Just bought a NIB Faball Norm Duke Hammer

[dougb]

I just scored this on eBay. It doesn't have the famous grenade core, but has a lightbulb core with the same hammerthane reactive cover that was on the Novas.

This is definitely a dry lane/spare ball. Right now I alternate between my Faball Pink and Blue Hammers for that. They are both second drills and I've been slowly getting rid of all that in my arsenal. This could be a replacement for both of them.

So here's the big question: Do I drill it or keep it and get Duke to sign it?

[racincowboy3]

Keep it and have him sign it... although bowling memorabilia is not worth that of other sports...

[kingofthisplace]

Just drill it. The way I see it, it was made to be used. I'm contemplating getting my Yellow Dot drilled.

[TCHSbowler]

looks sweet. id drill it see what it does

[TheJamoke]

That thing's been sitting up on eBay for so long just waiting for someone to pull the trigger. Good snag, man.

Hard to say what to do. I have the same concern that it won't be very reactive on modern lanes and might be relegated to spare/dry lane ball. It would be a shame to drill it only to use it a few times a game. On the other hand, it's not so rare a showpiece as to be kept on a mantle or trophy case forever. What good is a bowling ball that isn't being used?

Drill it. And every time you shoot it, as soon as you release, start shouting "DUKE DUKE DUKE DUKE DUKE DUKE." Every time. No exceptions.

[dougb]

I'm also thinking this could replace my Teal Rhino Pro, which is a great ball to play right down the outside just like Duke's line. It also has a lightbulb core with a weak reactive cover.

[TheJamoke]

Sounds like a plan. Can't go wrong with Norm Duke's line either. Down and in going around the breakdown is always a great last resort on a rough night.
And it is a scientific fact, light bulb core + reactive cover + down and in = money, baby. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtRW_tfWuMo)

[dougb]

Here's Duke throwing this ball in a 1995 match against Bob Learn Jr.

Part 1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khUpYSYl0jM)
Part 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKliqcE4R0w)

[Population_1]

I used to love that ball. It was very controllable peice back then. I'm sure its more or a lighter oil ball today, but still a great find.

[hdxl2000]

Nice score. I almost nabbed it before you did, but I hesitated because it was up there a couple weeks ago, same ball, same seller. Hopefully just a non paying bidder from before, but I got burnt before so I passed on it.

[lane1mobster]

DRILL IT RICO! Then give it to me! :lol: