Enable Accessibility

Like our website
Tweet @bowlingball
Follow @bowlingball
**ALL ORDERS PLACED BEFORE 4 PM ET WILL SHIP THE SAME DAY - FREE SHIPPING EVERY ITEM EVERY DAY**

Reviews by Chris Freeland

900 Global Eternity

900 Global Eternity PI

900 Global Reality Check

900 Global Wolverine Dark Moss

900 Global Xponent

900 Global Zen Gold Label 2024 DEAL

900 Global Zen Master

900 Global Zen Soul

900 Global Zen/U

Brunswick Ethos

Brunswick Ultimate Defender

Columbia 300 High Speed

Ebonite Big Time Special Edition

Hammer Black Widow 3.0

Hammer NU Blue Hammer

Roto Grip Dare Devil Danger

Roto Grip Duo Black/Green

Roto Grip Exotic Gem

Roto Grip Halo

Roto Grip Halo Pearl

Roto Grip Hot Cell

Roto Grip Hustle HYB Hybrid

Roto Grip Hustle RIP

Roto Grip Hustle USA

Roto Grip Hustle Wine Pearl

Roto Grip Hyper Cell Fused

Roto Grip Idol

Roto Grip Idol Cosmos

Roto Grip Idol Helios

Roto Grip No Rules Exist

Roto Grip Nuclear Cell

Roto Grip RST X-1

Roto Grip Rubicon UC3

Roto Grip Show Off

Roto Grip TNT

Roto Grip TNT Infused

Roto Grip Tour Dynam-X

Roto Grip Wild Streak

Roto Grip Winner

Storm Axiom

Storm Axiom Pearl

Storm Code X

Storm Crux Prime

Storm DNA

Storm Drive

Storm Electrify Solid

Storm Fast Pitch

Storm Fate

Storm Fever Pitch

Storm Gravity Evolve

Storm Hy-Road Nano

Storm Hy-Road X

Storm Infinite Physix

Storm Intense

Storm Intense Fire

Storm IQ Tour Emerald

Storm IQ Tour Nano Pearl

Storm IQ Tour Ruby

Storm Match Up Black Pearl

Storm Night Road 2024 DEAL

Storm Nova

Storm Omega Crux

Storm Parallax

Storm Phaze 4

Storm Phaze III

Storm Phaze V

Storm Physix

Storm Pitch Purple

Storm Pro-Motion

Storm Proton Physix

Storm Revenant

Storm Soniq

Storm Summit

Storm Super Soniq

Storm Trend 2

Storm Virtual Energy Blackout

Show all reviews

900 Global Eternity
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
900 Global Eternity
Coverstock: S84 Response Pearl Reactive
Core: Epoch
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2

I waited a bit too long to drill the Eternity. I had a couple Altered Reality balls I really liked and figured I was covered. With Nationals coming up, I decided to drill the Eternity to see if I could find a shiny, fairly stable asymmetrical piece for the bag. I am quite happy I did. I put a bit stronger 4 inch pin on this Eternity and it has a clean, stable feel on the lane. It is not as jumpy and angular as the Altered so it will be very useful. I have thrown it on house, longer sport, and shorter sport patterns and it has looked great on each. I feel like I can tumble it on the fresh and then get around it a bit more and just chase it left without the ball getting too far forward as the lane transitions. I think this is easily a ball to slot under the Reality and Gems for that step-down shiny asymmetrical ball.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
900 Global Eternity PI
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
900 Global Eternity Pi
Coverstock: Reserve Blend 901 Solid Reactive
Core: Epoch Asymmetric
Factory Finish: 2000-Grit Abralon
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2

The Eternity Pi is 900 Global's new heavy oil, high performance bowling ball. The long running 900 Global heavy oil option is the Reality. The Pi is meant to provide a different motion than the Reality with its new Reserve Blend 901 Cover wrapped around the Epoch Asymmetric Core. The Pi is designed to be cleaner than the Reality but provide more teeth in the oil than the original Eternity. After throwing the Pi on a variety of conditions, the wizards at Storm hit the nail on the head here with a nice logical transition from Reality to Pi to Eternity to cover all of those conditions that require the bigger asymmetrical cores and covers.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
900 Global Reality Check
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
900 Global Reality Check
Coverstock: S84 Beta Hybrid Reactive
Core: Disturbance Asymmetric
Layout: 5 x 5 x 3

I drilled my Reality Check with a pin above middle finger 5 x 5 x 3 layout which is also on my Reality and Altered Reality. These three balls really stair step well with the Reality being the superstar big ball and the Altered and Check being good transitional options when the Reality starts to burn up a bit and give that flat 10/4 pin look. I find the Altered to be better when you need a shiny poppy big ball that has length where the Check gives me Phaze 2 vibes with its strong, round motion. The Check also takes surface adjustments very well as I have had it anywhere from 4K Fast to 1000 and it doesn’t miss a beat depending on your need.

If you are in need of an asymmetric ball and the stronger Reality and Gem type balls don’t fit your game or bowling center, give the Reality Check a look.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
900 Global Wolverine Dark Moss
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
900 Global Wolverine Dark Moss
Coverstock: S70 Pearl
Core: Lacerate 2.0
Layout: 5 x 4 x 2

First, I didn’t drill an original Wolverine. I drilled my Dark Moss a pretty standard 5 x 4 x 2 pin up. I did not like the 4k fast finish out of box so I almost immediately hit it with polish and it came alive. This ball really likes to open up the lane as a transitional option in the mid to latter part of league or tournament block when you need a bit longer look than the Zen. Often, a Hustle, Hyped, or Electrify are a bit too long and this ball really fills that stronger/longer gap. It’s also quite the looker with polish on it! Reminds me of the Emerald IQ!

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
900 Global Xponent
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
900 Global XPonent
Coverstock: Reserve Blend 701 Solid Reactive
Core: Shrapnel 2.0
Factory Finish: 4000 Abralon
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2

The XPonent is 900 Global’s new 700 series benchmark ball. The core of the XPonent is the Shrapnel 2.0 Symmetric Core, which was used in one of my past favorites, the Ordnance C4. The core is meant to rev up quickly and provide an even, controlled look. The video is shot on a fresh 39 ft Mike Aulby PBA pattern which had ample hook near the gutter and little hold inside. I was able to start a bit right with the XPonent and chase it left as the lane opened up. My compare balls were the 900 Global Eternity, which is the step up shiny asymmetrical ball in the line and the Storm Summit which is the super strong symmetrical on the Storm side. As expected, the shiny Eternity provided a good look but was a bit more touchy and angular. The Summit did not look too good in comparison because the cover was too early causing it to flatten out too much on the backend unless the shot was totally aced.

Everyone needs a good benchmark ball in their bag. If you are in the market for a controllable/dependable ball, give this XPonent a look.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
900 Global Zen Gold Label 2024 DEAL
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
900 Global Zen Gold Label
Coverstock: Reserve Blend 801 Pearl Reactive
Core: Meditate
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 5 x 3 x 2.5

If you ever wished the 900 Global Zen popped off the spot a bit harder, the Zen Gold Label is for you. The Reserve Blend 801 Pearl Cover is meant to be cleaner and more responsive than the original Zen. The core perfectly evens out the clean/responsive nature with a predictable engine to create the best of both worlds of Zen.

I shot the video comparing the Zen and Zen Gold Label on the 39 foot Mike Aulby PBA pattern. Obviously, with 39 ft, the Zen may not be the first ball out of the bag and that’s precisely why I waited for the breakdown and a little bit of blend before filming. The Zen Gold label provided a nice combination of length and predictable recovery on this pattern. When lining up with the Zen, I found the earlier nature of that ball to either 4 pin, flat 10, or light shaker a lot. It was quite difficult to get it to strike convincingly. The Gold Label had no trouble and it’s quite obvious.

