant Length ball cleaner
    Magic Dust Premium Bowling ball polish
    Oil Off ball cleaner
    Qwik Strike Citrus Gel Bowling Ball Cleaner
    SP 101 ball cleaner
    Strike It Clean
    Bowler’s Choice
    Perfect Grip
    Brand X
    The Good Stuff
    Bowler's Edge Ball Cleaner
    Bowler's Edge Reactive Resin Cleaner
    Captain Bob's X12 Bowling Ball Cleaner
    Seino Fukkatsu Bowling Ball Cleaner
    Pro-Grip Reaction Ball Cleaner
    Wipe 'n Strike ball cleaner wipes
    Hylite
    X-Power
    Maz's Ball Klean
    Pro-Cleaner
    U-Turn Reactive Ball Cleaner
    Super Cleaner
    Mox
    Reflections
    Best Shot
    Clean Shot
    Clean Shot Reactive Ball Cleaner
    Hydro Cleanser
    Dri-Wash 'n Guard
    Strike Zone
    Fiber Cleen
    Bowling Ball Cleaner
    Best Shot
    Sure-Shot Spray Cleaner
    Pro-Action Ball Cleaner
    Ball Pre-Cleaner & Stripper
    Alley Catz
    Xtreme Kleen
    Ball Cleaner
    Hy-Tek Reactive Ball Cleaner
    Reactive Cleaner "R"
    Urethane Cleaner "U"
    Reaction
    Bowlers Bowling Ball Wipe
    Jiffy I
    Jiffy II
    Strike King
    Repel
    Revive
    Secret Sauce ball polish
    Extreme Clean
    Cleanbowl
    Quick Clean
    Ultra Bio Clean
    Ultra Bio Remover
    Striking Ball Cleaner
    Mark's Home Brew
    Blast
    High Performance Ball Cleaner #311
    Spray Master
    Ultimate Clean
    Ultimate Clean Reactive Ball Cleaner
    Control-It
    Control No. 24
    Hook-It
    Hook-It Plus (Liquid Sandpaper)
    Liquid Nitro
    Neo-tac Foaming Ball Cleaner
    Renew-It
    Ace Ball Cleaner
    Liquid Spray Ball Cleaner
    RD3 Formula II
    React-A-Foam
    Magic Bowling Wipes
    Pro Bite Ball Cleaner
    Pro Clean
    Pro-Shot
    Wipe-n-Strike
    Ball Bite
    Ball Buff
    Protrac 19
    Oil B Gone
    Knock Out
    MX Bio Cleaner
    Ball Clean
    Strike Gold
    Strike Green
    Lance Ice Ball Polish/Cleaner
    RIP's Motion Potion Ball Cleaner
    Redd Hott Ball Cleaner
    Grime Solver
    Ole Roy's Front 9 Ball Cleaner
    Ole Roy's Second Shift Ball Cleaner
    Alley Catz
    Ren Boll
    Mega Bite
    Moon Shine
    Proacta Clean
    Proacta Shine (discontinued)
    Reacta Clean
    Reacta Shine
    Super Shine Polish
    Xtra Clean
    Xtra Shine
    Super Concentrate Cleaner
    U-Clean U-Score
    Bowling Ball Speed Shine
    Bowling Ball Spray Cleaner
    Strike-Mor Ball Cleaner
    Magiclean
    Power Gel Clean
    Sta-Clean
    Squeaky Clean Spray Cleaner
    Rev-It Cleaner
    Energizer ball cleaner
    Power Wash
    Bowling Ball Cleaner for "Sensitive Skin"
    Power Kleen Bowling Ball Cleaner
    Strike Wipes
    Dry Wash Speed Shine
    Black Magic Rejuvenator Particle Coverstock Cleaner
    Ultra Ball Cleaner
    Bowling Ball Quick Clean Wipes
    Zapp-It
    Zapp-It Distance
    Zapp-It Insta-Grip
    Zapp-It Polish & Spray Remover
    Awesome Ball Cleaner
    Valentino Bowling Remedy RX    		2EZ2 Clean Products
    2EZ2 Clean Products
    Andrejs Sturis
    Andrejs Sturis
    Atomic Enterprises
    B.D.S.
    Baldy Products
    Ballshield
    Ballshield
    Bean’s Pro Shop
    Bean’s Pro Shop
    Bean’s Pro Shop
    BKP
    Bowl Plus
    Bowl Products, Inc.
    Bowler’s Choice of Michigan, Inc.
    Bowling Concepts
    Brand X Distributor
    BSE, Inc.
    BTC
    BTC
    Captain Bob
    Coba Shoji Co., Ltd.
    Columbia
    Dan-Mor
    David Greco
    David Greco
    David Mahaz
    Distribution 2000 Inc.
    Don Breeden
    Don Carter
    E&L Distributing Inc.
    E&L Distributing Inc.
    Earth Clean Systems
    Earth Clean Systems
    Earth Clean Systems
    Elite
    Enviro Tech Intrn'l
    Felix Erickson Company
    Fibers of Kalamazoo, Inc.
    Forrest Enterprises, Inc.
    Future Clean Inc.
    Future Clean Inc.
    Gary Rasanen
    Grecian Attack
    GT Graphics
    GT Innovations
    Hy Hudson Pro Shop
    Hy-Tek Products
    Innovative Bowling Products
    Innovative Bowling Products
    INX Products
    Ivancik
    J.F. Forsman
    J.F. Forsman
    Jim Roberts
    Kegel
    Kegel
    Lane #1; Bean’s Pro Shop
    Lane Concepts
    L'atelier du bowling
    LBL Enterprises, LLC
    Legend Star Co., Ltd.
    Legend Star Co., Ltd.
    Louis Cervin
    Marc Pope
    Mark Baker
    Master Industries
    Master Industries
    McDonogh Co.
    McDonogh Co.
    Neo Technologies
    Neo Technologies
    Neo Technologies
    Neo Technologies
    Neo Technologies
    Neo Technologies
    Neo Technologies
    Netmark Industries, Inc.
    One Grand Products
    Parklane Research Corp.
    Perfection Products
    Print Point Systems
    Pro Bite
    Pro Bowling Products Inc.
