How Much Does It Cost To Drill A Bowling Ball? 5 True Factors to Know!

I still remember the first time I walked into a pro shop, holding my brand-new bowling ball. I was excited but also completely clueless.

The guy behind the counter asked, “Do you want standard or custom drilling?” I froze. What did that even mean? And more importantly—how much does it cost to drill a bowling ball?

If you’re anything like I was, wondering whether you’ll get ripped off or just want to understand the ins and outs of bowling ball drilling, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything I’ve learned—how much it really costs, what factors affect the price, what you get for your money, and how to save a few bucks along the way.

Let’s roll.

What Does Drilling a Bowling Ball Mean?

Drilling a bowling ball means making holes for your fingers and thumb so you can grip and throw it properly. But it’s not just about poking three holes and calling it a day.

There are two main types of drilling:

• Basic Drilling: Pre-measured holes based on standard hand sizes.
• Custom Drilling: Tailored specifically to your hand shape, grip style, and even throwing motion.

Think of it like buying shoes. Basic drilling is like buying off the rack. Custom drilling? That’s a tailor-made Italian leather fit.

Average Cost to Drill a Bowling Ball

So, how much does it cost to drill a bowling ball?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Type of Drilling	Average Cost (USD)
Basic Drilling	$20 – $40
Custom Drilling	$30 – $70
Plug & Redrill	$40 – $70
Thumb Insert Install	$10 – $15
Finger Grip Insert	$8 – $12 each
Full Drilling Package	$50 – $100

Prices vary based on the shop, location, and experience of the technician. I’ve paid $35 for basic drilling at a local alley, and once shelled out $75 for a full custom job with thumb inserts and finger grips.

What Affects the Cost?

Drilling isn’t one-size-fits-all. Several factors can influence what you end up paying.

1. Type of Bowling Ball

• Some balls are harder to drill due to core design or coverstock material.
• High-performance balls might need more advanced layout planning.

2. Shop Location

• A pro shop in New York City may charge more than one in a small town.
• Busy shops with expert drillers usually cost more, and for good reason.

3. Your Hand Measurements

• If you have unique hand measurements, custom work will likely be needed.
• Lefties often need more custom setups (I learned this the hard way).

4. Drilling Layout

• Layouts like fingertip grip, semi-fingertip, or full-finger all affect the price.
• A pro layout for hook potential might cost extra due to time and expertise.

5. Inserts and Accessories

• Thumb slugs, interchangeable thumbs, and finger grips all add to the final bill.
• I usually go for grips—worth every penny for better control and comfort.

Is Custom Drilling Worth the Extra Money?

Let me answer this from personal experience—absolutely.

I bowled for years with house balls and basic-drilled equipment. My scores were fine, but I always felt like something was off. Once I got my ball custom drilled to fit my hand, it was a total game-changer.

Here’s what I noticed:

• My grip pressure dropped.
• My release felt smoother.
• My scores improved by 15–20 pins on average.

If you’re serious about the game—or even semi-serious—it’s worth the investment.

Hidden Costs You Might Not Expect

1. Plugging Old Holes

If you’re redrilling an old ball, the shop may charge to plug the old holes first. This can cost $20 to $30, depending on how many holes need work.

2. Extra Accessories

Want a removable thumb? That’ll be another $20–$25. Finger inserts? Add $8–12 each.

3. Layout Consultation

Some pro shops charge a small fee for layout planning, especially for tournament players.

4. Resurfacing After Plugging

Plugging may alter the ball’s balance or smoothness. Resurfacing can cost an extra $10–$20.

How to Save Money on Bowling Ball Drilling

I’m all for saving money—but not at the expense of my game. Still, here are a few tips I’ve used:

• Buy a Ball-Drilling Package: Some shops offer bundles—buy a ball, get free or discounted drilling.
• Look for Deals at Tournaments: Many events have vendor booths offering reduced prices.
• Use the Same Shop: Loyal customers often get better rates or freebies like free plug-and-drill jobs.
• Skip Fancy Inserts (At First): Until you’re sure what you like, keep it simple to save cash.

Custom Drilling vs. Pre-Drilled Balls: What’s the Real Difference?

Feature	Pre-Drilled Ball	Custom-Drilled Ball
Fit	Generic	Tailored to your hand
Comfort	Average	High
Hook Potential	Limited	Optimized
Price (Total)	Lower	Higher
Performance	Moderate	Improved
Risk of Injury	Higher (poor fit)	Lower (ideal fit)

Real-Life Examples: What I Paid

Let me give you a few personal examples of what I’ve paid over the years:

• First Custom Drill (Michigan, 2021): $45 (included layout and grips)
• Thumb Plug and Redrill (2022): $35
• Full Drilling with Thumb Insert (2023): $68
• Tournament Deal (2024): $0 (free with ball purchase)

Where Should You Get Your Ball Drilled?

You’ve got a few options:

1. Pro Shop in a Bowling Alley

Pros:

• Experts on-site
• Can watch your throw before drilling
• Usually offer full packages

Cons:

• Sometimes pricier

2. Online Retailers with Drilling Services

Pros:

• Convenient
• Often cheaper

Cons:

• No chance to customize based on your actual throw
• Risky fit if not precisely measured

3. Independent Bowling Retailers

Pros:

• Personalized service
• Good mid-range pricing

Cons:

• Can be hit or miss depending on the driller’s skill

Can You Drill a Bowling Ball Yourself?

Technically? Yes.

Should you? I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have the equipment, training, and a lot of practice.

DIY drilling mistakes can ruin your ball. I’ve seen it happen—one friend cracked his $200 ball trying to save $50. Not worth it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Going Cheap on the First Ball: Poor fit = poor performance + possible injury.
• Not Communicating Your Style: Always tell the driller how you throw, your speed, rev rate, etc.
• Skipping Finger Inserts: These improve grip, reduce slippage, and are easy to replace.
• Assuming All Pro Shops Are the Same: Skill levels vary. Ask around or check reviews.

FAQs: Bowling Ball Drilling

1. Is drilling included when I buy a bowling ball?

Not always. Some pro shops offer free drilling with purchase, but many charge separately.

2. Can I redrill a used bowling ball?

Yes. Most balls can be plugged and redrilled for a new layout or hand size.

3. How long does drilling take?

Anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the shop and type of drilling.

4. What if the drilled holes don’t fit right?

Many shops offer free adjustments or minor fixes. Just return and explain the issue.

5. Is it better to get drilling done locally or online?

Local is usually better since the driller can see your throw and tailor the fit

Final Thoughts: Is Drilling a Bowling Ball Expensive?

When I started bowling, I thought $50 for drilling was steep. Now, I see it as a smart investment. The fit, the comfort, the extra pins—it’s all worth it.

If you’re getting serious about bowling, don’t skimp on drilling. And if you’re just starting out, start with a pro shop and ask lots of questions.

I hope this guide helped you answer the big question: how much does it cost to drill a bowling ball?

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