If you are a Zen fan, it’s a pretty logical move to put this ball in the bag. If you are not familiar with the Zen series and want a strong, shiny ball that provides nice length and motion at the breakpoint, give this one a look.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
900 Global Zen Master
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
900 Global Zen Master
Cover: S77 Solid Response
Core: Meditate
Layout: 5 x 3x 2.5

The 900 Global Zen Master is the well awaited follow up to the super popular Zen.
The Zen Master shares the Meditate symmetric core with the Zen, but the new Zen
Master utilizes an earlier, slower, more blendy S77 Solid Response cover instead of
the S77 Pearl Response found on the original Zen. The original Zen has a nice
combo of versatility while still allowing for open angles and the ability to really circle
the lane while still feeling a high level of control. The Zen Master can handle more oil
OR blend out a lane really well. It looks good on typical type house patterns with a bit
more volume while it also can help control flying back ends on higher friction
environments as it uses up a bit of its energy sooner which tames down the
downlane hook. If you liked the original Zen but starve for more control and/or more
strength to cover more oil volume, the Zen Master is your ball. I can't wait to give the
Zen Master some time on sport patterns where control is optimal.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 425
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
900 Global Zen Soul
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
900 Global Zen Soul
Coverstock: S77 Response Hybrid Reactive
Core: Meditate Symmetric
Layout: 5 x 3 x 2.5

The original 900 Global Zen is one of my favorite balls in my bag. The Zen Master is still in my bag as an earlier option due to the cover, but it is much different than the Zen in overall reaction. With the Zen Soul, I have a ball to fine tune the reaction around the Zen. Out of the box, with the same 5 × 3 x 2.5 layout as my Zen, I have an overall stronger piece than the Zen, but not early like the Zen Master. The Soul will blend more than the Zen and that will be important when picking the time to throw the Soul or Zen. The Zen has more pop and length, but that is not always optimal when trying to control flatter patterns or hooking house patterns. I'm going to really love the 1-2 punch of the original Zen and Zen Soul!

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
900 Global Zen/U
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
900 Global Zen U
Coverstock: Meditate LD
Core: s35 Urethane+
Layout: 4.5 x 4 x 2

The new urethane ball in the Storm family is the 900 Global Zen U. The Zen U has the all new s35
Urethane+ cover wrapped around the Meditate LD core. This new cover is designed to be more responsive than traditional urethane. I have tested the Zen U on a traditional house pattern, a modified 39 ft house pattern, 38 ft Marshall Holman, and 42 ft Mark Roth. Keeping the grit closer to box, the new Zen U can definitely open the lane up more than traditional urethane. As the oil carries down and the fresh surface wears off the urethane cover, I gradually creep right and have a more traditional urethane look out of this ball. There is a definite reaction difference from the Pitch Black, which is earlier and less responsive down lane. I do get some Fast Pitch feels out of this new Zen U due to the cleaner nature of the cover. I think this will be a great option for tournament players that need a more responsive urethane or league players looking for another option to tackle those tricky over/under house patterns.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Brunswick Ethos
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)

Ball: Brunswick Ethos
Coverstock: HK22 - SH 4.0 Pearl
Core: Ethos
Factory Finish: 500, 1000, 1500 / Crown Factory Compound
Layout: 45 x 4 x 35

The Ethos is very clean and continuous. I wouldn’t call it angular with my 4 inch pin up layout, which makes it a good option as the transitional ball down from a Brunswick Mindset or most other asymmetrical heavy oil balls. I have had success later in blocks or in match play throwing the Ethos once I really have to get left and begin to circle the lane. Ethos is a good option for those looking for the middle of the road type ball reaction in the bag. This isn’t your biggest hook monster of a ball but it is also not a ball for the Sahara desert.

Chris Freeland
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Brunswick Ultimate Defender
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)

Ball: Brunswick Ultimate Defender
Coverstock: HK22 A.C.T. 3.0 Hybrid
Core: Portal X
Factory Finish: 500, 2000
Layout: 50 x 5 x 15

The Ultimate Defender is proving to be the logical step down from the Brunswick Mindset, which sits at the very top of my Brunswick bag. The Defender has a similar overall hook potential to the Mindset but provides more continuation. Even though the surface is on the dull side, the cover still provides quite a bit of backend. The most impressive characteristic of the Defender is its versatility. I have used it on more of a typical house pattern, a heavier volume house pattern, and a shorter challenge type pattern with success.

I view the Ultimate Defender as the Ultimate matchup ball for a variety of styles. If you are rev challenged, it is strong enough to help out. If you struggle throwing high end balls due to rev rate or slow ball speed, it has a perfect blend of control while still having length and backend.

Chris Freeland
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Columbia 300 High Speed
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)

Ball: Columbia 300 High Speed
Coverstock: HK22 - Formula 1 Hybrid
Core: Shifter
Factory Finish: 500, 1000, 1500 Siaair / Factory Compound
Layout: 45 x 4 x 35

The High Speed is a shiny hybrid asymmetric that combines defined mid-lane with backend for days. I find the High Speed to be really good on medium to the lighter side of heavier oil patterns. While some shiny balls can be difficult to throw on flatter patterns, with the High Speed’s mid-lane control, it is effective on sport patterns, as well as house.

If you are a bowler looking for a shiny ball that blends control with backend, you may want to give the High Speed a try.

Chris Freeland
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Ebonite Big Time Special Edition
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Ball: Ebonite Big Time SE
Coverstock: HK22 - GB13.7 Pearl
Core: Big Time
Factory Finish: 500, 1000, 1500
Layout: 50 x 5 x 30

I was super excited to see the Big Time back on the lanes. The name and color combo alone takes me back. In the Big Time SE, the cover is updated to more modern touches but the core and colors are the same as the original. The great thing about the Big Time is that we have a dull pearl out of the box, which makes it unique. I find this an easy step down option from the higher end asymmetrical balls when you need an earlier, smooth rolling, controlled benchmark type reaction.

Chris Freeland
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Hammer Black Widow 3.0
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)

Ball: Hammer Black Widow 3.0
Coverstock: HK22 - Aggression Solid
Core: Gas Mask
Factory Finish: 500, 1000, 2000
Layout: 50 x 5 x 30

The Black Widow 3.0 does not disappoint. From its shelf appeal to the ball reaction, it is wow factor. Out of the box, everyone commented on how early and smooth the 3.0 was on the lane. It struck quite a bit. Then, as it lane shined, it became longer and a lot more angular. It still strikes quite a bit. So much so that I have not touched the surface. The 3.0 is a great compliment to the Widow 2.0 Hybrid for times where you need something with a bit more teeth in the oil.

You can’t go wrong with the Widow series. The 3.0 is no different.

Chris Freeland
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Hammer NU Blue Hammer
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)

Ball: NU Blue Hammer
Coverstock: Not Urethane
Core: LED
Factory Finish: 500, 1000 Siaair Micro Pad
Layout: 45 x 4 x 35

The NU is a very unique ball. I drilled the NU with the same 4 inch pin up layout as my Purple Hammer. The NU is a bit cleaner than the Purple Hammer which allows it to be more continuous on the back part of the lane. The attribute I like best about the NU is versatility. If I keep my hand up the back of the NU and play straighter on shorter sport patterns, it reacts very similarity to the Purple Hammer (maybe 3 and 2 stronger). The interesting part about the NU is that if I want to get left with a stronger release and circle the lane, it reacts very well. Although I have not used it much in league, I have also witnessed bowlers successfully throwing it on house patterns. Anyone from low ball speed players to high rev rate players will find a place in their bag for the NU.

Chris Freeland
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Dare Devil Danger
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Roto Grip Dare Devil Danger has the Madcap Core, which is also found in the original Dare Devil and the Dare Devil Trick. The Psyched Hybrid reactive cover is designed for length in the front part of the lane while controlling the response to friction down-lane. This ball does exactly that for me. Where a lot of shiny balls with easy length have uncontrollable sideways motion down-lane, I don’t feel like this ball has any erratic behavior to it at all. You can see it read the mid-lane to slow itself down a bit and then it unloads on the backend. I have thrown it on 43 – 46 ft house patterns and burnt up patterns as well and I have found it to work nicely on both, as long as you can continue to move left into more oil. I went with a 55 x 5.25 x 45 layout which puts the pin above my middle finger. I think this is a logical transition ball from the Dare Devil Trick when the duller surface of the Trick starts to hook a little too quick and flatten out at the pins.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Duo Black/Green
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Duo
Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Core: Mentor
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2

The Duo is Roto Grip’s new HP3 line release. First, it is important to note that 5% of the sales of the Duo will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters to aid in the development and support of children. HP3 is generally in the benchmark range of balls. In the Duo, we have the Exotic Gem coverstock (MicroTrax Pearl) and the Mentor core inspired from the Daredevil series from a while back. I do like my Exotic Gem, but sometimes the window of use is small for me because it is very strong and that leads to bad carry when it starts to stand up a bit too early. But, in the Duo we have a core with a larger zone of use that matches up well with the MicroTrax Pearl cover. I find the Duo to be the perfect transitional ball after the Exotic Gem. It slots in right before I go to my IQ Tour Ruby as the Ruby is about an arrow weaker and stair steps off the Duo very well.