    Pro Bowling Products Inc.
    Pro Edge Products
    Pro Packaging Inc.
    Pro Packaging Inc.
    Proline Sports Products
    Pro-Tech Ind. Chem.
    Rapid Tac, Inc.
    Raymond Chemical Co.
    Reese Brothers
    Rip the Rack Pro Shop
    Rip the Rack Pro Shop
    Rip the Rack Pro Shop
    Rip the Rack Pro Shop
    Ronald Gales
    Row-Del
    Roy Lay
    Roy Lay
    Saber Tooth
    Scandinavian Sport Supply
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Strata Products, Inc.
    Strata Products, Inc.
    Strike-Mor Pro Shop
    TCB Products
    Tech-Line
    The Pro Stop
    The Wax Shop
    Today's Solutions
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Tropical Seas, Inc.
    Tropical Seas, Inc.
    Turbo
    TWS Industries, Inc.
    Ultimate Bowling Products Inc.
    Ultimate Bowling Products Inc.
    Velocity Wipes
    Zapp It Bowling Products
    Zapp It Bowling Products
    Zapp It Bowling Products
    Zapp It Bowling Products
    Commercial Products
    Approved Anytime
    Ammonia
    Castrol Super Clean
    CV-88
    Denatured Ethanol
    Jolt Detergent
    Orange Clean Multipurpose Degreaser
    Rubbing Alcohol (Isopropyl)
    Simple Green
    Spray Nine Multi-Purpose Cleaner
    Windex
    Not approved at ANY time during competition
    Acetone
    Armor-All
    Cutex (acetone OR non-acetone nail polish remover)
    David Greco Cleaner
    Dull It by INX Corp.
    Ethers, esters and ketones (MEK)
    Kerosene, gasoline, other fuels
    Master Ball Cleaner by Master Industries
    Most commercial solvents (xylol, lacquer thinner, mineral spirits, chloro-form, methyl hydrate)
    SS-25
    Strike Power by Veterans Products
    Ultra Clean by Tenth Frame
    Varsol
    WD-40
    Products Approved for use Before and After Certified Competition

    NOTE: APPROVED BEFORE OR AFTER CERTIFIED COMPETITION. ALTHOUGH THEY MAY NOT ALTER THE SURFACE HARDNESS OF A BOWLING BALL, THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS CANNOT BE USED DURING USBC CERTIFIED COMPETITION BECAUSE IT WOULD BE IN VIOLATION OF RULE 18. HOWEVER, THESE PRODUCTS ARE ALLOWED BEFORE OR AFTER LEAGUE AND/OR TOURNAMENT SESSIONS.

    ProductManufacturer
    Citrus Base Cleaner
    Finesse-it II
    Perfect-it II
    Lane Ice
    Delayed Reaction Ball Polish
    Reactivation
    Clean Right
    Ballshield 1000
    Ballshield Base Cut & Shine
    Super Cherry
    Brunswick Ball Polish
    Factory Finish High Gloss Polish
    Rough Buff
    Captain Bob's X-12 Bowling Ball Wipes
    Degree
    Pro-Grip
    #1 Low % of Abrasives
    #2 Course
    #3 Medium
    #4 Fine
    Fast Work
    Go Long
    Performance Polish
    Clean Shot
    Sure-Shot Polish
    Ball Cleaner & Wax No.III
    2001 Pro Roll Bowling Ball Polish
    Scrubbing Bubbles
    Repel Ball Polish
    Repel Ball Polish (High Gloss)
    Repel Ball Polish (Matte Finish)
    Repel Ball Polish (Medium Gloss)
    Extreme Dull
    Extreme Shine
    Naturoll Finish Ball Polish
    100% Natural
    Khameleon
    Restore-It
    Cream Ball Cleaner, Ball Polish
    PJ's Tacky Snap
    Ball Buff
    Ball Cleaner & Polish
    Scotch Brite Scouring Pad
    SD-20
    Orange Power Spray & Wipe
    Pro Finish Step 1
    Pro Finish Step 2
    Pro Finish Step 3
    Bowling Ball Cream Cleaner
    Power Gel Polish
    Power Gel Scuff
    Cream Cleaner
    Rev-It Polish
    1-Step Reactive Resin Ball Cleaner
    2-Step Reactive Resin Ball Cleaner
    Clean N' Dull
    Clean-n-Tacky
    Delayed Reaction
    Extender Polish
    Factory Finish Polish
    Magic Shine
    Particle Polish
    Quick Sand
    Reaction Control System Cleaner
    Reaction Plus
    Reactive Resin Finish Polish
    Black Magic Particle Coverstock Resin Ball Polish
    Black Magic XL Cleaner & Polisher for Particle and Resin Balls
    Ultimate Plus Polish Cleaner
    XXX Rated Cleaner & Polisher
    Resinator
    Soft Touch
    Doc's Magic Bowling Ball Elixir    		3M
    3M
    3M
    A.J. Discount Proshop, Inc.
    Advanced Polishing Products
    AMF
    Baldy Products
    Ballshield
    Ballshield
    Ballshield
    Brunswick
    Brunswick
    Brunswick
    Captain Bob
    Columbia
    DBA Products
    Don Carter
    Don Carter
    Don Carter
    Don Carter
    Don Carter
    Don Carter
    Elite
    Future Clean, Inc.
    Future Clean, Inc.
    Grecian Attack
    Hi-Temp Products Co.
    Johnson & Johnson
    Kegel
    Kegel
    Kegel
    Kegel
    Lane Concepts
    Lane Concepts
    Life Time Solutions
    Neo Technologies
    Neo Technologies
    Neo Technologies
    One Grand Products, Inc.
    Pete Turner
    Pro Packaging
    Pro Shops of America
    Scotch Brite
    Spartan Chemical Co.
    Steel Fingers Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Storm Bowling Products
    Strata Products, Inc.
