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Reviews by Chris Monroy

Brunswick Attitude

Brunswick Attitude Control

Brunswick Crown Victory

Brunswick Defender Hybrid

Brunswick Ethos

Brunswick Infinity

Brunswick Ivory Rhino Pro

Brunswick Knock Out

Brunswick Knock Out Bruiser

Brunswick Melee Jab Blood Red

Brunswick Melee Jab Midnight Blue

Brunswick Melee Jab Special Edition

Brunswick Prism Hybrid

Brunswick Rhino Magenta/Purple/Navy

Brunswick Teal Rhino Pro

Brunswick Vintage Phantom

Columbia 300 Cuda PowerCOR

Columbia 300 Power Torq

Columbia 300 Ricochet

DV8 Collision

DV8 Damn Good Verge

DV8 Decree

DV8 Medusa

DV8 Verge

Ebonite Big Time Special Edition

Ebonite Fireball

Ebonite Game Breaker 4

Ebonite Game Breaker 4 Hybrid

Ebonite Turbo X

Hammer 3-D Offset

Hammer 3-D Offset Assault

Hammer 3-D Offset Attack

Hammer Absolut Curve

Hammer Absolut Flip

Hammer Absolut Hook

Hammer Amp

Hammer Amp Up

Hammer Anger

Hammer Arctic Vibe

Hammer Arson High Flare Pearl

Hammer Arson High Flare Solid

Hammer Arson Low Flare Solid

Hammer Bad Ass RARE - SOLD OUT

Hammer Bad Intentions

Hammer Bad Intentions Hybrid

Hammer Black Hammer Urethane

Hammer Black Pearl Urethane

Hammer Black Widow 2.0

Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Hybrid

Hammer Black Widow 3.0

Hammer Black Widow Black/Gold

Hammer Black Widow Dark Legend

Hammer Black Widow Dark Legend Solid

Hammer Black Widow Ghost Pearl

Hammer Black Widow Gold

Hammer Black Widow Legend

Hammer Black Widow Mania

Hammer Black Widow Pink

Hammer Black Widow Red Legend Pearl

Hammer Black Widow Red Legend Solid

Hammer Black Widow Urethane

Hammer Black Widow Urethane Pink Pearl

Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball

Hammer Blue Vibe

Hammer Burgundy Hammer

Hammer Cherry Vibe

Hammer Cold Blood 15 Only LAST ONE

Hammer Dark Web

Hammer Dark Web Hybrid

Hammer Diesel

Hammer Diesel Torque

Hammer Effect

Hammer Effect Tour

Hammer Envy

Hammer Envy Tour

Hammer Envy Tour Pearl

Hammer Extreme Envy

Hammer Fierce Phobia

Hammer Flawless

Hammer Fugitive

Hammer Gauntlet

Hammer Gauntlet Fury Ltd

Hammer Hammerhead

Hammer Hazmat

Hammer Hazmat Pearl

Hammer Hazmat Solid

Hammer Infamous

Hammer Nail Titanium

Hammer NU Blue Hammer

Hammer Obsession

Hammer Obsession Tour

Hammer Obsession Tour Pearl

Hammer Ocean Vibe

Hammer Phobia

Hammer Pure Envy

Hammer Purple Pearl Hammer Urethane

Hammer Purple Solid Reactive

Hammer Radioactive Vibe

Hammer Raw Hammer Black Solid

Hammer Raw Hammer Purple/Pink/Silver Pearl

Hammer Rebel

Hammer Rebel Solid

Hammer Rebel Yell

Hammer Redemption Hybrid

Hammer Redemption Pearl

Hammer Rhodman

Hammer Rhodman Pearl

Hammer Rip'd

Hammer Rip'd Pearl

Hammer Rip'd Solid

Hammer Ruthless

Hammer Scandal

Hammer Scandal Pearl

Hammer Scandal/S

Hammer Scorpion

Hammer Scorpion Low Flare

Hammer Scorpion Sting

Hammer Scorpion Strike

Hammer Special Effect

Hammer Spike Black/Blue

Hammer Spike Black/Gold

Hammer Spike Orange/Blue

Hammer Statement Hybrid

Hammer The Sauce 15 SOLD OUT

Hammer Vibe Onyx

Hammer Vibe Orange

Hammer Viral

Hammer Viral Hybrid

Hammer Viral Solid

Hammer Web

Hammer Web M.B.

Hammer Web Pearl

Hammer Web Pearl Jade/Smoke

Hammer Web Tour Edition

Radical Bonus

Radical Bonus Pearl

Radical Incognito 15 Only

Radical Intel Pearl Special Edition

Radical Katana Assault

Radical Radical Conspiracy

Radical The Hitter

Track Cypher

Track Kinetic Black Ice

Track Kinetic Platinum

Track Latitude

Track Proof

Track Proof Pearl

Track Sensor Solid

Track Stealth

Track Stealth Hybrid

Track Stealth Pearl

Track Tempo

Track Theorem

Track Theorem Pearl

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Brunswick Attitude
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)

Here are my thoughts on the new Brunswick Attitude. The Attitude features a new Contra symmetric core- low RG/medium diff wrapped by aqua/silver/black Activator Plus 3.0 Pearl cover. Box finish is Factory Compound. The layout I used on mine is 75 x 4 ½ x 45 and I have thrown it at box surface and 4000 Siaair. I have thrown it on various THS as well a 47’ 25ml challenge pattern.
The intent of the Attitude is to be a quick response/flip type of motion. From what I have seen across the patterns on which I have thrown the Attitude, it does have a more angular type of motion. If I were to compare it to another Brunswick release, it would appear to be a slightly smoother version of a Melee Jab Midnight Blue. That being said, the Attitude seems to be a versatile piece and responds well to different hand positions and angles. The Attitude should excel on medium volume patterns on a variety of pattern distances and could easily be a benchmark ball given its apparent versatility. Many styles should find success with this release as well.
The Attitude is readily available. See your pro shop for more information on the new Brunswick Attitude.

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Brunswick Attitude Control
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Brunswick Attitude Control. The Attitude Control has a low Rg/medium diff. Contra symmetrical core wrapped by a deep red pearl urethane cover finished at 1000 Siaair. My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Attitude Control with a 50 x 4 x 10 layout. I have used this ball at factory finish. I have tried this release on 2022 PBA Wolf, 2022 PBA Chameleon as well as various THS.
I have recently become a huge fan of the new Attitude series of bowling balls from Brunswick. I am a true fan of the resin Attitude and have become a fan of the urethane Attitude Control. The thing about the Attitude Control is that the ball flat out hook and does not seem to be very sensitive to carrydown. I am also a big fan of the Purple Hammer. Compared to a Purple Hammer, the Attitude Control is definitely earlier whereas the Purple Hammer is a little more “flippy” within the context of a urethane ball. The Attitude Control was very effective on the PBA patterns referenced above and gave me a consistent read over time. For those looking for a urethane option that is a “little more” than a Purple Hammer, the Attitude Control is exactly what you want.
See your local proshop for more on the Brunswick Attitude Control.

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Brunswick Crown Victory
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
3

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Brunswick recently released their brand new Crown Victory. The Crown Victory is a higher RG/medium differential Tiered Hexagon symmetric core with what would definitely be a quicker response type of motion. The cover is Savvy Hook Hybrid cover with the HK-22 base colored in sapphire and black. Factory finish is 1500 Siaair with Factory Crown Compound. I've drilled 2, the one in this review has a 60 x 5 x 70 layout. I've tried it on fresh and leftover THS.

The intent of the ball is to be a quick response, angular piece of equipment. From what I've seen, the Crown Victory hits the target. I originally tested the ball on leftover house shot. It's easy to see the quicker response of the Crown Victory. It definitely scoots through the front (even on burnt heads) and comes off the spot very hard and keeps going. I absolutely see this ball in play for medium to lighter volume patterns and when patterns are broken down and a cleaner ball is needed. As a person with lower ball speed, I appreciate what the Crown Victory offers for length and a quick response off the spot.

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Brunswick Defender Hybrid
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Recently, I had a chance to punch the Brunswick Defender Hybrid. The Defender Hybrid features the Portal X asymmetric core wrapped by a pink/purple violet A.C.T. 3.0 hybrid cover with the new HK-22 additive. The new additive makes the colors more vibrant. In terms of ball motion, the Brunswick website indicates that the additive allows for increased response to friction within a shinier finish. I drilled mine with a 55 x 5 x 70 layout and tried it at box surface. (Brunswick Crown Compound over 1500 Siaair.) I've tried it on Kegel Neon- our THS- both on fresh and on 2 day old leftovers.

The intent of the behind the ball was to create a more angular motion in an asymmetric ball. From what I've seen thus far, mission accomplished. The ball easily glides through the front and the response to the friction is quick. It is a quick response even with this layout which, if anything, should create a longer/smoother motion. What impressed me was bowling on the leftover THS. The new Defender Hybrid made the lane look like it still had oil and fresher backends notwithstanding not being oiled in 2 days. While it was only practice, shot 300 in only the 3rd game with the ball on the fresh THS.

The Brunswick Defender Hybrid is now available. See your local pro shop for more information.

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Brunswick Ethos
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Brunswick Ethos that recently released several weeks ago. The Ethos features a lower RG/higher diff. symmetrical core wrapped by a pearl purple/sky/carbon pearl reactive cover with the widely used HK-22 base. Box finish is 1500 Siaair with factory compound. I drilled one with a 60 x 4 3/4 x 70 layout with box finish. I have tried the Ethos on fresh THS.

The manufacturer's intent was to create a ball that has an angular motion on medium to heavier volumes of oil. Notwithstanding the pin down layout, the Ethos is quick off the spot. My thinking is that I would probably add a touch of surface just to slow the reaction down a bit and get the ball started a little earlier on fresh. At box surface, I could see this ball in play on medium to lighter volumes of oil or perhaps even on broken down patterns where the bowler is looking to move back to the right with a cleaner ball. I, again, will be very interested to see what the Ethos looks like with a touch more surface on medium to a little higher volume of oil.

The Brunswick Ethos is readily available...please see your pro shop for more information.

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Brunswick Infinity
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I recently drilled the new Brunswick Infinity. I have tried it on fresh 2023 PBA Scorpion- 42 feet, 29ml. The Infinity was left at box surface which is 2000 Siaair. The layout used is 45 x 4 1/2 x 30. The core is a medium/high RG/medium/ diff asymmetric core (2.52/.051 for 15#) wrapped by a red/navy/purple ice AXH Hybrid cover. My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up.

The new Infinity interested me as it has a little higher RG in an asymmetric core which is helpful given my lower ball speed and the higher friction surfaces we see in our area. I was very pleased with what I saw on Scorpion after a game or 2. At the outset, the Infinity was a bit touchy but once a small hole was burned into the pattern and I increased rotation at the bottom, the Infinity truly excelled. It does seem to be a little cleaner than most asymmetric core equipment. When exposed to friction, it shows a continuous arc type of motion. From what I saw, it appears that the Infinity will fit nicely in between stronger asymmetric core/cover equipment and the stronger symmetric core/cover equipment. I think that this might be a benchmark ball in an asymmetric core option...not the strongest ball, not the weakest...that somewhere in between ball from which the bowler can ball up or down.

The Infinity by Brunswick is available on June 22...see your pro shop for more information.

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Brunswick Ivory Rhino Pro
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Ivory Rhino Pro is the follow-up to the Teal Rhino Pro originally released last year. The Ivory Rhino Pro features the same high RG/low differential Vintage Light Bulb symmetrical core found in the Teal Rhino Pro wrapped by an Ivory colored Activator Plus 3.0 Pearl coverstock with the HK-22 base. Box finish is 1500 Siaair underneath Factory Compound.
The Ivory Rhino Pro is designed to be a quick response ball in the Brunswick line- an angular piece of equipment. From what I saw in throwing one, the Ivory Rhino Pro hits the target. Compared to a Teal Rhino, I see not only a quicker response but more down lane motion from the Ivory. I believe this release will be best used later in blocks in tournaments, or lower volume patterns where other pieces are simply reading too early. Additionally, this new Rhino Pro has great shelf appeal and will stand out when thrown in the bowling center.
The Brunswick Ivory Rhino Pro is readily available- see your local pro shop for more information!

