Ask a recreational bowler where they aim and nine times out of ten the answer is some version of “at the pins” or “the middle pin” or “the pocket.” But consider this: the pins are 60 feet away. No human eye can track a rolling ball with precision at 60 feet. Aiming at the pins is, in terms of precision, almost meaningless. This fix is worth 5 to 8 pins per game.
“Don’t aim at the pins. Aim at your arrow. The pins will follow.”
The Arrow Targeting System
Every regulation bowling lane has seven arrows — officially called rangefinders — embedded in the lane surface approximately 15 feet past the foul line. Fifteen feet is a trackable distance. Your eye can follow the ball to an intermediate target at 15 feet with real precision.
| Arrow | Board # | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1st (far right) | 5 | 10-pin spare (right-handers) |
| 2nd (right) | 10 | Strike — straight/mild hook |
| 3rd | 15 | Strike — moderate hook |
| 4th (center) | 20 | Center line; cross-lane spares |
| 7th (far left) | 35 | 7-pin spare (right-handers) |
Where to Start: The 10-Board Arrow
For most right-handed bowlers playing a house shot, the second arrow from the right — the 10-board arrow — is the best starting target. It sits in the breakpoint zone where most house shot oil patterns end, creating a natural path to the pocket. Left-handed bowlers start with the 10-board arrow from the left.
The One Rule: Move Your Feet, Not Your Target
Once you’ve picked your arrow, that arrow stays your target for the entire game. When you miss: ball crosses left of your arrow → move your feet left. Ball crosses right → move your feet right. This gives you a data-driven system for self-correction instead of guesswork.
Practice Drill: The One-Arrow Focus Drill
The One-Arrow Focus Drill
For one entire practice session — every single shot — commit to rolling the ball over the same arrow. After every shot, ask yourself one question: Did I hit my arrow? Yes or no. Ignore the pins entirely. Only evaluate the arrow. Most recreational bowlers discover they hit their arrow only 40–60% of the time. Improving to 70–80% produces dramatic improvements in pin carry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I hit my arrow consistently but still miss the pocket?
This means your starting position needs adjustment — your swing path is crossing your arrow at the right point but at the wrong angle. Adjust your starting position 1–2 boards in the direction you need the ball to travel and retest.
I throw a strong hook. Should I still use the second arrow?
Probably not. Hook bowlers typically need to play deeper — targeting the 3rd or 4th arrow. The principle is the same: you need an arrow that sits on your intended ball path to the pocket.
Next Up: Putting It All Together
Continue the series:
Fix #1 — Stop Rushing Your Approach
Fix #2 — Fix Your Starting Position
Fix #3 — Stop Death-Gripping the Ball
Fix #5 — Develop a Pre-Shot Routine
Ready to take your game further?
An online video review session with Mr. Wendell will identify your ideal arrow, optimal starting position, and adjustment formula — in one session.
→ Learn About Coaching | YouTube: @wkillette
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