    Tech-Line Products
    Tech-Line Products
    The Wax Shop
    Today's Solutions
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Track Ebonite Powerhouse
    Ultimate Bowling Products
    Ultimate Bowling Products
    Ultimate Bowling Products
    Ultimate Bowling Products
    Zapp-It Bowling Products
    Zapp-It Bowling Products
    NOTE
    "The manual application of any lane oil to a bowling ball by a bowler during certified competition is prohibited"    Read More
  • Approved Removable Bowling Ball DevicesThe USBC Equipment and Specification team’s process for testing and approving removable bowling ball devices ensures that no movable parts exist inside a bowling ball, including the weight block, thumb insert, and finger grips. This ensures the safety of bowlers, protects the bowling establishment from potential damage, and preserves the integrity of the game. Click here for a list of approved removable bowling ball devices. For further information, please consult the Equipment and Specifications Manual.
    ProductManufacturer
    Comfortable Lifestyles, LLC.


    Citrus Base Cleaner
    Donkee Products
    Exactacator Inc.
    Griploc Products
    Jerome Products
    Master Industries
    Multimed
    Perfecta-Grip Industries
    Turbo 2-n-1     		New Millenium Pro Grips
    Silicone Bridge Fusion
    Tufflon Thumb Grip
    3M
    Sure Fit Changeable Thumb Insert
    Vise Interchangeable Thumb (IT)
    Griploc
    Flip Grips
    RevMaker
    Thumbthing
    Perfecta-Grip
    Switch Grip
    Read More
  • Acceptable Pin Deck Treatments
    Acceptable Pin Deck Treatments by Company
    Kegel
    • No Pin Slide (Feb 1986)
    Pinsetter Parts Plus
    • No-Slide Pin Spot (Aug 2006)
  • Automatic Scoring DevicesAs of July 11, 2008
    Approved Scoring Devices
    ManufacturerSystem
    AMFAccuScore Plus (Revised)
    AccuCam 3000
    BOSS
    *Magic Score
    Bowling Computer SystemThe Scorekeeper
    Beijing Xima BowlingXima
    Brunswick Corp.AS-80
    AS-90 (CCD Scanner)
    BowlerVision
    *Computron
    Frameworx
    Vector
    Vector Plus
    VPS Video Pin Sensor
    Doban Lab. Inc. (Formerly Biggs & Sons)Computer Score
    *ScoRite
    Heddon Bowling Corp.BMS Scoregraphic II
    Korexpo Corp.Acescore
    Dacoscore
    Lakewood Mfg. Co.*Escore
    Mendes, Inc.(Fenix)Futura
    Micro Business**Heddon/EasiScore
    Pro-Scor, Inc.**EasiScor II
    **Pro Score
    Paule Computer SystemsPro Score
    Qubica USAQubica
    RCA*Rapid Score
    Resultatsystem ABViking 2001
    SwitchSwitch
    Twelve StrikeTwelve Strike
    US Steltronic, LLCSteltronic WINS
    Van Tech MatrixComputer Score
    Vantech SoloComputer Score
    * Out of Production | ** Upgrades to same model    Read More
  • Automatic PinsettersAs of June 20, 2006
    ManufacturerSystem
    QubicaAMF8800 Golden Edition(Revision)
    QubicaAMF8800 Golden Edition(Revision)
    QubicaAMF82-70
    QubicaAMF82-70XL
    QubicaAMF82-90
    QubicaAMF82-30
    QubicaAMF82-90XL
    QubicaAMFXli Factory Reconditioned
    QubicaAMF90XLi
    QubicaAMFAMF
    Beijing Xima Bowling Equip.Xima
    Bowl-Mor Company, Inc.Bowl-Mor
    Brunswick Corp.GS Series
    Brunswick Corp.Brunswick
    Brunswick Corp.Vector
    Brunswick Corp.Model A
    Brunswick Corp.Model Jet Black
    Brunswick Corp.Model A-2
    Brunswick Corp.GS-10
    Funk InternationalFunk
    Furakawa Company, TokyoOdin
    HeddonH-4
    Heddon(Pin retrieval system)H-300R
    Korexpo Corp.Dacos II
    MendesMM-2001
    Murrey InternationalZ-3
    Strike King Corp.Strike-O-Matic
    SwitchST-1
    Vantage Bowling Corp.VPS-2000
    Via BowlingVIA MC2
    Yangji Vision Co., Ltd.Vision
    Read More
  • Bowling Pin PermitsBowling Pin Permits 2009-2010
    The following is a list of trade names of tenpins submitted by bowling pin manufacturers in accordance with the requirements set forth under "Procedures for USBC Approval", of Bowling Pin Specifications. Manufacturers and distributors of these pins were advised that they are approved for USBC certified league and tournament play for the 2009-2010 season.
    Wood Core Pins
    Brand NamePermit Number
    AMFlash419
    AMFlite II323
    Bowl America420
    LindsF501
    Maple LeafF502
    Pinnacle391
    SI LineF508
    Switch412
    US Women's Open421
    ValckeF507
    VIAF503
    Strike Maker WSF505
    Strike Master UltraF504
    Synthetic Pins
    BlasterFS-4
    TwisterS-2
    Bowling Pin Permits 2008-2009
    The following is a list of trade names of tenpins submitted by bowling pin manufacturers in accordance with the requirements set forth under "Procedures for USBC Approval", of Bowling Pin Specifications. Manufacturers and distributors of these pins were advised that they are approved for USBC certified league and tournament play for the 2008-2009 season.
    Wood Core Pins
    Brand NamePermit Number
    Airforce389
    Amflite II323
    Amforce386
    B MAX415
    ClockF506
    Diamond Duramid 299330
    Eagle333
    LeafF502
    LindsF501
    Marines390
    MWRS339
    Navy388
    Pinnacle391
    Score King416
    Supreme398
    Switch414
    USBC300
    VIAF503
    Vultex II417
    WheelF500
    X MakerF505
    X MasterF504
    X Master418
    Synthetic Pins
    BlasterFS-4
    TwisterS-2
    Read More
  • Foul DetectorsAs of August 3, 2006
    Foul Detectors by Company
    QubicaAMF
    • Model 82-120
    • Model 82-94
    • Model 82-68
    • Model Radar Ray Plus
    QubicaAMF
    • Model Radaray XLi
    Blatt
    • Model 2
    Bowl-Tronics
    • Sentinel Series 1
    Brunswick
    • Astro
    • Gold Crown-Tel-E-Foul
    Connecticut Technical Corp.