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Brunswick Knock Out
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Brunswick Knock Out which is currently available. The new Knock Out features the ever versatile, symmetrical Melee core wrapped by a Black Savvy Hook 3.0 Solid cover Box finish is 2000 Siaair and has a 2 year warranty.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled my Knock Out with a 40 x 6 x 25 layout and have thrown it at box surface on Kegel Winding Road, Kegel Tungsten and THS.
The Melee core balls such as the Jab SE and the Jab Blood Red have quickly become among my favorite Brunswick symmetrical core equipment. Each one of the above balls have shown length which a very defined/sharp backend motion which is critical when trying to go left to right on a pattern on the right side. So, when the Knock Out was announced, I was eager to try it. The Knock Out, as would be expected from a solid with a duller surface, showed a little earlier and smoother motion compared to a similarly drilled Jab Blood Red. That being said, the Knock Out still showed that defined and sharp motion across all fresh patterns listed above. From what I have seen, the Knock out will be at its best on medium to heavier volume patterns and depending on speed, a variety of pattern distances. Brunswick has a great combination here when looking for a symmetrical piece of equipment that will go left to right with confidence and continuation. On fresh, start with a Knock Out and when the pattern breaks down/transitions, go to a Jab Blood Red. Like with other Melee core balls, a variety of styles will be able to use this piece of equipment.
See your local proshop for more information about the Brunswick Knock Out!

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Brunswick Knock Out Bruiser
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I drilled up 2 of the new Brunswick Knock Out Bruisers...the latest generation in the Knock Out/Melee Jab series of equipment. The Knock Out/Melee Jab series has always earned a trusted place in my bag since the first time I threw the Melee Jab SE after the EBI acquisition in 2019. Thus, when I saw the new Knock Out Bruiser coming out, I had to drill a couple. The new Knock Out Bruiser has an updated Savvy Hook 4.0 cover...the next generation solid cover over the original Knock Out. I have tried the Bruiser on THS leftovers at box surface which is 2000 Siaair. The layout I used on the one I have tried this far is 60 x 5 x 70.

This ball did not disappoint! As might be expected with the stronger cover, I was a bit further left compared to a similarly drilled original Knock Out. I moved about 4 left on the approach and 2 with my eyes and tried to get the ball to the same spot. The motion between the two is very comparable which is great to see...just a bit further left with the Bruiser. If you are looking to replace original Knock Outs or are looking for a great benchmark ball with a solid cover for medium/higher volume patterns, the Knock Out Bruiser is the answer. Again, since the original Knock Out was released, I've used them many times with success in NEBA's and other events. I also found that with this particular series of equipment, different ball motions can be drilled and many styles will find success.

The Knock Out Bruiser will be available on January 27, 2023. See your pro shop for more information.

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Brunswick Melee Jab Blood Red
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Brunswick Melee Jab Blood Red. The Melee Jab Blood Red is a nearly exact remake of the highly popular original Melee Jab/Melee Jab SE. It features the Melee symmetrical core wrapped by the Savvy Hook 2.0 Pearl cover. The color of the Ball is Blood Red Pearl and box surface is Crown Factory Compound.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a Melee Jab Blood Red with a 40x6x25 layout. I have used this ball at factory finish and at 2000 Abralon. I have tried the new Melee Jab Blood Red on THS and Kegel Tungsten.
When a company basically builds the same ball and rereleases it, there is usually a good reason. Such is absolutely the case here. The original Melee Jab SE literally never showed any OB. It would turn the corner from pretty much anywhere as the strength and continuation of the motion in the back was so defined. If you are looking for a ball that will allow you to stand left and throw right on a variety of patterns, the Melee Jab Blood Red is for you. From what I have seen, the ball is very responsive to hand position changes so it is easy to control the amount of change of direction. That notwithstanding, the Melee Jab Blood Red will be at its best on medium volume patterns or broken down patterns when looking for strong left to right motion. It should be able to handle a variety of pattern distances. Again the hallmark of this ball is how strong it responds to downlane friction and continues sideways.
See your local proshop for more on the Melee Jab Blood Red.

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Brunswick Melee Jab Midnight Blue
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I have had the chance to drill the new Melee Jab Midnight Blue by Brunswick. The Melee Jab Midnight Blue features the same Melee symmetrical core as found in other Melee series bowling balls wrapped by a Savvy Hook 3.0 pearl cover. Factory finish is Crown Compound. I copied the layout I used in a Melee Jab SE...60 x 5 1/4 x 70. I trust this layout for this particular core and liked the ball motion in the SE. I put 3000 Siaair on both balls for comparison purposes.

My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have tried the new Melee Jab Midnight Blue on THS, 2021 PBA Roth and 2021 PBA Weber.
As I noted with the Melee Jab Blood Red and the Knock Out, Melee core equipment have quickly become some of my favorite "go to" or benchmark type of bowling balls. The Melee Jab Midnight Blue is the newest generation of the Melee series. What is interesting about the new Midnight Blue, notwithstanding that it is a pearl, is that it reads earlier than I expected. What is clear between both balls with the same layout, the Melee Jab Midnight Blue is about 3-4 boards left at the arrows out to about the same area down lane. It is a little earlier and slower in response compared to the Melee Jab SE. The Jab SE is cleaner and quicker off the spot. The Midnight Blue is a different motion compared to other Melee core pearl equipment.

I expect that the Melee Jab Midnight will be versatile in that the ball will be in play for many styles/rev rates etc. on a variety of medium volumes patterns. I will be interested to compare the Midnight Blue to a Knock Out with a similar layout, same core but with the SOLID Savvy Hook 3.0 cover.

See your local pro shop for more information on the new Brunswick Melee Jab Midnight Blue.

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Brunswick Melee Jab Special Edition
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Brunswick Melee Jab SE. It comes with a Deep Bruise Purple Pearl Savvy Hook 2.0 cover finished with Crown Factory Compound. It has the Melee symmetrical core.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled one with a 60 x 5 ¼ x 70 layout. I have thrown it at box finish and 3000 Abralon.
By way of disclosure, I am a former EBI Hammer staffer now a staffer with the Brunswick Brands from the November acquisition. In drilling the Melee Jab SE, I was looking for a reaction similar to the Black Chaos. Although a different coverstock, the core numbers were similar. I wanted a ball motion that would allow me to go around the lane and recover hard. Compared to a similarly drilled Black Chaos I was about 3 further right with a little tighter angle. That might be due to the fact that the Black Chaos has a solid cover the the Jab SE has a pearl cover. I went over the ball with a 3000 Abralon pad and the motion with the Jab SE was almost identical. I was able to stand far left and send it right with no fear of recovery. Hitting power is excellent with this piece. This ball should excel on medium volume/medium distance patterns and broken down patterns.
If you are looking to replicate the Black Chaos reaction, consider a Brunswick Melee Jab SE!

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Brunswick Prism Hybrid
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Brunswick Prism Hybrid. It features the Portal asymmetric core wrapped by the ACT Hybrid coverstock- color Cyan/Black and Opaque White. Box finish is Crown Factory Compound. The Prism Hybrid features DOT technology and thus, carries a 4 year warranty
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have thrown this ball on House and Kegel Tungsten patterns. I have thrown it at box and 3000 Abralon. The layout used on the Brunswick Prism Hybrid I drilled was 30 x 6 x 20, no weight hole.
As a former Hammer Staffer, now under the Brunswick family, I wanted to compare this ball to the Hammer Statement Hybrid which by the numbers, would be the closest ball to the Prism Hybrid. The Prism Hybrid, as would be expected shows strong downlane motion. What I found to be interesting is compared to a similarly drilled/surfaced Hammer Statement Hybrid, I found the Prism put me about 3 boards further right. Overall, compared to many other asymmetric pieces, I did not feel like I had to force the Prism Hybrid through the fronts- it glides through on its own with again a very strong and defined downlane motion. Unless you have considerable speed, the Prism I believe is best used on medium to longer distance patterns with medium to heavier volumes. I think this ball will suit many different styles and could be a benchmark ball for many.
See you proshop operator for more information or to purchase a Brunswick Prism Hybrid.

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Brunswick Rhino Magenta/Purple/Navy
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Brunswick Magenta/Purple/Navy Rhino. This particular Rhino has a solid reactive cover with an inverted lightbulb core. Box surface is Factory Crown Polish. I have drilled one with a 50 x 4 ¾ x 30 and have thrown it on a verity of THS.
Even though the Rhino is an affordable price point release, the ball actually has great performance for the dollar. This ball will work very well on wet/dry THS and potentially on shorter sport patterns. Those with slower ball speeds and/or who are rev dominant players may find success with the Rhino.
See your pro shop for more information on the Brunswick Magenta/Purple/Navy Rhino.

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Brunswick Teal Rhino Pro
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
So, recently there has been a lot of buzz about the remake of the Brunswick Teal Rhino Pro. Recently, I drilled 2- 1 with my favorite pin down layout, the other with a stronger pin placement, pin up. I have tried the new Teal Rhino Pro on THS and 2023 PBA Scorpion. I used it at box surface. I also, for fun, I went to the basement to find an original Teal Rhino Pros from 1993 and put the same 2000 Siaair surface as the remake.

The idea behind the remake was to use the exact same core/thick shell as the original Teal but with an updated cover to handle the volumes of oil used nowadays but yet, be faithful to the original motion of the ball. From what I see...mission accomplished. On PBA Scorpion, the original gets “there” but it's laboring. The remake clearly reads the lane better with much clearer definition. What is interesting is that BOTH the original and remake have the rolly/smooth/slower response type of motion. At least for the pin down one, I could see this on wet/dry house shots and medium to shorter sport patterns. My gut tells me the pin up one with a stronger pin placement would be best on longer patterns which shows the versatility of the new Teal Rhino Pro. I have every confidence that this remake Teal Rhino Pro will easily earn a place in my bag. Also, as I recall from back in the day, the Teal Rhino Pro worked for every style and type of game…the remake should be no different.

The new Teal Rhino Pro releases I believe August 17, 2023- see your pro shop for more information!

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Brunswick Vintage Phantom
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the REMAKE Brunswick Phantom. It comes with a Black/Steel Grey solid reactive cover with box finish at 1000 Siaair and Cynosure symmetrical core. The Phantom features DOT technology and has an industry best 4 year warranty.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled have drilled 2, one with a 45 x 5 x 30 and the other with a 60 x 5 ¼ x 70 layout. I have thrown it at box finish and 3000 Abralon.
By way of disclosure, I am a former EBI Hammer staffer now a staffer with the Brunswick Brands from the November acquisition. In drilling the Phantom, I expected them to be a replacement for the Web Tours as the “numbers” are similar. I always liked the Web Tours for short sport patterns. In comparing the Phantom to the Web Tour, I had to be about 5 left compared to a Web Tour. I also saw more “shape” from the Phantom compared to the Web Tour. I then went over the Phantom with a 3000 Abralon pad on the spinner and found better ease getting the ball through the front. The best way to describe the ball motion of the Phantom is smooth and continuous. I believe that the Phantom will work well on shorter patterns because it is so smooth as well as fresh house patterns as I expect the Phantom to blend out any over/under.
If you are looking to replicate the Web Tour reaction, consider a Brunswick Phantom!

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Columbia 300 Cuda PowerCOR
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts on the remake of the Columbia Cuda. The Cuda features a symmetrical PowerCOR cor wrapped by burgundy/black ERT solid cover finished at 1500 Siaair. The layout I used is 60 x 4 3/4 x 70. I have tried the ball on Kegel Neon and two 43’ challenge patterns.
For this release, I was looking for a hard revving symmetrical option for higher volume patterns. The Cuda did not disappoint. The THS at my home is Kegel Neon- a lower volume longer pattern on a high friction AMF SPL surface. In this environment, I had to be inside to get enough oil to kick the ball down the lane. The Cuda got around the corner and trips the 10 efficiently.It's overall shape is early but continuous. At box surface, the Cuda is definitely a ball for fresh. I've tried the ball also at 4000 Siaair and at this surface, the ball handled Kegel Neon much better. Looking at what I saw, I see myself using this ball on medium to longer distance patterns that have higher volumes...the first ball out of the bag if you will in those environments.

The Columbia Cuda is available.. See your local pro shop for more information on the remake Columbia Cuda!

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Columbia 300 Power Torq
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my quick impressions of the Columbia Power Torq. Mine is drilled 40 x 5 x 20...a fairly standard pin up layout for me. I did go over the surface with a 3000 Siaair pad. Box surface is 2000 Siaair. I have tried the Power Torq on fresh and burnt THS as well as 2021 PBA Roth pattern. My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up.

