Length, breakpoint and ball advice for the Viper sport pattern.
| Length | 36 feet |
|---|---|
| Oil volume | about 26 mL |
| Ratio | 1.67:1 |
| Rule of 31 breakpoint | Board 5 (36 minus 31) |
Sources: FloBowling, "Pattern Breakdown: Jonesboro Features Shark, Viper Patterns" (2020 PBA Jonesboro Open); length cross-checked against the PBA Experience pattern list on bowl.com. Oil specs can change from year to year and event to event, so always read the sheet posted for your tournament.
Viper is a 36 foot, medium length pattern. The PBA Experience pattern list on bowl.com lists it at 36 feet, and FloBowling's breakdown of the 2020 PBA Jonesboro Open, where it ran alongside Shark, gives the same length. (Our older notes said 36 to 37 feet. The published sheets say 36.)
That Jonesboro breakdown describes a near flat 1.67:1 ratio at medium volume, and says the pattern breaks down heavily in transition. Urethane was used heavily, with some reactive balls mixed in for a different look. The article called it the tougher of the two patterns for most players.
Rule of 31 puts the breakpoint around board 5 (36 minus 31). A flatter ratio means less forgiveness, so versatile angles matter more than raw power, and spare shooting decides a lot of matches.
Not sure how the Rule of 31 works? Read the Rule of 31 explained or use the calculator.
Because it breaks down fast, plan your ball change before you need it and be ready to move to a lower friction ball as the oil goes away. The spare system guide is worth a read before a Viper block.
Back to the PBA animal patterns guide. Other patterns: Scorpion, Chameleon, Cheetah, Shark.
Book a session with a 2009 PBA Scorpion Champion. In person at Strike Force Lanes in Greenfield, or by video from anywhere. See lessons for Indianapolis, Carmel and Fishers, or virtual video lessons.
Text Mike (702) 701-1494The PBA Viper pattern is 36 feet long, according to the published pattern lists cited on this page.
The Rule of 31 gives a starting breakpoint of board 5 (36 minus 31). Treat it as a starting point and adjust to the lane.
Yes. Mike coaches sport pattern play in person at Strike Force Lanes in Greenfield, IN, and by video review for bowlers in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers and anywhere else.