Side vs. Top Shooter

[darkMatt3r]

Based on prototypes we've seen many people are going for the bottom and side shooters with either 2 or 4 wheels. Not to state the obvious but I just wanted to make the topic clear.

I just want to get everyone's opinion on these different Designs. If there are other similar designs to the side and top rollers bring them up in this thread too.

What are the clear advantages of having a bottom vs. side roller, and vise-versa?

In our team we've been discussing the fact that a side shooter will have less backspin and thus may be less forgiving when either hitting the backboard or basket. We've thought about the possibility of having a third wheel on either the top or bottom that was idle, with no power, and would just be the provider of spin on the ball as it goes through the shooter.


On the other hand, a bottom shooter has only one side of the shooter itself being powered, the bottom wheel, and thus instead of having wheels on each side of the ball to propel the ball either a curved piece of metal or lexan or even just a bar of metal must be on top in order to provide friction for the ball to exit the shooter. Thus, the ball is not propelled as far.

There are clear advantages to both options but in terms of accuracy it seems that that depends on the angle of the shooter itself, not the style of it.

What are everyone's thoughts? Regarding not just both of these types of shooters, but all methods of getting the ball into the basket?

Thanks,

-Matt