Should Urethane Bowling Balls Be Used On House Shots and Leagues?!?

Here's the age old question. Should Urethane bowling balls be used on a house shot and in league?! In this video I will go over this topic and why I believe what I believe!
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[@jaywhey8822]

As an already disliked two-hander in a league full of old farts; I have found that no matter what ball I use, I get just as much flak. I started using urethane (UC3) in league and even just having it on the rack makes many of my fellow leaguers rage. I find that as an advantage because it gets in their heads before the pins even drop and it gives them more excuses when my team takes all 9. I love it!

[@chrisstrong3748]

What i love is when i use the UC3 and the other high rev guys on my team stay in the same spot all night, and the other team blames all their bad shots on me throwing urethane instead of throwing it better or making an adjustment. 😉 My favorite part of throwing urethane is people just hand you points and you don't even have to do anything. 😂

[@jaywhey8822]

@@chrisstrong3748 😂😂 *throws it bad and misses way right, ends in a gutter.* "ThE CaRRy DOwN mAn!" 😂

[@LuisNapoles]

Just gotta use the right tool for the job period!

[@jaywhey8822]

@@LuisNapoles Right!? Plus I pay $200 for a ball and you think I'm not going to use it except when I get permission??😂

[@cannonchristopher]

F Those Seniors! Lol, got a ton of them in my league. Love watching them rage. Especially when they expect multi-lane courtesy.

[@johnblaha5692]

I'm a fairly new subscriber and I have to say I've been enjoying your content you're doing a great job and you're very informative

[@LuisNapoles]

Thanks for that John! I appreciate that!

[@t.j.winstead7660]

As a two handed bowler that only threw reactive for a long time I just got my first urethane a little Over a month ago I have Fallen in love with it the people in my league don’t seem to mind it but I love it because I can bowl straighter and have a lot more control over the ball with urethane but I think it’s all a personal preference on what you want to do and what works for you

[@LuisNapoles]

I couldn't agree more with that TJ!

[@kingbo1921]

Good point on the flare, hadn't thought if that before in regards to carry down

[@LuisNapoles]

Thats the biggest thing! So a short pin reactive ball will cause WAY more carry down than the uc3

[@batl_born702]

Good video. The core/cover combination on the UC3 makes it act like a benchmark ball in my opinion and that’s why it looks so good on the house shot. Personally I’m all for people using whatever ball works for them. I’ve had to use urethane in league before and I’m never bothered by someone else doing so.

[@LuisNapoles]

Good man!

[@david.calvin.]

Luis, great video as usual. I had been thinking of getting the UC3 but as I watch you throw it up 10 it looks a lot like my Omega Crux which is my big "control" ball. Did you ever get the Omega? It would sure be interesting seeing the UC3 compared to the Omega Crux.

[@LuisNapoles]

I have an undrilled Omega Crux but have never thrown one. The omega will def be quicker off the spot though

[@gregoryng9821]

Last two weeks, I have been using a 900 Global Burner Pearl and UC3. My bowling center usually puts out a medium to medium/dry oil volumn. Both balls go through the front part of the lane very smoothly and have plenty of energy to go down lane and to the pins. Shot 723 two weeks ago and 656 last week. Last week could of been much better if I would have made my spares.

[@LuisNapoles]

Nice bowling!!!

[@Brian_Wolf]

I appreciate this post. I’m ok with throwing urethane on a house shot because i prefer to play straighter. Way more consistent than when I have to hook the lane. The UC3 has been my first ball outside the Motiv brand in a long time because it looks THAT GOOD.

[@LuisNapoles]

Smart man! Hard to deny when a ball looks that good

[@marcusangus2919]

I frequently play urethane (purple hammer) on house to avoid getting too deep with reactive resin. I've found that my carry playing a straighter shot with weaker urethane is greater than playing deep with reactive. My misses with urethane tend to be more forgiving. During transition I have been successful moving 1-1.5 boards right and increasing my speed.

[@LuisNapoles]

Thats cause you understand using the right tool for the right job! Good stuff!

[@Skdjdjdjsjxjxjd]

I also have a purple hammer urethane im on 3 different leagues and on one house pattern it will hook (sometimes even over hook) and then on another house pattern it will only hook in the whole first game an half way in the second game then in the third game I will be standing in the same spot as I was in the first game and it wont come back in for the pocket in time. It honestly psssses me off bc I don’t know what to do when that happens. I try moving 1 board to the right and it still doesn’t come back in for the pocket (sometimes it even over hooks) but if I move a sliver of a board to the left that makes it worse (and I have a towel that I use on the ball before every shot) obviously its not the right towel for my purple hammer ball bc I could wash the towel and within a week the towel will need to be washed again. As of right now I have to wash my towel bc it literally has oil *CAKED* on it and u don’t even have to feel the towel to know u can literally look at it and tell lol. I might have to go buy a new towel. But hopefully this upcoming Saturday I can try a reactive ball. (And yes I also know that all 3 alleys have different oil patterns)

[@marcusangus7092]

@@Skdjdjdjsjxjxjd from your description it sounds like you’re struggling with transition using urethane. Urethane can be tricky since it pushes oil down lane rather than absorbing like reactive. It’s good practice to wipe the oil off your ball in between shots; however, I don’t think the towel is causing your issues. I generally throw around 17.3-17.6 mph with a stock shot. If my PH is starting to hook early, then I either loft it a bit to go down lane more or move 1 and 1 right with my eyes and feet and increase my ball speed by 0.5mph. I’ve found these adjustments to be successful. I don’t like moving left and playing deep with urethane on house, can be difficult to interpret how well the ball is going to check into the pocket at the right angle. Another thing you can try doing is adjusting your hand position at your follow through. If you’re hooking too much, try to stay behind the ball at your follow through to decrease your hook potential. Similarly, during transition when you choose to move left and are having difficulty getting the ball to hook, try to put a little more hand in the ball if able. Another option is moving deep with reactive if you’re having trouble adjusting to transition with urethane. Bowling balls are tools, each one in your arsenal has pros and cons. Urethane balls can be tricky but they’re a lot of fun to throw!

