A used bowling ball can be a sensible budget choice when its model suits your game and the shell, drilling and refit cost check out. Before paying, confirm the exact ball model and weight, inspect for cracks, ask a pro shop whether the holes can be plugged and redrilled for your hand, and check the USBC lists if you bowl certified competition.
A used ball is worth considering when it gives you the right role and weight at a price that still makes sense after a proper fit. The holes were drilled for someone else, and an attractive price does not tell you whether the shell, drilling or model suits your game.
Check these four things before paying
| Check | What to confirm | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Exact model and weight | Read the logo and weight marking; ask for the model name if it is unclear | You can verify the ball’s specs and competition status |
| Surface condition | Look over the full shell, especially the track and around the holes | Cracks or fissures can make a ball unsuitable for certified competition |
| Drilling and fit | Have a pro shop inspect the holes, plugs, inserts and remaining material | The previous owner’s span and pitches may not fit your hand |
| Total cost | Add the purchase price to inspection, plug-and-redrill, inserts and any surface work | The lowest asking price may not be the lowest ready-to-bowl cost |
Identify the ball first
Ask for the model name, weight and any known drilling or repair history. Use the maker’s specifications to decide whether its coverstock and core have a role you actually need. If you are still choosing a first ball, start with the ball-weight guide, the coverstock comparison and the beginner’s equipment order.
For USBC-certified league or tournament play, check the weekly Approved Ball List using the exact model. USBC says this list is updated weekly. Some competitions also have event-specific restrictions, so check the approved and non-approved product lists for your event. A general approval listing does not override a tournament restriction.
Inspect the shell and holes
Look at the whole surface in good light. USBC’s current Playing Rules say a crack in the bowler’s track area, or a fissure anywhere, makes a ball ineligible for USBC-certified competition. The same equipment section allows ball plug or slugs for redrilling. If you see a crack, lifted insert, rough plug edge or uncertain repair, ask a pro shop to inspect it before you commit; a photo is not a substitute for handling the ball.
The existing holes are not evidence that the ball will fit you. USBC’s ball-fit guidance explains that hole sizes and span affect a comfortable release. Bring your hand to a pro shop and ask whether the ball has enough sound material for the fit you need, what the plug-and-redrill work involves, and whether the finger inserts need replacing. The span, pitch and grip guide explains the measurements.
Check the competition rules
USBC rules require all gripping holes to be used on every delivery, except for stated house-ball and light-ball exceptions. They also limit how many holes may be drilled and prohibit balance holes. A ball with an extra or unused hole may need correction before certified competition. Have a pro shop assess its layout against the current rules instead of assuming a previous owner’s setup is legal for you. Our USBC approval and inspection checklist covers model-list checks, markings and rule changes.
Decide from the all-in cost
Before buying, ask the shop to estimate the inspection and refit needed for your hand. Compare that work and the asking price with a new ball of the same role, drilled for you. Include replacement inserts or surface work only if the shop says they are needed; don’t assume every used ball needs them. If the seller will not identify the model, the ball cannot be inspected, or the fit work makes the total unattractive, walk away.
Browse more bowling guides or read the beginner’s first-equipment checklist.
Sources
Common questions
Can a used bowling ball be redrilled for my hand?
USBC rules allow plugs and slugs for redrilling, but have a qualified pro shop inspect the ball and plan the fit before you buy. A previous owner's span and pitch are not a fit standard for your hand.
What should I look for when inspecting a used bowling ball?
Check the shell, track area, holes and any plug work for cracks, fissures or damage. USBC rules exclude a ball with a crack in the track area or a fissure anywhere from certified competition; ask a pro shop or league official to assess anything uncertain.
Is every used ball on the USBC Approved Ball List?
No. Look up the exact model on USBC's weekly approved-ball list, then check any event-specific ineligible list for the competition you plan to enter.
Is a used bowling ball automatically a better value?
No. Compare the asking price plus any inspection, plug-and-redrill work, inserts and surface work with a new ball drilled for your hand. If the seller cannot identify the model or let a pro shop inspect it, pass.