Second Hand Bowls
Second hand bowls and ex-demo bowls – great value!
Just as the registration plate on a car can give away its age, so second hand bowls reveal their age. They have a datestamp so you can tell when they were made and how old they are. Comparing the datestamp on second hand bowls with the condition gives you an indication of where (indoors, outdoors or both) and how intensively they have been used.
2nd Hand Taylor Lignoid 1M Black
This set is in good condition for their age, offered on an 03 stamp.
2nd Hand Almark Commander Black 3H
2nd Hand Henselite Classic DeLuxe 3M Black
2nd Hand Henselite Classic DeLuxe 3M Black
2nd Hand Drakes Pride Professional 3H White Blue
2nd Hand Drakes Pride Professional 3H White Blue
2nd Hand Taylor Vector VS 4H Black
2nd Hand Almark Clubmaster Black 0H
2nd Hand Taylor Ace 4M Black
2nd Hand Taylor Lignoid 5M Black
Second hand bowls by size
Most people looking for second hand lawn bowls already know their size, so every set we list shows its size and weight. Sizes run from 0000, the smallest, up to 5.
The smaller sizes (00, 0, 1 and 2) are the ones buyers ask for most, and they sell quickly. If you can see your size above, don’t wait too long.
Not sure which size you need? Read our guide to bowls sizes, or call a qualified coach on 020 8362 1780.
Used bowls from the makes you know
We sell used bowls from the main makers, including Henselite, Taylor and Drakes Pride. Each model takes its own line to the jack, some narrow and some wide, so the model matters as much as the make.
If we don’t have the model you want second hand, compare it with our new lawn bowls. You can part exchange your old set to bring the price down. Not sure which way to go? Read our guide to new or second hand lawn bowls.
What to look for in a used set
- The date stamp. The oval stamp on each bowl carries a year. It tells you how old the set is, and whether it is still in date for competitions that ask for a current stamp.
- Condition. Light marks are normal on used bowls. Chips, cracks and heavy wear on the running surface are not.
- Size and weight. A bowl that is too big or too small for your hand makes a steady delivery harder.
- Grip. Some sets have deep grips, some shallow and some none. Hold them if you can.
We check every second hand set before it goes on sale, and we describe it as it is.
Why buy second hand bowls from a bowls shop?
Buying used bowls from a photo is a gamble. You can’t judge the condition, and some online adverts are not genuine.
Buy from us and you can see and hold the bowls first at our shop in Enfield. Jerry and Denise are both qualified bowls coaches, so you get advice on size, weight and line as well as a set of bowls. Can’t get to the shop? Order online and we’ll deliver.
Got bowls to sell?
We buy second hand bowls too, for cash or in part exchange against a new set. Tell us about your bowls and we’ll make you an offer.
Discover the Value in Used Bowls: Your Guide to Smart Buying
The pursuit of excellence in lawn bowls often leads enthusiasts to consider their equipment. While new sets offer pristine condition and the latest innovations, they come with a significant price tag. This guide unveils the often-overlooked world of used bowls, offering a smart, budget-friendly option for players of all levels.
Investing in second-hand bowls can be a game-changer, providing access to quality equipment without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner testing the waters or an experienced player seeking a specific model, the pre-owned market holds immense potential. Join us as we explore how to navigate this market, ensuring you make an informed and valuable purchase.
The Advantages of Investing in Second-Hand Bowls
Opting for second-hand bowls presents a compelling array of benefits that extend beyond mere cost savings. The most immediate advantage is financial: pre-owned bowls can be acquired at a fraction of the price of new sets, making the sport more accessible for newcomers and allowing seasoned players to experiment with different models or biases.
Beyond economics, choosing used bowls is a sustainable decision. It promotes a circular economy by extending the life of existing bowling equipment and reducing the demand for new manufacturing. This eco-conscious approach aligns with broader efforts to minimise waste and environmental impact. Furthermore, the used bowls market can sometimes yield unique finds, such as discontinued models with sought-after characteristics or vintage sets that carry a distinct charm, offering a sense of individuality on the green.