[@jefferyboring4410]

@@Skdjdjdjsjxjxjd u need a leather towel they hold way more and the ball is way more consistent. U don’t have to wipe just dab and hold it’ll suck it dry and you can go about 3-4 league days before u feel u need to wash it. Everyone that’s tried it buys one. I see the storm leather pad the most.

[@Skdjdjdjsjxjxjd]

@@marcusangus7092 yea I have to slow the speed down but on the dry lanes I gotta speed up im working on balancing my speed out and I have no issue playing deep I shot a 249 Saturday night while playing deep

[@chrisleeleslie]

Damnnnn first 5 shots with the UC3 were MONEY! You were REALLY consistent there Luis!!! Nice shooting

[@LuisNapoles]

That’s what I’m saying! How can you not agree that the UC3 was money!!

[@joehoenig7596]

Thank you, Luis.. I've been waiting for someone to tackle this topic! I do have a few questions, though: First, in terms of assym urethanes, how would you compare/contrast the UC-3 to the Hammer Pink urethane, or is it that you can't, because you're a Storm/900 Global staffer? Second, as a lefty, with very high tilt, I've been told that I need top-shelf, strong cover/core assyms, because my tilt makes me the equivalent of speed dominant, and I therefore need the strong assym cover to overcome my elongated skid phase and get into a good hook and roll phase. Problem is that because they're assyms, they tend to jump off the house shot pattern, and become somewhat uncontrollable. If I move inside with them, the high tilt leads to wide-open splits. So, would a ball like the UC-3 allow me to stay in my outside comfort zone and not have to deal with these issues? Third, If a bowler is playing on outside line with urethane, how would carrydown be blamed on urethane, any more than carrydown caused by bowlers shooting corner pins with plastic, which is equally non-absorbent of lane oil? Thank you.....

[@LuisNapoles]

I can’t throw the pink widow cause I’m on staff with 900 Global but I imagine they should be at least in the same realm

[@banditjimmy35]

Great video. Just got a UC 3 drilled today. The one you are throwing, is it drilled pin up or pin down and did you change the surface out the box ?

[@LuisNapoles]

Its drilled 45x3 3/8x15 and thats at box finish

[@ericarnold7909]

I know I've asked about this ball in the past... But I'm really intrigued by it. I am currently using a 4 ball setup as follows: Reality, Idol Helios, Spectre, and Hustle Rap... Do you think there is a spot in my bag for the UC3? Thanks! another great video!

[@LuisNapoles]

There's always room in the bag for at least one urethane ball

[@joelosurdo4858]

My opinion is urethane for flatter patterns to control the back end. There are other options with reactive balls to help blend out the hook on house. (Layouts and cover adjustments) On house there is much more miss room with reactive when your feet are in the right spot with the correct core, layout and cover combination. Then it's a matter of the ball going through the pins the right way. This is a fair comparison from one ball to the other. But now mix in the reactive balls that would be thrown during a league session. Then it's time to change the tool as you say. Thank you again for doing this!!

[@LuisNapoles]

You're welcome!

[@ryancefalu3056]

Just got comfortable with how to use my uc3 as a great tool in my arsenal. Love it!

[@LuisNapoles]

Great to hear!

[@vincentsullivan6633]

Love your videos. My tempo, form , release and ball speed is similar to your motion Luis. My back swing is higher and my carry is not near as good as yours. I leave a lot of ringing ten pins . I noticed you move right for a flat 10 adjustment. What's your move for continual ten pin leaves? Thanks again for the videos.

[@LuisNapoles]

flat ten its usually right and wrap ten its usually left

[@noahnarbaez9755]

As a bowler in a high school league I tend to go to urethane when I can’t get anything else to work or if I don’t have a look with any of my other balls,on house it helps me control the friction up front and it is really controllable especially after the lanes have already transitioned

[@LuisNapoles]

Agreed!

[@pato6672]

I'm 66 years old. I throw the Pitch Black because I don't have the ball speed for reactive. But, I sure leave a lot of corner pins with the PB. Going to look into a UC3. Informative video, thanks..

[@LuisNapoles]

I hope you end up loving it!

[@drwisdom1]

I started bowling in leagues in 1979 and my first ball was a rubber Johnny Petraglia LT-48. In the mid 1980s urethane balls were the best balls and that is what I used. But reactive resin balls are way more powerful than urethane so I don't use urethane anymore because it would be giving up pins. But there are power bowlers than have way more rotation than I do. For them urethane gives them accuracy while still having tons of power when it hits. Alleys put down a lot more oil today than years ago. If there is a problem with urethane balls having oil carry down, why would you blame the ball rather than the mechanic who put down a lot of oil? Skiers bellyached when snowboarders appeared. Some one handed bowlers complain about the existence of two handed bowlers. Some bowlers gripe about the reappearance of old school urethane balls.

