Only show reviews for Brunswick C (System) versa-max
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The C (System) versa-max is the most versatile ball motion from fresh to extremely broken down lane conditions on light to medium-oily lane patterns.
Pin to PAP(5 1/8" over 1/8" up) - 5 1/4"
Dual Angle Layout - 45* x 5 1/4" x 65*
Balance Hole - On VAL from center of grip through cg
Surface Preparation - Out of Box (500 grit Siaair; Rough Buff; High Gloss Polish)
What I Was Looking For In This Ball Layout:
I was pretty excited about this release for a few reasons.
1. I love Brunswick symmetric balls.
2. I was a huge fan of the C System line and now Brunswick has brought it back in a whole new price point.
3. It just looked like a cool ball.
With what we had heard from Brunswick on the Versa-Max release we were expecting a really good symmetric core ball motion. We knew that our testing condition may be a little heavier volume then what this ball was intended for but felt that we could still show case the ball motion with no issues.
I used my go to layout on this ball which should offer a smooth motion with a stronger backend reaction. Compared to other C Systems, we figured this would be closer to the 4.5 ball motion with a slightly smoother movement overall.
What I Ended Up With in the Ball and Layout:
I think that this ball in the $119.99 price point is a winner. It gives you exactly what Brunswick says with a versatile ball motion and ideal for light to medium oily lane conditions.
Even on the fresh shot we threw it on the ball motion was great. Not as strong as you would want in the beginning of the night but as the lanes start to transition and you need something to give you a good read and not get too jumpy the Versa-Max would be perfect.
The Versa-Max offered a really clean look through the heads giving the ball plenty of projection down lane. As it caught some friction on the back end the Versa-Max opened up and made a strong move towards the pocket. My carry with this ball was really good. If I got the ball to sniff the head pin I was going to carry. This comes from the amount of energy stored up by the core/cover combination in the new C System.
I think this ball has potential to turn into a go to ball when things get weird on the lanes or if you are looking for the great Brunswick symmetrical motion from a polished reactive cover ball.
Brunswick C(System) Versa-Max is the new BLACK BALL. We all have waited for a new C(System) that would give you length without losing axis rotation for more energy on the backend and drive through the pins. This will be a great ball for most lane conditions with the solid cover you will be able to adjust the cover to give you the roll you need on those tough lanes.
Ormond Pro Shop Manager
ormond@bowlingball.com
Other Products Reviewed by Ormond pro shop manager
The C-System Versa-Max is a very clean and smooth rolling ball produced by Brunswick. It is a great ball from fresh to dry lane conditions. This ball can also play multiple lines and angles. With the Out of the box finish the Versa-Max gives alot of projection and a skip-snap reaction like no other ball in the C-System line. The solid black color makes the ball very clean to the eye and is able to read oil patterns very easily.
Warning:The C-System Versa-max is a great performing ball, but it has it a few flaws. Maintenance.
I got my Versa-Max drilled in the summer to improve my bowling. I am 15 bowling for my High School. I previously had a 12 pound Brunswick Slingshot which made my average about 150. Now since i drilled this 13 pound Versa-max, (14 pounds is a little bit too much for me) my scores started to go up really high. Only after 2 months of throwing this ball i had reccieved a lot of scratches. All of these scratches adds up and dirt adds up quite often. Scratches that are white colored on a solid black ball is worst thing you can have on a ball. Removing dirt with the PowerHouse Steriod ball wipes works, but will not get rid of scratches. I also believe the polish of the ball can also wear off. When i repolished it with the Factory Ball Polish the scratches were completely visible.
A good way to make a bowling ball last longer is to wipe off the oil from the track of your ball when it returns. Wiping the oil off will not allow the extra oil on the ball to soak up the coverstock as fast and will allow the ball to continue performing like it should be. Using a microfiber towel is a good way to wipe off oil from the ball.
The C-System is a very good performing ball, but must require alot of maintenance to look and perform like it should.
Beautiful and impressive!
-Amazingly smooth!
-Awesome pin carry!
-I used black slug and grips and it looks gorgeous!
In Medium oil conditions this ball is unbeatable! Although this is not the first choice for Heavy Oil patterns, I just used it on a heavy oil lane yesterday and it performed pretty well.
And if you need an extra reason to buy, THE PRICE IS UNBELIEVABLE! you won't go wrong with the Versa Max, it is simply the best Brunswick ball I've ever had!
Alright, So i bought and drilled this ball today, Drilled it with the pin, 1 inch above the ring finger, Let me start off by saying, This ball retains energy. I've thrown 4 games with this ball, As of right now. Those 4 games were, 235, 236, 209, 300. For a 980 series, and a 245.00 over all average. This ball is fit for ANY bowler, Ranging from beginner all the way up to advanced. The reason for this being, The ball is VERY predictable. Its clean through the heads, Reads the lane well, With a smooth and continuous motion through the pocket. I threw this ball on a fresh 41 foot house shot, And this ball is a MONSTER. I would highly recommend this ball for the typical league bowler, This ball is ideal for a house shot. So clean, So smooth, So continuous. C for yourself, Brunswick's C-System Versa Max. Get it!