I have seen a range of opinions relative to best uses of this release as the Power Torq has gotten lots of exposure on social media. My feeling- this is a very versatile benchmark type of ball and can be in play on many environments. The Power Torque is not the most responsive release nor is it the slowest...it is somewhere in between which is why I think it's a good first ball out of the bag. The Power Torq on fresh THS shows that medium response/continuous motion. While I have thrown mine at 3000 Siaair, I have heard from others that the Power Torq does respond well to surface adjustments. I do believe that many different types of rev rates, speeds, releases etc. will be able to effectively throw this ball.

See your local pro shop for more information on the new Columbia Power Torq.

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Columbia 300 Ricochet
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I decided to pick up a couple of Columbia Ricochet bowling balls. The Ricochet features a low RG/high differential core wrapped by a midnight pearl Micro-Flex coverstock with an HK-22C base. Box surface is 500 Siaair, Factory Compound and then finished with Factory Polish. I've drilled 2- the one in the video below has my favorite pin down layout, 60 x 5 x70. As I usually do with any factory polished ball, I knocked the polish off with a 4000 Siaair pad. I've tried the Ricochet on 2 different recreational patterns.

Over the years, we tend to remember certain pieces of equipment that give us a shape we really like. We tend to remember the covers and core numbers etc. One ball I always loved prior to the EBI acquisition was the Columbia Black Chaos. That piece had such an incredible shape with a very sharp defined motion when it saw friction. I also remember the original Brunswick Knock Out which had a comparable motion. While I've learned to use slower response equipment effectively and not always look for quicker responses, there are times when the quicker shape works effectively. The Ricochet, when I saw the initial information, intrigued me because on the core numbers, it looked almost identical to a Columbia Black Chaos. So, I drilled them and it's very close! I used it in our scratch league without any practice with it and shot 771 on scratch league pattern, Kegel Lithium. It is perhaps a touch less than a Black Chaos but I love the shape and motion it offers. The Ricochet hits very hard and I expect it will get plenty of usage on lighter to medium volumes of oil...medium to potentially longer pattern distances. I can see this ball also being in play with the lanes are going through transition. I will say that this piece is effective going straighter and also with steeper launch angles. The Ricochet has already earned a spot in my arsenal and it will see plenty of time on the lanes.

The Columbia Ricochet is readily available, see your local pro shop for more information.

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DV8 Collision
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
A little late to review the new DV8 Collision. Mine is drilled 60 x 4 1/2 x 20. I have tried it on THS and 2022 PBA Salvino. At all times I've thrown it at box surface which is Crown Factory Compound.
The intent was length with a strong backend motion on medium to heavy volume patterns. The new asymmetric hybrid Collision by DV8, for me, offers a unique ball motion. What's interesting is when I threw the ball on THS, when I would throw it to the dry with my normal release, the ball was a bit "touchy" and would flatten out at the pocket. However, when I would move in on the oil, tighten my angles a bit and increase rotation, the DV8 Collision looked much better. In fact, on the Salvino pattern which is a longer , higher volume pattern, the Collision looked excellent. The Collision did not over skid and carried many off hits with the increased rotation and tighter angles. So, from what I see, the Collision might be a little more condition specific but in the right environment (medium/higher volumes with tighter angles) the Collision will definitely excel. This is the same ball that tied our Worcester County series record a month ago- 868.
See your local pro shop for more information on the DV8 Collision.
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DV8 Damn Good Verge
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new DV8 Damn Good Verge. The Damn Good Verge features the symmetrical Threshold MD core (modified from original Verge) wrapped by an Inciter Max Coverstock. The color is Grape Sparkle and box finish is 1500 Siaair.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Damn Good Verge with a 60 x 5 ¼ x 70 layout. I have tried the Damn Good Verge at box surface on a variety of THS as well as Kegel Tungsten.
This release made quite a splash where Kris Koeltzow made a huge run on a Fox telecast during the PBA Player’s Championship, West Region. The Damn Good Verge shows better length and energy retention than the original Verge Solid. In terms of ball motion, I would best describe the Damn Good Verge as a Bonus Solid on steroids. Both the Bonus and Damn Good Verge have low RG symmetrical cores which encourage a strong/early read of the lane. However, compared to a Bonus Solid, the Damn Good Verge shows more motion off of the spot. The Damn Good Verge will be a great tournament piece on higher volume patterns. Due to the increased downlane motion, the Damn Good Verge should excel on medium to longer distance patterns.
See your local proshop for more on the DV8 Damn Good Verge.

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DV8 Decree
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new DV8 Decree. The DV8 Decree features a medium RG symmetrical core wrapped by the Fang Solid cover finished a 3000 Siaair. The color of the Decree is white/black/pink.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have drilled 2 Decrees- 1 with 60 x 5 ¼ x 70 (pin down) and another with a 40 x 4 ½ x 20 layout (pin up). I have tried the DV8 Decree at box surface on fresh and burnt THS.
The goal of drilling the Decree was to replace Hammer Vibe Oranges- to find a good all-around benchmark ball. The Decree did not disappoint. On fresh THS, the pin down Decree showed plenty of continuous motion and power from various angles/hand positions. The pin up Decree, as expected, showed a sharper/quicker transition which indicates that the Decree can achieve different motions depending on layout and thus is versatile. The Decree should be best suited for most medium volume patterns on medium to shorter lengths. The Decree definitely will be one of those balls that is a “benchmark” ball- the ball that you start with or at least will tell you whether you need to go up or down a ball. I expect that given the versatility of the Decree based on layout, the ball should be suited for many different styles.
See your local proshop for more information about the new DV8 Decree!

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DV8 Medusa
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I did drill a new DV8 Medusa for several reasons. First, I liked what I saw for the intent of the ball and the numbers in the asymmetric core. Plus, and I won't lie, the Inciter Max-Flip pearl cover is black, yellow and gold in color. Anyone who knows me knows how much I love black and yellow together so truth be told, I got the ball because I liked the color combination. The layout on the Medusa I drilled is 75 x 4 x 25 and went over the ball with a 4000 Siaair pad. Factory finish is Crown Factory Compound. I tried this ball on fresh and leftover THS, a fresh 39' sport pattern as well as 2021 PBA Roth pattern.
This might be one occasion where the way I am seeing this ball is a little different than the manufacturer's intent. The ball is designed to be more for medium to higher volumes of oil with a more skid/flip motion. However, when I threw this ball on fresh THS as well as the other fresh patterns, I found the Medusa to be a bit "touchy". The THS at my home house is Kegel Neon and is not super high in terms of volume. (24.7 ml). On leftover THS however this is where I found the Medusa to excel. The Medusa had no issue clearing the heads on the leftover THS and still retaining enough energy go through the pins well. The Medusa thus, as I see it, is a great choice on the medium to lighter volumes of oil and a definite potential option when the pattern has broken down.
See your local pro shop for more information on the DV8 Medusa.
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DV8 Verge
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the DV8 Verge. The Verge features the Threshold low RG/symmetrical core wrapped by the Inciter Solid coverstock colored in Navy/Purple and Crimson. Box finish is 2000 Siaair and features DOT technology and thus carries with it an industry leading 4 year warranty.
My “vitals” are 405 RPM rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled my Verge with a 40 x 4 ½ x 40 layout and have thrown it at box surface. I have tried it on fresh and burnt THS as well as a 2:1 37’ sport pattern with 29ml.
At box finish, the Verge will handle the heaviest volumes of oil. I would best describe the ball motion as very early and aggressive in the front with a smooth downlane motion. On fresh THS, I had to ride the oil all the way to the pocket with straighter angles to get it effectively down the lane. With that approach however, the Verge had no trouble handling the “puddle” in the middle and getting to the pocket/carrying. On the sport pattern, again the key to the Verge being effective at box surface was having sufficient volume in the front in order to get the ball through the front and to store enough energy to the back in order to carry effectively.
Bowlers with higher ball speeds will find the Verge to be a great asset in their bag as will people with lower rev rates. I believe the Verge will excel on fresh, higher volume patterns when going straighter through the front is required and the key to success is getting the ball to see the lane early enough.
See your local proshop about the DV8 Verge.

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Ebonite Big Time Special Edition
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I decided to punch a couple of new bowling balls around Christmas. I decided to drill an Ebonite Big Time SE, which is a remake of the popular Ebonite Big Time from the mid 2000's I believe. This is a ball with medium/low RG, higher diff symmetrical core wrapped by a pearl GB 13.7 cover with the HK-22 base. This is an updated cover from the original. Surface preparation is 1500 Siaair. I drilled mine with a fairly standard pin up layout for me of 50 x 4 1/2 x 35. I tried this on fairly fresh THS at box surface. I've also tried this piece on a medium volume 44' sport pattern.

The Ebonite Big Time SE, at this surface preparation, is a ball best used on higher volume fresh patterns whether the bowler is looking for a symmetrical core ball for the fresh. The Big Time SE is fairly smooth off the spot but continues through the pins. It does seem cleaner and quicker than some asymmetric core pieces but at this surface preparation, I can see this ball in play on medium to higher volume fresh patterns. It handled well the 44' fresh sport pattern as well as the fairly fresh THS. Plus, it looks very sharp going down the lane with its black/silver swirl cover. I expect that this ball should work for a variety of styles, rev rates etc.

The Ebonite Big Time SE is readily available for purchase- see your local pro shop for more information.

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Ebonite Fireball
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the recently released Ebonite Fireball. The Fireball features a medium RG (2.51)/lower diff (.039) symmetric core. The cover is a GB 10.7 with the popular HK-22 base finished with Factory Compound. Mine is drilled with a 45 x 4 1/2 x 45 layout and I've tried it at box and 2000 Siaair surface on our THS and on challenge patterns.

Being that I still have a decent rev rate with lower ball speed, I generally like symmetric core pieces especially on the older synthetic surfaces in our area and the medium volumes of oil that are used on the patterns. When I got the Fireball, I wanted another option to complement the Hammer Radioactive Vibe. Although the numbers between the 2 pieces are comparable, there is a definite difference in motion. I see the Fireball as revving a little earlier and being earlier/more forward than a Radioactive Vibe. The Fireball is a great benchmark ball on medium fresh patterns or broken down patterns .I think the key is to use the Fireball on the correct volume of oil.

The Ebonite Fireball is readily available...it is a sharp looking piece- see your pro shop for more information.

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Ebonite Game Breaker 4
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Ebonite GB4. The new GB$ features an enhanced V2 symmetrical core wrapped by a dark red/red GB 12.0 solid cover. Box finish is 1500 Siaair.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a GB4 with my standard pin up layout of 40 x 6 x 25 and have thrown it at box surface on a variety of THS..
The Ebonite GB series, over the years, has been THE hallmark line of Ebonite bowling equipment. The GB4 will continue that tradition and offer top level ball motion at the mid-performance price point. In terms of ball motion in comparison to several newer Brands of Brunswick releases, I would put it between the Damn Good Verge by DV8 and the Brunswick Knock Out. The GB4 has a little more length and recovery than a Damn Good Verge which feels a little earlier and smoother…the GB4 picks up earlier and is smoother than the Knock Out which is cleaner with a stronger down lane motion. The GB4, given its overall ball motion, will be aa good benchmark ball and its surface can easily be adjusted to accommodate the volume of oil in the pattern. Like other GB series balls, the GB4 should suit a variety of rev rates, styles and speeds.
See your local proshop for more on the Ebonite GB4.

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Ebonite Game Breaker 4 Hybrid
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
So, I am admittedly a little late to this party but as the saying goes, "Better late than never" and that is a very apropos saying with regard to the GB4 Hybrid by Ebonite. The GB4 Hybrid has the enhanced V2 symmetric core wrapped by a purple/black GB 12.0 hybrid cover with the HK -22 base. Factory finish is Factory Compound over 1500 Siaair. I have drilled 1, 40 x 4 1/2 x 30 and left it at box surface. I have tried it on fairly fresh THS but I've also tried this on broken down Kegel Lithium, another recreational pattern.

