Core Design:The symmetrical centrifuge core provides the power for this new and possibly last Texas-made release. The core's RG is 2.49 with a Diff rating of .050. Our testing uncovered 6" of track flare with the 3.5" pin layout and 4"-5" flares with the 4.5" and 5.5" distances.
Coverstock:The Optima blend pearl reactive is eye candy, for sure. The tri-coloring is of copper, black and silver pearl. The surface is texture-controlled at 4000 with a compound overlay applied finish. Columbia rates the ball with a 26 in oil and a 32 on dry. The earlier released Action Packed has a 25/32 rating.
Manufacturer's Intent:Columbia 300 wanted to establish a benchmark ball with the Big Shot. It wanted a medium to heavier volume ball with a strong reaction off friction. Then Ebonite purchased them; the rest will be history.
Test Results:The Big Shot is a ball bowlers can use as their benchmark ball to read most lane conditions. If the volume is too heavy, the Big Shot will go a little too long. If the volume is a little light, the Big Shot will hook too soon. Anything in the middle and the Big Shot matches up perfectly. We saw easy length, strong midlane and a controllable move at the spot. I'd classify the response time off friction as medium-strong. this provides enough angularity for many, with the control needed as the lanes break down.
When to Use:On most light-medium to medium-heavy volumes. We could play anywhere from board one to 25 and have predictability and power at the breakpoint. Heavier patterns will be better served with more aggressive piece, as will the driest patterns. Sanding the surface with 500-2000 abralons created an earlier motion, but decreased the response off friction for all but out higher rev tester. We all preferred the TCS(Texture Control System) 4000-surface from the factory for overall use. the TCS was designed to allow both Columbia and pro shops to duplicate the factory finish.