The ball is good for league play.
Other Products Reviewed by ldacasin@comcast.net
I have thrown this ball about a month now and it has become one of my go to balls. The versatility of this ball is amazing,the ball rolls well in the midlane and is not to agressive at the breakpoint
Other Products Reviewed by jeff kelley
The Versa Max is a great ball to go to when the heads start to dry up. This ball projects through the front part of the lane with ease, then makes a move towards the pins and drives strong through the pin deck. The Versa Max has a very smooth, continuous roll that makes it easy to watch and make quick adjustments from. It doesn’t matter if I throw this ball on a fresh condition or if I’m a few games into a tournament, this ball hits like a truck! This ball travels with me at all times.
Barry McKee
Brunswick Advisory Staff
The opinions expressed are soley those of the writer and not the Brunswick Corporation.
Other Products Reviewed by GreatWhite
BALL SPECS
Pin Length: 4 in
Starting Top Weight: 1.7 oz
Ball Weight: 15 lbs 6 oz
DRILL PATTERN
65 x 5 x 75
X Hole: 7/8 2 inches deep halfway down VAL toward thumb.
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: 375 rpms
Ball Speed:17.5 mph
PAP/Track: 4 3/4 over 3/4 up
SURFACE PREP
Grit: 500 with polish
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded): light polish over surface
LANE CONDITIONS
Length: 41 feet and 39 feet
Volume: first condition was moderate second condition was the USBC Nationals Pattern which I would say is less than moderate.
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): House and Sport
BALL REACTION
Length: long
Back End: smooth and continuous
Overall Hook: moderate
Midlane Read: late and strong
Breakpoint Shape: hard arc with lots of continuation
Likes: The ability to control the breakpoint with plenty of continuation on the backend. The fact that the ball will allow you to play almost any angle.
Dislikes: For me it is a little long when the heads are fresh but really comes into play once the breakdown period starts.
The C System Versamax is the newest in a successful line of C System balls that debuts at a lower pricepoint than all the previous balls in the C System line. This ball offers maximum versatility giving you the ability to master almost any moderate volume lane condition with the right release, drill pattern and surface prep. This ball is UNIQUE! I have never thrown another bowling ball with the shape this ball offers. The Versamax manages to be long through the front and read the back part of the pattern in such a way that is is strong but controllable. Controllable balls usually pick up so early in the midlane that when the pattern breaks down and you have to move left they won't conserve enough energy to make the turn and finish. The C System Versamax will allow you to move left and open up the pattern once the lanes do start to break down. When my Lethal Revolver reads to early in the midlane the Versamax allows me to push past the burn spot on the lanes and still control the breakpoint with phenomenal carry. I have also used this ball as a ball down option from my Nexus Pearl when it just plain hooks too much. The Versamax will allow you to stay right a little longer when that situation arises, while still allowing you to move left and open up the lane as the pattern continues to breakdown. This ball is all about control, versatility, and recovery at the back of the lane. On the Nationals pattern in Baton Rouge this ball was my best look as the heads went away. It continued to clear the front part of the lane with a predictable move on the backend during the transitional period and carry was really good! It was also the go to ball of one of my team event partners that shot three good sets during the tournament. This ball needs to be the go to ball for all bowling Nationals at the River Center this year and anyone that is looking for a versatile benchmark piece. If this isn't ball of the year I will be very surprised! The C System Versamax is the ultimate medium lane condition ball. Do yourself a favor and C what the Versamax can do for your game!
Chris Garrett
Upstate Pro Shop
Greenville, SC
PBA Member
Brunswick Regional Staff
Vise Regional Staff
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation.
Other Products Reviewed by Upstateproshop-Chris
BALL SPECS
Pin Length: 2.5"
Ball Weight: 16 lbs.
