Many right-handed bowlers can blame a missed 10-pin spare for an open frame in their game. Due to players' normal bowling swing and the design of most balls, the ball will curve to the left. Since the 10 pin is positioned precariously close to the right gutter, it is a challenge for most bowlers to keep the ball up on the lane long enough to reach the pin. Bowlers who practice the right techniques can learn to pick up this pin and have an advantage over players who cannot.
Picking Up the 10 Pin With a Hook
Step 1
Position yourself so your left foot is between the two far-left dots on the lane. You need to stand all the way over so you can still hook the ball slightly without throwing it into the gutter.
Step 2
Stand at an angle to the foul line with your shoulders facing the 10 pin.
Step 3
Line up the 10 pin with the third arrow to the right of the center dot.
Step 4
Throw the ball, using as little hook as possible. Even though you angle your shoulders toward the 10 pin, your approach should be straight toward the foul line. Make slight adjustments to your starting position and target arrow as necessary.
Picking Up the 10 Pin With a Straight Ball
Step 1
Stand a few boards to the right of your normal starting point on the lane.
Step 2
Extend your thumb so it points straight up in the 12 o'clock position against your ball as you prepare to bowl.
Step 3
Line up the ball with the third arrow on the right.
Step 4
Relax your wrist and throw the ball straight toward the 10 pin. Adjust your starting position to the right or left until you start consistently picking up the spare.
Tips and Warnings
- Many bowlers use a second, plastic ball to use on difficult spares like the 10 pin. Plastic balls do not have the internal mechanisms that high-end reactive balls do to make it hook.
- If you are a left-handed bowler, you can follow the opposite of these steps to pick up the 7 pin on the far left.
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