I think the Duo will match up for many styles of bowlers looking for an all around good ball to cover a variety of lane conditions encountered in league and tournament bowling.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Exotic Gem
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Exotic Gem
Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Core: Defiant LRG
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 5 x 5 x 2

Exotic is the right name for Roto Grip’s new shiny hook monster. When I first heard fast revving asymmetrical core with the earliest and most aggressive pearl coverstock currently offered, I found it hard to imagine many situations where it would be useful in the bowling centers I frequent. I waited and watched a few others punch it up and I saw a motion that was very unique and useful. So, I drilled mine with a pin up 5 x 5 x 2 layout and we have a ball that picks up in all the right parts of the lane. As this ball is gliding through the heads, I always have confidence that it is going to slow down at the right spot and make a left turn. I definitely think it may be the strongest shiny pearl asymmetrical ball I have ever thrown. I find it a bit like the 900 Global Altered Reality but the Altered is just a bit cleaner and maybe a bit more round and less aggressive on the backend than the Exotic.

The Exotic will definitely help those that need a strong ball but struggle with the big dull balls retaining energy through the pins.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Halo
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The most recent release in Roto Grip’s HP4 line is the Halo. The Halo has the MicroTrax-S18 solid cover found on the Idol paired with the Centrum asymmetrical core.

I waited until our MatchMaker to throw the Halo a few times just to get a feel. My home house has high usage, older synthetic lanes that tend to hook early causing some pretty poor carry at times. After seeing my reaction, my sales rep recommended going with a 4 x 6 x 3 layout (pin in the ring finger, mass slightly left of the thumb) to give it a chance. This is a much different layout than my two Idols but I could immediately see some Idol characteristics due to the cover. For me, the difference is on the back part of the lane where the Halo isn’t angular. Instead, with this layout, I see a more rounded, predicable backend motion.

Personally, I need a pattern with some volume and length to throw the Halo. From what I have witnessed thus far, if you struggle to create ball motion due to higher ball speed or lower rev rate, the Halo is a great all around choice.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Halo Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto-Grip Halo Pearl
Layout: 10 x 4 x 45
Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

I used the Halo Pearl to try a new layout. This 10 x 4 x 45 drilling comes out as a pin up for me with a serious mass kick past my VAL. Since the Halo Pearl naturally has quite a bit of length with the ETrax-P18 cover, I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. The end product is one of the cleanest asyms I have thrown without any kind of sharp angle at the breakpoint. I can throw this ball on nearly burnt conditions and it still goes thru the pins. I have also played pretty straight up the lane on sport with success and have hit it with surface to handle a bit more volume. Overall, I am really happy with my experiment.

Although I went with something different on this one, it is still quite obvious this ball has a lot of length. If you are having issues getting the high end balls to go thru the lane and hit, give this one a try.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Hot Cell
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Roto Grip Hot Cell has the new Radioactive Solid Urethane cover. This cover is pure urethane wrapped around the Nucleus asymmetrical core (the original Cell core). When this ball first came out, I did not drill one immediately and then I partially tore my bicep so I watched a lot of people throw it while I was out healing. I couldn't believe the shape I was seeing out of a urethane ball on patterns that were not hooking a great amount anyway. So, I went with one of my favorite layouts which is 50 x 4.5 x 30 and left it at box (1000). I have tried this ball on a modified 49 foot house pattern with defined friction to the right and a couple medium volume 43 foot house patterns. Simply put, the Hot Cell is urethane on steroids. I have a similarly drilled Pitch Black and the Hot Cell is easily 5-6 more and gets caught in the puddle a lot less often for me.

Chris Freeland

Storm Amateur Staff

www.stormbowling.com

www.rotogrip.com

Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
 
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Hustle HYB Hybrid
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I took some time to drill the Hustle HYB. I wasn’t sure what I wanted out of it. My pin under Hustle INK is amazing for any price point, let alone a HP1. BUT, it’s still the stereotypical long, angular HP1 look and it can be allergic to oil. With the HYB, I wanted something different. I watched others throw it and I saw a lot more midlane read with an archy type backend reaction. It was definitely a more stout ball reaction than the INK. So, I wasn’t affraid to put the pin up with a 60 x 4 x 45 layout. To date, I have not had a lot of success on house yet with the HYB (carry isn’t quite there as we do have quite a bit of volume at my home house) but on a flat, 43 foot sport pattern on wood, it provided a great reaction until the fronts burned up too much. It had the read in the midlane you would expect from a dull hybrid surface, but its backend motion reminded me of my shorter pin balls without lacking the hitting power short pin balls have at times as I move further left.

If you have always liked lower end balls in the HP1 type line, I think this will be a good choice - just expect a little more ball for your dollar with the HYB.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Hustle HYB Hybrid
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I took some time to drill the Hustle HYB. I wasn’t sure what I wanted out of it. My pin under Hustle INK is amazing for any price point, let alone a HP1. BUT, it’s still the stereotypical long, angular HP1 look and it can be allergic to oil. With the HYB, I wanted something different. I watched others throw it and I saw a lot more midlane read with an archy type backend reaction. It was definitely a more stout ball reaction than the INK. So, I wasn’t affraid to put the pin up with a 60 x 4 x 45 layout. To date, I have not had a lot of success on house yet with the HYB (carry isn’t quite there as we do have quite a bit of volume at my home house) but on a flat, 43 foot sport pattern on wood, it provided a great reaction until the fronts burned up too much. It had the read in the midlane you would expect from a dull hybrid surface, but its backend motion reminded me of my shorter pin balls without lacking the hitting power short pin balls have at times as I move further left.

If you have always liked lower end balls in the HP1 type line, I think this will be a good choice - just expect a little more ball for your dollar with the HYB.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Hustle RIP
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Hustle Royal Imperial Purple (RIP)
Coverstock: VTC Solid Reactive
Core: Hustle
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2

The Hustle series is one of my favorite lines in bowling. When the Hustle INK was discontinued, it left quite a void in the bag. The RIP not only has that INK look, it also has the combination of length and control that made the INK such a timeless piece for years. Another selling point of the RIP is that it is not allergic to oil. It seems to handle itself well on our 43 ft house pattern that has quite a bit of volume in the center of the pattern.

As normal, summers are for sport pattern sweepers and very little league. Although it does look great on house, my experience with the RIP so far has been on mainly on sport patterns when I am able to get left and open up the lane after the pattern stretches a bit.

The Hustle line is for everyone from beginners to tournament players and it provides value well above the price. You won’t be disappointed.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Hustle USA
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Hustle USA
Coverstock: Versatile Traction Control (VTC) Hybrid Reactive
Core: Hustle
Layout: 5 x 4 x 2

Wow. What a looker! I love red/white/blue swirl bowling balls. My pin up Hustle USA is the earliest and strongest Hustle I have ever thrown. It easily handles medium to longer oil patterns and is a great ball for beginners looking for their first “big hook ball” or experienced league or tournament bowlers looking to cover a variety of conditions with one ball.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Hustle Wine Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Hustle Wine
Cover: Versatile Traction Control (VTC) Pearl
Core: Hustle
Layout 5 x 3 x 4

The Hustle Ink was more than just an HP1 line ball. It was likely the most loved entry level line ball ever. When it was discontinued, it hurt, but the reaction of the Wine helps with that pain. Here we have the Versatile Traction Control (VTC) Pearl cover wrapped around the Hustle core. This thing is super long. Low end balls that are super long are often touchy off the spot. A little quick right and they hook early. A little inside and they don’t shape on the backend. This ball consistently sees the spot the right way. I filmed the comparison video on a crispy, high friction 42 ft THS. The Wine showed itself about 5 boards less overall than my similarly drilled Ink, which definitely picked up a bit quicker. I also compare it to my Idol Synergy to show the bang for the buck this Wine provides. Depending on the shape you like, the long and angular look of the Wine is really phenomenal.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 425
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Hyper Cell Fused
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Hyper Cell Fused has the asymmetrical Nucleus Core with the eTrax-H18 hybrid cover with a very shiny 1500 grit polished surface out of the box. I drilled mine with a 45 x 4.5 x 75 layout (low pin under). I waited to drill this one for a while as I didn’t want a Storm Intense like motion which was already in my bag. My Storm Intense is 55 x 5.25 x 45 and for me, it reads the midlane earlier than most shiny asymmetrical balls I have thrown. The difference is, the Intense needs some volume or it doesn’t hit real well for me. The 45 x 4.5 x 75 layout on the Fused gives me a much different look. The lower pin and the box surface allows for easy length but I wouldn’t call it an angular motion on the backend. If you like the Intense but lose carry when you don’t have enough volume, this is likely a good alternative.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Idol
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Roto Grip HP3 line bowling ball is the Idol. The Idol has the new MicroTrax-S18 coverstock which is the strongest Nano technology the Roto Grip line has used to date. This new cover is wrapped around the new Ikon symmetrical core.

