Which Ball ?

[benny]

I need to start buying some new balls then don't I? I'm such a skin flint. Right - you better be right on this - how many yards can I expect to gain from a new ball as opposed to its Lake ball equivalant? And why exactly does a Laker go shorter?

 

[medwayjon]

Basically the water, overtime reacts with the ball having a detrimental effect on the surface of the ball. Water can eventually penetrate through the surface also.

This compromises all of what the ball is designed to do well, fly, spin and feel off the clubhead.

I'm sure some of the more scientific on here can do a better job than me.

 

[thecraw]

They also clean the balls in a high concentrate of bleach which is why some balls go "yellowy" as it reacts with the cover!

 

[wilf_74]

I used Lake balls from Ebay when i started out, so i dont see the harm if they are FORE RIGHT -OB all day long!..but since getting better at ball striking you notice the difference between balls, especially around greens.

I wouldnt buy them now when you can get excellent quality balls like the Srixon AD333 and Titleist NXT's at decent money. I also play Pro-v and Nike One Platinum which would be my preference if money was no object, however they do scratch up easy. It also feels nice and helps my confidence when using a good ball.

I agree that the Srixon Soft-Feel (green Box) are not as good as the AD333 (IMO).

Just my 2p's worth!

 

[brendy]

One thing to note regarding lake balls though, if it has indeed been there for any amount of time it discolours, if you see a brown ball steer clear. Also, not all lake balls are found in lakes, they could be practice balls from competitions, hedge finders and many other sources.

 

[Del]

Thanks for all the replys, I should have said the ball is a Spalding Tour Edition Titanium.

I did a 9 hole today, using a Titleist Pro V1X ( well used two ) and I will say they do feel a lot better off the tee, a nice firm feel, distance was better, but not so nice around the green.

Was given two packs of three, so will keep with them for a while and see how it goes.

Cheers

Del

 

[HomerJSimpson]

Brendy

What you also need to bear in mind, and you are quite right in pointing out that not all these balls are lake balls, is that those that are finds have been left out on the course for any period of time in any sort of weather. If they have been exposed to heavy frosts on a regular period that will have a detrimental effect on performance same as being immersed in water.

The trouble with these lake balls and refurbished ones is that you never know what you are going to get for your money. One ball may be perfectly okay and you are hitting 7 irons 140 yards without any problem. You try the next and it may be slightler softer or had its characteristics changed in some way and now your 7 iron is only going 130. It makes an already difficult game even harder when you aren't sure of distances.

In my view they are a false economy and I would suggest AD333 especially if you can pick up the 2007 version. They have released an updated one for 2008 so if you hunt on the internet etc you will get brand new balls at decent prices

 

[minty18]

I'd say to try a pack of each. ie. buy the srixons, when they have all been lost try another brand untill you find a ball that is suited to you.

I settled on the Callaway Warbirds after trying the Titleist pts solo's (also a good ball) for quiet a while.

I advise the warbirds, i get so much feel around the green with them, they seem made for me at the moment.

 

[rgs]

I would recommend the following in no order of preference-

Maxfli Blackmax
Sxiron Trispeed
Nike One Black
Titleist ProV1

 

[Quiet_Whisky]

After being away from the game for so long,im no expert but have just bought some Prov V1's and was amazed at the difference in ball technology compared to when I last played. Was able to get distance off the tee and control into the green. My short range chipping was poor so was not able to test the stopping capability from close range. Have only hit these and range balls so Pro V's have to be my choice. At least until I lose or the 3 dozen I bought!!!

 

[HTL]

The ad333 is a nice ball and like Homer said you can pick up a bargain on the 07 model. Also have a look at the Wilson Staff px3 they are cheap as chips and have by far the best feel for a budget ball.

 

[billyg]

Ive been using NXT Tour lake balls but picked up a AD333 and gave it a belt or two.

Completely sold.

Off on holidays in a couple of weeks and i'm going to treat myself to a box of these beauties. Soon as you pick it up you know it's a winner. Lovely feel off the face when driving and a real touch when chipping and putting.


Just hope they haven't buggered whatever it's got up with this years upgrade.

 

[GB72]

The ad333 is a nice ball and like Homer said you can pick up a bargain on the 07 model. Also have a look at the Wilson Staff px3 they are cheap as chips and have by far the best feel for a budget ball.

Have to agree that the PX3 is a great ball and a bargain as is about to be replaced by the PX3 soft. Just picked up 3 dozen from Direct Golf for £25.00 and that should last me a good few months now I do not lose as many.

 

[viscount17]

the important question is 'do you hit your current ball straight?' if the answer is yes why change; i'd swap yards for straight any day.

 

[Parmo]

I usually buy the AD333 from Ebay 3 dozen for £38 inc P+P, or you can get 50 pearl/A for around £30-35 as well.