In all honesty, several years ago I drilled the GB4 Solid (Red one) and never really warmed up to it. I just didn't like the shape that the GB4 Solid gave for my game. But, I saw the GB4 Hybrid made several TV shows last season and I've seen several of these in my travels at tournaments and liked what I saw. So, when the opportunity presented itself, I decided to drill a couple. I am actually very glad I did. What's interesting about this about the GB4 Hybrid is that the ball gets down the lane without difficulty but when the ball makes it's move, it does NOT jump and go sideways...it actually has a little more rounded shape off the spot. For a shinier ball to do that is, for me, a little unusual but it works very well for my game. I threw it for 2 games on Monday and liked what I saw so much that I immediately used it in transition during Tuesday night scratch league. (Normally I like to work with a ball a little more to understand its capabilities before deciding whether it goes into the arsenal.)Where the ball I was throwing forced me too far left and into a bad launch angle, I went to the GB4 Hybrid and moved back right. Every single time I threw it into the dry and thought it would go through the beak, it made its move and just set-up right before the pocket and carried every hitI think the GB4 Hybrid will be effective in transition when fronts are gone and there is friction to the right or on lighter to medium fresh patterns.

The GB4 Hybrid is readily available. See your local pro shop for more information.

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Ebonite Turbo X
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
3

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I've had a chance to punch a couple of the new Turbo X remakes by Ebonite. Back in the day, notwithstanding how popular they were, I had never drilled one. So, I was quite eager to drill the remake Turbo X. The Turbo X features the same symmetrical Turbo core found in the original. The coverstock has been updated to handle today's oils/volumes. The remake Turbo X features a purple solid GB 10.7 solid cover with the HK-22 base. Box surface is 1500 Siaair finished with Factory Compound. The Turbo X featured in the video here has a 50 x 4 x 25 layout. I've tried it on fresh and leftover THS as well as fresh 2025 PBA Shark (with an obvious surface adjustment)

The stated goal was to recreate the original Turbo X motion for today's conditions. Ebonite was seeking to create a quicker response piece for medium to lighter volumes. I honestly have no basis for comparison to the original. So, I can only judge the remake Turbo X based on what I see in the present. That being said, I was very impressed with what I saw. Our lane surface, given its age and condition, has tons of built in friction. Yet, the Turbo X glides through the front and does show a quick downlane response with the ball splitting the 8-9 going through the pins. So, for medium to lighter volume patterns or broken down patterns at box surface, the Turbo X is absolutely in play. However, I also got to try the Turbo X on our PBA sport league pattern for practice, fresh 2025 version of Shark. As the Turbo X was the only ball I had with me, I had to find a way to make it work. Interestingly, with an aggressive surface prep coupled with my lower ball speed, the Turbo X looked really good on Shark! I was pleasantly surprised as I wasn't sure the core/cover would match up on a longer, high volume sport pattern. The Turbo X reminds me of a Hammer Vibe (and most know how much I loooooove Vibes ) but with a little stronger, more responsive cover. In the end, I truly like what I see with the Turbo X and they have already earned a place in my bags.

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Hammer 3-D Offset
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I was able to get punched up recently the brand new Hammer 3D Offset. It is a remake of the highly popular Faball Hammer 3D Offset of the late 90's. The layout is 50 x 4 1/2 x 30 and I threw it on our fresh THS (Kegel Neon) at box surface as well as the 2021 PBA Mark Roth pattern.

I will say that I still have an original 3D Offset (different layout but matched surface) and compared to the original 3D Offset, the new remake 3D Offset is faithful to the original in terms of motion/shape…but definitely stronger.

What I see with the new Hammer 3D Offset is a very heavy rolling, fast revving ball with more of an arc type motion. It is similar to what I recall the original 3D Offset to be. It does require a good amount of oil in the pattern (at least at box surface) in order to read the pattern correctly/go through the pins effectively. In comparison, I had with me a Widow Ghost with a similar layout, another stronger asymmetric core ball with a pearl cover and while I was able to play a similar line, the SHAPE was very different with the Ghost being cleaner with a quicker downlane response. I expect the new 3D Offset to be in play on fresh patterns with medium to higher volumes of oil where one is looking for a predictable motion to control the lane.

See your pro shop for more information on the new Hammer 3D Offset.

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Hammer 3-D Offset Assault
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
January 16, 2025 was the release day for the new Hammer 3D Offset Assault, the 3rd in the line of the 3D Offset Hammers. The new Assault features the same High Rev Offset asymmetric core found in prior 3D Offsets wrapped by a bright red HK-22 cohesion hybrid cover. Box finish is 2000 Siaair. I've tried the Assault on fresh and leftover THS. The layout on the ball I used was 50 x 4 1/2 x 25.

To my eye, like prior 3D Offset releases, the motion with the Assault is earlier and forward off the spot. I think that with this cover/surface overall the Assault covers more boards than the prior ones. That being said, the motion to my eye is definitely rolly and forward off the spot. In testing the new Assault, I had to use a considerable amount of rotation to get the ball to respond properly as our house shot has lighter volume and longer distance. From all that I can see, the Assault is definitely a ball for the fresh on higher volumes of oil. I also think the Assault will excel on medium to shorter distance patterns.

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Hammer 3-D Offset Attack
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Today, the new Hammer 3D Offset Attack will be released. The new Hammer 3D Offset Attack features the same High Rev Offset asymmetric core wrapped with Neoflip 25 cover with the brand new HK-22 additive. The new HK-22 additive enhances the shelf appeal of the ball as well the downlane motion. The layout used was 40 x 4 1/2 x 20. I have tried the new Attack at box surface which is Factory Compound over 1500 Siaair. The patterns I have tested the ball on are Kegel Neon and a 40’ high volume 4:1 challenge pattern.

The idea behind the Attack is to have a quicker response off the friction. For comparison, I have thrown the original 3D Offset released earlier this year with a similar layout. While both show a smoother type of motion, the Attack does show a quicker response. The lines used are similar...but I do see the response as quicker. I am looking forward to using this release on medium volume patterns with medium to shorter distances or when I need a more angular motion after using the original 3D Offset.

The Hammer 3D Offset Attack releases today- see your pro shop for more information!

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Hammer Absolut Curve
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I feel this ball has the potential to be a new "benchmark" ball for Hammer. Forget about the fact that this ball is VERY SHARP LOOKING...the performance of the Absolut Curve is ABSOLUTELY amazing! I drilled mine with a 5" pin to pap distance with no weight hole. I kept it at box surface and I have used it on a THS and Masters pattern in my home house. On both patterns, this ball demonstrated no quit...this ball flat out backends.It is very easy to stand left and send this ball to the right and watch it boom back. Change of direction can easily be tamed down by staying more up the back of the ball. However, because this ball has reads the lane so well and is capable of doing different things, it is extremely versatile and likely will be one of the first balls out of the bag. I think because of the performance chacateristic of the ball, it will also fit many different styles of bowler and will hit a very wide variety of oil volumes and distances!!!!!
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Hammer Absolut Flip
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Absolut Flip by Hammer features the same Fatmax core found in the other Absolut releases manufactured with Carbon Fiber. Surrounding this core in a striking Blue/ Copper/ Silver color is an H2000 pearl cover, factory polished which enhances length and recovery downlane.
Of the 3 releases in the Absolut line by Hammer, the Absolut Flip is the most angular of this symmetric line of bowling balls. The Flip gets down the lane easily and recovers nicely down the lane. As with all Hammers manufactured with the Carbon Fiber cores, the hitting and striking power of this ball is incredible. Be prepared to see pins fly as the ball enters the pocket.
This ball will excel on medium volume patterns and depending on layout, will work on many medium length patterns. It may well be a nice “go to” ball if you have started with an Absolut Hook or Absolut Curve and the heads have broken down. As a point of reference, compared to a new Black/Blue Spike, the Absolut Flip is a bit earlier and smoother. That being said, again, compared to the other Absolut releases, the Flip dooes generate the most length and recovery.
The Absolut Flip is currently available in proshops so ask about the new Absolut Flip by Hammer.

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Hammer Absolut Hook
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my review of the Absolut Hook. The Absolut Hook features the FatMax Core with a stronger solid cover compared to the Absolut Curve. I drilled mine with an 80 x 5 ½ x 20 layout. I had drilled an Absolut Curve with a similar layout so I wanted a better comparison between the 2 pieces of equipment. While the Hook comes factory dull, I did got over the ball with Ebonite Factory Finish polish to get more length and recovery on the ball and to match the surface on the Curve to get a better point of comparison. I found the Absolut Hook to be about 3-5 boards further left than the Absolut Curve . I found the motion of the Hook to be earlier and smoother than the Curve. As such, I found that straighter angles are better for the Hook because of its earlier/smoother motion. As such, my sense is the strength of this symmetrical release will be fresh patterns and patterns where there is over/under. When the heads start to go, the preferred option, I believe, would be to switch to a Curve or another weaker piece such as a Cobalt Vibe. Overall, Hammer has developed two pieces of equipment that complement each other nicely in the Hook and the Curve. I think the ball will be very effective for a variety of styles and because its core/cover combination, it may well be a nice benchmark ball for many players.
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Hammer Amp
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The AMP is best characterized by a strong, early, smooth reaction and is best suited for fresh oil patterns. It does continue through the pocket very nicely and hits hard. I drilled mine with a 50 x 6 x 20 layout with a weight hole on my PAP. I left the ball at box surface. I found this ball to react EXACTLY as advertised. On fresh, I could close down my angles a little bit and see the ball read predictably and smoothly. It would not jerk off of the spot and it did continue through the pins. It especially mellowed out the wet/dry that is normally found on the THS. I believe this ball will see its best use on any fresh THS and any mid range sport/challenge pattern. A bowler can open up a bit with this ball and still see this ball work with proper hand positioning. Still, this ball\\'s strong suit is fresh oil and clean backends. I can also see this ball being used by a variety of different bowling styles and rev rates. See your local proshop about the AMP!!!
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Hammer Amp Up
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Amp Up by Hammer. I drilled mine with a 75 x 5 ½ x 20 layout and did not use an extra hole. I threw the ball at box surface. This ball features the same core at the AMP but with a pearlized coverstock to generate more length than the original Amp.
Notwithstanding that this ball features a pearlized cover, this ball is still a strong asymmetric piece of equipment and has a strong smooth motion throughout the lane. However, it does go longer through the front than the original Amp.
Thus, the Amp Up is a nice addition to the original Amp. For example, if you’re bowling on a heavy volume pattern where the Amp works very well and you want a similar ball motion for when the fronts are going, the Amp Up is the ball to choose. Alternatively, if you are bowling on a lighter volume version of a pattern where the Amp would work well, again the Amp Up is the ball for you! The strength of this ball is the strong, smooth read that the ball provides. The color of the cover is quite striking (no pun intended) with its purple, gold, and green swirl pattern. Like with the Amp, this ball will likely be best on medium to light fresh pattern and patterns which show a lot of over/under and control of the lane is critical.
See your local pro shop operator for the latest on the Amp Up by Hammer!

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Hammer Anger
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Anger. For the record, this Anger is not a remake of the Hammer Anger from the late 2000's. This new Hammer Anger features a modified Infamous symmetric core (high RG/medium diff) wrapped by a black/red/caramel CT Reactive Flip coverstock with the HK-22 base. Box finish is 1500 Siaair finished with Factory Compound. I drilled one with a 45 x 4 1/4 x 25 layout. I originally tried it at box finish on THS. From what I initially saw, I put it on the spinner and went over the ball with a worn 2000 Siaair pad. I liked it much better with a touch more surface.

The manufacturer's intent for the Anger was to create a quick response ball to complement the Arctic Vibe and Scorpion Sting for lighter to medium volume patterns. I tried the Anger originally on fresh THS and at box surface, I found it to be a touch too quick for my liking. As noted above, I went over the ball with a 2000 pad and liked the ball much better. The Anger still shows plenty of length down the lane. What's interesting is, at least to my eye, the Anger is a touch milder off the spot.. I actually potentially could see this piece on medium to light fresh patterns that are medium to shorter in length. I actually wish I had this new Anger earlier this summer when I hit some tournaments where they had light volume fresh patterns on high friction synthetic surfaces. Given the characteristics of this new piece, I think in particular slower ball speeds and/or rev dominant players might well appreciate the Hammer Anger.