My Idol has a 50 x 5 X 60 layout which I also have on my Storm Hyroad Nano. Fortunately, I have been able to leave it at its box surface (2000 grit). I felt the Idol would likely be more archy with an identical layout to the Hyroad Nano. When the Hyroad Nano isn’t quite adding up in terms of motion, I often find myself searching for something that is similar in overall hook, yet different in motion. Fortunately, the Idol fills that gap. I find that the Idol reads the fronts more and has a less angular breakpoint shape without losing any hitting power. The Idol is perfect on fresh house shots where the friction is a little too much for other balls AND when the same house pattern cliffs up and you need to move your eyes in and basically throw it up the oil. I believe this ball is special and I will be ordering another very soon! I can’t wait to see what it does on some flatter, sport compliant patterns.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Idol Cosmos
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Idol Cosmos
Coverstock: XtremeTrax Pearl
Core: Ikon
Layout: 5 x 3 x 2.5

I did some of my best bowling last season with the Idol Helios. The Helios has a solid version of the Cosmos cover. Out of the box, I found the Cosmos very smooth and round. That would be fine for sport patterns but going into league season, smooth and round did not look good in my home center. To make it more immediately useful, I applied Storm Step 2 for a polished, cleaner look. With this slight surface tweak, I find this ball to be a first game of league type ball. It handles the buildup of volume inside quite well and the round nature of the cover/core allows for some blending action when I miss right. I have had quite a few league nights so far this year where I was able to throw this Cosmos all 3 games just paralleling my eyes and feet left. As always, you can’t go wrong with an Idol!

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Idol Helios
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Idol Helios
Cover: XtremeTrax Solid Reactive
Core: Ikon
Layout: 60 x 4 5/8 x 35

I had a lot of success with the original Idol. It is still in my bag, but we now have an upgrade in the Helios. The core remains the Ikon but the upgraded cover is the XtremeTrax Solid Reactive, which I see as a bit cleaner/sharper. This ball flat out strikes. I see it as similar overall strength to the original Idol, Zen Master, and Phaze 2. The difference between the balls is really where they hook and how they react at the end of the pattern. I see the new Helios as the sharpest off the spot with the OG Idol having similar traits (my Idol with a lot of games is simply a bit more forward off the spot). The Zen Master is the earliest/most round and the Phaze 2 is the most clean and long in this family of comparison balls. If you ever wanted an OG Idol and missed the boat, don’t miss out on the Helios. If you want a replacement for the OG Idol, this is a great upgrade.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip No Rules Exist
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Roto Grip No Rules Exist is a very strong, versatile high end asymmetric ball. My Exist's layout is 50 x 4.5 x 30 and I left it at box (2000). I have thrown this ball on a 43 foot typical house shot that tends to play a little wet/dry for me and a 49 foot modified house pattern which plays very tight. It blends out the 43 foot wet/dry pattern very well. I can either hook the lane from inside or stand further right and play more directly in the puddle. For me, it is the logical step above my Dare Devil Trick with a similar layout.

The 49 foot pattern plays super tight and requires most bowlers to keep their angles in front of them. For me, this pattern tends to make most of my balls roll like urethane with hook up front and fade in the back. Where some balls lose their energy and hit a little flatter, the Exist has a different look as it reads the midlane and charges into the pocket.
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Nuclear Cell
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto-Grip Nuclear Cell
Cover: eTrax-P20
Core: Nucleus
Layout: 60 x 5.5 x 55

The Nuclear Cell is pretty impressive. It gives me serious Cell Pearl vibes from years ago. Although it is a very shiny pearl that looks like it should skid forever and go sideways, that isn’t the case. It seems to read the midlane, slow down and make a very strong (not angular) move into the pocket. I have mainly tested this ball on our 46 foot house pattern with a big puddle in the middle. Polished balls are normally a no-go on this pattern when it is fresh but the Nuclear handles it with ease.

The UFO and Nuclear Cell provide a nice pair of complementing reactions in Roto-Grip’s HP4 line and should cover a lot of bases for bowlers looking for high end asymmetrical balls.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip RST X-1
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip RST X-1
Cover: MicroTrax Hybrid Reactive
Core: RST (Roto Star Tour) Core
Layout: 70 x 5 1/4 x 30

Roto Grip has made some great balls of late. The Rubicon and Rubicon UC2 are two of my favorites. Both the Rubicon and UC2 are really responsive downlane especially for asymmetrical balls. With the RST X-1, I wasn’t sure exactly where it would fit in but I was hopeful that if I put the same layout on it as I have on my Rubicon and UC2, I would get a nice compliment. Bingo. For me, the RST X-1 has a lot more control than either Rubicon. The cover seems to bleed a bit of the energy going down the lane and I get a very controlled “tour” type breakpoint. I wouldn’t consider the RST X-1 angular in any way for me. In fact, I kind of see a trick layout type reaction with a standard pin up drill, which makes its window of use much longer. I have thrown the RST X-1 on sport patterns and house and it has a place in both worlds.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Rubicon UC3
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Rubicon UC3
Cover: Tour-ethane Pearl
Core: Rondure
Layout: 4 5/8 x 3 x 2.5

Roto Grip's new HP3 ball is the Rubicon UC3 (Ultimate Concept 3) with the new Tour-ethane Pearl cover and asymmetric Rondure Core. This urethane ball is much stronger than any other urethane currently in the lineup at Storm. I can play left and throw it right with certainty that it will be back. The out of box finish was a little dull for me so I did take it up to about 2000. For comparison purposes, I also applied 2000 to both the Fast Pitch and Pitch Black. With the Pitch balls, I had to be further right and much more exact to play anywhere but up the lane. With the UC3, even after many shots with urethane, I only had to move a bit right and there was still plenty of shape. This ball is very unique and a game changer for Storm Products.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Show Off
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Roto Grip Show Off has the original No Rules cover with a new core designed for length and down lane motion. I think that this is quite an interesting combination with the potential to possibly be the strongest ball ever made at this price point.  Historically, I have absolutely loved the HP2 line, but there is nothing about this ball’s motion in the midlane and back part of the lane that says HP2 line. On a fresh 43 foot typical house pattern it is definitely straighter than my No Rules Exist, but as the lanes break down and angles get a little too extreme for my Exist to maintain optimal entry angle, this ball shines. My Show Off’s layout is 3.75 x 5.75 x 1.875 and is still at box (2000).

Chris Freeland

Storm Amateur Staff

www.stormbowling.com

www.rotogrip.com

Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip TNT
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip TNT
Coverstock: eTrax PLUS Solid
Core: Torpex
Factory Finish: 2000-grit Abralon
Layout: 3.5 x 6 x 3

The TNT is Roto Grip’s new HP3 ball with the Torpex Core and ETrax Plus Solid coverstock. The HP3 line is the birthplace of the Idol so the TNT has a lot to live up to. After watching some videos of the TNT before I drilled it, I saw a really strong ball that definitely appeared early and on the rounder side of reactions. I did not use a standard layout for my TNT. I put the pin in my ring finger for a 3.5 x 6 x 3 layout to try to take advantage of the characteristics of the ball. My TNT reads the lane pretty early and definitely has more of a slow, arching motion that will be great when control and stability are required. I can’t open my angles up much with the TNT in its out of box surface, but if i keep angles a bit more closed and square, it hits like a tank. Compared to balls in the Roto Grip line like the Idol Cosmos and Exotic Gem, the TNT is much more slow and controlled with the Cosmos and Exotic being more responsive. In summary, the TNT is a unique ball. It isn’t going to wow you with backend, but it does provide a great purpose in my bag. It blends wet/dry house walls well and it controls flatter patterns because of how slow it is on the lane.

The TNT is designed to be a benchmark type reaction. I think mine is a bit strong to be a benchmark ball with my chosen layout, but I feel like it could be for bowlers with lower rev rates and/or higher ball speeds.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip TNT Infused
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip TNT Infused
Coverstock: eTrax PLUS Hybrid Reactive
Core: Torpex
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 4 x 6 x 4

The new Roto Grip HP3 ball is the TNT Infused. The original TNT is the ultimate control ball. The TNT has the solid eTrax coverstock and is designed to provide a benchmark reaction. The Infused is built for length and forgiveness (think shiny benchmark reaction) with the addition of the eTrax PLUS hybrid (2-parts pearl, 1-part solid). The Infused provides a completely different reaction type than my similarly drilled TNT. The Infused is cleaner with a nice arcing motion on the backend. Compared to the another shiny HP3 line ball, the Duo, the Infused is easily 5 more in overall hook and continued more on the backend.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Tour Dynam-X
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Tour Dynam-X
Coverstock: TourTrax Solid Reactive
Core: Rondure Tour
Factory Finish: 2000 Abralon
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2

The Dynam-X quickly found a way into my league and tournament bag. It provides control and continuation while still having a nice strong reaction. I am not sure I have ever thrown a ball that does what the Dynam-X does on the lane. It pops off the dry but isn't anything resembling angular. The other control piece in the HP3 line is the TNT, which is a lot earlier than the Dynamic-X. The shiny options in the HP-3 line are the TNT Infused and the Duo. The Infused and Duo are clean and responsive to friction, much more so than the Dynam-X. The addition of the Tour Dynam-X allows Roto Grip’s HP3 line to cover a lot of bases of ball reaction.

