4.2.4 How to identify the type of grip from measurement sheet
4.2.4 step-by-step
Before entering span and pitch measurements, you need to identify which grip type the bowler uses. The grip type determines how the fingers sit in the ball and which measurements are relevant. Most fitting sheets — handwritten, printed, or from a previous system — record grip type either explicitly or implicitly through the measurements themselves.
🎳 The Two Grip Types
Spectre Cloud supports the two IBPSIA-standard grip types. Understanding how each is defined helps you read any fitting sheet accurately.
| Grip Type | Finger insertion depth | Typical bowler profile |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional | Fingers inserted to the second knuckle (middle joint) | Beginners, recreational bowlers, seniors, youth |
| Fingertip | Fingers inserted to the first knuckle (tip joint only) | Most competitive and league bowlers; the most common adult grip |
Note: The overwhelming majority of adult league and competitive bowlers use a fingertip grip. If a fitting sheet doesn't state a grip type, fingertip is the most likely default for an adult bowler — but always confirm with the bowler directly.
🛠️ Selecting Grip Type in Spectre Cloud
- Open the spec sheet you're creating or editing.
- Locate the Grip Type selector in the spec sheet header or measurement section.
- Choose Conventional or Fingertip based on your reading of the fitting sheet.
- Spectre Cloud adjusts the available span fields and IBPSIA auto-suggestion logic to match the selected grip type.
Important: Selecting the wrong grip type will cause span fields to mismatch the bowler's actual measurements and may produce incorrect IBPSIA auto-suggestions. If you're unsure, choose Fingertip as the default for adults and confirm with the bowler at their next visit.
Related Sections
- 4.2.3 — Selecting span type (F, C, O, H)
- 4.2.5 — Entering span measurements
- 4.2.6 — Entering pitch values
- 4.5 — IBPSIA auto-suggestions
Tip: Not sure which grip a new walk-in bowler uses? Fingertip bowlers often have calluses or grooving at the first knuckle from years of fingertip use — a quick look at the hand usually tells you.