[@LuisNapoles]

And I just show up and bowl!

[@Dec3554]

I throw my PH on the fresh house to create a breakpoint around 5 instead of 10. It will only last through the first game (sometimes less, depending on how many shots I get in practice), but it sets up my progression through my arsenal moving forward, and because I play it outside I rarely get any complaints... those were more common with the Tank straight up ten.

[@LuisNapoles]

Good strategy!!

[@briangillespie2977]

Luis, Loving the videos dude. I have both the pitch black and UC3... unfortunately so far, i have not fallen in love with the UC3 like i thought i would (i absolutely love the original Rubicon, its my go to ball on almost anything), the UC3 is just a bit too strong for me right now, need to play around with the cover a bit to get it to fit........ For me, my pitch black is a short oil ball ONLY, i find its just too early to be able to use it on those heavier, medium length patterns (I also have a fast pitch and 900Global Boo-Yah which give me slightly stronger options over my pitch black) On using urethanes in league.. before i was completely against it (apart from using it as a spare ball)... but recently the centre i play league at hooks so much that i have absolutely no choice but to throw it! i would not say i am particularly rev dominant (im about 18 -19mph 4500-475rpm), so this season so far, i have started off with my fast pitch, ball up to my tank blitz and if its needed i ball up again to my iq tour nano pearl Keep up the good work Brian, From Scotland

[@LuisNapoles]

You’ll love it when the right situation pops up!

[@briangillespie2977]

@@LuisNapoles here's hoping!! Still preparing to represent Scotland at the European men's championships, so thinking it will be a key ball for that event!!

[@donhughes9743]

Recently, in our city tournament, I eventually had to throw my Pitch Black on a THS. Now, understand that this was for the singles and doubles events and there were only four of us on a pair. Add to that, none of them were left handed like me and we were all teammates. After 5 games on the same shot, the lanes were fried on my side with my rev rate. So I went with the PB to try to play inside the friction. Did it work? Nope. Either my skill with the PB or the lane conditions did not allow me to strike with that ball. I came away like you did with three wrap seven pins and quickly went to a less aggressive reactive ball that I polished the crap out of for those conditions. I ended the sixth game over 200. Urethane has a place. But I don't use it enough to be proficient. I don't bowl enough games on my side of the lane to usually have a use for it during league play. In fact, I have rarely used it during my senior scratch tournaments which is also on a house shot but with more lefties. The question I have about urethane is; why are people upset about a legal piece of equipment being used on a lane, but never complain about how a player's rev rate burns it up? It doesn't make sense to me. In conclusion, I think people just want to complain about their inability to adapt to the lane and deflect from their own ability. I see it as the same thing as a bowler taking a shot, missing their mark, and then spending 20 secs on the approach rubbing with their shoe like they stuck. Cmon dude. You didn't stick. I just threw a shot just where you did and didn't stick. You just threw a lousy shot!

[@chrisstrong3748]

You are spot on sir

[@LuisNapoles]

People are upset because it’s changing the lanes in a way they are not used to them changing!

[@michaelmiller8418]

@@LuisNapoles instead of Complaining they should just adapt

[@robertthroop-wk9wl]

Yep. Easier to blame others for a bad shot. Good bowlers can adjust to multiple conditions

[@robertstembridgejr7532]

Show your pin layouts on every bowling ball that you throw so we have a better Idea of what's going on! Great videos and thanks for your knowledge!

[@LuisNapoles]

Where the pin lands isn’t the layout though

[@markm4273]

Great video! How would you see the UC3 working on the fresh at team in Nationals?

[@LuisNapoles]

It’ll def be in my bag for nationals! Here’s the video I made for nationals! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoiZaJR5nbJkhMk

[@hellgiver21]

I throw Pitch Black in league quite often. I struggled on house shot with controlling Hy Roads and Hustles for a few years. My rev rate is around 475 and I throw it ideally around 16-16.5 mph. I was highly uncomfortable walking around the ball return and hooking the entire lane. Pitch Black opened a lot of doors for me. I don't even wipe the oil off between shots because I want it on there so the PB doesn't pick up any earlier than it already tries to. Creating carry down for your teammates is not a bad thing at all if it's in the right spot. It's a good thing. I usually progressively move right (very slightly) until the lanes get too dry around the end of 2nd, or the beginning of 3rd game. It is NOT a good ball once the oil starts burning up. I also got an Electrify Solid which I like even more than the PB. Doesn't overreact on the dry and won't Brooklyn if I tug it a little like everything else I used to throw. Having marginal miss room both ways is something I've never had before and it's deadly. I can miss left and it holds without crossing over or miss right and it doesn't overreact from the dry. With my Hy Road, missing slightly left meant brooklyn, and missing slightly right meant brooklyn as well. I have to throw it pretty bad to miss the pocket with the E Solid. I'm definitely getting a UC3, though. The only reason I haven't yet is because the E Solid has been so successful for me and the Pitch Black is a great compliment. From what I've seen though the UC3 should fit right into where I'm trying to play the lanes.

[@LuisNapoles]

I think the Uc3 will be the strongest ball inn your bag thats forsure!

[@jl4560]

The Uc3 has the same shape as my new Radical Double-Cross, I love it on the house shot. I just have to work on my adjustments in the Mid and late game. Last week in league play, on the left lane it was steady all the games but the left lane got away. I had problems adjusting. I'll get it figured out. I have not thrown urethane since the late 90s.