The Tour Dynam-X is a well rounded ball that covers a lot of bowlers and skill levels, especially in today's high friction lane environment where slow ball speed is a killer and controlling hook is king.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Wild Streak
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto-Grip Wild Streak
Cover: SureTrax-S19
Core: Mutated Rotary
Layout: 50 x 5 x 30

I drilled my Wild Streak 50 X 5 X 30. The Wild Streak is in the HP3 line with the Idol balls. Naturally, I will to compare this my similarly drilled magenta Idol. Ball to ball, my opinion is that the Idol will handle more oil. It seems to pick up a bit quicker and is a little sharper at the breakpoint. The Wild Streak is a perfect complement to the Idol though. The higher RG core allows the Wild Streak to have length, but oddly, it isn’t angular even with all that length. It is actually quite unique (a common descriptor of this ball).

I am not sure I have thrown a ball that looks quite like this ball on the lane. If you have liked your Idol balls, give this one a try. It has a different, yet familiar feel on the lane.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 over 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Roto Grip Winner
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Winner has the VTC-P18 pearl coverstock designed for more traction while still maintaining downlane motion. The cover is paired with an Altered Hotshot core.

I went with a 45 x 5 x 40 pin up layout on my Winner. Although a little touchy on the fresh with the polished out of box finish, I really like the Winner when the oil migrates from the front part of the lane and stronger balls start losing energy. For testing purposes, I also hit it with a 2000 pad and found it to be a completely different ball. Suddenly, it could handle a lot more volume with a lot more versatility. I am looking forward to some upcoming tournaments to put it to the test.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Axiom
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Axiom
Cover: NeX Solid
Core: Orbital
Layout: 5 x 30

When a ball is said to be the earliest reading cover to date, I naturally don’t expect much downlane motion. I don’t know how they did it, but that is not the case with the Axiom. Where the Phaze II might skid a bit too much or go a bit too long for a pattern before picking up, I think the Axiom is the logical bump up. It rivals some of my higher end asymmetrical balls in the line in overall hook, but provides a shape more characteristic of symmetrical balls. For me personally, I have had more success on sport patterns with the Axiom since most of the house patterns I bowl on lack enough oil in the fronts, causing the Axiom to pick up too quick.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Axiom Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Axiom Pearl
Cover: NeX Pearl
Core: Orbital
Layout: 5 1/4 x 20

The Axiom Pearl is the clear choice when you have a fair amount of volume with defined friction. The Axiom and Axiom Pearl are similar in overall strength, but the Axiom Pearl is sharper and more responsive to friction. If a bowler has trouble with the original Axiom carrying the ten pin due to early hook, you can’t go wrong with the Axiom Pearl as the transitional ball as it will surely increase the angle to the pocket and help carry. The Axiom Pearl is my favorite strong pearl in my bag currently and it has a VERY sharp looking color scheme.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Code X
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I frequently throw my Storm Code Black and Code Red. I find them to be some of the most angular asymmetrical balls I have thrown and find them useful on a variety of patterns. I even add quite a bit of surface to my Code Black for really long patterns as it still provides shape even with a ton of surface. So, I was excited when Storm announced a dull surface R2S solid cover to the series in the Code X.

With a similar layout as my other Codes (50 x 4.75 x 50), I was not in love with the 3000 grit surface on the R2S solid cover out of the box. The surface forced me a bit too far left and was too smooth on the backend to create the proper angle downlane for carry. After some struggles, I hit it with a fresh 2000 pad. Then, it picked up the midlane better and produced a better reaction overall on our house patterns. Since then, I added even more surface for sport patterns and it seems to handle it well. In my opinion, if a bowler matched up well with the Code Black and/or Code Red, this is a logical step for someone looking to handle a bit more volume/length.


Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Crux Prime
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Crux Prime
Layout 1: 50 x 5.5 x 30
Layout 2: 90 x 2 x 55
Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

The Prime has the brand new SPEC solid cover wrapped around the Catalyst core. I have drilled 2 and I LOVE them both. The first was a pin up 50 x 5.5 x 30. This ball is super slow off the friction which makes it very readable and predictable. I didn’t think a ball this slow would carry so well, but it does. I have thrown it on all kinds of patterns except super short and it looks good on almost everything.

With as controllable and slow as my pin up is, I decided to drill a low flare 90 x 2 x 55. Normally, I only throw these layouts on short, hooking sport patterns to control the lane, much like urethane. This one is good in that setting but also handles hooking house patterns pretty well too.

If you are in the market for a amazingly smooth, controllable piece, give this one a try! If you want an angular, downlane hook monster, this probably isn’t the ball. If that is what you want, give the Physix a try.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm DNA
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm DNA
Coverstock: EXO Solid Reactive
Core: Supercoil
Factory Finish: 2000 grit
Layout: 5 x 4 x 4

Storm’s new Premier line ball is the DNA. I drilled my DNA exactly like my Infinite Physix with a 5 x 4 x 4 layout putting the pin in my middle finger. After some practice, use in league, and use on a 40 ft sport pattern, the DNA and Infinite seem to have similar overall hook potentials. The difference I see is in the covers, which were both at 2000 grit for comparison purposes. The new EXO Solid Reactive cover on the DNA seems to have a larger footprint and definitely bleeds off energy earlier than the Infinite. Although I hit the Infinite with 2000, its ReX Pearl cover seems cleaner and a touch quicker on the backend. I expect that the DNA will have more use on the fresh and as the fronts dry up and/or push a bit, the Infinite Physix will come into play.

The DNA is going to be a perfect fit for rev challenged and/or speed dominant players. I also think it’s going to be great at blending lanes and controlling sport patterns.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Drive
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I really like the Storm Timeless, but it has its moments - usually later in the league night or late in a tournament block as it was very clean for me on most patterns. I personally feel like the Storm Drive takes all of the great characteristics of the Timeless and improves upon them to create a ball that doesn’t need the lane to breakdown to throw it.

I decided to go with a 60 x 4.25 x 60 layout on my Drive which puts the pin under the bridge - identical to my Timeless and Phaze 2. For me, it is strong in the midlane, yet controls the breakpoint better than some of my other bowling balls with its continuous, controllable backend motion.

I have thrown the Drive on a 43 foot house pattern and a sport compliant 40 foot pattern. Although I was impressed by it on the house pattern, it amazed me on the sport pattern. It provided easily the most room of anything in my bag with a consistent, forgiving rolling motion into the pocket. I can’t wait to see what this ball does on the USBC nationals patterns!

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Drive
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I really like the Storm Timeless, but it has its moments - usually later in the league night or late in a tournament block as it was very clean for me on most patterns. I personally feel like the Storm Drive takes all of the great characteristics of the Timeless and improves upon them to create a ball that doesn’t need the lane to breakdown to throw it.

I decided to go with a 60 x 4.25 x 60 layout on my Drive which puts the pin under the bridge - identical to my Timeless and Phaze 2. For me, it is strong in the midlane, yet controls the breakpoint better than some of my other bowling balls with its continuous, controllable backend motion.

I have thrown the Drive on a 43 foot house pattern and a sport compliant 40 foot pattern. Although I was impressed by it on the house pattern, it amazed me on the sport pattern. It provided easily the most room of anything in my bag with a consistent, forgiving rolling motion into the pocket. I can’t wait to see what this ball does on the USBC nationals patterns!