The Hammer Anger is readily available- see your local pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Arctic Vibe
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I’ve always said Hammer has yet to make a Vibe I did not like. The Arctic Vibe released yesterday and my initial impression is that I will very much like this new Vibe as well. The Arctic Vibe features the Vibe symmetrical core wrapped by CT-Max Hybrid cover with the HK-22 base. The color is a truly eye catching snow and purple. In that the new Arctic Vibe is to complement, not replace prior Vibes, I drilled the 1st one with my favorite pin down layout- 60 x 5 x 70. I have a Radioactive Vibe with the same layout for comparison purposes. I put both at 2000 Siaair and have tried them on fresh and leftover THS.

I feel that the Arctic Vibe is a little longer and more mild off the spot compared to the Radioactive Vibe. I had to be a touch further right with the Arctic Vibe to expose it to the friction at the right spot to get it to stand up properly and go through the pins. I would put the Arctic Vibe in between the Radioactive and the Ocean Vibe. I think what I will do is to put the Arctic Vibe at 4000 Siaair and use it for when lanes are burning up and I need to be more on top of the friction. Going down the lane, the Arctic Vibe looks amazing! (As a quick comical aside, my wife groans on occasion when new balls arrive at the house. When she saw the Arctic Vibe, she actually wanted me to get her one as well as it is so cool looking!)

The Arctic Vibe is currently available, see your pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Arson High Flare Pearl
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Arson High Flare by Hammer. The Arson High Flare features the Max-Hook Pearl coverstock with a modified Arson core to increase the differential in the ball. The High Flare comes with the carbon fiber core and industry leading 3 year warranty. The color the ball is bright yellow and red…highly visible across the house. I drilled mine with a 55 x 5 x 30 with a weight hole on the PAP…the same layout I used in an Arson Low Flare Solid. I have tried the High Flare on THS, Stockholm and Mexico City patterns and have thrown the ball at box surface and dusted with a 3000 Abralon pad to lightly take off a little shine.
The High Flare, in my opinion, is unlike any other ball in the “Arson Flare” series by Hammer. Compared to the Low Flare Solid, I was easily about 8-10 boards further left with the High Flare. The Low Flare Solid is a very smooth and controlled reaction…the High Flare offers a much stronger midlane and backend read. I feel the High Flare’s strong suit will be longer patterns or patterns where steeper launch angles through the front are required. Like with most balls manufactured with the carbon fiber process, the hitting power and carry is excellent. I preferred the ball lightly dusted with 3000 Abralon but I believe depending on oil volume, the ball can be effectively at box surface or with more aggressive surfaces should the pattern dictate. This ball should suit many different style of bowlers.
This ball will be released very soon…see your local proshop about the new Arson High Flare by Hammer!

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Hammer Arson High Flare Solid
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Arson High Flare by Hammer. The core is the same as the original Arson High Flare. It is manufactured with the carbon fiber process and has the 3 year warranty. It has the max-hook solid cover and is colored in blue and yellow swirl. Box surface for this ball is a 500/3000 Abralon finish.
To help you understand my take on the ball, my “vital statistics” are that my PAP is 5 ½ over and 1/8 up with a rev rate of 405. Additionally, I have thrown this ball on USBC White pattern as well as house shots. I have thrown the ball at box surface and at 4000 Abralon and polished with Ebonite Factory Finish polish. I drilled the High Flare Solid with a 75 X 5 ½ X 55 layout.
The High Flare Solid is a very strong, symmetric release. Compared to the original High Flare which was a pearl, the Solid picks up much earlier and is smoother. Overall, the High Flare solid does cover more boards than the original High Flare. I preferred the polished surface best because the core/cover combination is very strong and on the patterns on which I have tried this ball, the polished surface gives me more hold. If I were bowling on a higher volume pattern, I would like the factory surface. That being said, with sufficient head oil and/or pattern length, this ball could easily be a benchmark ball. The High Flare Solid is not angular and as such, would be a great ball on fresh sport patterns as this ball will blend out any over/under reactions. Once the pattern breaks down, depending on where the lanes are playing and desired ball motion, a Hammer Widow Limited or a Hammer Viral (Solid or original) would definitely be a preferred option. Like with all balls with core manufactured with the carbon fiber process, the hitting power of this ball is excellent.
As previous noted, this ball is best suited for heavy volume patterns. From what I have seen, I think this ball can be used on a wide variety of pattern distances but the key to this ball is to have sufficient oil in the front part of the lane in order to get the proper ball motion from this piece. I believe bowlers with higher ball speeds and higher rev rates will benefit most from the strength of this ball.
The Arson High Flare Solid is presently readily available. It is a very sharp looking ball…see your local proshop operator to purchase a new Hammer High Flare Solid…the latest TOUGH RELEASE by Hammer!!!

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Hammer Arson Low Flare Solid
17 of 18 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my opinion on the new Arson Low Flare Solid by Hammer…available in January 2015. The Arson Low Flare Solid features the original Low Flare core manufactured with the Carbon Fiber process along with a solid version of the Max Control cover. I drilled mine with a 50 x 5 x 30 layout, weight hole on PAP with box surface.
With the solid cover on this new release, the Arson Low Flare Solid is several boards stronger than the original Low Flare. That being said, the word that best describes this ball is CONTROL…control of all parts of the lane. This ball will allow the player, even the higher rev player, to play further right, use straighter angles, and stay on top of the dry. This ball will moderate over/under often seen on House Shots as well as giving excellent control of the back part of the lane on medium to shorter sport patterns. I have had very good success with the original Low Flare on shorter sport patterns (35-37 feet) and this new Low Flare Solid will be a very welcome addition to the Low Flare series. This ball will not go sideways or cover half the lane. If that is the ball motion you are seeking, I would strongly recommend the Hammer Legend or for drier patterns, the Hammer Viral. This ball will definitely reward the use of straighter angles. However, where control of the lane is what you are seeking, the Arson Low Flare Solid will be your go to ball. In reading reports from other Hammer staffers, this ball will be very “user friendly” to many different styles and rev rates. I would suggest, as with the original Low Flare, using stronger pin placements in this ball given the lower differential that this ball offers.
Start your New Year off with another TOUGH release by Hammer. Speak to your local proshop about the new Hammer Low Flare Solid.

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Hammer Bad Ass RARE - SOLD OUT
18 of 23 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here’s my take on the new Hammer Bad Ass. I drilled mine with a 55 x 4 ½ x 15 layout with a weight hole on the PAP. I have thrown it at box surface, 4000 then Ebonite Factor Finish Polish, and then most recently, 3000 Abralon. I have thrown the Bad Ass on 2 different THS and the USBC White Pattern.
My take on this new symmetrical release may be a little different than others. By the numbers, this is a very strong symmetrical ball. However, watching the ball go through the front, it does not spin up as fast as I would have thought. Watching this ball go through the front reminds me of watching some of the original Faball urethane cores. The Bad Ass is very clean through the front with very strong back end motion. My preferred surface preparation is 3000 Abralon which still yields a continuous back end motion. Being that it is symmetrical, I would expect that this ball would be very “user friendly” for a variety of styles, lane conditions/volumes. I think this ball will excel however on medium to medium heavy volumes and the medium/shot to longer patterns.
At this point, Hammer has an amazing 1-2-3 punch. If you need a very strong all around ball, Hammer offers the Widow Legend. If you need something just a tad down from a Legend for fresh, the Bad Ass is your answer. For when the patterns have broken down, Hammer has the Black/Blue Spike or Absolut Flip.
The Bad Ass by Hammer comes in a very bright black/orange combination and features the Carbon Fiber Core and 3 year guarantee. It is a ball that is very sharp looking and truly hits like its name suggests.
The Bad Ass is currently available so go to your local proshop to find out more about the Bas Ass by Hammer.

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Hammer Bad Intentions
21 of 23 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Bad Intentions by Hammer. The Bad Intentions features the symmetrical Spheroid Core along with the Juiced Xtreme cover with a 2000 Abralon factory finish. The Bad Intentions comes in black with bright yellow logos and comes with an industry leading 3 year warranty in that the core is made with Hammer’s unique “carbon fiber”.
I drilled mine with a 60 x 5 ½ by 25 layout with a weight hole on the PAP. I have tried the ball at box surface, polished and at 3000 Abralon. I have thrown the ball on several different house shots.
I would best describe the motion of this ball as a “strong, continuous arc”. At 2000 Abralon, the ball definitely picks up early but when it does pick up, the ball continues its motion through the pins. The Bad Intentions does not quit. Personally, I prefer the ball at 3000 Abralon (4000 would work as well I believe for very high rev players) as the ball gets down the lane a little further. I found this ball, because it continues through the pins, tripped many 10’s and 4’s.
The Bad Intentions will be best suited for medium/heavy volumes of oil on medium to longer distance patterns. Watching this ball, it definitely seems that it will suit a variety of styles and rev rates and can be drilled to achieve many different ball motions. Given that this Is a stronger symmetrical piece with good continuation, this ball has the potential for being an excellent “benchmark” ball for players starting on fresh conditions. The only caveat that I would note is that this ball does require volume in the pattern. If the pattern has broken down and/or there is a lighter pattern to start, consider a Hammer Viral or perhaps even the new Widow Legend Red.
The Bad Intentions is a very sharp looking ball going down the lane. It is very easy to read where the ball picks up given that it is black with neon yellow logos.
Be sure to see your local proshop operator for more information on the Bad Intentions by Hammer.

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Hammer Bad Intentions Hybrid
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Bad Intentions Hybrid by Hammer. This new piece features the Juiced Extreme Hybrid cover reinforced with Carbon Fiber to insure durability. The ball comes finished at 3000 Abralon. The core is the same Spheroid Core used in the Bad Intentions also made with Carbon Fiber. Like all current Hammers, it features the industry leading 3 year warranty. The color of this new piece is a bright combination of black, blue and orange.
I have tried my Bad Intentions Hybrid several different house patterns and USBC White. I have tried it at box surface, 4000 Abralon, and polished with Factory Finish. I drilled my with a 55 x 5 1/2 x 40 layout with a weight hole on my PAP. My PAP is 5 5/8 over and 1/8 up with a rev rate of 405.
This ball truly fits in between the original Bad Intentions and the Bad Ass. If you are a fan of the original Bad Intentions, you will like this ball for when you are looking for more angular motion than the original Bad Intentions. The characteristic of the original Bad Intentions was an earlier roll with a smoother all around look for medium to heavy fresh patterns. The Bad Intentions Hybrid is definitely cleaner through the front with a stronger recovery in the back end. I feel the backend motion in the ball is better than the Bad Ass simply because the backend is easier to read and note as touchy. I personally preferred the 3000 Abralon surface to the 4000 Abralon or polished surface as the ball showed more definition for me at the breakpoint with 3000 Abralon. The new Bad Intentions Hybrid allows, in my opinion, a ball with a stronger backend so that the player may stand further left and send the ball to the right. That being said, I still feel that the Hybrid is best suited for medium to heavy volume patterns and medium to longer distance patterns. For shorter patterns, unless you have the ability to throw very hard, I would consider other alternatives in the Hammer line such as one of the Virals or the Low Flare series balls. This ball could easily be a benchmark ball for someone looking for a strong symmetrical piece with defined backend. In that this is a strong symmetrical piece, I believe that many different styles can throw the new Bad Intentions Hybrid with success and a variety of motions can be achieved depending on the layout used.
See your local proshop operator for the newest release by Hammer- the Bad Intentions Hybrid.