Key Aspects to Evaluate When Purchasing Used Bowls
Making a smart purchase when buying used bowls requires careful consideration of several critical factors. The overall condition of the bowls is paramount; look for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, deep gouges, or significant chips that could affect their performance or longevity. Surface scratches are often unavoidable with pre-owned bowls, but ensure they are superficial and don’t compromise the bowl’s integrity.
Always check the ‘world stamp’ or ‘date stamp’ on each bowl, which indicates its year of manufacture and legality for competitive play. Regulations typically allow bowls up to a certain age in official competitions, so understanding this can save you from an unsuitable purchase. Assessing the wear on the running surface is also crucial, as excessive abrasion can alter the bowl’s bias and trajectory.
Understanding Specific Used Bowls Models and Brands
There are four manufacturers of lawn bowls: Henselite, Taylor, Aero, and Drakes Pride. Each offers a range of models, each designed with different biases, weights, and grip patterns. For instance, a Henselite Classic II might offer a narrower draw, ideal for faster greens, while a Drakes Pride XP has a more forgiving, wider line.
Before you buy, try different models from your club shed, or from other club members to find out whether you prefer a narrower or a wider line to the jack. Note too that green conditions can affect the line a bowl takes and how far it will travel. Websites, bowls clubs forums, and experienced players can provide invaluable insights into the nuances of various bowling equipment. Understanding the subtle differences between a ‘wide’ and a ‘mid’ bias, or the impact of an ‘Xtreme’ versus a ‘30 dimple’ grip, will help you select used bowls that genuinely enhance your game.
Matching Bowl Size and Grip to Your Playing Style
The perfect set of bowls feels like an extension of your hand, and achieving this fit is crucial for consistent performance. Bowl size is primarily determined by your hand size and strength; a bowl that is too large or too small can lead to an uncomfortable grip and an inconsistent delivery. It’s often recommended to hold various sizes before committing, ensuring a natural and secure feel in your hand.
Grip patterns also play a significant role in control and comfort. Options range from smooth, plain surfaces to various dimpled, ringed, or concaved designs. Some players prefer the tactile feedback of a heavily dimpled grip, especially in wet conditions, while others favour a smoother surface. Consider your personal preference and how the grip affects your release and overall control on the green when evaluating second-hand bowls.
Buying Used Bowls from Bush Hill Bowls
We stock a good selection of quality used bowls. Of course you can also find them online but caution is required: buying a set by a picture alone doesn’t give you a true indication of the condition, and sometimes bowls are advertised by fraudsters!
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey to purchase used bowls is a strategic move that offers significant benefits for any bowler. From the substantial financial savings that make the sport more accessible to beginners, to the environmental advantages of choosing sustainable bowling equipment, the value of second-hand bowls is undeniable. You can find quality, performance-ready sets that perfectly match your needs without the premium price tag associated with new models.
Remember that a successful purchase hinges on informed decision-making. Dedicate time to understanding different models and brands, scrutinising the physical condition of each bowl, and ensuring the size and grip align with your unique playing style. Leverage the diverse marketplaces available, from online platforms to local bowls clubs, to find your ideal set. Armed with knowledge about inspection, pricing, and verification, you can navigate the market confidently and secure a fantastic deal.
Don’t let the cost of new bowling equipment deter you from enjoying or excelling in this wonderful sport. By exploring the vibrant market for used bowls, you open up a world of possibilities for upgrading your game economically and sustainably. Take these insights, apply them to your search, and get ready to roll your way to success on the green with your perfectly chosen, pre-owned bowls!
Second hand bowls: frequently asked questions
Buying second hand bowls
Do you have second hand bowls in my size?
What you see on this page is what we have in stock today. Stock changes all the time, so if your size isn’t here, call 020 8362 1780 and we’ll tell you what is on its way.
Can I see the bowls before I buy?
Yes. Visit us at 250 Bury Street West, Enfield, N9 9LB, just off the A10. We’re open weekdays, 9am to 4pm.
Is it safe to buy second hand bowls online?