DRILL PATTERN
Dual Angle: 45 x 4" x 65
X Hole: small hole on my PAP
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: Higher, between 370 and 410 rpm, aka Cranker
Ball Speed: 16.50 mph
PAP/Track: 5 3/8" over and 7/8" up with a high track
SURFACE PREP
Grit: Box (500 Siaair Micro Pad, Rough Buff, High Gloss Polish)
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded): Polished
LANE CONDITION
Length: Multiple
Volume: Multiple
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): House and Sport
BALL REACTION (Out of 10)
Length: 7
Back End: 7
Overall Hook: 7
Midlane Read: 6
Breakpoint Shape: 6
Likes: How clean it clears the front part of the lane, and the smoooooooth reaction downlane
Dislikes: NONE
If you are looking for a smooth reacting ball, then the C*(System) versa-max is for you! This ball has a very unique motion on the lane that no other ball currently on the market can copy. It clears the heads with ease and when reaching the friction it makes a smooth transaction. This ball doesn't jerk left when seeing friction, nor skate through carrydown. Even though I have a strong dual angle drilling of 45 x 4" x 65 on it, I can play in one area of the lane longer because it doesn't over react. This would be a good ball for fresh conditions, and is the definition of a benchmark ball. It has such a good roll, I want to use it every match in league or every tournament. I have used it for 12 games now in the past week and have left 5, 8 pins on pocket hits as well as shooting a 276 and 279 which included an 8 pin in the 6th frame. The black color of the ball allows you to see the motion easier. It can handle all volumes of oil and works good when the lanes transition. If you need to smooth out the reaction a little more, you can take the polish off by using a 2000 Siaair pad. I had an Anaconda with the same drilling, and this ball is much smoother at the breakpoint. This will be the ball of the year for 2012! I would suggest drilling the versa-max a little stronger than normal because of how smooth of a reaction it has downlane.
Brandon Hinderer
Brunswick Advisory Staff
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation
Other Products Reviewed by laserboypa
Brunswick Versa Max
Bowler’s Stats:
Speed: 18.5 mph
Rev Rate: 400rpm
Axis Tilt: 10 degrees
Axis Rotation: 30-45 degrees
Ball #1 Layout:
45* by 5.5” by 45*
Tested first OOB surface but currently at 4000 abralon
Ball #2 Layout
45* by 4.5” by 80* with P3 hole
Tested first OOB surface but currently at 2000 abralon
Purpose:
The Versa Max is advertised to be the ultimate benchmark ball. With its higher RG core and solid coverstock, I knew it’d make an even better candidate for my benchmark ball due to my heavy forward roll. Ball #1 was drilled to be my true benchmark ball: the first one out of the bag at any tournament and always having a place in my bag. Ball #2 was drilled specifically for the USBC national’s pattern in that it would be a medium oil ball that starts up early and strong in the midlane with a smooth reaction off of the dry.
On 39’ medium volume THS:
Granted you can strike with anything on THS but WOW these things strike at will. With the out of the box surface, Ball #1 couldn’t miss. The clean cover and high RG core pushed the ball through the heads and the solid coverstock started reading the very last of the midlane and then the backend took over to shred rack after rack. I started practicing with a modest line over 3rd arrow and then began to play around more. I moved out to 2nd arrow and in to 5th. Regardless of where I stood and where the ball was sent, it went through the pins amazingly. Moving out to play 2nd arrow out to about 8, I just increased my speed and stayed more up the back of the ball. Doing so made the ball set up and read the midlane a little sooner but it did so in a more continuous manner so as to not overreact to the friction. If it wasn’t dead flush, this ball sent the headpin to take out anything left standing. When I got as deep as 5th arrow, the ball just kept cornering. There was almost no way for it to not get back to the pocket. The only way to not get it back to pocket was to completely miss it at the bottom. Now with my ball roll, 5th arrow is getting deep for me and where I like to play. Regardless, the Versa Max still maintained excellent ball roll and pin carry and was strong thoughout the entire pin deck. Didn’t leave a single weak 10 pin playing that far in. That alone makes it a keeper!
Ball #2 on THS wasn’t as flashy but got the job done equally well. No, it didn’t have all of the backend as Ball #1 but still had great carry across the lane. Obviously with a smoother shot shape it worked better from further out than Ball #1 but still held its own when getting in deep. Out of the box, Ball #2 was actually STRONGER off of the SPOT than Ball #1. However the change in direction was about 2 feet sooner and used more energy which didn’t allow for the same amount of backend. Overall, with the out of the box surface, Ball #1 hooked about the same amount as Ball #2 but did so a lot more on the backend.
I’m not a fan of polish unless the shot is extremely dry, so since my plan for these two were to be my benchmarks (#1 in general and #2 for nationals and other sport shots), I took the surface of Ball #1 to 4000 grit and Ball #2 to 2000 grit.
Ball #1 at 4000 grit made the THS look even easier than before (didn’t think that was possible) by smoothing out the overall motion but still keeping a lot of the recovery it had at the OOB surface. Ball #2 at 2000 actually decreased the overall hook for me on this THS and brought the breakpoint in about another 2 feet and really smoothed the backend out even. Although not normally ideal for THS, I knew it’d be perfect for when it really matters, the tough stuff!