    • Model FD-300-1
    Easi-Score
    Kilo-Watt-Ch Dog, Inc.
    • Model #KWDF-200
    McLean Foul Detector
    Murrey International
    • Z-3
    Northern Bowling Supply
    Paule Computer Systems
    Perry Foul Light Control System
    Phillips Electronics
    • Fleet Ray RM 122
    • RM 134
    R. Rhea (Century Lanes)
    Richmond Hill Electronics
    Scorematic
    • FD-100
    Switch
    Omega-Tek
    Mendes
    Zot Pinsetter Parts, Inc.
    Vantage
    Joystick Scoring Ltd.
    • Redline
    Viking America Inc.
    • Rainbowl
    Quibica
    VIA North America
    Read More
  • Lane DressingsAs of May 21, 2008
    AMF Century
    Reactor HL
    Reactor LL
    Reactor ML
    Utopia
    Visflo 12.7
    Visflo 19.5
    Visflo 32.5
    Visflo 39.0
    Visflo 48.5
    Brunswick
    Authority 22W22
    Brunswick 30/30
    Brunswick Absolute Control
    Brunswick Basis
    Brunswick Connect
    Brunswick Control
    Brunswick Golden
    Brunswick LV2
    Brunswick Total
    Brunswick Viscon
    Command
    Control LV
    DBA #411 Evolution
    DBA #501
    DBA #511
    DBA #777 Helicopter (Asia Only)
    DBA #801 Clear HV
    DBA #811 Clear LV
    DBA #850 Clear Super HV
    DBA #911
    DBA #8001 HP
    DBA #8100 Clear
    DBA Endurance
    DBA Legacy
    Perry Austen Absolute
    Perry Austen Equalizer
    Perry Austen Guardian HV
    Perry Austen Guardian LV
    Perry Austen Mighty Miser
    Perry Austen Old Style
    Perry Austen Respond
    Perry Austen Solution HV
    Perry Austen U-300
    Pierce & Stevens Roll Control
    Pierce & Stevens Strike Oil
    Beyer Lubrication L.L.C.
    High Score
    Celucoat Bowing Supply
    G-68
    Shur-Trak
    Shur-Trak HV
    Davidson Industries
    S-2600
    S-3900
    S-4400
    S-5200
    D.W. Davies
    100
    EBN Services
    EBN-001
    EBN-002
    EBN-003
    EBN-004
    EBN-005
    The Kegel Company
    Crossfire
    Defense
    Defense-HF
    Infinity
    Navigate
    Offense LV
    Offense HV
    Prodigy
    Lane Concepts
    Basic 18
    Basic 28
    Concept 1 16 viscosity
    Concept 1 19 viscosity
    Concept 1 26 viscosity
    Concept 2 16 viscosity
    Concept 2 19 viscosity
    Concept 2 26 viscosity
    Concept 2 33 viscosity
    Lubricity / S
    Lubricity / W
    SYN-Pro W-20
    SYN-Pro W-26
    SYN-Pro S-33
    SYN-Pro S-40
    Lane DynamX
    LDX 01
    LDX 11
    LDX 20
    LDX 35
    LDX Rev 40
    Lane Masters
    Tournament Edition
    Legends - LV
    Legends - MV
    Legends - HV
    Legends Plus - LV
    Legends Plus - MV
    Legends Plus - HV
    Mi-Dee
    305
    305 Dark
    305W
    400
    400 Light
    Mi-Dee 305
    Mi-Dee 400
    Murrey International
    Action Oil
    Neo Technologies
    Black Gold
    Black Gold HT/LV
    Black Gold HT/HV
    Black Gold HV
    Black Gold Lite
    Black Gold Small Ball lane oil (Canada)
    Black Gold Texas Tea
    Millennium LV (US)
    Millennium HV
    Neo-1
    Techline Products
    Duramax Versatility
    Thaumaturgy (in the U.K.)
    Strike-1
    U.S. Polychemical Corp
    509
    9512
    9514
    9526
    9544
    9557
    9584
    CEO 33
    CEO 42
    CEO 65
    Signature Edition 28
    Trend Setter
    USBC does not approve lane dressing products, but does test them for acceptability. The above list is representative only of those lane dressings that were tested and does not include products in the marketplace that have not been analyzed or that were determined to be unacceptable. Any product not on this list must not be used in USBC certified competition.    Read More
  • Lane FinishesAs of June 20, 2006
    A.M.F.
    Magic Triangle
    Top Shot 100% Solids
    Top Shot Urethane
    Top Shot Water-Based
    Top Shot S.P. Urethane
    Au Finish Series
    #902
    #903
    #904
    #905
    BOWLISTIC
    Chernobyl U.V.
    BRUNSWICK
    Astro. 100
    Astro. 100 - Low Friction
    Astro. 100 - Water-Based
    Barricade
    Cosmic E-Z Top Coat U.V.
    CKS AB/NORMA LANE
    Norma Lane Primer
    Norma Lane '15'
    Norma Lane '30'
    D.B.A.
    Aquarius
    CU-100
    Duralastic
    Durathon 7000
    Durathon 7004
    Wave #2720 U.V.
    Durathon #7000 U.V.
    Synthetic Lane 'Glow Finish' U.V.
    HONOR ROLL
    Honor Roll
    PERRY-AUSTEN INTERN'l
    Barrier Coat
    Guardian
    Hydrolane
    Hydrolane L.D.F.
    Hydrolane Recoat
    Modern Lane Finish
    U-300 (Skor Kote)
    U-300 High Solids
    U-300 S.P.
    U-300 U.V.
    Unicure
    Unicure E.Z.
    PIERCE & STEVENS
    Aquathon
    E 1007A
    Miralane
    Miralane H.S.
    Miralane U.V.
    Miracure
    U.S. POLYCHEM
    Glocoat U.V.
    Synthetic Glocoat U.V.