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Electrify Solid
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Electrify Solid
Cover: Reactor Solid
Core: Circuit
Layout: 5 x 3 x 4

The brand new Storm “Hot” line ball is the Electrify Solid. We have the Reactor solid cover wrapped around the Circuit core with a lowered RG that should make it a more useful, bang for your buck ball. Speaking of bang for your buck, I compare this ball to the new Roto Grip Hustle Camo. Both balls have a 5 x 3 x 4 pin under type layout which was new for me on the Camo. I liked it so much I put it on the Electrify Solid, as well. With the Electrify Solid, I see a bit more versatility as I was able to play straighter and then open my angles up more and more in this comparison. The Hustle was a bit earlier and round on the backend, where the Electrify is longer and sharper on this particular higher friction 42 ft house pattern.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 425
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Fast Pitch
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Fast Pitch
Cover: Controll XL Solid Urethane
Core: Tour Block
Layout: 5 x 3 x 2 1/2

The Fast Pitch fills a urethane gap I had in my bag. The Pitch Purple (same layout) acts more like a lower end reactive ball with its response to friction and overall hook. My Pitch Black is super early which is fine when that’s needed. The Fast Pitch is more of a traditional urethane look. It isn’t nearly as early as the Pitch Black and has less down lane motion than the Purple. Storm’s current line of urethane balls should cover most bowler’s needs for the ongoing urethane craze.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Fate
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Fate
Coverstock: ReX Pearl
Core: F-8
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 4 x 6 x 4

Belmo’s newest collaboration with Storm is the Fate. The Fate has the ReX pearl cover found on Dark Code and Infinite Physix, two of my recent favorite releases. The Fate has a new core called the F-8, which has enhanced differential allowing multiple angles and superior performance. To avoid another long and flippy type reaction, I decided to try a pin under on my Fate which allows it to start up a bit sooner and rounds out the backend. Compared to my identically drilled Phaze II, the Fate is a very nice complement with the Fate being a touch sharper and the Phaze II being earlier and more round. My pin up Phaze V definitely retains more and has a more angular shape on the backend.

The Fate seems to match up for a variety of styles. I find it to be a nice league ball that can be used all night long because it is strong enough on the fresh but also manages transition well. As we move into tournament season, I expect the Fate to be useful on flatter medium volume/length sport patterns in games 3-4 as they blend out a bit.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Fever Pitch
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Fever Pitch
Layout: 60 x 4 1/4 x 60
Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

The Fever Pitch is Storm’s new urethane with the Powr + Ctrl pearl cover. Simply put, I needed a urethane with more pop downlane than the Pitch Black. Based on pre-release info, I was hoping this was the ball. Unfortunately, I drilled it with about 10 weeks left in the league season. I can’t throw urethane on house generally so I didn’t use it much until summer sweepers started. After using it exclusively on sport compliant 34ft and 36ft patterns, I can confidently say that it is not a Pitch Black. It’s also quite different than my Hot Cell, which is much earlier than either Pitch. My Fever seems to have that familiar urethane roll up front but it goes a couple feet longer and has a sharper motion (if you can describe urethane as sharp at all). Don’t get me wrong. This is definitely still urethane, just a much needed step up at the breakpoint.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Gravity Evolve
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Gravity Evolve
Cover: SPEC
Core: Shape-Lock HD
Layout: 50 x 5.5 x 20

I drilled my Gravity Evolve 50 x 5.5 x 20 which puts the pin above my bridge with a very slight MB kick right. I get a very Crux Prime type look with this ball. To me, the balls are similar in where they pick up on the lane, but a similarly drilled Prime doesn’t quite make the move on the backend that the Evolve does. It is almost like the Evolve has another gear just at the very last second. Compared to a Physix drilled the same, the Physix is noticeably longer with a lot faster response to friction. Simply put, Crux and Evolve are slow off the spot and the Physix is noticeably quicker when it sees friction.

I don’t think you can go wrong with either the Evolve, Prime, or Physix, but it really just depends if you need slower response to friction or if you want to see your ball bounce off the spot more.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 over 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Hy-Road Nano
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Storm Hy-Road Nano has the familiar Hy-Road engine but in this version, we have the NRG solid reactive cover used on the Virtual Gravity Nano. Unlike most, I never found the original Hy-Road to match up real well for me. I decided to go with a 50 x 5 x 60 layout on the Nano which puts the pin under my middle finger. It comes at 2000 grit out of the box. I first threw this ball at a higher friction house with synthetic lanes on a typical house pattern. I was floored with how well it cleared the fronts and maintained such a defined, controlled breakpoint. Within the first couple shots, I knew this was going to be a GREAT ball. To date, I have thrown the Nano on a variety of house patterns ranging from 40 to 46 ft in length. It has impressed me in every situation. One thing I liked about the original Hy-Road was the shape at the backend, but many times it was too much for dry conditions, but not enough for tighter conditions. I see that aggressive, yet controllable backend shape I love, but I personally get more use out of the Nano since my speed seems to dominate my rev rate most of the time. I worked a rather large Matchmaker recently and to no surprise, this was a favorite amongst the participants as it matched up extremely well for a variety of styles.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Hy-Road X
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Hy-Road X uses the familiar Hy-Road family inverted Fe2 core but the X is paired with a polished R2X solid cover. This ball celebrates the original Hy-Road’s 10th year of service, but it’s pretty phenomenal in its own right. It has length, backend, and hit that is truly worthy of the Hy-Road line.

I have a Hy-Road Nano, Hy-Road Pearl, and now a Hy-Road X with a pin under 50 x 5 x 60 layout. I find that this layout allows me to see everything I need out of this core and the different covers provide all of the separation I need to address a wide variety of conditions. The Pearl is super clean/flippy and the Nano is a much earlier option for those higher volume/longer patterns. The Hy-Road X fits right in between.

I really like the out of box polished finish on medium volume/length patterns. I find it a bit earlier and definitely stronger than the Hy-Road Pearl. I tested it a couple weeks at 2000 and it’s easily an arrow or so less than the Hy-Road Nano. It is the perfect transitional ball when the Nano cover starts to burn up a bit and you need more continuation.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Infinite Physix
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Infinite Physix
Coverstock: ReX Pearl Reactive
Core: Atomic
Layout: 5 x 3 x 4

The Infinite Physix has the ReX Pearl Reactive cover found on the Dark Code wrapped around the Atomic core. Fortunately, I have the same 5 x 3 x 4 layout (pin in middle finger) on the Infinite Physix, Dark Code, and Nova for an easy comparison. Simply put, this group of balls provides 3 distinct reactions. The Infinite picks up the midlane very well with a nice arching, round motion. The Nova is early and very slow. And on the other end of the spectrum, the Dark Code is much cleaner and more angular, so much that it appears stronger than the others at times because it retains a lot for the backend. I think the Infinite fits in quite nicely in the lineup and is a great choice for anyone looking for a stronger asymmetrical piece that isn’t so strong that it lacks versatility.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Intense
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Intense is a new ball in Storm’s premier line. Until recently, I found it difficult to get continuous backend motion with any high end asymmetric bowling ball – no matter the company. They tended to start up in the midlane and kind of straighten out on the backend. I always believed this was because I am more up the back at release than anything else. Then, I tried the Code series (Code Black and Red) and everything seemed to change. I saw length and a sharp backend. I was hoping for more of the same out of the Intense with a stronger overall roll. My Intense’s layout is 55 x 5.25 x 45. I went with a slightly longer Pin to PAP than my No Rules Pearl to ensure I would have more length and more pop on the backend. In my opinion, all of the comparisons to it being a more angular No Rules Pearl are correct. Finally, in comparison to my Code Red with a similar layout, the Intense has a familiar, yet stronger reaction as it is earlier without sacrificing backend. 



Chris Freeland

Storm Amateur Staff

www.stormbowling.com

www.rotogrip.com

Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Intense Fire
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Intense Fire is Storm’s new Premier line ball. It has a R3S hybrid cover with the RAD-E core. I had some success with the original Intense on longer, higher volume patterns. Even with the shiny pearl R3S, if I didn’t have oil it was too early. So, I took some time with the new Fire before drilling. Based on the Fires I saw going down the lane, it looked easier through the front part of the lane with more pop downlane. So, I went with a 50 x 4.5 x 30 layout (identical to my Intense). After throwing the Fire on a variety of patterns, I think this is a more useful version of the Intense for me. It has easier length which allows it to retain more energy downlane increasing pin carry. I have also altered the surface to 2000 for test purposes and looks just as good. Don’t be afraid to put your favorite layout on this one and see what it can do for you!

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17 mph, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm IQ Tour Emerald
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm IQ Tour Emerald
Cover: R2S Pearl
Core: C3 Centripetal Control
Layout: 60 x 4 x 45 (Pin up)

It is hard not to fanboy over an IQ Tour Pearl. It seems like forever since the “gold ball” was discontinued. I had a couple differently drilled gold balls back in the day and I find this Emerald a bit sharper downlane. BUT, with that said, the differences I am seeing may only be due to changes in my game over the years. Regardless, I still think the Emerald has that nice combination of length, control, and hit we all expect from the IQ line and experienced with the gold ball.