43’ NCAA pattern #1 (3-4:1 ratio):
Bowling on this pattern made me fall in love with these two bowling balls. Everyone knows you can basically strike from anywhere on THS. But on this pattern, with both balls, I could strike at will from up the 2 board all the way into 4th arrow on the fresh. You aren’t even supposed to be able to play outside 8 on this pattern but the Versa Max still made it look easy out there because of the smooth roll off of the spot. From further inside the Versa Max, before changing surface, cornered a ton and gave me more miss room than anyone else at the end of the pattern. People literally asked “Are you sure that’s a Brunswick ball?”. This ball truly has the reaction shape like no other Brunswick ball you’ve seen go down the lane at the out of the box surface. Changing the surface to 4000 on Ball #1 and to 2000 on Ball #2 not only gave me left to right miss room, but also more front to back miss room thanks to the more steady move off the friction. Regretfully, I haven’t yet been able to throw these balls on the Nationals pattern, but the reaction shape I get from them after the surface change makes me more confident that these will be the balls to throw due to their ability to smooth out the pattern and to play more outside to start and just follow the pattern inside.
Final thoughts:
I’ll keep this simple. This is possibly my favorite ball of all time. If you are going to Baton Rouge, you NEED this ball in your bag. If you aren’t going to Baton Rouge, you STILL NEED this ball in your bag, PERIOD. GET ONE NOW!
Other Products Reviewed by brunswick802
The C System Versa Max is the newest installment in the C System line. The intent was to create a benchmark reaction. The C System line is taking over the Revolver line. The Versa's cover is using the best of previous C System balls. The ball is a solid shiny black. Looks absolutely great going down the lane.
I have 2 of these drilled. 35x5x75 with a hole on the PAP. This was drilled for medium type patterns. This one allows me to keep my anlges tighter and then to chase the oil in. This layout does have a point to where I need to put it away. I always know what this ball is going to do.
2nd one is drilled 65x4.5x35. This one allows me to open up my angles when there is a defined hook spot. Even with this layout it doesn't really flip on the back part of the lane. This is still very predictable on the back part of the lane. I can use this ball on the fresh and go straighter as well.
The Versa Max, is very versitale and very predictable. Which makes a great benchamrk ball. This ball really goes through the pins different than I have ever seen from a Brunswick ball. In the last 9 years the main ball I have thrown has been Brunswick, and the Versa is making its way to the top of my favorite list.
Adam Baer
Brunswick Regional Staff
Vise Regional Staff
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation
Other Products Reviewed by baer300
Click to Enlarge
Pin to PAP(5 1/8" over 1/8" up) - 5 1/2"
Dual Angle Layout - 60* x 5 1/2" x 30*
Balance Hole - N/A
Surface Preparation - Out of Box (500 Siaair Micro Pad; Rough Buff; High Gloss Polish)
What I Was Looking For In This Ball Layout:
Brunswick has always had, in my own humble opinion, some of the best symmetric equipment on the market. Since the release of the Danger Zone, Brunswick has really been an innovator in symmetric performance offering a variety of ball motions that work well on any THS.
Needless to say this ball really reminded me of one of my favorite balls of all time, the Walter Ray Williams Jr MVP series ball. Same coloring down to the engraving used. I was very excited to get out on the lane with this ball and see if it would have a similar reaction and shape to that ball I loved so much.
I used a slightly different layout on this than most of our other videos. Mostly to get the layout more similar to the MVP I enjoyed so much. I expected this ball to be extremely clean down lane with a nice controllable arc motion off the break point.
What I Ended Up With in the Ball and Layout:
This ball is absolutely fantastic. More backend movement than I had expected, but still very forgiving on missed shots. As you can see by the last shot I threw in the video, I nearly fell and completely missed my target, but the ball held line and destroyed the pins.
This ball really rolls like no other I have thrown. I have always been a fan of Brunswick's symmetric equipment and this makes me an even bigger fan. Excellent controllable reaction and perfect for house shots or sport conditions demanding consistency. I can't wait for the follow up to this ball!
Other Products Reviewed by Mike@Bowlingball.com
Customer Reviews Average: 4.92Write a Review Read all 13 reviews
| I Love It |
|
92% (12 of 13) |
| I Like It | 8% (1 of 13) | |
| It's Ok | 0% ( of 13) | |
| I Don't Like It | 0% ( of 13) | |
| I Hate It | 0% ( of 13) |
Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: bowlingball.com reviews by Tony Ruocco 02/10/2012 11:00 ( stars)
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| Experience | Advanced (I have bowled in a league) | |
| League Average | 225 | |
| Ball Speed | Medium | |
| Style | Cranker | |
| PAP | 5 1/8" over 1/8" up | |
Click to Enlarge
The C (System) versa-max is the most versatile ball motion from fresh to extremely broken down lane conditions on light to medium-oily lane patterns.
Pin to PAP(5 1/8" over 1/8" up) - 5 1/4"
Dual Angle Layout - 45* x 5 1/4" x 65*
Balance Hole - On VAL from center of grip through cg
Surface Preparation - Out of Box (500 grit Siaair; Rough Buff; High Gloss Polish)
What I Was Looking For In This Ball Layout:
I was pretty excited about this release for a few reasons.