    Alternative 900
    Polyshield Brilliant
    Read More
  • Pit End ProductsAs of June 20, 2006
    FLAT GUTTERS
    ManufacturerUSBC Approval #
    A-1 LanesA1-050
    QubicaAMF DurabowlA-450
    QubicaAMF DurabowlA-450A
    BrunswickB-220
    BrunswickB-240
    DBA ProductsD-110
    D&H Bowling ServiceDH-520
    Felix EricksonF-210
    Gold CrownG-210
    Heddon Bowling ServiceH-610
    Heddon Bowling ServiceH-610
    Heddon Bowling ServiceH-630
    Kegel Co.K-100
    Lane DynamXL-100
    Langlo Bowling & BilliardLBB-100
    MendesME-570
    Murrey InternationalM-320
    Perry-AustenP-180
    Riviera LanesR-010
    Rotex IndustriesRI-110
    SharplessS-810
    Stahl's 70S-910
    SwitchFSW-020
    Quality ResurfacingQ-110
    ViaFSZ-020
    KICKBACK PLATES
    ManufacturerUSBC Approval #
    *AMF 3/16" Fiber----
    QubicaAMF DurabowlA-430
    *Brunswick - 1/8' Phenolic----
    DBAD-140
    D&H Bowling ServiceDH-530
    D&H Bowling ServiceDH-540
    Diamond Back Ent.DB-710
    Gold CrownG-210
    Langlo Bowling & BilliardLBB-120
    Perry-AustenP-160
    Perry-AustenP-170
    Philip Konrad & Sons, Inc.PK-110
    RJM Composites LLC - HDPE Kickback PlateRJM 110
    RJM Composites LLC - Phenolic Kickback PlateRJM 210
    KICKBACKS
    ManufacturerUSBC Approval #
    *AMF Std. Wood----
    A-1 LanesA1-040
    AMFA-510
    *Brunswick Std. Wood----
    EDGEBOARD
    ManufacturerUSBC Approval #
    A-1 LanesA1-070
    DBAD-120
    Felix EricksonF-220
    Gold CrownG-210
    Langlo Bowling & BilliardLBB-110
    Perry-AustenP-210
    Quality ResurfacingQ-110
    EDGE STRIPS
    ManufacturerUSBC Approval #
    QubicaAMF DurabowlA-440
    DBA ProductsD-230
    D&H Bowling ServiceDH-510
    D&H Bowling ServiceDH-550
    Murrey InternationalM-330
    Perry-AustenP-220
    SharplessS-820
    SwitchFSW-021
    TAIL PLANK &
    TAIL PLANK MOLDING
    ManufacturerUSBC Approval #
    DBAD130
    DBAD-230
    Gold CrownG-210
    Perry-AustenP-190
    Perry-AustenP-200
    Quality ResurfacingQ-110
    SwitchFSW-022
    PIN DECKS
    ManufacturerUSBC Approval #
    A-1 LanesA1-020
    A-1 LanesA1-011
    *AMF-----
    AMFA-420
    Asiatic InternationalFAI-021
    Bowling Service N.H.
    (Active Bowling Products, Holland)    		FA-020
    *Brunswick-----
    BrunswickB-210
    Brunswick (P.A.)B-230
    DBAD-150
    DBA TexturedD-155
    Do-Magic (DBA)DM-150
    Funk syntheticFFU-015
    HeddonH-640
    HeddonH-645
    KegelKL-110
    MendesME-600
    Murrey InternationalM-310
    Perry-AustenP-110
    Perry-Austen Top AdjustingP-110-A
    Perry-Austen (lam.film on wood)P-130
    Perry-Austen TexturedP-150
    Perry-Austen (lam.film on syn)P-130-S
    QubicaFQ-011
    Qubica CanadaFQC-011
    SABIMSA-020P
    SharplessS-830
    SwitchFSW-011
    System 300FSY-011
    VIAFSZSW-011
    *Approvals prior to permit number assignments.    Read More
  • Synthetic Lane InstallationsAs of March 7, 2008
    ManufacturerSystem
    A-1 LanesUltralane (Synthetic) (A1-010)
    Asiatic International Zhonglu (China)FAI-010
    FAI-020
    Beijing Xima Bowling Equipment (China)FBX-010
    FBX-020 (Glow)
    Bowling Service Kft. (Hungary)BowlArt 10mm, 12mm (FBS-010)
    Bowling Service N.H. (Holland)Active Lane FA-010
    Bowltech International B.V.Ecolane 3/8" synthetic (KL-110)
    Brunswick3/8" Anvilane - B510
    Brunswick7/16" Prolane - B410
    BrunswickSystem 2000 (B-210)
    BrunswickArmor Plate (B-210)
    Armor Plate 3000 (B-210)
    BrunswickAnvilane (B-210)
    BrunswickGuardian 20 mil (P-120-20)
    BrunswickLane Shield (B-310)
    BrunswickGuardian Barricade (B-220)
    DBAIQ (D-210) (D210A)
    Fenix (Formerly Mendes)Futura (Synthetic) (ME-700)
    Funk International (Germany)FFU-010
    FFU-010C
    FFU-015
    HeddonTech I (H-620)
    HeddonTech II (H-620)
    Kronospam(Germany)High PerformanceKB-110
    MurreyPathfinder (Synthetic) (M-310)
    MurreyPhenolic MML-3000 (M-340)
    Perry-AustenPermalane (Synthetic) (P-110)
    Perry-AustenAlleycat (Synthetic) (P-110)
    Perry-AustenFutura (Synthetic) (P-110F)
    Perry-AustenGuardian (P-120)
    Perry-AustenGuardian Image (P-140)
    QubicaAMFHerculane (A-410)
    QubicaAMFHPL (A-420)
    QubicaAMFSPL (A-420)
    QubicaAMFMAD Lane (FQ-010)
    QubicaAMFMAD Lane (FQC-010)
    SABIM s.r.l. (Italy)Luxor 1 SA-020
    SABIM s.r.l. (Italy)SA-010
    Sprela (Germany)SP-010
    SwitchSynthetic Lane FSW-010
    System 300 Group O.Y. (Finland)FSY-010
    FSY-011
    US Bowling Corp.FastLane(US-110)
    VIA Bowling ProductsFastrak FSZ-010
    Classic Full Glow FSZ-010G
    VIA009 (FSZSW-010)
    Vollmer (Germany)FV-010
    Read More
  • TerminologyThe science of bowling is one which, like any science, has its share of technical jargon—terms like “Coefficient of Friction,” “Intermediate Differential,” or “Symmetrical Core.” Below we provide a comprehensive glossary of terms that will make the more technical side of bowling more accessible to you.View Updated Terminology
  • Growing the SportUSBC is growing the sport through technology
    USBC believes that to grow the sport of bowling, it must be the No. 1 source of bowling technology and information. To cultivate this philosophy, the USBC Specifications and Certification team has purchased or built several pieces of high tech equipment.    One part of the science behind bowling deals with simulating oil patterns and ball motion on lane surfaces. The new ITRC (International Training and Research Center) will feature a variety of lane surfaces and oil patterns, lane machines, and a bowling robot bused throughout the Ball Motion Study. This robot, nicknamed “Harry”, is USBC’s version of the Iron Byron used in golf. This robotic precision ball thrower helps imitate ball reaction on the lanes and removes human error from the equation. Using the Computer Aided Tracking System (or C.A.T.S.) and the ball thrower, USBC can build mathematical models of bowling ball motion on the lanes.USBC research engineers track data ranging from the difference in the intended path of a bowling ball, velocity decrease, angle difference between launch angle and entry angle into the pocket, break point and transition points between the skid, and the hook and rolphases of ball motion. Ford Motor Co. engineer Scott Sterbenz—a volunteer technical advisor to the USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification Committee—has built the necessary statistical data to properly model the USBC bowling ball motion study. Thanks to Sterbenz’ background as an American Society for Quality Six Sigma Black Belt in statistical analysis, USBC’s ability to mathematically model ball motion variables has significantly increased.Another phase of technology deals with developing tests and standards for data currently not measured. Earlier this year USBC purchased a Fourier Transfer Infrared Spectrometer. This device can determine exactly which chemical compounds a certain material contains. USBC uses this tool to measure pin coatings, bowling ball cover stocks, lane surfaces and lane oil and conditioners and is considering its use for future applications.USBC is also developing a bowling ball cover stock oil absorption test. Oil absorption in today’s high tech bowling ball cover stocks is vastly different than it was with the urethane and plastic balls of the past. The ability to measure oil absorption will determine just how complex are the surfaces of bowling balls. The USBC research staff also has the capability to design and implement new standard testing devices such as a replacement two-string RG measuring device and a new coefficient of restitution and coefficient of friction tester. USBC is constantly striving to improve the quality and accuracy of test procedures. For bowling balls and pins, the research team measures density, center of gravity, moment of inertia and radius of gyration and spin time.Read More