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Hammer Black Hammer Urethane
38 of 41 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Black Urethane by Hammer. Hammer took great care in making sure that this new release would offer a true urethane reaction going so far as to flush their entire system to get any resin out. The Black Urethane Hammer comes finished at 500 Abralon and features a brand new high RG/low differential LED core.
I drilled my Black Urethane Hammer with a 50 x 4 x 40 layout with a weight hole on my PAP. I have thrown the ball at box surface on both USBC White and THS patterns. My rev rate is 405 and have a PAP of 5 5/8 over and 1/8 up.
I still have original Black and Blue Urethane Hammers in pristine condition as well as the remake 2011 Blue Urethane Hammer so I was able to try the new Black Urethane and compare them to the “originals”. On modern conditions, I found the ORIGINAL Black Urethane Hammer to be somewhat sensitive to carrydown and as a result, carry suffers. The ORIGINAL Blue Urethane offered a much stronger midlane pick up and backend motion and was not as sensitive to carrydown. I was never a big fan of the 2011 remake of the Blue Urethane Hammer in that the remake Blue Hammer was, in my opinion, extremely sensitive to carrydown. In throwing the NEW Black Urethane Hammer, it is definitely a true urethane look in every sense. When you are seeking control of the lane, the new Black Urethane Hammer is a must. What is interesting however, I find the NEW Black Urethane Hammer to considerably stronger than the ORIGINAL Black Urethane Hammer. I would compare the NEW Black Urethane Hammer more to the ORIGINAL Blue Hammer in terms of the strength of the ball and ability to read the midlane and backend. On both the THS and White, any over/under was blended out by playing straighter angles with this new Black Urethane Hammer. This NEW Black Urethane Hammer was much less sensitive to carrydown than its predecessor. I preferred throwing harder on top of the dry and just letting the ball stand up in the midlane and roll to the pocket. Yet, like with the original Blue Urethane, one can easily move left with this ball a little bit, go away with the ball, and see the ball recover and still hit. The key with this ball, like with all urethanes, is to get the ball to stand up early enough in the midlane so that the ball will not slide by.
This ball is definitely designed for shorter patterns, lighter volumes, and major wet/dry patterns. Longer patterns and/or patterns with heavier volumes are better handled by a stronger ball in the Hammer line such as a Red Legend Solid or a Bad Intentions Hybrid. That being said, this new Black Urethane Hammer definitely works and works very well for its intended purpose. I will also note that the hitting power of this new Black Urethane is impressive by ANY standard…one will be surprised how many corners and off hits will carry with this new release.
See your local proshop operator for the newest release by Hammer- the Black Urethane Hammer.

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Hammer Black Pearl Urethane
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
As most know, the Hammer Black Pearl 78D Urethane formally was announced recently. For the record, the Hammer Purple Pearl Urethane is still legal in all competition except PBA events. For those who do bowl in PBA events and want a compare and contrast among the Purple Pearl, the NU and the 78D, here you go. I tested all three on fresh house shot and I drilled each of these with the same layout- 40 x 3 3/4 x 10. They all have the same surafce. (I used 500 Siaair.) In terms of a compare/contrast, the Purple Pearl is clearly the earliest and strongest of the urethane options, the NU is a little longer and a touch quicker and the 78D is the weakest in terms of motion of the 3 options. My sense is that the Hammer 78D urethane serves its purpose for the slow response type of motion to control a fresh lane, especially shorter sport patterns. However, because it is the weakest of the Hammer urethane options in terms of overall hook potential, I suspect that not only will I need to be more direct in terms of angles but that I will need to switch out of the 78D in a tournament situation more quickly than I would from a Purple.
See your local pro shop for more information on the Hammer Black Pearl 78D Urethane.

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Hammer Black Widow 2.0
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Black Widow 2.0. The Hammer Black Widow 2.0 features the well-known, proven Gas Mask core wrapped by the Aggression Solid cover. The Black Widow 2.0 is Black/Red in color and factory finish is 2000 Siaair.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Black Widow 2.0 with a 55 x 5 ½ x 28 layout and have used on both fresh and leftover THS, a left over medium distance challenge pattern and fresh Kegel Tungsten. I have thrown it at factory finish and 4000 Abralon.
The purpose of the Black Widow 2.0 was to recreate the original ball motion of the 2006 original Black Widow, but for today’s slicker oils/higher volumes etc. Over the years, I have had good success with Gas Mask core equipment because they always seem to clear the fronts and retain energy to show strong continuous back end motion. After working with the new Widow 2.0 for several days in different environments, the stated objective of the Widow 2.0 was achieved. Notwithstanding the aggressive cover and surface preparation, the Widow 2.0 did clear the fronts with ease. The backend motion is best described as strong/continuous. Compared to a similarly drilled Redemption Solid (which shares a similar cover/surface prep) the Widow 2.0 is definitely cleaner through the front and stronger in the back. When prepped with 4000 Abralon, the ball shows even greater length but I preferred the box surface as I felt the more aggressive surface was a little less sensitive to transition. My experience with the Gas Mask core has shown that different ball motions can easily be achieved with different layouts. From what I have seen, this ball should be very versatile for a number of different bowlers in many environments. The Widow 2.0 ideally should excel on medium to heavy volume patterns with medium to longer distances.
See your local proshop for more on the Hammer Black Widow 2.0.

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Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Hybrid
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I was able to punch up the new Hammer Black Widow Hybrid 2.0- the latest addition to the iconic line of Hammer bowling equipment. The Widow Hybrid 2.0 features the proven asymmetric gas mask core wrapped by the Aggression Hybrid cover with the HK-22 additive designed to enhance ball motion on oil. The color is a vibrant red and black and factory finish is Crown Compound. The videos were shot on fresh Kegel Neon which is our THS. The layout is 45 x 5 x 30.

The intent of the new Black Widow Hybrid 2.0 was to be a little stronger motion than the Widow Ghost. For comparison purposes, I threw a shot of a Widow Ghost with a similar layout. Compared to the Ghost, the Hybrid 2.0 moved me a little further left, looked at the same approximate spot at the arrows and as a result, opened the angles a little more. The Hybrid 2.0 showed, from what I saw, a fairly quick response off the friction. The comparison videos show the difference between the 2 Widows. They are close but I do see a difference. The Widow Ghost made a number of telecasts last year and I expect that the Hybrid 2.0 will follow with equal success. Like all prior Widows, I expect many different styles, speeds, rev rates etc. will find success with this ball. My sense is even with the shinier surface, the Widow Hybrid 2.0 will be at its best on medium to higher volume patterns. I expect that depending on layout, a variety of pattern distances will be in play.

The Widow Hybrid 2.0 is readily available. See your local pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Black Widow 3.0
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Since 2006 when the very first Black Widow was released, there has yet to be a Widow I didn't like. Widows have always matched up well for my particular game...thus I was very happy to see a new Widow being released. The Widow 3.0 features the tried and true Gas Mask Core wrapped by an Aggression Solid cover with the HK-22 base. The Widow 3.0 comes in Hammer colors- black and orange! Factory surface is 2000 Siaair. The layout on this Widow 3.0 is 40 x 4 3/4 x 20. I have tried the Widow 3.0 on fresh THS and on what I suspect was leftover THS with lots of house ball plastic going down the lane thus making the pattern play a lot longer due to carrydown.

The new Widow 3.0 is designed to provide more traction on oil compared to last season's Widow 2.0 which was a bit longer with the hybrid cover. I made specific mention of the lane condition because the other ball I had with me as a comparison would NOT shape in the back part of the lane...the carrydown was that bad. The only way I could get the other ball to shape was to expose it to the friction way to the right and have it stand up and then lay off. When I put the Widow 3.0 on the part of the lane where the other ball would not shape, the Widow 3.0 had no issues getting through the sludge. It appears Hammer will have another winner here for medium to heavy volume patterns. I have drilled another one with a weaker pin down layout to give me a different shape. Like with all previous Widows, I fully expect to see many styles of players having success and it should be very versatile in terms of using different layouts to achieve different shapes.

The Hammer Widow 3.0 is currently available- see your local pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Black Widow Black/Gold
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Hammer Black Widow Black/Gold. This new release features the Aggression Hybrid cover found on the Rip’d which surrounds the ever popular and proven Gas Mask core. Like all Hammers, the ball features an industry leading 3 year warranty. Factory finish is 1000 Abralon with Factory Finish Polish. Color is …Black and Gold!
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the ball with 30 x 5 ½ by 10 layout. I am drilling my equipment currently without weight holes in conformity with the new rules that go into effect on August 1, 2018. I have used this ball at factory finish and 2000 Abralon on THS, USBC White and Shark Sport.
In my opinion, this is another great Gas Mask core ball. Compared to the original Rip’d, this new Widow shows a little more length and recovery. On a THS and even modified USBC White, the Widow B/G shows strong change of direction when it sees the friction. I have always found hitting power and carry to be excellent with Gas Mask core balls and this ball is no exception. With a more aggressive surface, the Widow B/G does pick up earlier but still shows plenty of change of direction down lane.
With the Gas Mask core, many different shapes can be created with a proper layout and with proper surface preparation, this ball should be in play on a variety of volumes and lengths. I believe this ball will work for many different styles of play.
See your local proshop for more information about the Hammer Black Widow Black/Gold!

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Hammer Black Widow Dark Legend
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Dark Legend by Hammer. The core is ever famous and highly proven gas mask core found in the Widow/Taboo/Legend series of Hammer equipment. The coverstock is the Semtex Hybrid cover. The new Dark Legend, true to its name, features a vibrant purple and black cover and box surface is 1000 Abralon with a Clean N’ Sheen finish. Like with all Hammer equipment featuring carbon fiber, the Dark Legend comes with the industry leading 3 year warranty.
To help you understand my take on the ball, my “vital statistics” are that my PAP is 5 ½ over and 1/8 up with a rev rate of 405. Additionally, I have thrown this ball on USBC White pattern as well as a variety house shots/surfaces. I have thrown the ball at box surface. I drilled the Dark Legend with a 95 x 5 ½ x 35 layout.
The Widow/Taboo/Legend series of Hammer bowling balls has truly been one of my favorites over the years. I feel this way because many different shapes/ball motions can be drilled into the gas mask core and as such, they tend to be very versatile pieces of equipment. The Dark Legend is no exception. The Dark Legend has a HYBRID version of the Widow Limited that had a Semtex PEARL cover on it. As such, I found the Dark legend to have a bit more overall hook and a stronger read in the midlane and back end. This ball is also stronger in my opinion in comparison to the Red Pearl Legend. It is definitely cleaner and more angular than the Red Solid Legend. Thus, if I were to put in order from strongest to weakest in the most recent, current Legend series, it would be Red Solid Legend, Dark Legend, Widow Limited and Red Pearl Legend. Like with most Legend series balls, the ball reads the midlane very well and has strong continuous motion through the backend of the lane.
This ball will suit a variety of players/styles/rev rates. Except for very short or very long patterns, I believe this new Dark Legend will be able to handle most pattern distances and should excel on medium to medium heavy volumes of oil. If you are bowling on a dead flood or very long pattern, consider the Red Solid Legend or the new Hammer Scandal. If you are bowling on a very short pattern and do not have faster speed, consider trying a weaker Hammer such as a Viral Solid, Low Flare or even a Hammer Black Urethane.
Go see your local proshop operator for additional information about the Hammer Dark Legend.

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Hammer Black Widow Dark Legend Solid
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Dark Legend Solid by Hammer. This new Upper Mid Performance release features a solid version of the Semtex cover finished at 200 Abralon. As with all previous Legends/Widows/Taboos, the new Dark Solid Legend comes with the highly successful gas Mask core manufactured with Carbon Fiber. (3 year warranty). The ball is colored Blue and Black. This is my 12th year on Hammer staff.
Indeed, Hammer has released a number of different Legends and for good reason. By varying the cover, the bowler is given a variety of options for ball motion in an asymmetrical ball. It is clear that given the strength of the cover and factory finish, the Dark Legend Solid will be at its best on heavier volume patterns. In the current lineup of Legends, I would still put the Red Legend Solid as offering the biggest overall hook. The Dark Legend Solid, in my opinion, is slightly under the Red Solid Legend but gets around the corner better than the Red Legend Solid. If the bowler is on a light lighter volume of oil, then the original Dark Legend may well be an option in an asymmetrical release or the new Rebel for a symmetrical release.
Either way, as with all Gas Mask core balls, the driller can layout a variety of ball motions and a variety of bowler styles should see success with this ball. The key, I would suggest, is getting the proper cover for the condition that the bowler is on. If the bowler is on a heavier volume pattern and/or is looking for a replacement to a Red Legend Solid, the Dark legend Solid is an excellent choice. Similarly, if the bowler is looking for an earlier/stronger ball motion to complement an original Dark Legend, the Dark Legend Solid is a great option. I have tried this ball on PBA Bear, Kegel Gateway Arch, Kegel Turnpike and a variety of THS. The layout I have on mine is 65 x 5 ½ x 50 and on all patterns, the ball has been a great match up and thus appears to be in play on a variety of pattern lengths.
Please check out your local proshop for additional information on the new Dark Legend Solid.

