Layout Calculator
The built-in layout calculator helps you plan drilling layouts using industry-standard methods. Calculate dual angle layouts, measure PAL distances, generate spec sheets, and visualize how a layout will perform before you pick up the drill.
Dual Angle Layout Method
The dual angle layout is the most widely used system for positioning the pin and mass bias relative to the bowler's PAP. It uses three measurements:
Drilling Angle
The angle between the bowler's PAP and the ball's pin, measured in degrees. This controls the length of the skid phase. Lower angles (30-40 degrees) create earlier roll; higher angles (60-80 degrees) create more length.
Pin-to-PAP Distance
The distance in inches from the pin to the bowler's PAP. This controls the amount of flare. Shorter distances (1-2 inches) produce more flare; longer distances (4-6 inches) produce less flare.
VAL Angle (Vertical Axis Line)
The angle between the VAL and the mass bias, measured in degrees. This controls the shape of the backend reaction. Lower VAL angles (20-30 degrees) create a smoother arc; higher angles (50-70 degrees) create a sharper snap on the backend.
Pin Action Leverage (PAL) Distance
The PAL distance is the measurement from the bowler's PAP to the ball's pin along the horizontal axis. Pro Shop calculates this automatically based on your dual angle inputs, but you can also enter it directly.
The PAL line helps you understand how the ball will transition from skid to hook to roll. A PAL distance close to the pin-to-PAP distance means the pin is positioned for maximum leverage and entry angle at the pins.
Tip
The layout calculator updates its visual diagram in real-time as you adjust the values. Use the sliders or type exact numbers to see how different layouts change the ball's predicted reaction.
Spec Sheet Generation
Once your layout is set, tap Generate Spec Sheet to create a printable document that includes:
- Customer info — name, hand, and PAP measurements.
- Ball info — name, brand, weight, and core specs.
- Layout diagram — a visual representation of the pin, CG, and mass bias positions relative to the grip.
- Layout values — drilling angle, pin-to-PAP, VAL angle, and PAL distance.
- Shop branding — your shop name, address, and logo appear on the sheet.
Spec sheets can be printed, saved as PDF, or shared digitally with the customer. They are also saved to the work order and customer ball record for future reference.
Understanding Layout Diagrams
The layout diagram shows a top-down view of the ball with key reference points:
- PAP — the bowler's positive axis point, shown as the reference origin.
- Pin — the ball's pin position, shown relative to the PAP at the specified distance and drilling angle.
- CG — the center of gravity marker.
- Mass Bias — the mass bias or preferred spin axis marker, positioned based on the VAL angle.
- Grip center — the midpoint of the finger and thumb holes.
Common Layouts for Different Reactions
Here are some starting points for common ball reactions. Adjust based on the bowler's style and the ball's core characteristics.
| Reaction | Drill Angle | Pin-to-PAP | VAL Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early roll, smooth arc | 30-40° | 3-4" | 20-30° |
| Medium length, strong backend | 50-60° | 3-4" | 40-50° |
| Maximum length, sharp snap | 70-80° | 4-5" | 60-70° |
| Control / spare ball | 45-55° | 5-6" | 30-40° |
Tip
These are general guidelines. Every bowler's rev rate, speed, and axis rotation will affect how a layout performs. Use the layout calculator as a starting point and adjust based on real-world results.