GCCC Domestic Bowling Machines 2022/23

Buying bowling machines can be tricky! So we've done the hard work for you and provided a comprehensive list of our domestic use bowling machines and what they can do.

First up, The Bazooka Soft Toss Ball Machine. This is an entry level bowling machine, ideal for those just starting out. The machine uses a lobbing technique to dispatch balls to the bowler. It has an adjustable dial to set difficulty and includes an AC power adaptor. The machine also takes C batteries for use on the field/in the nets. Use with the Bazooka bowling machine balls and balls are to be purchased separately.

Next up, the Bazooka Junior Machine. This entry level machine is perfect for those youngsters 10 years of age or younger & those juniors who are new to cricket. It comes with 12 soft foam Bazooka balls making this machine ideal for practice indoors or outdoors, without risk of being hurt & minimises the risk of damage to your belongings! This machine is limited to use the Bazooka balls only! It shoots at speeds up to 65kph. The Bazooka comes with a 12-ball feeder and an inbuilt rechargeable, lithium battery. Additional balls can also be purchased [here]. Bazooka foam ball weight approx 30-35gms.

Moving on to the Buddy range, the Feed Buddy Batting Machine is our cheapest bowling machine and is an excellent gift for budding cricketers! The Feed Buddy simulates throw downs, allowing batters to practice alone for hours. Includes ball feeder (for 10 balls) and provides accurate ball release every 5 seconds. Can be used with tennis balls or Feed Buddy light machine balls. Battery powered for use anywhere (4 x D batteries). 4 settings for closer or longer feed. Perfect for the garden, drive, house or cricket club!

The Speed Buddy is the larger Buddy machine, with variable bowling speeds up to 85kph and an 8 ball automatic feeder with approximately 6-7sec delivery intervals. The machine is still easy to assemble, take down and store and uses Feed Buddy balls and Light machine balls.

Another popular domestic bowling machine brand is Paceman; there are several different models to select from based on price point and machine capabilities. Here's a quick run down of each model:

176 XR - 6 ball feeder, Variable bowling pace up to 100kph. Uses Light, Jr & LTD Balls. Variable Speed. Mains power adaptor included. Portable, can connect directly to an SLA battery (not inc). Also compatible with remote control (not inc).

176 XT -12 ball feeder, Variable bowling pace up to 100kph. Uses Light, Jr & LTD Balls. Variable Speed, Spin & Swing. Mains power adaptor included. Portable, can connect directly to an SLA battery (not inc). Also compatible with remote control (not inc).

176 PLUS - 18 ball feeder, Variable bowling pace up to 100kph. Uses Light, Jnr & LTD Balls. Variable Speed, Spin & Swing. Mains power adaptor included. Battery compatible (not inc). Also compatible with remote control (not inc).

176 LTD - 18 ball feeder with Remote Control which allows the machine to be started at the player's discretion. Great if you are training alone and don't want to miss the first couple of balls while making your way down the pitch! Variable bowling pace up to 100kph. Uses Light, Jnr & LTD Balls. Variable Speed, Spin & Swing. Mains power adaptor included. Battery compatible (not inc).

176 XL - 12 ball feeder, Variable bowling pace up to 100kph light balls, 60kph hard balls (Reg, kph). Use with ALL Paceman Ball types. Variable Speed, Spin & Swing. Mains power adaptor included. Portable, can connect directly to an SLA battery (not inc). Also compatible with remote control (not inc).

245 EDGE - 12 ball feeder, Variable bowling pace up to 100kph light balls, 90kph hard balls (Reg, kph). Use with ALL Paceman Ball types. Variable Speed, Spin & Swing. Mains power adaptor included. Portable, can connect directly to an SLA battery (not inc). Also compatible with remote control (not inc).

All Paceman models come with main power supply included however you can also buy a Paceman battery pack as add on. Balls with also need to be purchased separately for these machines, so, while we're at it... 

Paceman Balls Explained:

Light ball (yellow & pink balls) – can be used in any machine. Real bowling machine ball look but weighs less. Made from rubber/plastic compound and can be used without serious protective kit. The light ball is used in the smaller paceman machines. Weight approx 50-60gms

LTD ball (white) – can be used in any machine. Real bowling machine ball look but weighs less. Made from rubber/plastic compound and can be used without serious protective kit and approx. 5-10km/hour quicker speeds than the light ball. Weight approx 40-50gms 

Reg ball (yellow) – for use in the larger machines only – Edge and XL – hard bowling machine ball. Simulates real ball feel. Weight approx 140-150gms

KPH ball -  20% faster delivery than regular hard ball. Weighs less but real ball feel – for use in Edge and XL machines. Weight approx 95-105gms

If you have any questions, need a quotation or just want to chat about what's the best set up for you, our team are here to help! You can reach us on 1800 469 928 or via email on enquire@cricketcentre.com.au

Yours in cricket,

The GCCC