[@LuisNapoles]

I actually made a video on what to do on house shots after some urethane! Check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYOoe56qiNididU

[@angrywally4087]

I have a Pitch Black for higher Friction Lane Surface on some house shots that have ton of Friction, I have used it on a Short Pattern and caused more Carry down, and Created Hold for Reactive, because my Rev Rate is around 500 RPM

[@LuisNapoles]

Smart man!!

[@r.t.8367]

I had given up on Roto Grip after my 1st 2 balls from them, but I ordered the UC3 last night. Everything I've seen on it looks so good. Fingers crossed!

[@flyestwhiteboiyaneverseen9242]

Guy had one in league last week lol he destroyed all night lol. The line was wherever he wanted it to be. I've never owned a urethane ball but seeing it in action got me thinking lol

[@LuisNapoles]

Oh I hope you love it! That and the Helios are my two favorites from them!

[@CRPULSE300]

I threw a uc3 at a demo and started with 9 in a row with it

[@airammitchell682]

Hey Luis thanks for starting the discussion. I do want to also talk about carrying "down" to the outside dry boards not just down lane, end of pattern, dry boards. Isn't this also a potential issue, that just isn't talked about because it is a unique hurdle to only house patterns?

[@LuisNapoles]

I wouldn't say that its the only house shots that do this. The sport shots are already so flat that you dont notice it as much

[@airammitchell682]

@@LuisNapoles sure that makes sense I guess in tournaments using flatter patterns and sport shot leagues it is more important to break down the lanes the right way and the adjustments really make themselves. House shots really is all about use whatever but really pay attention to others because it won't be a standard breakdown of oil and adjustments will be key

[@andrewbowman8555]

100% agree. But the condition of the house is so important. In my house, the lanes are older Brunswick lanes and the fronts don't hold oil well anymore and tend to get a lot of inconsistencies with hook/skid/hook. That alongside being extremely wet/dry, you have to do whatever you can to control the pocket. I use a weaker urethane about 10 to 8 and it blends the wet dry enough that it actually helps my teammates (and myself when it's time to change).

[@andrewbowman8555]

And I use a Dv8 Tactic Control, which I assume would be closer to the fast pitch in strength? I haven't thrown any other urethane, so I am not sure how it compares.

[@LuisNapoles]

That’s my whole thing! Use it if it’s there, don’t if it’s not

[@jl4560]

I use Urethane in a senior league that is a short oil pattern. I get better shape with it. My Crux pearl tends to hook too much on the back end. Today the oil seemed heavier than normal so I just had to adjust my ball speed. It did throw my timing off but I figured out I just had to shorten my first step to get back in time. Ok day, at least I finished strong once I figured it out. Geat video!

[@LuisNapoles]

Good stuff!

[@mickeysambor9070]

Great video Luis! I just got my UC3 and the pro who drilled it said throw a few shots and you’ll be back in the shop to hit it with 3000. He was correct! I’m a lefty at around 14+ mph and changing the grit smoothed (blended) it out while still being very strong down lane and into the pocket. Love the ball on house shots and will bring it to Nationals. Probably take it to 2000 there. I’m in Vegas next week and hope to meet you at SP. Thoughts?

[@LuisNapoles]

I love changing the surfaces of my bowling balls! Ill def be around!

[@davidsoto1472]

I always start league with Dark code or Phase 3 . . . my shot usually goes away mid to late second game. I immediately go to UC3 move 6 left look 2 tight of original target and am right back in the pocket :-) the UC3 is the most consistent ball I have EVER thrown . . . love it

[@doughudson8197]

Whatever gives you the best look, the best opportunity for repeat shots and better scoring is my answer. Tools of the trade my friend! I know it's not traditional urethane but I've been throwing a lot from the Tank line in my leagues, which is at a high friction house.

[@LuisNapoles]

FACTS FACTS AND MORE FACTS!!!

[@tylerbunch6021]

I just got a purple hammer and have been CRUSHING it on house shots. I throw it about 17 mph with a rev rate in the 400's, it allows me to get straighter while still keeping some shape, LOVE IT. Its definitely not gonna be first out of my bag, but once my line breaks down I can move right and throw it comfortably.

[@LuisNapoles]

I love that!

[@haeganrodriguez6572]

Got my UC3 about a week ago and I absolutely love it. I like playing down and in. It’s a much easier shot to repeat. Plus the UC3 is just a special ball. Definitely doesn’t perform like your typical “urethane”

[@Sean_andrewss]

I got mine about a week ago as well and shot a 298 on a house shot

[@haeganrodriguez6572]

@@Sean_andrewss niiiice! Good shooting buddy!

[@LuisNapoles]

Couldn’t agree more my friend!!

[@Sean_andrewss]

@@haeganrodriguez6572 🙏🙏

[@TraumaER]

3:20 finally someone said it. Where do all these people think carry down came from if most pairs sometimes don't have anything but reactive and plastic thrown on them? Well said!

[@LuisNapoles]

Thanks!

[@michaelostertag2839]

I got my UC3 about 5 weeks ago and have shot mid to high 600's 4 of the 5 weeks. This last week I really stunk the joint up and shot 514. That wasn't the balls fault, my mechanics were all over the map for some reason. Even with the 514 series I am averaging 204.7 over the last 5 weeks. Our house shot is really dry on the outside and I haven't had anyone complaining about me throwing the ball at all. I also wipe my ball before every throw. Now....to work on that 14/15 strikes with it like you had.....