Since it has taken me a bit to review this ball, I have had the luxury of observing the Emerald in quite a few different hands. It matches up well for lower rev rate/straight/speed dominant players with a bit stronger layout and some surface. But, I have also seen the other spectrum of higher speed and rev rate murder them with this handsome beast.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm IQ Tour Nano Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm IQ Tour Nano Pearl
Cover: Nano Pearl Reactive
Core: C3 Centripetal Control Core
Layout: 60 x 5.5 x 70

I find the IQ series of balls to be pretty strong. I like this longer pin down layout on the IQ series to kind of calm them down a bit. The shape is pretty familiar to IQ Tours I have drilled but the Nano Pearl is a bit earlier and smoother out of the box. You just can’t go wrong with the IQ line of balls if you are looking for a ball to cover a variety of patterns. They look good with lane shine, surface, and polish depending on your style of play.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm IQ Tour Ruby
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm IQ Tour Ruby
Coverstock: R2S Pearl Reactive
Core: C3 Centripetal Control Core
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 4 x 2

The IQ series is legendary. The Emerald IQ was one of my favorite balls of all time and now we have a Ruby IQ that is simply a different color. The Ruby provides a fair amount of mid-lane control for a super shiny ball, yet still somehow has a sharp breakpoint off the spot. In terms of shiny midpoint balls in our lineup, I have the Ruby a fair amount stronger than the Revenant, which is much cleaner and tends to be more useful on higher friction environments.

The Ruby has already taken a prime spot in my bag and is the first ball out in many situations. The IQ series has always been great for a variety of styles for their forgiveness and long window of usefulness. I expect the Ruby to be no different.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Match Up Black Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Match Up Black Pearl is Storm’s new Hot line bowling ball. It has the Reactor Pearl cover at 2000 grit out of the box. The goal here is to provide a moderately aggressive cover that allows clean length while blending out the pattern. The core is the Stinger 2.0 which is designed to offer more flare and hook than the original version on the Match. I loved my original Match so I expect a lot from this upgraded version.

I went with a 60 x 4 x 45 pin up on my Match Up Black Pearl. On our 46 foot high volume typically wet dry house pattern, this ball was super early and highly susceptible to flat 10s. I had a feeling it was due to the pretty aggressive 2000 box surface. I was hopeful with a few shots, that super early motion would calm a bit and it did. In fact, I started to see exactly what this ball is meant to do - blend out a pattern. Shots in the oil hooked and shots right too quick didn’t overreact. It provides such a good read it is actually becoming a benchmark type piece or me. I can’t wait to see what this does as league season kicks up. It could be a house-pattern killer!

Normally, the hot line is useful for high rev or low ball speed bowlers that need help getting the ball down the lane. I feel like the upgrades in cover and core with this Match Up will open the market up to a much wider range of bowlers/styles.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17 mph, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Night Road 2024 DEAL
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Night Road
Coverstock: ReX Pearl Reactive
Core: Inverted Fe2
Layout: 5 x 3 x 1

I have had many Hy-Roads over my bowling career. Different layouts and surfaces, they all have been good. I even liked the Hy-Road Max from a bit ago. This new Night Road is a clean ball that really reads off the spot. Wouldn't call it angular by any means but it does hit hard. I did not like what I saw out of box so I almost immediately hit it with 500, 1000, and Step 2. This seems to be the surface most liked on this ball. Due to a grip change, I don’t have comparison Dark Code and Infinite Physix balls which share the ReX Pearl cover, but from my experience with them, the Night Road is more responsive. Compared to my shiny control piece, the Zen, it’s quite evident the Zen picks up a bit quicker and is less violent off the spot. I see the Zen as more of an all around ball where the Night Road feels like a house shot killer to me.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Nova
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Nova
Coverstock: R2X Hybrid Reactive
Core: Ignition Core
Layout: 70 x 3.5 x 80

I have a uniquely drilled shorter pin under Rubicon that I enjoy throwing. I wasn't sure exactly how to drill the Nova to fit in the bag so I put this layout on the Nova (70 x 3.5 × 80). I was pleasantly surprised with the results. This is not a ball I am going to personally circle the lane with which is fine. I could kind of tell that from the headquarters videos and early Staff reviews. I see the Rubicon as cleaner and the Nova as earlier and more round, yet they are similar in shape/strength and are great complements to one another. I think the Nova will prove to be a nice ball for tougher patterns and will match up for big rev rates that need a blend ball and lower rev rates looking for extra help.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Omega Crux
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Omega Crux
Cover: GI-20 Pearl
Core: Catalyst
Layout: 65 x 4.25 x 30

The Omega Crux is out of box at 3000, which is interesting due to the pearl cover. I have liked all of the Crux series of balls back to the original other than the Alpha (yeah, I know) so I was obviously pretty excited about another Crux. For me, I don’t really see much in common to my Crux Prime likely because of the SPEC cover on the Prime. I see this as a more controllable, sport pattern friendly version of the Physix. There is a ton of hook here, but for me it has more of an arching motion. With a surface of 3000 or less (I have tried down the 1000), it reads the lane pretty early and just chugs its way to the pocket and hits. It’s pretty easy to see why this is a favorite on the PBA tour.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Parallax
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Parallax
Cover: TractionX7 Hybrid Reactive
Core: Aeroflo
Layout: 65 x 4.25 x 30

The Storm Parallax is a unique bowling ball and look on the lanes. I went with a little stronger pin than normal with my Parallax to see what I would get. Overall, I am well pleased with the reaction. I don’t see an Astro Physix type look with this ball even though they are in the same family of shiny asymmetric high-end pieces. The Astro is longer and more angular, but my Parallax wants to get forward pretty early and is relatively controlled on the backend. I like the Parallax on the fresh where there isn’t quite enough volume or length to the pattern to be in a Proton Physix or Crux. It’s the ball I will have in my hand before I transition to a Phaze 2, Axiom Pearl, or Trend as the lane breaks down.

For my video comparison, I threw my Parallax on a fresh 46 ft house pattern and as the lane transitions, I move to the Storm Trend, which was a nice 1-2 punch on this pattern.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Phaze 4
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Phaze 4
Coverstock: R2S Pearl Reactive
Core: Velocity
Layout: 5 x 4 x 2

The Storm Phaze 4 is a serious left turn in a box. With its proven Phaze Velocity core
and R2S pearl cover (also found on Hy-Road Pearl), this one looks to be a keeper. I
put a 5 x 4 x 2 pin up layout on my Phaze 4 and compared it to similarly drilled Phaze 3 and Phaze 2 balls. The comparison went as expected. The Phaze 4 was very angular and strong on the backend followed by the Phaze 3 that was easily 3-5 boards right and more round on the backend. The Phaze 2 was predictably earlier and the most round of all three. For me, I see these balls as great complements to one another providing useful/unique shapes.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Phaze III
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Phaze III
Cover: R3S Hybrid
Core: Velocity
Layout: 60 x 5 x 45

I drilled my Phaze III 60 x 5 x 45, which is the same layout I have on my Phaze II. Simply put, the Phaze III is the perfect transitional ball from the Phaze II. I like the Phaze II as a benchmark type of ball that provides a great read and strikes a bunch. But, it can start to straighten out a bit at times just like every other ball. That is when it is time to switch gears to the Phaze III. On quite a few occasions already, I have been lined up with the Phaze II and lost carry (too deep, starting up to quick, etc). As expected, the ball change to the Phaze III solved those carry issues and just steam rolled the 8 pin. It glides right through any early hook and pops a bunch at the breakpoint.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 over 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Phaze V
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Phaze V
Coverstock: R2S Pearl Reactive
Core: Velocity
Layout: 4.5 x 3 x 2

The Phaze V (P5) has the R2S Pearl Reactive cover wrapped around the lower RG Velocity core. The P5 plays a bit weaker than I expected due to the super clean cover and is better suited for me as a transitional ball because it gets a bit caught up in fresh oil. I found the Phaze 4 a bit more round and early than the new P5. The new P5 is most comparable in my bag currently to the Night Road in overall hook potential, but they are quite different in shape. The Night Road’s cover is much stronger and the P5’s cover is much cleaner. I like this combo because I can fine tune shape to optimize carry given what the lane wants.

I think the P5 will prove to be a favorite among a variety of styles given that most bowling centers have more hook these days.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Physix
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Storm PhysiX has the NRG hybrid cover with the Atomic core. Unless I’m on a ton of volume, asymmetric bowling balls don’t always match up too well for me. The Sure Lock is often too early and I couldn’t find a place for the Code X after loving the Code Black and Code Red. The Intense Fire was quite different. I drilled my Fire 50 x 4.5 x 30. Due to my roll, I still see that “asym stand up” in the mid lane, but I can use it deeper into a set if I have a decent amount of oil.

