"xpzzzz" wrote in message
...
Was just wondering if there is a feel-able difference for a ball-shaped
pocket versus a drilled hole;

Only of the pocket diameter is fairly large in comparison to the ball
diameter; in which case there will also be noticed a reduced resistance when
torque is applied.

this for a twist control worked by hand. I
I think a drilled hole might give a "snappier" action when new but might
also wear more quickly.

Mostly, the problem can be defined as one involving spring compression rate
and amount of linear displacement of the ball per degree

--to illustrate, consider a system having a conical hole and a tapered shot
pin...pin displacement becomes nearly linear, whereas with a ball, rate of
displacement is reduced exponentially in relation to angular motion of the
rotary member

Im other words, with a pin, torque remains nearly constant till it finally
"breaks free" whereas with a ball, the further you turn it, the easier is
becomes to turn it even further.