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Hammer Black Widow Ghost Pearl
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
So, I just punched the brand new Hammer Widow Ghost. The new Widow Ghost formally releases on November 19, 2021. The Ghost features the legendary Gas Mask Core wrapped by an Aggression Pearl cover. The new Ghost absolutely stands out in a crowd!
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a Hammer Widow Ghost with a 40x5x25 layout. I have used this ball at 3000 Abralon. I have tried the new Widow Ghost on THS and the 2021 PBA Roth pattern.
I have had over the years great success with Widows and Taboos. They all have featured the Gas Mask core with different covers. Every Widow I have drilled has earned a spot in my arsenal and will be the first out of the bag when an asymmetric core ball is the best option. The Widow Ghost seems to be no different. What I find interesting about the Ghost is this- the pre EBI acquisition Pink Widow featured the same coverstock as the Ghost. However, the new Ghost seems to be more responsive down lane when it sees friction compared to the Pink Widow. As with prior Widows, I expect this new Widow to suit many styles and can achieve multiple ball motions depending on layout.
See your local pro shop for more information on the new Hammer Widow Ghost.

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Hammer Black Widow Gold
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Black Widow Gold. The new Gold Widow features the ever popular Gas Mask core manufactured in the carbon fiber process. Thus, like all Hammers, this ball carries with it a 3 year Warranty. Semtex Pearl is the coverstock material used for the Gold Widow- the same cover featured the Hammer Phobia and the record setting Scandal Pearl. Box finish is 2000 Abralon with Factory Finish Polish.
For comparison of the Gold Widow, I used a similarly drilled Black Taboo. They both have one of my favorite layouts for a Gas Mask core ball. The layout is 45 x 6 x 35 with weight hole on the PAP.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate, a PAP of 5 9/16th over and 1/8 up. I have thrown this ball at box surface and dusted with a 2000 Abralon pad. I have tried this ball on THS, modified THS and PBA Badger.
Compared to the Black Taboo, the Gold Widow is definitely more angular. At box surface for the THS and Modified THS, I found a bit of over/under and sensitivity to transition. However, once I dusted the ball with a worn 2000 pad (to get a little shine off) the Gold Widow responded infinitely better. I found a little earlier pick-up in the midlane but definitely a more consistent, defined ball motion with less sensitivity to any midlane transition. On Badger, I was able to make it work with a “more aggressive” 2000 surface (used a newer pad) and keeping my angles very closed. Personally, the Gas Mask core balls have always matched up very well for my game and I have been always able to achieve many different shapes/ball motions with Gas Mask Cores. (Same with Vibe cores) I believe the Black Widow Gold will offer similar variety depending on layout.
I would say the Gold Widow is best suited for medium volume patterns with a variety of distances being in play. Like with most Gas Mask core balls, many different styles of play will find success with this ball. In the past, I have used Gas Mask core balls on many different pattern distances (depending on layout used)…the Gold Widow will be no different. I can see this ball being used on medium fresh patterns or perhaps even on transition when a more angular asymmetrical ball is desired.
The Black Widow Gold is now available- see your local proshop operator!


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Hammer Black Widow Legend
23 of 24 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Widow Legend by Hammer features the proven Gas Mask core found in the Taboo line as well as the original Widow series, now manufactured with the Carbon Fiber. The cover is a polished NBT Hybrid color in a black/red color. The new Widow Legend will be available to the public in August, 2014.
If you liked the Black Taboo, Black Widow, Vibe Jet Black, you will absolutely LOVE the Legend. Compared to similarly drilled Black Taboos, the Legend brings at least another 2-3 boards more backend with an even stronger, more defined break point than a Black Taboo. Once the ball begins its move to the pocket, the continuation through the backend and the pins is nothing short of amazing. Additionally, the hitting power of the Legend is second to none. Going through the pins, the Legend is arguably one of the loudest balls you will ever hear when it strikes. The ball simply hits that hard and carries that well.
To date, I have drilled 3 Legends. I drilled one with a 45x5x25 (weight hole on PAP), another with a 65x5x25 layout (no weight hole) and a final one with a 60x5x70 layout (weight hole 2” below PAP on VAL).While each one shows a different shape of ball motion (which indicates that this ball is very versatile and can be drilled to do many things), the things that remain consistent with each Legend was the ability of the ball to show/read with precision the breakpoint, the continuation of the ball through the pins, and the hitting power of the ball. On one of them, I have experimented with adding surface to the ball (2000 Abralon) to see if it would change the shape/continuation. Interestingly, the additional surface brought the breakpoint closer BUT it did NOT change the continuation/strength of motion off the spot.
In a nutshell, this ball can be drilled to do many things and will hit a variety of pattern lengths/volumes and will suit many styles of bowling. This has already been proven on the PBA Summer Swing where the ball made several shows on different patterns and in fact, won several times. The Legend will clearly be a huge star in Hammer’s line of bowling equipment and in my mind, may be as big, if not a bigger seller, than the original Black Widow.
See your proshop in early August to order the Widow Legend by Hammer!

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Hammer Black Widow Mania
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Recently, I had a chance to drill up the new Hammer Widow Mania, the latest in the iconic line of Hammer Widow bowling balls. Like all prior Widows, the Widow Mania has the Gas Mask Core. This Widow however, has the same coverstock as the Hammer Effect, HK-22 cohesion pearl colored in black and blue swirl. Box finish is 1500 Siaair with polish. The first one is drilled with my favorite pin down layout, 60 x 5 x 70. I've tried it on fresh THS.

Being very honest, for as many people that loved the Effect, I never warmed up to it after trying it in different environments. I found it to be a touch too early going up the lane and not enough going around the pattern. I felt that I had better motion with the Widow 3.0 or the Track Theorem. The new Widow Mania will definitely be more usable for me. It's definitely cleaner than a Widow 3.0 and more response than the Widow 2.0 Hybrid. (And that is comparing a pin down Mania to a pin up Widow 2.0 Hybrid which I had previously drilled.) It shows that motion for which Widows are well known. To my eye, it is a touch earlier and rounder than a Theorem. I also will say this, I don't necessarily see this ball as a replacement for the Widow 3.0 but rather to complement it. The Widow 3.0 was definitely for higher volumes of oil and I think where the Widow Mania is cleaner and quicker, at box surface, the Widow Mania is best for medium volumes or also as a step down from a Widow 3.0 or perhaps another slower response asymmetric core ball. Like all Widows, I expect the Mania to work for many different styles and will potentially be in play on many different pattern distances depending on layout etc.

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Hammer Black Widow Pink
19 of 20 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Widow Pink which becomes available to the public on April 9, 2019. The Widow Pink features the ever popular Gas Mask Core found in all Widows and Taboos wrapped in a Pink Pearl Aggression Peal CFI cover- similar to what is found on the Statement Pearl and Rip’d Pearl. This ball simply stated, has great shelf appeal and will catch the eye going down the lane!
More importantly, the new Widow Pink has some serious backend motion. Mine is drilled with a 70 x 5 x 30 layout without a weight hole. I have tried the ball on THS several times. I have also compared it to a Widow B/G and Statement Peal. I currently have been throwing the ball with a 4000 Abralon finish.
The Widow Pink shows, in my opinion, earlier and stronger motion off the spot compared to a Widow B/G. The Widow Pink has more recovery than the Widow B/G and as such, when the shot calls for more left to right direction, the Widow Pink should be in your hand. Compared to a Statement Pearl, the shape of the motion is different even though they share the same coverstock. The Statement Pearl seems to show a little smoother/forward type of motion off the spot compared to a more sideways motion for the Widow Pink. Compared to a Statement Pearl, I had to move a couple boards left and look a little further right for the Widow Pink. Both are excellent pieces when you have medium volume to medium to longer distance patterns. The difference is the shape of the motion you are seeking and if you are looking for a ball to open up angles, the Widow Pink is the ball.
And like I said, the ball has AWESOME shelf appeal and will grab attention going down the lane.

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Hammer Black Widow Red Legend Pearl
23 of 24 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Widow Legend Red features the NBT Pearl cover along with the highly proven and successful “gas mask” core found on previous Widows and Taboos. Like with all current Hammers, the core is manufactured with “carbon fiber” and carries with it an industry leading 3 year warranty. The ball comes in a very sharp looking, polished red pearl color.
I drilled my Legend Red with a 65 x 6 x 75 layout, a layout that I have liked over the years in previous Widows/Black Taboos. I have thrown the ball on several different house shots and have always used the box surface.
The Legend/Legend Red combination reminds me so much of the original Black Widow/Widow Pearl combination…both highly successful balls from Hammer back in 2006-2008. The original Widow Legend has the same core but with the NBT Hybrid cover. By making a pearl version of cover, the specs sheet explains that the Legend Red should show additional length with additional recovery. In fact, the ball does exactly as advertised. The Legend Red shows more length and recovery than a similarly drilled/prepared Legend. I was actually amazed with the amount of ball motion I saw at the end of the pattern even with the weaker layout. As such, if you like the original Legend and are looking for a little more length for a drier pattern, the Legend Red will be your choice for certain. If you are bowling on heavy volumes, the original Legend or perhaps the new Bad Intentions by Hammer might be a better selection. The Legend Red shows excellent hitting power and ability to go through the pins consistently like with the original Legend.
As many already know, the “gas mask” core is very versatile and can be drilled to achieve many different ball reactions as well as suiting many different styles and rev rates. With the pearl cover, this ball will definitely be a huge asset on medium to lighter volume fresh patterns. Additionally, with this core/cover combination, I believe this ball will allow the player to chase the oil in and open up the lane. From all accounts, this ball is proving itself in the very short time it has been out on the PBA Tour.
The ball is a very sharp looking bright red pearl and will stand out when it is being thrown.
Be sure to see your local proshop operator about the new Widow Legend Red by Hammer.


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Hammer Black Widow Red Legend Solid
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my review of the new Red Legend Solid by Hammer- scheduled to be released in early August. This new Legend features one of the best cores ever designed by Hammer- the Gas Mask core (used in the original Widows and Taboos) wrapped in the Juiced reactive cover. Like all Hammer bowling balls manufactured with the Carbon Fiber process, this ball comes with an industry leading 3 year warranty. This is the same ball that Bill O’Neill used to win this year’s PBA King of Swing event shown last month on ESPN.
I drilled my Red Legend Solid with a 55 x 6 x 40 layout. (no weight hole) I have left this ball at box surface and have tried it on THS, Scorpion, WTBA Paris and Wolf.
By far, this is the strongest Widow Legend made to date. What makes this ball special, I believe, is that even at box surface (500 Abralon- 2000 Abralon) the ball glides through the fronts very easily. Many times, with factory dull equipment, surface changed are required in order to get the ball to clear the front and conserve enough to recover in the back and carry. Not so with this new Red Legend Solid however- I could easily stand left, send it right watch it strongly recover in the backend. Notwithstanding the box surface, because this ball gets through the front easily I found the hitting power of this ball to be nothing short of amazing- following in the great Hammer tradition with balls made with the Widow/Taboo/Widow Legend core.
That being said, because this ball is so strong in the back, I believe this ball will be best suited for heavy volume patterns and longer distances. I had my best success with this ball on Scorpion and WTBA Paris which are both longer distance patterns. I was able to force the ball to work on Wolf by tricking my hand- but it would not be my ball of choice as it put me at a bad angle in the front and any miss left did not yield any hold. For a shorter or light volume pattern, I would suggest one of the pieces from the Hammer Flare, Viral, or Spike series.
Like with almost every Widow/Taboo/Widow Legend, this new Red Legend Solid will match up with many styles and rev rates. It can also be drilled to achieve many different ball motions.
See your local pro shop for the new Red Legend Solid- another TOUGH piece of equipment by Hammer!