1. I love Brunswick symmetric balls.
2. I was a huge fan of the C System line and now Brunswick has brought it back in a whole new price point.
3. It just looked like a cool ball.
With what we had heard from Brunswick on the Versa-Max release we were expecting a really good symmetric core ball motion. We knew that our testing condition may be a little heavier volume then what this ball was intended for but felt that we could still show case the ball motion with no issues.
I used my go to layout on this ball which should offer a smooth motion with a stronger backend reaction. Compared to other C Systems, we figured this would be closer to the 4.5 ball motion with a slightly smoother movement overall.
What I Ended Up With in the Ball and Layout:
I think that this ball in the $119.99 price point is a winner. It gives you exactly what Brunswick says with a versatile ball motion and ideal for light to medium oily lane conditions.
Even on the fresh shot we threw it on the ball motion was great. Not as strong as you would want in the beginning of the night but as the lanes start to transition and you need something to give you a good read and not get too jumpy the Versa-Max would be perfect.
The Versa-Max offered a really clean look through the heads giving the ball plenty of projection down lane. As it caught some friction on the back end the Versa-Max opened up and made a strong move towards the pocket. My carry with this ball was really good. If I got the ball to sniff the head pin I was going to carry. This comes from the amount of energy stored up by the core/cover combination in the new C System.
I think this ball has potential to turn into a go to ball when things get weird on the lanes or if you are looking for the great Brunswick symmetrical motion from a polished reactive cover ball.
Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: Ormond pro shop manager 02/20/2012 17:23 ( stars)
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| League Average | 220 | |
| Ball Speed | Fast | |
| Style | Tweener | |
Ormond Pro Shop Manager
ormond@bowlingball.com
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Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: Andrew Sung 09/29/2012 18:42 ( stars)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| Experience | Advanced (I have bowled in a league) | |
| League Average | 170 | |
| Ball Speed | Slow | |
| Style | Stroker | |
Warning:The C-System Versa-max is a great performing ball, but it has it a few flaws. Maintenance.
I got my Versa-Max drilled in the summer to improve my bowling. I am 15 bowling for my High School. I previously had a 12 pound Brunswick Slingshot which made my average about 150. Now since i drilled this 13 pound Versa-max, (14 pounds is a little bit too much for me) my scores started to go up really high. Only after 2 months of throwing this ball i had reccieved a lot of scratches. All of these scratches adds up and dirt adds up quite often. Scratches that are white colored on a solid black ball is worst thing you can have on a ball. Removing dirt with the PowerHouse Steriod ball wipes works, but will not get rid of scratches. I also believe the polish of the ball can also wear off. When i repolished it with the Factory Ball Polish the scratches were completely visible.
A good way to make a bowling ball last longer is to wipe off the oil from the track of your ball when it returns. Wiping the oil off will not allow the extra oil on the ball to soak up the coverstock as fast and will allow the ball to continue performing like it should be. Using a microfiber towel is a good way to wipe off oil from the ball.
The C-System is a very good performing ball, but must require alot of maintenance to look and perform like it should.
Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: jalex85 08/02/2012 14:02 ( stars)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| Experience | Intermediate (I hook the ball a little) | |
-Amazingly smooth!
-Awesome pin carry!
-I used black slug and grips and it looks gorgeous!
In Medium oil conditions this ball is unbeatable! Although this is not the first choice for Heavy Oil patterns, I just used it on a heavy oil lane yesterday and it performed pretty well.
And if you need an extra reason to buy, THE PRICE IS UNBELIEVABLE! you won't go wrong with the Versa Max, it is simply the best Brunswick ball I've ever had!
Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: BrandonBowler17 10/14/2012 05:58 ( stars)
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| Experience | Advanced (I have bowled in a league) | |
| League Average | 220 | |
| Sport Shot Average | 218 | |
| Ball Speed | Fast | |
| Style | Tweener | |
Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: ldacasin@comcast.net 08/22/2012 10:53 ( stars)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
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Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: jeff kelley 06/23/2012 21:49 ( stars)
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| Experience | Advanced (I have bowled in a league) | |
| League Average | 225 | |
| Sport Shot Average | 200 | |
| Ball Speed | Medium | |
| Style | Cranker | |
| PAP | 5.25 by 7/8 up | |
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Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: GreatWhite 03/15/2012 13:41 ( stars)
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| Experience | Advanced (I have bowled in a league) | |
| Ball Speed | Medium | |
| Style | Tweener | |
| PAP | 4 5/8 over, 5/8 up | |
Barry McKee
Brunswick Advisory Staff
The opinions expressed are soley those of the writer and not the Brunswick Corporation.
