• A bowling ball's weight can affect the resulting pin splash.bowling image by iMAGINE from Fotolia.com
  
  

Lighter Balls

• Lighter bowling balls are easier to maneuver than heavier ones, and that added control can make a major difference on the end result. If a player has an easier time navigating a smaller ball, his chances of hitting the middle and getting better pin reaction will be greater than if he were to use a ball with a heavier mass.
  
  

Heavier Balls

• A heavier ball carries more mass and will therefore strike the pins with more force. A player may not be able to control the ball as much, but the momentum created when the ball is thrown down the lane will usually result in more pins being knocked down than a lighter ball thrown in the same spot.
  
  

Bottom Line

• If a player can control a larger amount of weight, he should always opt for a heavier bowling ball. Even those who prefer lighter balls should choose the heaviest ball they can handle. More mass equals better pin reaction, and ultimately better bowling scores in the long run.