Is 171 a good score in bowling?

I was in a league a few years ago. My average was 130, not great but I hit it consistently. My top game was a 224, I was on fire that night and got a 500 series for 3 games. That year I earned “most improved” for the league. More recently, I have had a few games in the 180s. I use a lighter ball now, due to arthritis in my wrists, and it doesn’t have the BANG that I need to knock down those stragglers.

My bowling alley has the best french fries. Mmmmmmmm!

strike, spare, strike, spare…is only 200 so 171 is pretty good

Well, the subject has been pretty well covered by previous posters, but how often do I get a bowling thread to reply to?

For someone who doesn’t bowl a lot, your scores are great. It sounds like you have some natural bowling ability.

If you do decide to bowl on a regular basis, you need your own equipment. A ball that fits your hand will make it easier for you to be consistent so you can get strikes and pick up spares. As far as shoes spend a few extra bucks and get classic bowling shoes instead of the ones that look like tennis shoes. You will slide easier and smoother which will also help you throw the ball consistently which minimizing wear and tear on your body.

Make friends with the staff of your pro shop. They can watch you bowl and point you towards a ball that suits your style. Give them your business and they will be there for you should you need ball adjustments, bowling advice, whatever. You may save a few bucks initially buying from the internet but I’ve found that the service you get from your local pro shop makes it worth it to give them your business instead of the internet.

Okay, off my soapbox. Have fun!

Bah. I once bowled a 225!

It took me thirty frames to do it.