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Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: Upstateproshop-Chris 02/29/2012 17:09 ( stars)
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| League Average | 230 | |
| Sport Shot Average | 200 | |
| Ball Speed | Medium | |
| Style | Tweener | |
| PAP | 4 7/8x 3/4 up | |
Pin Length: 4 in
Starting Top Weight: 1.7 oz
Ball Weight: 15 lbs 6 oz
DRILL PATTERN
65 x 5 x 75
X Hole: 7/8 2 inches deep halfway down VAL toward thumb.
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: 375 rpms
Ball Speed:17.5 mph
PAP/Track: 4 3/4 over 3/4 up
SURFACE PREP
Grit: 500 with polish
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded): light polish over surface
LANE CONDITIONS
Length: 41 feet and 39 feet
Volume: first condition was moderate second condition was the USBC Nationals Pattern which I would say is less than moderate.
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): House and Sport
BALL REACTION
Length: long
Back End: smooth and continuous
Overall Hook: moderate
Midlane Read: late and strong
Breakpoint Shape: hard arc with lots of continuation
Likes: The ability to control the breakpoint with plenty of continuation on the backend. The fact that the ball will allow you to play almost any angle.
Dislikes: For me it is a little long when the heads are fresh but really comes into play once the breakdown period starts.
The C System Versamax is the newest in a successful line of C System balls that debuts at a lower pricepoint than all the previous balls in the C System line. This ball offers maximum versatility giving you the ability to master almost any moderate volume lane condition with the right release, drill pattern and surface prep. This ball is UNIQUE! I have never thrown another bowling ball with the shape this ball offers. The Versamax manages to be long through the front and read the back part of the pattern in such a way that is is strong but controllable. Controllable balls usually pick up so early in the midlane that when the pattern breaks down and you have to move left they won't conserve enough energy to make the turn and finish. The C System Versamax will allow you to move left and open up the pattern once the lanes do start to break down. When my Lethal Revolver reads to early in the midlane the Versamax allows me to push past the burn spot on the lanes and still control the breakpoint with phenomenal carry. I have also used this ball as a ball down option from my Nexus Pearl when it just plain hooks too much. The Versamax will allow you to stay right a little longer when that situation arises, while still allowing you to move left and open up the lane as the pattern continues to breakdown. This ball is all about control, versatility, and recovery at the back of the lane. On the Nationals pattern in Baton Rouge this ball was my best look as the heads went away. It continued to clear the front part of the lane with a predictable move on the backend during the transitional period and carry was really good! It was also the go to ball of one of my team event partners that shot three good sets during the tournament. This ball needs to be the go to ball for all bowling Nationals at the River Center this year and anyone that is looking for a versatile benchmark piece. If this isn't ball of the year I will be very surprised! The C System Versamax is the ultimate medium lane condition ball. Do yourself a favor and C what the Versamax can do for your game!
Chris Garrett
Upstate Pro Shop
Greenville, SC
PBA Member
Brunswick Regional Staff
Vise Regional Staff
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation.
Other Products Reviewed by Upstateproshop-Chris
- Brunswick Nexxxus f(P S) MEGA DEAL
- Brunswick C (System) maxxed-out MEGA DEAL
- Brunswick Karma Urethane
- Brunswick Meanstreak Brawler
- Brunswick Aura Paranormal
- Brunswick Ringer
- Brunswick Meanstreak
- Brunswick Aura
- Brunswick Nexus f(P+F) Solid
- Brunswick Nexus f(P) Pearl
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Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: laserboypa 02/29/2012 09:18 ( stars)
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| Experience | Advanced (I have bowled in a league) | |
| League Average | 220 | |
| Ball Speed | Fast | |
| Style | Cranker | |
Pin Length: 2.5"
Ball Weight: 16 lbs.
DRILL PATTERN
Dual Angle: 45 x 4" x 65
X Hole: small hole on my PAP
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: Higher, between 370 and 410 rpm, aka Cranker
Ball Speed: 16.50 mph
PAP/Track: 5 3/8" over and 7/8" up with a high track
SURFACE PREP
Grit: Box (500 Siaair Micro Pad, Rough Buff, High Gloss Polish)
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded): Polished
LANE CONDITION
Length: Multiple
Volume: Multiple
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): House and Sport
BALL REACTION (Out of 10)
Length: 7
Back End: 7
Overall Hook: 7
Midlane Read: 6
Breakpoint Shape: 6
Likes: How clean it clears the front part of the lane, and the smoooooooth reaction downlane
Dislikes: NONE
If you are looking for a smooth reacting ball, then the C*(System) versa-max is for you! This ball has a very unique motion on the lane that no other ball currently on the market can copy. It clears the heads with ease and when reaching the friction it makes a smooth transaction. This ball doesn't jerk left when seeing friction, nor skate through carrydown. Even though I have a strong dual angle drilling of 45 x 4" x 65 on it, I can play in one area of the lane longer because it doesn't over react. This would be a good ball for fresh conditions, and is the definition of a benchmark ball. It has such a good roll, I want to use it every match in league or every tournament. I have used it for 12 games now in the past week and have left 5, 8 pins on pocket hits as well as shooting a 276 and 279 which included an 8 pin in the 6th frame. The black color of the ball allows you to see the motion easier. It can handle all volumes of oil and works good when the lanes transition. If you need to smooth out the reaction a little more, you can take the polish off by using a 2000 Siaair pad. I had an Anaconda with the same drilling, and this ball is much smoother at the breakpoint. This will be the ball of the year for 2012! I would suggest drilling the versa-max a little stronger than normal because of how smooth of a reaction it has downlane.
