Product Description
The Taylor Fitting Ring Swoval (15‑9555) builds on Bill Taylor’s original BT Fitter by adding a pivoting thumb cavity specifically designed to fit oval thumbs. Manufactured by Jayhawk, the Swoval provides all the benefits of the classic Taylor fitting ring—economical, reliable fitting for spans and hole sizes—while making it much easier to determine the best angle for drilling oval thumb holes.
Like the standard BT Fitter, the Swoval measures bowling ball finger and thumb hole sizes across a wide range (commonly 1/2" to 1‑1/8"), giving pro shop operators a repeatable method for sizing inserts and selecting drill bit diameters that match the bowler’s fingers and thumb. The thumb cavity’s pivoting design lets the driller rotate the bowler’s thumb inside the fitter to see how it naturally hinges, so they can choose an oval thumb angle that matches the bowler’s anatomy and reduces grip stress.
Used by pro shops that specialize in custom fits and oval thumb layouts, the Taylor Swoval Fitting Ring is a powerful tool for combining Bill Taylor‑style span fitting with modern oval thumb techniques. When paired with span gauges, pitch gauges, and measuring balls, the Swoval helps drillers capture complete fit data—span, hole sizes, and thumb oval angle—before drilling, improving comfort and performance for bowlers of all skill levels.
Jayhawk Bill Taylor Swoval Ball Fitter FAQ
What is the Taylor Fitting Ring Swoval?
The Taylor Fitting Ring Swoval is an enhanced version of Bill Taylor’s BT Fitter that includes a pivoting thumb cavity. It provides all the standard BT Fitter span and hole‑size measurements, plus an easy way to determine the proper angle for drilling oval thumb holes.
How does the Swoval help with oval thumbs?
The Swoval’s pivoting thumb cavity allows the bowler to insert their thumb and rotate it naturally. The driller can observe how the thumb hinges and use the markings on the Swoval to select an oval thumb angle that matches the bowler’s anatomy, improving comfort and reducing the chance of grabbing or sticking.
Does the Swoval still measure finger and thumb sizes?
Yes. Like the standard BT Fitter, the Swoval measures finger and thumb hole sizes across a range of diameters, helping drillers choose appropriate insert sizes and drill bits for the bowler’s hand.
Who is the Taylor Swoval Fitting Ring designed for?
It is designed for pro shops and fitters who regularly drill oval thumb holes and want a more precise, repeatable way to determine thumb angle and fit, while retaining Bill Taylor’s span‑fitting principles for all types of bowlers.
How does the Swoval fit into a complete fitting system?
The Swoval is typically used alongside span gauges, pitch gauges, Jayhawk measuring balls, and other fitting tools. Together, these tools allow drillers to capture span, hole sizes, thumb size, and oval angle before drilling, leading to more comfortable, performance‑oriented grips.