  • USBC by the numbersHere are some specifications for common pieces of equipment used in USBC certified competition:Bowling lane:
    Length: 60 feet with a ½” tolerance from the foul line to the center of the head pin. The approach is a minimum 15 feet long.
    Width: 41 ½ inches in width with a ½” tolerance    Bowling ball:
    Circumference: 26.704 to 27.002 inches
    Diameter: 8.5 to 8.595 inches
    Weight: May not exceed 16 pounds; there is no minimum weight.    Bowling pin:
    Height: 15 inches
    Weight: 3 lbs., 6 oz. to 3 lbs., 10 oz.    The USBC has formed a strong partnership with the PBA Through its efforts in the Four Factors and Sport Bowling. Continuing a focus on the “sport” aspect of bowling, USBC is working hard to bring excitement, knowledge, credibility, and fun to bowlers of all ages and ability levels through the stars of our sport—professional bowlers. USBC is teaming up with professional bowlers to create exciting programs to benefit bowlers, proprietors, pro shop operators and the entire industry called the PBA Experience, which is a part of USBC Sport Bowling.PBA Experience leagues allow bowlers to compete on any of the patterns (Chameleon, Cheetah, Shark, Scorpion, Viper, Earl Anthony and Dick Weber Championships, USBC Masters, U.S. Open, PBA World Championship, PBA Tournament of Champions) used for Lumber Liquidator’s PBA Tour events. Bowlers will get a sense of what the professionals experience when it comes to dealing with lane conditions and changing environments.The Specifications and Certifications team worked closely with the PBA and its players in 2006 to modify lane oil patterns for the Lumber Liquidator’s PBA Tour. Several top professional bowlers, including Walter Ray Williams Jr., tested patterns used on the PBA Tour in 2006-07 season—the same patterns used in PBA Experience leagues.These philosophies and ideas illustrate USBC’s research capabilities and the importance of growing and understanding the science and technology the sport of bowling. USBC is at the forefront of that type of forward thinking that addresses bowling as a high level sport.    Read More
  • Harry the RobotHarry the robot will be retiring soon, but until then, here are some fun facts about him. One of the most important members of the USBC Specifications and Certification team is not a human being. He’s a robot, and his name is “Harry.”Harry (named in honor of former testing facility employee Harry Lawrence) is an approximately seven-foot tall robotic bowling ball thrower who is an integral part of the equipment testing and research effort at the USBC Specifications and Certification test facility in Greendale, Wis.Developed by USBC and in use since 1999, Harry is a unique, computer-controlled hybrid machine partly encased in safety glass that combines hydraulics, air pressure and electronics that power a mechanical arm that delivers bowling balls to help test balls, lanes, pins and oil patterns. Harry is similar to the United States Golf Association's robotic golfer "Iron Byron" whose mechanical arm swings golf clubs for research purposes in that sport.Harry has two "hands," a device with two clamps that grabs bowling balls. A piston and cylinder assembly makes the machine's hand open and close to pick up and release a ball. Springs and gravity provide forward momentum to propel a ball down the lane.Why doesn’t USBC just use human bowlers? Because Harry can deliver bowling balls with much more precision, accuracy and consistency than humans. Harry can consistently duplicate shot after shot at ball speeds anywhere from 14-22 miles per hour and rev rates anywhere from 0-600 rpm. Pairing Harry and the Computer Aided Tracking System (C.A.T.S.), a computer and sensor system that precisely tracks bowling ball location and speed as it travels down a lane, gives USBC a key advantage in sophisticated tracking and measurement of ball motion data.Because of this phenomenal accuracy that only a robot could provide, Harry is one of the main players in USBC’s bowling ball motion study. The goal of that study, started in 2005, is to gather data about the complex dynamics and inner motion characteristics of today's high-tech bowling balls. USBC is testing to determine how balls with different properties and characteristics act together, then use this and other information obtained in working with bowling ball manufacturers and other industry leaders to set performance-based specifications for bowling balls used in USBC-certified competition.Though Harry is a robot, his talents make him a major part of USBC's pledge to uphold the integrity and credibility of the sport of bowling.Read More
  • CLIPUSBC has developed this Internet-based training program for lane certification and inspection. Learning how to do inspections has never been easier.CLIP capitalizes on technology to upgrade the old Certified Lane Inspectors Workshops. It provides individuals with proof they are trained in certification and lane dressing inspection and gives current inspectors who did not complete the old training a way to obtain a card/certificate. All in a way that attracts new and younger individuals and trains them to inspect.By clicking the links to the left, you can access the Lane Inspector Manual and take the inspector exam. bowl.com also provides additional services such as the latest news on lane inspection and certification and a discussion forum so you can share information and experiences with other inspectors.This training program is designed to give individuals a way to document the completion of lane inspection training.Please note that the training program will not “certify” and/or provide a number to those individuals that successfully complete the program. However, individuals that pass the exam will receive a certificate and a card.Upon completion of the CLIP, we recommend that you contact your local bowling association. The local association will be able to provide the hands on training that will assist you in becoming a fully qualified lane inspector.The local association can issue credentials stating that an individual is qualified to perform certification and/or lane dressing inspections for the association.Online