With all of that said, my home center went back to a tighter 46 foot pattern recently so I decided to punch a PhysiX. I wanted to avoid overlap with the Fire so I went with a 50 x 5.5 x 30 layout. With similar 3000 grit surfaces, I find the PhysiX a couple feet longer than my Fire, but the shape is also quite different. I never have to force the PhysiX down the lane, which makes it feel kind of like it’s not an asym core for me (not because it doesn’t hook a lot). It’s quite amazing. This ball will be in my bag for every tournament and league night for quite some time to come!

I think this ball will fit a variety of styles. I have witnessed a 500 plus rev rate guy fall in love with it just the same as a 300 rev rate, speed dominant player. Give one a try - you won’t be disappointed.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Pitch Purple
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Pitch Purple
Cover: Rev Controll Urethane
Core: Capacitor
Layout: 5 x 3 x 2.5

The Pitch Purple has the new Rev Controll Urethane cover wrapped around the Capacitor core also in the Pitch Black. I have thrown the Purple on short and medium sport pattens and shorter house patterns. I find the Purple to have a somewhat familiar feel of the Pitch Black with at least 3-5 boards more hook overall probably due to how clean (for a urethane) it is in the front part of the lane. The Black is just much much earlier and smooth. I think the Purple is a great compliment to the Black and short pin balls like my Crux Prime.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Pro-Motion
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm PRO-Motion
Cover: SPEC solid
Core: Piston
Layout: 3 X 4 7/8 X 1/2

With the Storm PRO-Motion, we have the 3rd collaboration between Jason Belmonte and Storm. I drilled two Crux Primes which share the SPEC solid cover with the PRO-Motion. I love how slow the SPEC cover is and how it seems to almost simplify moves. But, as we all know, a slow cover with a big asymmetric core sometimes has a short use window. So, bring on Belmo and the PRO-Motion. We now have a symmetric option that is naturally more continuous and a bit more poppy off the spot. I still find the PRO-Motion slow, but it has a longer use window and matches up very well on medium length/volume house patterns and a variety of sport patterns. I drilled my PRO-Motion with a little shorter pin to complement my IQ Tour with the same layout and it does just that on the lanes. I think my IQ Tour is overall a bit stronger thru the lane in hook, but the PRO-Motion feels more archy and smooth. I will definitely drill another very soon with a more conventional layout.

If you were not a fan of the Timeless and/or Drive, don’t be afraid to give this one a try - it is a completely different ball!

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Proton Physix
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Proton Physix
Cover: NeX Solid Reactive
Core: Atomic
Layout: 50 x 5.5 x 30

The Proton has everything a bowler wants in a ball. Sharp color, strong cover and shape downlane. The original Physix was an all time classic ball for me but it wasn’t always able to handle longer/heavier patterns. The Proton’s NeX cover resolves that small issue and still provides shape downlane that you don’t always get from the strongest of bowling balls.

The Proton is an easy ball to recommend. From lower rev rate, high speed players to rev rate dominant players, everyone seems to like the Proton!

Video Review:
In our ball reaction video for the Proton, we compare it to the Roto Grip Rubicon. The Proton is the perfect ball for more heavily oiled fresh patterns and the Rubicon is a perfect transitional ball that clears the front better and pops a bit more downlane as the lane breaks down.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Revenant
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Revenant
Coverstock: R3S Pearl Reactive Coverstock
Core: Vector
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 4 x 3 x 2

Revenant is defined as, “one that returns after death, or a long absence.” The Revenant is essentially the long awaited return of the Spectre, as it has the exact core/cover combination as the Spectre. I do see Spectre characteristics in the Revenant but I think the new out of box Reacta Gloss finish increases how clean the Revenant is compared to the Spectre out of box. The Revenant glides through the heads with ease but doesn’t seem to wiggle down lane in the oil, which is awesome on those misses inside. I see the Revenant as a bit stronger HyRoad Pearl and that logical step up from the Electrify line. I have thrown the Revenant at a couple of bowling centers on very different THS patterns. At one particular house, I find it hard to blend the lane with shiny balls. The Revenant was clean like my Phaze 5 but seemed to retain more energy and continue harder on the backend. Compared to my Fate, the Revenant is a nice step down.

Based on what I have seen, the new Revenant will excel in bowling centers with a lot of hook built into the pattern/lane (wood, high friction synthetics, etc.) and for bowlers with slower ball speeds and/or heavier handed bowlers… And, it smells great (Bear Claw).

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Soniq
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Storm Soniq has the R2S Pearl coverstock wrapped around the Centripetal HD (high density) Core at a 1500 grit polished finish. I have had recent success with a 55 x 5.25 x 45 layout which puts the pin above my middle finger so I went with this layout on my Soniq to provide a good comparison to other balls in our line. I have primarily thrown this ball on a 43 foot typical house pattern where the Soniq was clean with a strong, defined breakpoint that I would describe as earlier and less angular than my identically drilled Marvel Pearl. Compared to my Dare Devil Danger with the same layout, the Danger is almost identical through the midlane but it is more archy on the backend than the Soniq. I find these 3 balls to complement each other nicely. I have also tried 2000 and 3000 surfaces on the Soniq. For myself, the 3000 surface seems more useful on a typical housewall as it eliminates some of the over under I occasionally see at the polished box surface.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling.com
www.rotogrip.com
Bowler Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Summit
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Summit
Coverstock: TX-23 Hybrid Reactive
Core: Centripetal HG - AI
Factory Finish: 3000
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2

These days it’s seems everything is always the strongest ever (golf clubs, bowling balls, etc). So, naturally this advertising angle is normally met with some skepticism. Fortunately, I think we really do have one of, if not the strongest, symmetrical balls in Storm’s line in the Summit with its beefed up/modernized Phaze 2 cover wrapped around a core with lower RG and higher differential. I put my standard 4 inch pin up layout on the Summit and it wowed almost immediately with how well it digs in the midlane while still having a fair amount of get up on the back part of the lane. It definitely fits the stronger Phaze 2 characterization or even a super strong IQ Tour. So far it’s looked great on tighter house patterns and longer sport patterns this summer.

Anyone looking for a ball on the stronger side of benchmark should give this one a serious look.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Super Soniq
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Super Soniq
Layout:  60 x 4 1/4 x 60
Info: PAP 4 5/16 x 1/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

The Super Soniq has the NRG Hybrid cover found on the Physix wrapped around the Centripetal HD core from the Soniq. I find the Super Soniq with surface to be noticeably earlier than about anything else in my bag (other than maybe the Crux Prime). So understandably, this ball needs a fair amount of oil to play at box. It fits in the bag below the Physix and is quite a bit stronger than the IQ Tour.

I think this ball will fit perfectly for most lower rev players that need hook throughout much of the lane or high speed players that need the ball to really slow down.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Trend 2
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Trend 2
Cover: NRG Hybrid
Core: Piston LD
Layout: 5 x 3 x 2.5

I decided to compare the newest Belmo ball to the Zen because many reviews are talking about it in the same breath as the Zen. I get that. It’s shiny, yet still a bit early, and it’s pretty strong. I think it’s pretty obvious in the video I get a bit more easy length and pop put of the Zen. The Trend 2 seems to want to dig a bit more even with the super shiny box finish on its NRG Hybrid cover (also on a favorite of mine - Physix). My Trend 2 really sees the back part of the lane and kind of locks up and rolls through the pins. This was alleviated mostly by really getting left and opening up the angles (maybe even more than normal which speaks to the overall strength of this ball). Although I like filming box surface first for these comparisons because 9/10 bowlers will probably leave it box, I now have the surface at about 2000. For me, the Trend 2 is more useful and more controllable with the surface. The surface also serves to provide more separation compared to other similar balls in our line.

Video Review Link:
https://youtu.be/1ZDjstgJHkM

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 425
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Was this comment helpful? yes no
Storm Virtual Energy Blackout
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
225
PAP:
4 1/8 over 3/4 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Virtual Energy Blackout
Coverstock: ReX Pearl Reactive
Core: Shape-Lock HD
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 4.5 x 4 x 1

The Virtual Energy name and Shape-Lock HD Core are back with the Blackout. The Blackout has the ReX Pearl Reactive cover found on the discontinued Infinite Physix. The Infinite was much more round and was really good on medium length patterns for me. I can’t imagine throwing this Blackout on medium patterns as it revs up and reads the back part of the pattern very well. The Blackout is easily 5-7 more than my favorite shiny symmetrical IQ Tour Ruby with a similar layout.

The Blackout is a great option for those bowlers needing a bit more hook, as well as bowlers that love to open the lane up.

Chris Freeland
Storm Amateur Staff
Average Rev Rate 400
Average Speed 18 mph
PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Was this comment helpful? yes no
Showing comments 1-78 of 78
Click here to shop smart deals Need Help? Click here to access our contact information.
WeeklyContestText Click here to shop all Hammer bowling balls