[@LuisNapoles]

Ball is 💰💰💰

[@destinationbowling]

Just bought my first urethane ball (Pitch Black) bowling house honestly only option i have atm. Thinking of joining league in order to join pba and enter tournaments. Prior to the pitch black i only had my Ebonite Big Time. They both work great just depends what day of the week it is on lane conditions.

[@LuisNapoles]

Good luck on your journey!

[@ksjlb2612]

Thank you Luis for stating your answer to that question in the way that you did. I have never understood why anyone would think that they have any control or influence upon the equipment someone other than themselves can use. It is truly not even a question really. You bowl with whatever ball you feel gets you the best possible outcome for you. Bravo! Along the same lines, why has nobody thrown as much of a fit about reactive balls consuming oil like they do as opposed to them worrying about urethane. I think it can make a shot much more difficult with a lack of oil consumed by reactive resin, but I digress.

[@angrybadger4236]

Teammates should care about each other. I'm not going to screw over my squad because I have a good look with urethane.

[@hunterpirtle2345]

@@angrybadger4236 I’m not going to screw my teammates over bc my reactive balls are too over under to score well

[@angrybadger4236]

@@hunterpirtle2345 as long as your team can handle it then that makes sense. It's like lou said. Make sure you let your team know what you're doing. If you just start chucking a pitch black down their line then the points you gain could end up subtracted from their score.

[@LuisNapoles]

I couldn’t agree with this more!!!! Thanks for that!!

[@stormb28]

@@angrybadger4236 their line? Idk why people think they have a patent on a path to the pocket. Lol, their line.

[@richardgandia5700]

Just wanted to ask if you were to use a reactive ball in the same area how would it react or change the break point or roll?

[@LuisNapoles]

It would be smoother off the spot

[@angrybadger4236]

It's very true that reactive causes carry down. Especially when people don't clean it. I bowled against a bunch of guys the other night that never clean or wipe off their reactive balls and it was worse than bowling the "urethane team". It was really inconsistent too. One lane stopped hooking all together and the other one was so erratic it would end up going Brooklyn. Didn't seem to destroy the heads as bad as urethane though.

[@LuisNapoles]

THANK You!!!!

[@wescon3745]

Just got a purple tank drilled. I got two reactive balls that just over hook on the house oil wood lanes I do league on. So hoping the urethane will be the ticket to not hooking left out of the pocket.

[@LuisNapoles]

Hopefully to doesn't hook to early!

[@UhKimboze]

I have a pitch black, I do throw urethane on house. Why? I wanted a controlled ball motion and I have high pretty high revs. It's also my first and only ball as of now. Maybe not the ideal choice, but hey it's what I have so I'm gonna work with it.

[@LuisNapoles]

Better to bowl than to not bowl!

[@UhKimboze]

@@LuisNapoles Amen! Thank you for your videos Luis. They are doing great things for enthusiasts and casual bowlers alike! 😊👍

[@jakederus6557]

I've thrown my uc3 on a house shot a few times and it never felt bad. But I also haven't felt like it has a better look than my zen or my hustle camo on a house shot. I find it to be a little too early for where I like to play

[@LuisNapoles]

They can def be too early sometimes

[@hooviedoovie5220]

I've been thinking about picking up a purple hammer but i've been hesitating not because of this particular debate, but more for a ball reaction reason. Is urethane super viable on a house shot when the outside of the lane is so dry? will it still have energy in the pocket if I have to hook it through the middle of the lane in the oil? will it be that much easier/better than a low RG solid? (two hander)

[@LuisNapoles]

As a two hander you should DEFINITELY try some urethane!

[@stevenjudd2383]

I’ve been lofting a Zen the past few weeks to try to find the pocket and have been seriously considering picking up a urethane to see if I can find a better shot.

[@LuisNapoles]

Try it!! Why not?!

[@TimHart1989]

damn I need to get a UC3. I have a pitch black but I don't get to use it often because all of the houses in Virginia flood the outside part of then lanes...except BA Woodbridge lol... my arsenal is kind of old, mostly roto grip..2 wreckers, hypercell solid, disturbed, defiant soul, pitch black, ufo, idol pro, hustle au. ive averaged 215-220 for like the last 9 years and I've wondered what my next few ball purchases should be. storm/roto grip stuff has been good to me. multiple 300s/800s

[@LuisNapoles]

UC3 would good! But also look at the 900 Global Zen it'll blow your mind

[@TimHart1989]

@@LuisNapoles I will do that thanks

[@hammerwde1205]

I have been loving the UC3 on house I tend to be rev dominate, on the lower side of speed I drilled my UC3 pin down tempted to get another UC3 and drill pin up what do you think? would I see enough difference to be worth it??

[@LuisNapoles]

I think so because of the core dynamics!

[@tonysanta3497]

YES, YES and YES!!!!! Oil volume is so low, I need the carrydown.

[@LuisNapoles]

Nice!!!

[@aaronspringborn34]

Yes, more of these videos, please

[@b.j.thomas8606]

Just turned 65. 12.5 mph avg. Low revs. Lots of times I think resin is too strong for me. Hard to keep it on the right side of the pocket (lots of Brooklyn). He said urethane would take a lot of the hook out and give me consistency. I learned from dad with rubber in '68, then stopped and completely missed urethane. work finally allowed me to get back to bowling and i've played catch up with resin. i understand it but am not quite up on the physical delivery required. One house is very old real wood (and dry), the other is synth and pretty well maintained. Avg. house shots, I believe. When I learned it was rubber, real wood, and oiil wasn't even a word with the delivery from 10 straight to the pocket. I'd like to compromise with up 10 and a little hook to the pocket. What do you say Luis? You are the man!

