Bowling Ball Rev Rate

Written By: bowlingball.com | Written On: Friday, November 18, 2022

bowlingball.com, Originally Posted: 4/4/2014; Updated: 11/19/2022
Bowlers are always asking how they can learn about their rev rate. Rev-rate is a term referring to the rate of revolution your bowling ball has based on your ball speed and delivery technique.
If you wish to learn your rev rate but have been told the best method is to use a camera or a computer, then perhaps this little guideline can help you get an approximate idea how many revs you deliver on your bowling ball: If you deliver your ball at an average speed of 15-16 mph, the rev rate will be 200-250 rpm’s (mph is miles per hour; rpm is revolutions per minute).
At a faster speed of 16-17 mph, you will have a rev rate of 250-300 rpm’s.
More speed yet in the range of 17-18 mph, you will have a rev rate of 300-350 rpm’s.
Continuing upward in speed of 18-19 mph, you will have a rev rate of 350-400 rpm’s.
Finally, if you deliver your ball at 19+ mph, you will have a rev rate of 400+ rpm’s.
Ball speed in these approximations is measured at the moment of delivery, not your average speed or the speed of your ball at impact with the pins. The amount of axis tilt imparted on your ball based on your hand action will add or subtract from the overall value of the ball speed and may alter your rev rate slightly. A low axis tilt will not rev as quickly as a high axis tilt will rev as a given ball travels down the lane.
The key for you is to gain access to how fast you deliver your bowling ball so you can get a general idea of your rev rate. Most competitive bowlers fall into the 300-350 rpm range or just slightly higher or lower. If you feel your ball speed is too slow, then implementing a technique your instructor advises to pick up your ball speed without losing balance or accuracy can help you gain revs.
If you deliver the ball at 20+ mph at delivery, then slowing your speed will help better match your revs to your ball speed and will help you can an effective ball reaction. The end goal is to attain consistent ball motion so you can make good alignment and adjustment decisions.