Taylor Blaze vs Drakes Pride PRO-50 | Which is Best?

Are you a beginner struggling to choose the perfect lawn bowl? I know it can be overwhelming to sift through all the different options out there. That’s why I want to help you out by comparing two of the most popular models: the Taylor Blaze and the Drakes Pride PRO-50.

In this guide, I’ll be breaking down the specs, bias, grip options, price, and who these bowls are best suited for. By the end of this post, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge you need to pick the perfect bowl for your game.

Spec

The Taylor Blaze lawn bowl is a mid-biased model suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. It offers versatility in terms of the surfaces and conditions it can be used on. The bowls are available in sizes 00 to 5 and are sold exclusively in the UK. Additionally, the Taylor Blaze can be found on online second-hand marketplaces like eBay.

The Drakes Pride PRO-50 is a mid-biased lawn bowl suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. It can be used on a range of surfaces and conditions, making it a versatile option for bowlers. This bowl is available in UK sizes 00 to 5, but it can be found on online second-hand marketplaces like eBay. Overall, the Drakes Pride PRO-50 is a reliable and flexible model for lawn bowlers.

Bias

Both the Drakes Pride PRO-50 and the Taylor Blaze are mid-biased lawn bowls that are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The biggest difference between the two is the subtle variation in their bias. The Taylor Blaze is a mid-biased bowl that falls between the Vector VS and Ace in the Taylor range, which makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. On the other hand, the Drakes Pride PRO-50 is also a mid-biased bowl, but it falls between the D-TEC and XP in the Drakes Pride range and has a deeper grip, which provides more control over the ball’s delivery.

Overall, both the Drakes Pride PRO-50 and Taylor Blaze are fantastic lawn bowls that cater to different preferences. While the Taylor Blaze is slightly more versatile, the Drakes Pride PRO-50’s greater control can be beneficial in certain conditions. Ultimately, bowlers should try out both options and pick the one that feels more comfortable and suits their individual playing style.

Grips

When it comes to comparing the grips of the Taylor Blaze and the Drakes Pride PRO-50, there are some important differences to note. The Taylor Blaze comes standard with the Taylor Premier grip, which features oblong dimples rather than circular ones like the Progrip. Meanwhile, the PRO-50 offers an embedded grip option, which can be beneficial for bowlers who have trouble gripping the bowl properly. Both grips have their advantages, but it ultimately depends on personal preference and individual needs.

While the Taylor Blaze does not come with an embedded grip option, the dimple grip it does offer is one of the best around. The PRO-50’s embedded grip is set deeper into the bowl, making it feel smaller in the hand. This can be useful for bowlers who need a tighter grip on the bowl. Ultimately, the choice between these two models comes down to which grip feels most comfortable for you and helps you perform at your best on the green.

Price

When it comes to price, both the Taylor Blaze and the Drakes Pride PRO-50 are considered high-end lawn bowls. However, the Taylor Blaze tends to be priced higher than the Drakes Pride PRO-50. A new set of Taylor Blazes can cost around £360 while a new set of Drakes Pride PRO-50 can be found at around £300.

If money is a concern, it’s worth noting that both sets can be bought second hand for a lower price. Second-hand Taylor Blaze bowls can be found at around £210-£230 while second-hand Drakes Pride PRO-50 bowls are available for around £190-£260. Ultimately, it’s important to find a set of bowls that fit your budget and playing style, as preference may differ from bowler to bowler.

Performance

Both the Taylor Blaze and the Drakes Pride PRO-50 are mid-biased lawn bowls suitable for both indoor and outdoor surfaces. However, there are slight differences between the two models that make them better suited for certain individuals or playing styles.

The Taylor Blaze is an ideal choice for players who prefer a slightly heavier bowl with a narrower draw. Its mid-bias makes it suitable for a wide range of shots, including draw shots, running shots, and controlled weight shots. The Taylor Blaze is also a popular choice for players with a stronger backswing.

On the other hand, the Drakes Pride PRO-50 is better suited for bowlers who prefer a more predictable and stable line. With its slightly wider draw and less pronounced hook, the PRO-50 allows players to target the jack with greater accuracy. The PRO-50 is also favored by those who prefer a smooth delivery and a lighter bowl weight.

In summary, both the Taylor Blaze and the Drakes Pride PRO-50 are excellent choices for serious lawn bowlers. The Taylor Blaze is ideal for players with a stronger backswing who prefer a narrower draw, while the PRO-50 is better suited for those who value accuracy and stability in their game.

Conclusion

Overall, both the Taylor Blaze and the Drakes Pride PRO-50 offer similar benefits and characteristics. They have the same mid-bias, versatility, and available sizes. However, the final decision may come down to personal preference or finding the right deal on the second-hand market. Ultimately, either option would be a great choice for lawn bowlers looking for a reliable and high-quality bowl.