[@LuisNapoles]

try out!

[@mreid08]

I understand what goes on and kinda how to get around carry down, but, after the line is used up and all thats left is carry down does the ball pick that up and it "erase" it?

[@LuisNapoles]

No it doesn't erase it. I usually go to a stronger ball after

[@hersheljones9467]

Yes I use urethane on house shot but only on game 3 or 4 when lanes are very crispy and i can’t keep my balls from overhooking plus i use my pitch black for all my spares and i just recently got the uc3 and i love it just haven’t thrown it enough but i also have a purple hammer fast pitch and og phantom i really love that it allows me to play straighter like i want and i agree u should use what works for u

[@LuisNapoles]

Nice!!!

[@Astralgeddon]

I have a uc3 and a pitch black and as a 2 hander in a high friction evironment that has a constantly changing house shot caused by outdated equipment using urethane tends to be the best choice to create carry down so i can eventually trasition into something like my helios plus where i bowl has a tendency to rapidly transition from one shot to another so urerhane offers me control even when this is occurring

[@LuisNapoles]

I love using urethane to combat high friction!

[@mariansowinski8967]

Any layout recommendations for a low speed low rev senior bowler for this ball?

[@LuisNapoles]

Strong layouts for sure!

[@mikelombard21]

I have a question, do reactive balls get heavier over time as they absorb the oil? Also I throw urethane on a house shot when my reactive is over hooking and I don't have the revs or angle to make it happen. Ill send it right up 10 or 15 like you did.

[@LuisNapoles]

I’ve never experienced that before no

[@donaldross8597]

I still use my Brunswick Johnny LT-48 new in 1986 lol I love the players when I shoot between 167 and 197. I don’t even clean the oil off the ball. Just old school second arrow slowly into the head pin. Might go for the Stealth but I just can’t let it go.

[@LuisNapoles]

Thats awesome!

[@christoph9191]

UC3 is a very versatile ball. The PitchBlack is a very special ball for me. Short flatter pattern

[@LuisNapoles]

Facts and facts and facts

[@andrewweltlich9065]

I rarely threw urethane on house shot before because reactive just worked better for me. The UC3 however is a completely different animal. My house has a relatively long and higher volume pattern than most THS. With the UC3 I have more miss room than with reactive so I find myself throwing it quite a bit in league

[@redcat5697]

The UC3 isn't a total urethane ball. I has reactive in it, hence the tourathane name.

[@LuisNapoles]

UC3 is a BEAST!!!!

[@MusicToYourEars1963]

Depending on the house. I have a house that tends to be drier so I throw an 1990s Original Sumo

[@LuisNapoles]

I heard those were amazing!

[@Willie-C]

Dang I remember those ...my old combat zone got wobbly just had to retire it.

[@markdeering5129]

I want to get a Pitch Black. I have a UC3 and love it! Where I bowl, people dry up outside of 10 so quickly that I've used a Black Hammer and played up 8. And I'm talking the old Fab Black Hammer.

[@LuisNapoles]

DOIT!!!

[@Brent-Tanabe]

Honestly why not? If it works I would. I'd throw resin first but sometimes it may not work. But yeah just like you mentioned too our house shot can sometimes have mean friction on the outside so Urethane holds better.

[@LuisNapoles]

We are on the same page here! If ti works then use it!

[@megatbasyarullah4859]

Im still new to bowling. Are urethane balls cleaned/serviced the same way reactive does like with abralon? And i read that urethans like uc3 and purple hammer are a mix of pearl so do they need to be polished like pearl balls?

[@LuisNapoles]

That’s a great question! Yes they are!

[@philbona1193]

I threw my PB for the first time this past week because I couldn't get my RSTx2 or No Rules Pearl to work. Flushed every shot with it, the 2 off hits were a flat 10 and an 8-10. It seems like you need to go flush with the PB to get the carry you need to keep using it. Admittedly, that's only one game but it seems to be a consistent theme with the PB. Either way, it gave me a look I didn't have with the other balls I was using. Time and a place for everything.

[@LuisNapoles]

Exactly! Time and place! Right tool for the right job!

[@aaroncardenas8425]

I do not normally use urethane on house, but here in orange county CA,most of the house shot have fast backends and low volumes of oil in the middle. That being said, some nights you have to make a shot for later. I see a lot of lower average bowlers using urethane as it gains popularity on the tour. Of course you have the purple hammer, but now I see the uc3 everywhere.

[@LuisNapoles]

UC3 on friction is 💰💰💰💰

[@tylerdrehs1816]

I do not use it on a house shot. If it is a high friction center I make a adjustment in my hand at the release. However I am not one to care if someone is using it on the same pair. UC3 is 🔥 Great video Luis

[@LuisNapoles]

Thanks Tyler!

[@wallmunky503]

The way I see it, if you're a competitor, why would you ever not use the best possible equipment allowed if you have it available to you. Makes no sense. If you want to win, take every bit of advantage you're allowed to.

[@LuisNapoles]

FACTS!!!!!

[@jarviscorbin5276]

I'm a two-handed blower myself I do have a pitch black I've been throwing it on the house shot at my Lane and I've had no complaints yet.

[@LuisNapoles]

Good!!

[@robertkaczynski8649]

Son is a 2 hander, has both a UC3 and a Pitch Black. Caveat is that he uses the Pitch Black for spares most of the time. UC3 is used in house and sport depending on the conditions but not used solely. He is thinking of getting a Fast Pitch for shorter sport patterns where he will throw straighter, as he does not want to touch his Pitch Black now that it is essentially a spare ball.