Brandon Hinderer
Brunswick Advisory Staff
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation
Other Products Reviewed by laserboypa
- DV8 Hell Raiser Terror
- DV8 Marauder
- Brunswick C (System) maxxed-out MEGA DEAL
- Brunswick Nexxxus f(P S) MEGA DEAL
- Brunswick Karma Urethane
- DV8 Marauder Madness
- DV8 Nightmare
- Brunswick Meanstreak
- Brunswick Aura
- Brunswick Massive Damage
- See all products reviewed by laserboypa
Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: brunswick802 02/29/2012 01:03 ( stars)
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| Experience | Advanced (I have bowled in a league) | |
| League Average | 228 | |
| Sport Shot Average | 205-210 | |
| Ball Speed | Fast | |
| Style | Tweener | |
| PAP | 4 7/8" right | |
Bowler’s Stats:
Speed: 18.5 mph
Rev Rate: 400rpm
Axis Tilt: 10 degrees
Axis Rotation: 30-45 degrees
Ball #1 Layout:
45* by 5.5” by 45*
Tested first OOB surface but currently at 4000 abralon
Ball #2 Layout
45* by 4.5” by 80* with P3 hole
Tested first OOB surface but currently at 2000 abralon
Purpose:
The Versa Max is advertised to be the ultimate benchmark ball. With its higher RG core and solid coverstock, I knew it’d make an even better candidate for my benchmark ball due to my heavy forward roll. Ball #1 was drilled to be my true benchmark ball: the first one out of the bag at any tournament and always having a place in my bag. Ball #2 was drilled specifically for the USBC national’s pattern in that it would be a medium oil ball that starts up early and strong in the midlane with a smooth reaction off of the dry.
On 39’ medium volume THS:
Granted you can strike with anything on THS but WOW these things strike at will. With the out of the box surface, Ball #1 couldn’t miss. The clean cover and high RG core pushed the ball through the heads and the solid coverstock started reading the very last of the midlane and then the backend took over to shred rack after rack. I started practicing with a modest line over 3rd arrow and then began to play around more. I moved out to 2nd arrow and in to 5th. Regardless of where I stood and where the ball was sent, it went through the pins amazingly. Moving out to play 2nd arrow out to about 8, I just increased my speed and stayed more up the back of the ball. Doing so made the ball set up and read the midlane a little sooner but it did so in a more continuous manner so as to not overreact to the friction. If it wasn’t dead flush, this ball sent the headpin to take out anything left standing. When I got as deep as 5th arrow, the ball just kept cornering. There was almost no way for it to not get back to the pocket. The only way to not get it back to pocket was to completely miss it at the bottom. Now with my ball roll, 5th arrow is getting deep for me and where I like to play. Regardless, the Versa Max still maintained excellent ball roll and pin carry and was strong thoughout the entire pin deck. Didn’t leave a single weak 10 pin playing that far in. That alone makes it a keeper!
Ball #2 on THS wasn’t as flashy but got the job done equally well. No, it didn’t have all of the backend as Ball #1 but still had great carry across the lane. Obviously with a smoother shot shape it worked better from further out than Ball #1 but still held its own when getting in deep. Out of the box, Ball #2 was actually STRONGER off of the SPOT than Ball #1. However the change in direction was about 2 feet sooner and used more energy which didn’t allow for the same amount of backend. Overall, with the out of the box surface, Ball #1 hooked about the same amount as Ball #2 but did so a lot more on the backend.
I’m not a fan of polish unless the shot is extremely dry, so since my plan for these two were to be my benchmarks (#1 in general and #2 for nationals and other sport shots), I took the surface of Ball #1 to 4000 grit and Ball #2 to 2000 grit.
Ball #1 at 4000 grit made the THS look even easier than before (didn’t think that was possible) by smoothing out the overall motion but still keeping a lot of the recovery it had at the OOB surface. Ball #2 at 2000 actually decreased the overall hook for me on this THS and brought the breakpoint in about another 2 feet and really smoothed the backend out even. Although not normally ideal for THS, I knew it’d be perfect for when it really matters, the tough stuff!
