When you first pick up a set of lawn bowls, the collection of numbers, letters, and symbols stamped on the side can seem like a secret code. These aren't just decorative details; they are crucial identifiers that tell you everything you need to know about the bowl. Understanding these lawn bowls markings is essential for choosing the right set, ensuring they are legal for competition, matching them correctly, and even determining their resale value.
This guide will demystify the engravings on your bowls, so you can feel confident whether you are buying a new set, assessing a used one, or simply want to know more about your own equipment.
Where to Find the Markings on a Bowl
The markings are engraved on both sides of a bowl. Typically, you will find a larger, more prominent circle on one side, which contains the manufacturer's logo and model name. The other, smaller side contains the more technical information: the size, weight, serial number, and the all-important World Bowls stamp with its expiry date.
These engravings are a bowl's official passport, providing a complete overview of its specifications and legality at a glance.
What the Size Marking Actually Tells You
This is perhaps the most important marking for any player. The size stamp is a single number, usually ranging from 00 (the smallest) up to 5 or even 6. This number indicates the diameter of the bowl.
Choosing the right size is fundamental to playing well. A bowl that is too large will strain your hand and be difficult to control, often leading to it being dropped during your delivery. A bowl that is too small won't feel secure and can lead to an inconsistent release. The correct size allows your thumb and middle finger to comfortably meet or slightly overlap when you grip the bowl at its widest point.
Alongside the size number, you will often see a letter, 'H' for Heavy or 'M' for Medium. While medium-weight bowls were once common, the vast majority of modern lawn bowls are heavy.
Bias Stamp vs Model Name (What’s Different?)
This is a common point of confusion. The model name (e.g., Taylor Ace, Drakes Pride Professional, Aero Optima) is the commercial name given to a particular line of bowls. It gives you a general idea of the bowl's intended purpose and bias trajectory.
The bias stamp, on the other hand, is the official, registered trajectory approved by World Bowls. Every model of bowl must have its bias tested and verified to ensure it conforms to the rules of the sport. The bias stamp is usually represented by a small logo or symbol within the World Bowls stamp. While players often refer to bowls by their model name, it's the underlying bias profile that truly defines how it will perform on the green.
For example, a Taylor Ace and a Drakes Pride Professional are different models, but both are designed as mid-bias bowls suitable for a range of conditions.
Serial Numbers and Identifiers (How They Help)
Every bowl in a set of four shares an identical serial number or unique identifier. This is usually a combination of letters and numbers. The primary purpose of this number is simple: it confirms that the four bowls belong together as a matched set.
When you buy a set of lawn bowls, it's crucial to check that all four have the same serial number. This guarantees that they were manufactured at the same time, from the same batch of material, and have the exact same bias characteristics. This ensures perfect consistency across all four of your deliveries.
Common Questions When Buying Used Bowls
The second-hand market is a great place to find value, but understanding the markings becomes even more important.
"Can I mix bowls?" / "Do all 4 need to match?"
For any competitive play sanctioned under World Bowls or national association rules, you must use a matched set of four bowls, all bearing the same serial number and World Bowls stamp. Using a "mixed" set from different manufacturers or even different models from the same brand is not permitted in competition. The bowls will have different bias characteristics, making it impossible to play consistently.
Quick Checklist Before You Purchase
Whether buying new or used, run through this quick checklist by inspecting the markings:
- Size and Weight: Is it the right size and weight for your hand and strength?
- Serial Number: Do all four bowls share the exact same serial number?
- World Bowls Stamp: Does each bowl have the official stamp?
- Date Stamp: What year is on the stamp? For competitive play, you need a stamp that is valid (within its 10-year cycle). If you only play socially at your club, an expired stamp is usually not a problem.
- Model and Bias: Does the model suit the typical green conditions you play on?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my bowl legal for competition?
For a bowl to be legal in most competitions, it must bear a valid World Bowls stamp. This stamp includes a letter and a date. The stamp is valid for 10 years from that date. For example, a stamp dated '28' is valid for play until the end of 2028. After this, the bowl needs to be re-tested and re-stamped to be used in major competitions.
What do the little pictures on lawn bowls mean?
The pictures or logos usually identify the manufacturer (like the ship for Drakes Pride) or the model of the bowl. These are primarily for branding and easy identification.
Why does my bowl have two different size engravings?
You will see two circles of engravings. The larger circle contains the brand and model name. The smaller circle contains the specific details: the size number (e.g., '3'), the World Bowls stamp, the date stamp, and the unique serial number for that set.
Understanding these markings empowers you to make smarter choices with your equipment. A quick inspection can tell you if a set is right for you, legal for play, and a true, matched set.