Why Russian Balls?
Russian Balls are bottom heavy due to only being partially filled with salt, sand, or something else. This characteristic makes them good for foot catches, neck catches, chin catches, and all other types of body catches. Some people (including myself) think they are easier to catch because of their low center of gravity; however, you will not know until you try! Homemade Russian Balls can be fun because you are able to try new methods and weights to see which you like best rather than depending on some company to decide which size and weight is best for you.

Play Pit Balls:
Play pit balls can be found at most Target, Wal-Mart, or other big box store, but if you cannot find them here, buying online will be your best bet. Be sure to know what size you are getting before you buy them and estimate the size that you think you want. The quality and thickness of play pit balls vary; however, I have been fairly lucky with the ones that I have purchased in the past. It depends on the brand but I have usually been able to buy 100 play pit balls for $8-13. Cheap, right? Good luck!

About Wiffle Balls:
These balls are baseball sized wiffle balls with no holes that are made with thick plastic, which make them exceptionally durable. I know people who have made these exact balls and they have lasted for YEARS. Their durability makes them worth your money. You can buy them individually or by the dozen. One dozen is $16.25. If you buy enough balls, they start to give you a little discount for buying in bulk. I bout 5 dozen and paid $90.55 with shipping (to Minnesota from Connecticut) to give you some kind of idea. So yes they are "expensive," I suppose, compared to play pit balls, but remember, they don't break! Depending on what you are used to, they can be thought of as "big," but as I have found, most people do like fairly large balls. Yes, I know this is funny... Juggling humor...

Where to buy the exact Wiffle Balls I bought:
http://shop.ctstore.com/store/pc/view...

Suggested Soldiering iron if you don't have one:
http://www.amazon.com/60-Watts-Solder...
or
http://www.amazon.com/60Watts-Profess...
or you can pick your own out!

The success of your homemade Russian Balls will depend on the type of balls you buy (unless they are the Wiffle Balls, these are very standard) as well as your own craftsmanship. Good luck making your very own Russian Style Juggling Balls. Happy Juggling!