43’ NCAA pattern #1 (3-4:1 ratio):
Bowling on this pattern made me fall in love with these two bowling balls. Everyone knows you can basically strike from anywhere on THS. But on this pattern, with both balls, I could strike at will from up the 2 board all the way into 4th arrow on the fresh. You aren’t even supposed to be able to play outside 8 on this pattern but the Versa Max still made it look easy out there because of the smooth roll off of the spot. From further inside the Versa Max, before changing surface, cornered a ton and gave me more miss room than anyone else at the end of the pattern. People literally asked “Are you sure that’s a Brunswick ball?”. This ball truly has the reaction shape like no other Brunswick ball you’ve seen go down the lane at the out of the box surface. Changing the surface to 4000 on Ball #1 and to 2000 on Ball #2 not only gave me left to right miss room, but also more front to back miss room thanks to the more steady move off the friction. Regretfully, I haven’t yet been able to throw these balls on the Nationals pattern, but the reaction shape I get from them after the surface change makes me more confident that these will be the balls to throw due to their ability to smooth out the pattern and to play more outside to start and just follow the pattern inside.
Final thoughts:
I’ll keep this simple. This is possibly my favorite ball of all time. If you are going to Baton Rouge, you NEED this ball in your bag. If you aren’t going to Baton Rouge, you STILL NEED this ball in your bag, PERIOD. GET ONE NOW!
Other Products Reviewed by brunswick802
- Brunswick Meanstreak Brawler
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- Brunswick Karma Urethane
- Brunswick Karma Urethane
- DV8 Marauder
- Brunswick Aura Paranormal
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Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: baer300 02/28/2012 15:52 ( stars)
I have 2 of these drilled. 35x5x75 with a hole on the PAP. This was drilled for medium type patterns. This one allows me to keep my anlges tighter and then to chase the oil in. This layout does have a point to where I need to put it away. I always know what this ball is going to do.
2nd one is drilled 65x4.5x35. This one allows me to open up my angles when there is a defined hook spot. Even with this layout it doesn't really flip on the back part of the lane. This is still very predictable on the back part of the lane. I can use this ball on the fresh and go straighter as well.
The Versa Max, is very versitale and very predictable. Which makes a great benchamrk ball. This ball really goes through the pins different than I have ever seen from a Brunswick ball. In the last 9 years the main ball I have thrown has been Brunswick, and the Versa is making its way to the top of my favorite list.
Adam Baer
Brunswick Regional Staff
Vise Regional Staff
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation
Other Products Reviewed by baer300
- Brunswick Revolver
- Brunswick Nexxxus f(P S) MEGA DEAL
- Brunswick C (System) maxxed-out MEGA DEAL
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- Brunswick Aura Paranormal
- Brunswick Ringer
- Brunswick Meanstreak
- Brunswick Aura
- Brunswick Nexxus f(P+R)
- See all products reviewed by baer300
Brunswick C (System) versa-max Reviewed By: Mike@Bowlingball.com 02/10/2012 10:53 ( stars)
| About the Bowler | ||
| Bowling Hand | Right Handed | |
| Experience | Advanced (I have bowled in a league) | |
| League Average | 225 | |
| Sport Shot Average | 215 | |
| Ball Speed | Fast | |
| Style | Cranker | |
| PAP | 5 1/8" Right -1/8" Up | |
Click to Enlarge
Pin to PAP(5 1/8" over 1/8" up) - 5 1/2"
Dual Angle Layout - 60* x 5 1/2" x 30*
Balance Hole - N/A
Surface Preparation - Out of Box (500 Siaair Micro Pad; Rough Buff; High Gloss Polish)
What I Was Looking For In This Ball Layout:
Brunswick has always had, in my own humble opinion, some of the best symmetric equipment on the market. Since the release of the Danger Zone, Brunswick has really been an innovator in symmetric performance offering a variety of ball motions that work well on any THS.
Needless to say this ball really reminded me of one of my favorite balls of all time, the Walter Ray Williams Jr MVP series ball. Same coloring down to the engraving used. I was very excited to get out on the lane with this ball and see if it would have a similar reaction and shape to that ball I loved so much.
I used a slightly different layout on this than most of our other videos. Mostly to get the layout more similar to the MVP I enjoyed so much. I expected this ball to be extremely clean down lane with a nice controllable arc motion off the break point.
What I Ended Up With in the Ball and Layout:
This ball is absolutely fantastic. More backend movement than I had expected, but still very forgiving on missed shots. As you can see by the last shot I threw in the video, I nearly fell and completely missed my target, but the ball held line and destroyed the pins.
This ball really rolls like no other I have thrown. I have always been a fan of Brunswick's symmetric equipment and this makes me an even bigger fan. Excellent controllable reaction and perfect for house shots or sport conditions demanding consistency. I can't wait for the follow up to this ball!
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