[@LuisNapoles]

I need to throw that Fast Pitch more often!

[@TraumaRider]

Loved my UC3 since day one!

[@LuisNapoles]

Me tooooooooo!!!

[@bobgomavitz1330]

I’m getting some weak reactions all of the sudden on misses right with my UC3 after some good weeks on two THS. Burning up? Stroker by the way. How do you take care of this coverstock ?

[@LuisNapoles]

Just re do that surface prep back to box

[@bobgomavitz1330]

@@LuisNapoles thank you….took a 1000 grit and a light hand to all 4 sides. Crazy was the amount of shine on it after just 21 games. Why so much shine so fast and what do you suggest to clean it with?

[@tylerhernandez5207]

I have a Fast Pitch, and I only throw it on house if the lanes are dry. (Our house in my town likes to not oil the lanes before league) If it's a fresh house, I'd be throwing either a PhysiX, or maybe Idol Helios

[@LuisNapoles]

Smart move!

[@demisephil]

I only use Urethane on house if my angles have to be too deep, too early. At my house the left side of the lane has quite a bit of friction on the fresh. But I try to avoid using Urethane if I can. But it's a great safety measure to have when things are getting outside of my comfort zone.

[@LuisNapoles]

I can definitely agree with that!!!

[@danielflemming4555]

Any suggestions for bowling in a really high friction house, 500 rpm’s, 18 mph im forced to throw my pitch black in this specific house it’s the only thing that has a consistent reaction everything else I’ve tried jumps early or struggles in the mid lane (X-2,zen,iq tour, hustle ink, hyroad pearl, gem)

[@LuisNapoles]

If it ain’t broke don’t fix it!

[@raymondmarks2512]

I use my pitch black on the house shot at my house particularly because I am rev dominate and also my home house is synthetic fronts and wood back ends. With that built in friction from wood plus being super dry to the outside, my reactive equipment makes be play too deep to start and gets worse from there. Urethane is perfect for me for the first two games then allows me to use a reactive Pearl in game three with the carry down if necessary.

[@LuisNapoles]

That’s a NICE looking game plan you have there!

[@JonathanMcNeal35]

Love throwing my Purple Pearl Urethane on my house that I bowl at. It’s usually super cliffed to the right so I dabble between my Low end Pearls and Urethanes from time to time. Shot my highest series ever with a Fast Pitch in league!

[@LuisNapoles]

Cliff is usually good for house!

[@pg9831]

I bowl on a 5 man league, medium/dry house shot. Lanes get torched with all different styles. My teammates struggle moving left as the night goes on. I started throwing urethane (fast pitch) not only bc I'm comfortable playing straighter, but in theory could create carry down/hold. Since doing so, 2nd and 3rd game team scores have improved and they've admittingly said they don't seem to move as much as they did before. Not the best option for my scores/ave, but has helped the team overall.

[@LuisNapoles]

I love that fast pitch!

[@aaronrose5118]

I will always have a urethane ball in my bag when bowling other houses that im not familiar with however at my center i will never throw urethane . As for urethane in general for me the newer urethane stuff is a no go for me i have old urethane stuff such as a blue knight urethane or a old grenade. I get to much over under with the new urethanes. I am a low tilt high axis rotation guy so my ball wants to start soon and early.

[@LuisNapoles]

The new stuff is sooooooo different than the old!

[@kst1983]

Absolutely use. Smooths out everything when I'm throwing bad or in winter when everything drys up so fast. It's also fun to play head games with the guys that absolutely think urethane is evil and is reason they can't strike. Urethane tends to set up the reactive in games 2 & 3 when it's so dry if need.

[@LuisNapoles]

Love this! LOL

[@bobbybearbowling]

I never understood this. People thinking urethane is evil. It is legal in leagues and especially the PBA. Bowl if you got em.

[@tylerwill5250]

You cwn get in those peoples heads by just sitting your urethane ball on the rack lol

[@terrylbateman4030]

I started with urethane back in 1995 then I went to reactive resin an the last bowling ball i had was a Storm Hyroad an I averaged 195 with that ball so now I need new equipment please tell me what new equipment should I get

[@LuisNapoles]

If you liked the hyroad id def recommend getting another one LOL its still available

[@jamesm8360]

Well being 60 years young i grew up with urethane. Burgandy hammer in the late 80s, early 90s. Transitioned to reactive....purple rhino....early 90s. Im a stroker, 218 avg in late 80s early 90s. Traditional moves, move right if ball light to head pin, move left if hooking to high.....At age 55 i bowled last day in city tournament was 2nd scratch with a BTH ( Better than urethane), 775 singles, 750 doubles, 599 team. Players on my set of lanes didnt like the urethane but it was my tool of choice! Present day 60 years old, i been sick with bronchities and hard to shake it completly. Bowling stunk with reactive as it was rolling out, with lower ball speed....so i go my mix out spare ball and last 6 outings shooting over 220 with a MIX. 14 mph at speed sensor. Bump oil line at 8,9 and swing to 7 and to the pocket. Small carry down move right a board , if it starts hooking move left and slow down speed .5 and carry good again. I only move about 3 to 4 boards all night. Helps being accurate to hit your mark consistantly with ureathane. Good luck everyone with ALL YOUR TOOLS in the tool box. I do let my teammates know what im throwing, there all crankers and left of me, they have no problem with me throwing ureathane.

