How to Find the Right Set of Lawn Bowls for You

Choosing your first or next set of lawn bowls starts with finding a comfortable fit and a model suited to the conditions you play in.

Size, grip and bias all matter. But you don’t need to know every technical detail before getting started.

This guide explains what to look for and how the Taylor GTR, Redline SR and SRV compare, so you can choose with confidence.

Looking for the Short Answer?

When buying a set of lawn bowls, focus on these four things:

• Comfort: Can you hold and deliver the bowl securely?

• Conditions: What surfaces and green speeds do you usually play on?

• Bias: Do you prefer a wider draw or a flatter finishing line?

• Experience: What have you tried, and what would you like to improve?

If possible, try a few different sizes and models before buying. Advice from your club coach or a bowls specialist can help you narrow down the options.

Explore our range of Taylor Lawn Bowls or keep reading for more guidance.

What Size Lawn Bowls Should I Buy?

The right size is one you can grip comfortably and deliver with control.

Choosing by gender, copying another player’s size or relying on a hand measurement alone won’t necessarily give you the best fit. Your grip, strength, mobility and the shape of the model also influence how a bowl feels.

When trying a bowl:

• Hold it in your usual delivery grip.

• Check that it feels secure without excessive squeezing.

• Try a few gentle practice swings.

• If possible, have a roll on the green.

A bowl that feels manageable when standing still should also feel comfortable throughout your delivery.

Understanding Lawn Bowl Bias

Bias is the curved path a bowl follows as it travels along the green. The bowl’s shape creates that curve.

Different models have different running profiles. Some take a wider line, while others follow a narrower path or have a flatter finish.

When comparing bowls, consider both:

• Draw width: How much room the bowl takes on its way towards the jack.

• Finishing shape: How the bowl turns as it approaches its resting point.

How to Read Our Bias Chart

Our chart illustrates the following order, from widest to narrowest:

For the three Taylor models featured in this guide, the order is GTR → Redline SR → SRV, from wider to narrower.

Use the chart as a comparison guide. Actual performance varies with conditions and delivery.

Which Taylor Bowl Is Right for You?

Taylor GTR

The GTR offers the widest illustrated draw of these three Taylor models.

Designed for indoor and outdoor play in Southern Hemisphere conditions, it is an option to consider if you prefer more room in your drawing line. Taylor also highlights its wind stability.

Consider the GTR if you:

• Prefer a wider line than the Redline SR or SRV.

• Want to compare options for indoor and outdoor play.

• Value wind stability when choosing a bowl.

Taylor Redline SR

The Redline SR sits between the GTR and SRV on our chart.

It offers a versatile middle option, with Taylor’s published guidance identifying suitability for grass and artificial greens running at approximately 12–20 seconds.

Consider the Redline SR if you:

• Play on grass and artificial surfaces.

• Want an all-round model to compare.

• Prefer less width than the GTR, with more finish than the SRV’s flatter profile.

Taylor SRV

Developed from the Redline SR, the SRV has a refined bias with a slightly flatter finish while retaining wind stability. Taylor identifies it as suitable for faster and artificial surfaces.

Consider the SRV if you:

• Regularly play on faster or artificial greens.

• Prefer a flatter finishing line than the Redline SR.

• Want the narrowest illustrated line of these three Taylor models.

Which Lawn Bowls Are Best for Beginners?

There isn’t one model that every beginner should buy.

Start with a comfortable size and grip, then compare models against the conditions at your local club. A bowl that suits another player may feel different in your hand or follow a line you find less comfortable to judge.

Ask your club about borrowing bowls or trying demonstration sets before committing.

Don’t Overlook the Grip

The grip can change how secure and comfortable a bowl feels in your hand.

Try the available grip options where possible (Half Pipe, Crescent or Plain), even if you already know your usual bowl size. Bowls Australia recommends checking the feel of the actual bowl before purchasing, as model shape and individual grip preferences can affect fit.

Why Buy From Taylor Bowls Australia?

Taylor has manufactured bowls in Scotland for more than 225 years. Sets are matched and tested for consistent bias and performance.

At Taylor Bowls Australia, we can help you compare models, sizes and grips against your playing needs.

Whether you’re buying your first set or replacing a familiar favourite, we’re here to help you make an informed choice.

Need Help Choosing?

Tell our team:

• Your experience level.

• Whether you play on grass, synthetic or indoor greens.

• Your usual green speed, if known.

• Your current bowl model, size and grip - If any.

• What you like or would like to change about your current set - If any.

We’ll help you narrow down the options for your game.

Browse our Taylor Lawn Bowls Collection or call (07) 5449 9011 for personalised advice.