    By phone or e-mail
    • Order the CD-ROM containing all the information found online at the time of purchase. The cost of the CLIP CD is $10 . To order, e-mail the Bowling Information Center or call 1-800-514-BOWL (2695).
    • The CD-ROM includes a printable version of the exam which can be faxed to USBC Specifications & Certifications for grading. There is an additional $10 fee to submit the CD-ROM version of the exam
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
  • International Training and Research CenterYou want high tech? Look no further than the USBC International Training and Research Center—a crossroads between research and coaching.Scheduled to open this fall at USBC Headquarters in Arlington, Texas, this facility’s combination of high level research projects, sport science and coaching technology promises to raise your game to a level that has not been possible until now. The center will include 14 lanes for training and six for research and testing of bowling equipment. Four lanes will be equipped for televised broadcasts.International Training Center LIVE WebcamHigh-tech tools in the test center's research area will include a robotic bowling ball thrower, computer ball tracking system and state-of-the-art biomechanics technology such as motion capture, which uses a sensor array and computer system to precisely track your body movements throughout your approach and delivery.For a fee, you will be able to take advantage of this facility’s pioneering technology for high-tech coaching lessons. The USBC International Training and Research Center will also be made available for coaching of Team USA, Junior Team USA, national teams from World Tenpin Bowling Association countries and possibly to coaches who want to train in the facility.Read More
  • Cool toys in the training centerNever before have coaches had at their disposal the kind of cutting-edge equipment that they will find at the USBC International Training and Research Center.Facility equipment will include groundbreaking USBC-patented biomechanics technology systems that capture grip & foot pressure and motion using a network of cameras, electronic sensors and computers to measure the exact movements of a bowler’s body during the approach and delivery. This technology is designed to revolutionize the sport by allowing coaches to scientifically analyze every aspect of a bowler's set up, approach and delivery.Rod Ross, head coach of the International Training and Research Center, and his coaching staff will use these high tech tools to train bowlers and coaches from around the world. Ross and his staff also will work closely with the USBC research team to develop new technologies that keep the training center at the forefront of bowling coaching innovation."The goal of the USBC International Training Center is to have the most advanced teaching tools that will provide hard data about bowlers during their approach and delivery," said Director of USBC Coaching David Garber. "As one of the most respected coaches in the bowling industry, Rod will lead the training center to be the preferred place to train athletes from around the world that, in turn, will make it a financially sound project and investment for USBC."Take a closer look at some of the high tech devices that will be available at this groundbreaking facility:Read More
  • Grip and Foot PressureThe grip pressure system measures the location and amount of pressure that you impart on different parts of your throwing hand throughout your approach and delivery. A bowler's hand is outfitted with a specially-designed sports glove with small pressure sensors (0.07 inches thick) attached by medical tape. The sensors are equipped with tiny, individual sensing units that transmit pressure data from your hand through a data hub worn on the wrist, which is connected to a computer that analyzes the data.The foot pressure system measures the location and amount of pressure placed on various parts of your feet during the approach and slide. Pads with the same type of sensors used in the grip pressure system are placed underneath the insoles of your shoe. As you approach the foul line, foot pressure is measured and the data is transmitted through hubs worn around the ankles to a computer and then analyzed. Sensors are calibrated based on a bowler's weight, and the system provides live timing accurate to one hundredth of a second.Read More
  • Motion CaptureMotion capture is a futuristic-looking suit of lights, similar to the technology that video game makers use to record Tiger Woods hitting a golf ball or NBA star and USBC spokesperson Chris Paul shooting a jump shot to make their game characters look realistic.The USBC motion capture system is sophisticated biomechanics technology. Patented by USBC, this futuristic-looking system is the first of its kind in the sport of bowling and will be available in the new USBC International Training and Research Center where it will be used to identify and correct problems your technique in a more comprehensive manner.Motion capture measures body positioning and movement more precisely than standard video analysis programs. For example, it can track your body positions (such as during your back swing) to 0.001 of an inch, speed and acceleration (such as ball speed or the sliding knee moving forward) to 0.02 mph and timing (relationship between the arm swing and footsteps) to 0.001 of a second.The system works like this: Between 40 and 70 small sensors are attached to your clothing and six cameras positioned on adjoining approaches and lanes that detect the red light reflected from the sensors. Your movements through the approach and delivery are tracked via the sensors and the data is transmitted to a computer system, and your image appears on the computer screen as a moving, digital data figure that can be shown in slow motion, used with video or viewed from different angles.Read More
  • Super C.A.T.S.One of Coach Rod Ross’s many tasks will be to oversee the use of the Computer Aided Tracking System (C.A.T.S.) which records the exact location and velocity of bowling balls as they roll down a lane.Super C.A.T.S. is an expanded version of the Computer Aided Tracking System that USBC research staff uses to track bowling ball statistics on the lanes in the test facility. The difference between a regular C.A.T.S. system and Super C.A.T.S. is that instead of the normal eight-sensor system, Super C.A.T.S. has 23 sensors installed from 11 to 59 feet on the capping between lanes. In addition, Super C.A.T.S. tracks a variety of different variables from position to velocity and can calculate the lane friction value of a particular bowling ball as well as launch angle and entry angle into the pocket.Read More