It depends who you buy from. Buying from a private seller on the strength of a photo is a risk: you can’t judge the condition, and some adverts are not genuine. Buying online from a specialist bowls shop is different. We check every set, describe it as it is and give the stamp year, and you can call us before you order.
Are second hand bowls much cheaper than new?
Usually a good deal cheaper. The price depends on the make, the age and the condition of the set.
Can I customise second hand bowls?
Yes. A used set can have different grips cut into it, the rings can be recoloured, and the bowls can be re-polished. Some players also have their initials engraved. Ask us what can be done with the set you have your eye on.
Do you buy or part exchange bowls?
Yes. See sell your lawn bowls for how it works.
The date stamp
Where is the date stamp on my bowls?
The date stamp is inside an oval on the front face of each bowl. It consists of two numbers indicating the expiry date (also known as the re-testing date) of the set. In the sample above, the number 24 means that the expiry date is 31 December 2024. The WB on the stamp stands for World Bowls, the sport’s governing body.
How can I tell how old a set of used bowls is?
The expiry date is nine to ten years after the year the bowls were made. As a general rule, take nine from the year on the stamp, so a set stamped 35 was made in 2025/2026. We give the stamp year for every set we sell.
What does expiry date mean?
This is the last date this set can be used in a competition where a nationally qualified umpire is officiating. After this date, although the bowls can be used in friendly matches, they have to be re-tested and stamped with a new expiry date.
Why should bowls expire?
Because after ten years of play and being knocked about, hitting each other and the end wall of the rink, each bowl in the set may run differently (narrower or wider than its fellows in the set).
When a set of bowls is manufactured, and again when they are re-tested, each bowl in a set of four is rolled down a test ramp on a long L-shaped surface covered with billiard-table felt. Each bowl must come to rest on exactly the same spot, about the size of a 50p piece. If a bowl doesn’t run correctly, skilled craftsmen can use a lathe to finely adjust the bias of the rogue bowl until it runs exactly the same as the others in the set.
Where were my bowls made or most recently tested?
The code letter on the left-hand side of the stamp reveals the manufacturer. If a set has more than one stamp, then the letter may refer to the location where it was last tested. The table below lists the code letters.
Date stamp code letters
| Code | Manufacturer / tester | Period |
|---|---|---|
| A | Thomas Taylor (Bowls) Ltd | Current |
| C | George Mackay | Current |
| G | The Bowls Doctor (Barry Cox) | Current |
| N | Henselite (Australia) Pty Ltd | Current |
| P | Pershore Bowls Centre | Current |
| Q | Sydney Bowls Centre | Current |
| S | Bowling Arm & Bowls Test Centre, Bendigo | Current |
| U | Bayeumas Bowls Test Centre | Current |
| V | Greenmaster Bowls Testing (NSW) | Current |
| X | Drakes Pride | Current |
| Z | Aero Bowls Pty Ltd (Walrod Pty Ltd) | Current |
| B | Thurston & Co Ltd / Bowls Direct (NZ) | Pre-2002 |
| D | Grays of Cambridge Ltd | Pre-2002 |
| E | Pyne Associates Ltd | Pre-2002 |
| F | Douglas Kenn (Sports) Ltd | Pre-2002 |
| G | Thomas Padmore Ltd | Pre-2002 |
| H | J Jaques & Son Ltd | Pre-2002 |
| J | CBBS Co Ltd | Pre-2002 |
| K | Henselite (UK) Ltd | Pre-2002 |
| L | Taylor Bowls Australia | Pre-2002 |
| M | Metrolite Industries | Pre-2002 |
| R | Fred Fern’s Bowls Centre Pty Ltd | Pre-2002 (until 2014) |
| T | T. E. S. Halliwell Bowls Co | Pre-2002 |
| Y | Riley Leisure Ltd (Greenmaster) | Pre-2002 |
Free delivery over £60On most orders. *Excludes certain heavier items.
Not sure which size?Call a qualified coach on 020 8362 1780, weekdays 9am–4pm.
Try before you buyVisit us at 250 Bury Street West, Enfield N9 9LB.