[@LuisNapoles]

Thanks for sharing that!!! Use the tools you need!!

[@jl4560]

Oh yea, I forgot I ad watched this video along time ago. I did throw the Double-cross today. For me its very smooth and controllable.

[@LuisNapoles]

That one looks like a good one !

[@petMonster28]

Congrats on that 299 you rolled with the UC3! Hehe. Anyway, I use a Hammer Black Widow Pink Pearl urethane in my league, and I don't have a good hook so I stand way right and throw straight down the lane on the far right side (outside the oil) and manage to get to the pocket that way. The way I see it, I'm not playing in the oil all that much so people can't complain about carry-down. Even so, it's a game of skill and precision and there are many things a good bowler must account for, including carry-down. So I say deal with it.

[@LuisNapoles]

Nice!

[@carneios08]

I just drilled a Pitch Black because my Proton Physix was too aggressive for my bowling center's house shot. Oftentimes, by game 3 with my Proton Physix, I'd be standing at board 30 or 35, aiming at board 10, and it entering roll phase in zone 1 to just hit the pocket. This was far too obnoxious, so I went for a symmetrical core Urethane where I could just throw it down board 10, and reliably (and consistently) hit the pocket. After one night with it there, I can already feel the difference. Whenever I enter the later parts of the night and I need to make an adjustment, it's easy to identify how much. Whenever I misthrow, I can easily identify what went wrong. There are less variables in my game, and it's given me a lot of confidence at that bowling center. I still have my Proton Physix for more aggressive bowling centers and synthetic lanes, but my main center is a flat, 42 foot pattern, on real wood lanes; the reactive resin was just too much for me there.

[@LuisNapoles]

Smart move!

[@ericelmer5289]

I play close to the gutter because I don’t have any rev so maybe using urethane instead of a high powered reactive would actually benefit me more?

[@daflyinhawaiian2]

I have a UC3 I only use it when the house lanes are on the dry side and reactive over hook at the back ends.

[@LuisNapoles]

Smart move!

[@allenthomas914]

I own a pitch black but was told it is not good to use on a house shot I don't have alot of revs and have slow ball speed and tend to loft the ball is it possible to throw a pitch black any suggestions?

[@LuisNapoles]

I would try it first and then see what to does you know

[@spicypaper]

I have both and use both on house shots for the reason you stated, they are weaker than the reactive balls I currently have. Plus I prefer the urethane shape

[@LuisNapoles]

There ya go!!! Right tool for the right job!

[@strangeunidude]

It is funny what people get upset over. If I took a 500 grit pad to my hell raiser blaze and absolutely blew up the fronts for everyone, no one would bat an eyelid because I've done it with reactive. But the second I bring out the urethane to create a bit more hold, everyone goes crazy because I'm using urethane.

[@LuisNapoles]

AGREED!!!

[@ronaldgillette2356]

Urethane was used before the radical cover stocks we have now so the ONLY a reason for disallowing urethane is $$$$$$ just to sell more balls for bigger bucks. What if I want to use plastic or wood in league are they illegal too? Their are people in leagues that have all 4 finger holes drilled and still have balance holes. One ball leagues are split between urethane and entry level balls. If urethane is ever made illegal then no one should be able to use a SPARE ball either.

[@LuisNapoles]

I would really hope urethane NEVER becomes illegal

[@brandynbrown6701]

It's clean threw the fronts for me but reacts little like reactive on the back end easily is my favorite ball right now

[@LuisNapoles]

It’s definitely a good one!

[@future_pba]

Yes!!! OG Burgundy Hammer. It hits like a Mack Truck. And I like when people make comments cuz if you thinking about what I'm doing and throwing your thinking about the wrong thing 👍

[@LuisNapoles]

Yup!!!!!!

[@Cdcd4393]

What's the layout of the uc3? I don't have a urethane ball yet. But I am with you. They are tools to get the job done so why not

[@LuisNapoles]

Uc3 is 45x3 3/8x15

[@angelasanford4505]

I tihnk an advantage that most people dont even thing about with using urathane is how low they tend to keep the pins as to where the reactive balls tend to make the pins jump high leaving more corners/splits

[@LuisNapoles]

I never thought of that!

[@tomy5868]

been throwing urethane for the past 15 years...starting with a used Nitro and Gyro. have multiple awards scores. not my fault most people can't get the ball to the pocket. (scores with Mix, Black beauty and white dot also)

[@LuisNapoles]

Nice!!!!!

[@nickreyes5523]

Storm needs to bring an IQ core matched with the UC3s cover stateside. Would be the perfect compliment to one another.

[@LuisNapoles]

WOW that would be amazing!

[@chriswillis7315]

I start with urethane (pitch purple) on fresh house shot. As the lanes break down then I adjust and maybe switch to reactive

[@LuisNapoles]

I like that

[@emanuelsjodin3569]

As a 2 hander I throw urethane, well because it strikes. And the purple hammer - pitch black combo is a killer

[@LuisNapoles]

Agreed with that!

[@matttheclasher04]

If you can get one early, I really wanna see your review on the new roto grip gem

[@LuisNapoles]

I just filmed that review today! Will be out on Sunday!

[@matttheclasher04]

@@LuisNapoles sweet

[@darryldonohue2166]

I use my Pitch black on a house pattern usally after several games an the lanes are burned up. I just got the purple hammer and I have to move farther left if the lanes are burned up.

[@LuisNapoles]

Nice!!!