  • DigiTrax and BowlersMAPCoach Ross is also the designer and developer of both DigiTrax and BowlersMAP software programs.DigiTrax ball motion tracking software measures the accuracy, consistency and transitions of a bowling ball on a lane. The video analysis program enables objective (data based) measurements to be derived as it relates to tracking the balls path (from the foul-line to the pins). The program, which will enable coaches to offer video analysis capable of up to 1,000 frames per second and super slow-motion analysis, captures loft distance, lay down board, launch angle, break point board and distance, entry angle and ball speed.BowlersMAP
    BowlersMAP software provides coaches with the ability to analyze students utilizing computers and video analysis. Ross designed and developed both DigiTrax and BowlersMAP.    BowlScore
    BowlScore is a computerized, automatic bowling ball throwing device used to measure the scoreability of bowling pins and pit area products. The device is capable of delivering a ball at a constant speed and rotation to a standard pinsetter and pit area setup at various angles and offsets. Pin and product test results are compared to a database of approved pins and products. One single test alone takes 24 full hours, and the data is transferred to a computer program with the final results representing 500 games of bowling.    Read More
  • Fourier Transfer Infrared SpectrometerThe Fourier Transfer Infrared Spectrometer uses atom-to-atom molecular radiation absorption to identify a chemical compound and investigate the composition of a material sample. USBC uses this tool to measure pin coatings, bowling ball cover stocks, lane surfaces, lane oil and more conditioners.Given the complexity of such organic compounds and mixtures, each spectrum obtained over the entire infrared wavelength scan produces an individual unique “fingerprint” known only to the individual sample analyzed. Therefore, this is a powerful tool, especially with modern equipment allowing analysis with very little sample preparation.
  • Lane machinesUSBC uses four different lane oil machines in the research and testing center. USBC uses its Brunswick Authority 22 lane machine – the same type of machine the PBA currently uses to apply oil patterns for Denny’s PBA Tour stops – to test and modify official PBA oil patterns to desired specifications.USBC has two different lane machines from Kegel—the Sanction Standard Elite and the Kustodian ION—which are used for a variety of purposes from customizing lane patterns for USBC-sponsored tournaments to applying lane patterns for USBC’s ball motion study. The AMF Summit is different from the other three since it is an older technology “pad” machine, a different type of technology than a typical brush machine.
  • VHX Digital MicroscopeThis instrument has the capability of magnifying and capturing digital images of small micron-sized materials. The device is used for measuring pin coating thicknesses and to define a scratch in the Mohs' hardness test. Other small-scale measuring options will also be used by USBC in the near future.
  • Forms/Manuals/BulletinsBrunswick Service Bulletins
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  • BallsBallsBall Motion StudyBy USBC Equipment Specifications TeamIn the past, bowling ball motion was examined using visual analysis. That analysis led to the conclusion that bowling balls go through three distinct phases of motion, skid, roll, and hook, in that order; however, that conclusion was proven inaccurate when USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification department researchers examined the results of the Bowling Ball Motion Study, which, through the use of equations and graphical data analysis, definitively proved that the actual progression is skid, hook and roll.The Bowling Ball Motion Study, which was a joint venture undertaken by USBC researchers and bowling ball manufacturers, arrived at these new conclusions by examining bowling ball path data generated by C.A.T.S. (Computer Aided Tracking System). This system tracked the paths of bowling balls as they rolled down a lane, taking precise measurements that allowed researchers to closely monitor and analyze every aspect of the three phases of ball motion.As the graph above clearly illustrates, the first phase of a bowling ball's path is mathematically linear, meaning it travels along a straight line moving away from the head pin. This phase is known as skid.As the ball continues down the lane, its path transitions into a curved shape. This non-linear, parabolic portion of the ball path is the hook phase.Finally, in the third phase, the ball migrates back to a linear path and begins rolling in a direct line toward the pins. This final segment is defined as the roll phase.In real-time, the true phase transition points can be very hard to see. For that reason, this video has been slowed down and notated to illustrate the instant in which the ball transitions from the end of one phase into the beginning of the next.So what's the take-home message for league or tournament bowlers who are not tracking and analyzing their ball paths via computer?First off, communication is crucial. Being able to talk to your teammates during league or tournaments, especially about what the bowling ball is doing, can be a huge advantage. Doing so will allow the bowler and his or her teammates to line up and play the lanes successfully.This information also comes in handy when communicating with a USBC-certified coach. A bowler's ability to accurately explain what his or her bowling ball is doing on the lane will allow the coach to suggest appropriate physical-game modifications that will help the bowler alter the way his or her ball moves throughout the various phases of ball motion.Lastly, this knowledge will aid in the communication between pro-shop professionals and bowlers. If a bowler can verbalize his or her desire to see a longer skid phase or a more-defined hook phase in their ball motion, the pro-shop professional will be able to adjust a drilling layout and surface preparation to meet what the bowler needs or wants to see on the lane.The USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification department has diligently examined every nuance of bowling ball motion in the hope that the understanding it has attained can be passed on to bowlers, who will use that knowledge to take their own games to new heights.Bowling ball:
    Circumference: 26.704 to 27.002 inches
    Diameter: 8.5 to 8.595 inches
    Weight: May not exceed 16 pounds; there is no minimum weight.    Read More