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Hammer Black Widow Urethane
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts on the Hammer Black Widow Urethane. This new urethane release features the Gas Mask core made famous in every Widow and Taboo release over the years. The Gas Mask core is wrapped by a 100% solid urethane cover. The Black Widow Urethane is solid black in color and comes with a 3-year warranty as do all Hammer releases.
My vitals are the following: rev rate 405, PAP 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have tried the new Hammer Widow Urethane on several different house shots, a modified USBC White pattern and a 36’ sport pattern. I have left the ball at box surface which is 500 Abralon.
In starting on a house shot, I threw new Widow Urethane against a similarly drilled Hammer Black Urethane. The Widow Urethane easily put me 8-10 boards further left on the approach compared to the original Black Urethane. As would be expected with a urethane at that surface prep, the ball picks up early but because of the core and flare potential, the ball continues very well and does not seem to be as sensitive to carrydown as some urethanes are. On the short pattern, as would be expected, the Hammer Widow Urethane controlled the front to back wet/dry and did very well. Similarly, on the modified USBC White, the Widow Urethane performed very well and blended out any over/under in the pattern.
The key to the Widow Urethane at box surface, is to have enough oil in the front to make sure the ball can get down the lane. Short of that, my sense is the Widow Urethane is best suited for any fresh pattern where control of the lane is required. I also expect this ball to be in play on any short to medium length pattern again when the pattern is fresh or any wet/dry pattern. Because of the versatility of the Gas Mask core, I expect the Widow Urethane to be able to achieve different motions depending on layout within the capabilities of a urethane ball.
The Widow Urethane is readily available. Go to your local pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Black Widow Urethane Pink Pearl
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
GET YOUR PEPTO BISMOL HERE! Here is my take on the new Hammer Pink Widow Urethane. I drilled it with a 45 x 4 3/4 x 20 layout and threw it at box surface which is 800 Siaair. I did later change the surface to 2000 Siaair for reasons explained below. I threw it on used, but not totally burnt THS.
The new Hammer Pink Widow Urethane definitely wants to go very early and be smooth on the back. Clearly, this would be the expected motion for this core/cover combination.That is why, however, I changed the surface to 2000 Siaair as with my lower ball speed coupled with a high friction lane surface and pattern (Kegel Neon), I needed a little extra help to make sure the ball down the lane from the right angle. Even at the 2000 Siaair surface, this Pink Widow Urethane requires a good amount of volume in the front and clean backends. On a higher volume pattern that requires an early revving ball that controls the lane, the Pink Widow Urethane is the ball. As with any Gas Mask core ball, within its parameters, the Pink Widow Urethane should be versatile for many different styles.
See your local pro shop for more information on the new Hammer Pink Widow Urethane.

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Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball
16 of 20 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
2 very quick thoughts on the new Hammer Widow Viz-A-Ball. First, it is an extremely cool looking plastic ball that will draw alot of attention. Second, if you are looking for performance, the Widow Viz-A-Ball under the right conditions and proper surface preparation, will give performance. I drilled one primarily for spares and as I always do for any spare ball, I knock the shine off with a Siaair pad. The layout I used on mine was 40x4x20. On leftover THS, was able to get right on top of the dry to the right and where the Widow Viz-A-Ball has the Gas Mask core, was able to get the ball to tip and go through the pins effectively.

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Hammer Blue Vibe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Blue Vibe by Hammer. This new remake features the tried and true Vibe core surrounded by the CT Reactive Plus cover. Like all Hammers, the Blue Vibe features a 3 year industry leading warranty.

My vitals are a 405 rev rate and a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled 2 Blue Vibes, one with a 45 x 5 1/4 x 70 with a weight hole 4 inches over and 2 1/2 inches down.(pin down) I drilled the other with a 50 x 5 x 25 with a weight hole on the PAP. I have used both at box surface (2000 Abralon polished) and 2000 sanded. I have tried them on 2015 USBC Masters and several different THS.

The Blue Vibe was one of the most popular Vibes ever made because of its performance on the lanes. The remake does NOT disappoint! I have an original Blue Vibe with the same layout as the pin down one. In trying both with the same surface, I found the new Blue Vibe to be a board or 2 stronger. However, the original has a ton of games on it and as such, may explain any difference. However, like the original, the remake Blue Vibe gives strong and predictable reads on the lanes. The Blue Vibe is very forgiving and does not over read transitions in the pattern. It is definitely earlier/stronger than the new Cherry Vibe and should excel on many different patterns and volumes. In the past, I have used the Blue Vibe on many different PBA/sport patterns...from 35 feet to 43 feet. The Blue Vibe is potentially that versatile. Between the 2 Blue Vibes I've drilled, I've got an earlier/smoother motion with the pin down one and the pin up one gives me a quicker, stronger downlane transition...2 very distinct shapes. Predictability and consistency are the hallmarks of the new Blue Vibe. I might also add that I have found the new Blue Vibe hits very hard and carries well. Like with any Vibe, as noted, different ball motions can be achieved depending on layout and will suit many different styles of bowler.

In fairness, this is not a ball that you will use to go 25 to 5 and bring it back. However, if you are seeking a ball that will give predictable, forgiving reads on a variety of patterns whether THS or sport, the Blue Vibe is for you. The Blue Vibe is currently available, see your local pro shop for more details!

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Hammer Burgundy Hammer
20 of 22 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my impression of the new Burgundy Hammer. The ball comes with a “Reactathane” shell prepared at 500 Abralon. The new Burgundy Hammer also features basically a Vibe core, manufactured with the carbon fiber process and as such, features the industry leading 3 year warranty.
I drilled the Burgundy with an old school “leverage axis” layout. I have thrown this ball on house shots. I have a 405 RPM and as the box surface, the ball simply hooked too early. However, putting Factory Finish Polish over the box preparation, the ball got through the fronts better but yet still showed a significant overall hook. The motion for this ball would be best described as strong but smooth. Overall, this ball will, believe it or not, cover quite a few boards.
My sense is this ball is best suited for heavy volume patterns and I think as well, depending on the layout of the ball, the ball could be in play on many different pattern lengths. The Vibe core has, over the years, proven itself to be very versatile not only in terms of layouts, but also in terms of being suitable for many styles of players.
For those that remember throwing the original Burgundy Hammer, I would say that this “remake” Burgundy Hammer is actually very close to the original.
See your local proshop operator for additional information on the new Burgundy Hammer. Also check www.hammerbowling.com for more information.

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Hammer Cherry Vibe
15 of 17 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts about the new remake of a Hammer classic- the Cherry Vibe. The Cherry Vibe features the ever popular and versatile Vibe Core wrapped around with the CT Reactive cover. The box finish for the ball is 2000 Abralon with Factory Finish polish. The color is a bright cherry pearl.
I am on Hammer staff and my vitals are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have drilled three new Cherry Vibes- 45 x 5 ¼ x 70 with a weight hole 4 inches over and 2 ½ down, 55 x 6 x 40 without a weight hole and 60 x 5 ½ x 30 with a weight hole on the PAP. I have tried these balls on various THS and sport patterns. I have tried box surface, 2000 Abralon and 1000 Abralon with each of these new Cherry Vibes.
Like with the Blue Vibe, the Cherry Vibe back in the mid to late 2000’s was one of the most popular pieces of equipment for its angular ball motion. By comparison, I have an original Cherry Vibe with the 55 x 6 x 40 layout and the ball motion between the original and the remake is very similar- the remake may be slightly stronger but the overall angular motion is ever present.
In comparing the remake Cherry Vibe to the remake Blue Vibe, I drilled one of each with the same 45 x 5 ¼ x 70 layout, a personal favorite layout for a Vibe core. As expected, the Cherry Vibe showed greater length and a sharper motion off of the spot compared to the Blue Vibe. This trend was consistent across the various patterns I have tried both Vibes on. Thus, the Cherry Vibe would be best suited for the medium to lighter volume patterns or the broken down patterns. The Cherry Vibe, when they were originally made, were usually the best “go to” ball in my bag for later parts of a block. The remake shows the exact same characteristic. As with all Vibe core balls, they will suit a wide variety of bowlers, styles and rev rates. Because of the versatility of the Vibe core as well, many different shapes of ball motion can be achieved and thus, the Vibe should be suitable on a variety of pattern lengths. Between the Blue and Cherry Vibes, Hammer offers a perfect one/two combination to combat many different house, challenge and sport patterns. These Vibes are “must haves” in every bag!
See your local pro shop for more information about the Cherry Vibe by Hammer!

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Hammer Cold Blood 15 Only LAST ONE
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my ball review for the Cold Blood. By way of layout, I used a 70 x 5 ½ x 65 layout with a weight hole 2 inches below the PAP. Prior to throwing the ball, I spun the ball with Reaction Plus to add a little shine to the ball. I wanted a ball that I could use on FRESH house or sport patterns. I used as a point of comparison the First Blood. With this layout and surface preparation, I found this ball to clear the heads quite efficiently and make a hard arc in the back part of the lane. It is not an angular motion in the back but it is not a smooth motion either like the motion from the Amp. Personally speaking, I found this ball to be cleaner with a stronger move in the back compared to the First Blood with similar surface preparation. Like with the First Blood, I believe these balls are best suited for the fresh patterns. I would be very interested in seeing what this ball will do with a different layout (a higher pin with a weaker MB position to see if I could get the motion to be “flippier”) and thus a ball that would be in play when the lanes go through the first transition. Aesthetically speaking, the deep, rich blue cover has great shelf appeal and from a performance point of view, I found the carry on this ball to be excellent. I think this ball would be best suited, as stated earlier, for the fresh patterns with medium to heavy volumes and potentially could be play on a variety of pattern lengths depending on the bowler. I also think that this ball will match up with a variety of different styles/rev rates/ball speeds and as such, will give the driller many options for whoever purchases this ball.
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Hammer Dark Web
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Dark Web. The Dark Web features a modified Spheroid symmetric core (with added flip block) wrapped by a dark blue/black Aggression Solid cover. Box surface is 1500 Siaair. The one I have drilled has a 50 x 5 x 35 layout. I have tested this ball at box surface on fresh and burnt THS. My vitals are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up.
At box surface, the Hammer Dark Web does need volume in the pattern. That being said, for a ball with an aggressive surface, on the fresh, the Dark Web shows an earlier, smooth and controllable motion. The best comparison to the Dark Web would be a Track Stealth with a little more length and downlane motion. I will be changing the surface to 3000 or 4000 Siaair to make it more usable on our local house shot which is only 24 ml or other competitive patterns in that volume range. My suspicion is that with an appropriate surface adjustment, the Dark Web may well be a great benchmark ball in the arsenal.
See your local pro shop for more on the Hammer Dark Web.

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Hammer Dark Web Hybrid
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I recently drilled the brand new Hammer Dark Web Hybrid. The Dark Web Hybrid features the same core as the original Hammer Dark Web wrapped by the Aggression Hybrid cover with the HK-22 base. The color is blue/purple/black. The video was shot on leftover THS. I decided to drill one Dark Web Hybrid with a weaker pin placement. I went with 40 x 5 3/4 x 25 at box surface.(2000 Siaair) My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a Melee Jab Blood Red with a 40x6x25 layout and I have tried this ball on a variety of THS, fresh and burnt.

I decided to do one Dark Web Hybrid with a weaker layout so that I could hopefully use straighter angles and stay more on top of the dry. I was NOT disappponted! The original Dark Web, even with surface taken off of it, was a pretty early and smooth ball...a good benchmark option. The new Dark Web Hybrid, to me, has more downlane motion even with the duller surface on leftover THS. This is exactly the shape I was trying to achieve with this ball. It still revs quickly and it is not the ball with the quickest response. It feels like an original Dark Web but with pop off the spot. The ball is very easy to read and shows continuation without being super angular. Again, this will be a good benchmark, symmetrical core ball option. I will try this ball with different surfaces to see what it does. Thus far, however, this ball achieves the motion/shape I wanted to see.

The Dark Web Hybrid releases officially on July 13, 2023. See your local pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Diesel
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on remake of the Hammer Diesel. The new Diesel features the exact same symmetrical core of the original Diesel from approximately 13-14 years ago. Additionally, the new Diesel has the NBT Hybrid cover, the same cover featured on the ever popular Widow Legend. The ball comes with an industry leading 3 year warranty and its color is a striking swirl of Black/Red/Orange. Box finish is 2000 Abralon.

My "vitals" are a rev rate of 405 and a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I used a 45 x 5 x 40 with a P4 weight hole layout in the remake Diesel. I've tried this ball on THS, 2015 USBC Masters pattern and Kegel Abbey Road. I have thrown the ball at box and 1000 Abralon on these patterns. My intent for this ball was to have a strong, controllable ball for heavier volumes...yet still have enough to go away from the pocket and get it back. I have been with Hammer staff for 13 seasons.

At box surface and at 1000 Abralon, the Diesel does require some volume to the pattern for it to be in play.(Though I could easily see this ball in play on more medium patterns with a smoother surface.) That being said, the Diesel came through for its intended use. I'd put this ball shape wise as earlier and smoother than an original Rebel, but with a stronger backend motion than a Rhodman. I had good success with the Diesel on Abbey Road at box and on Masters pattern with a little more surface. Either way, with an appropriate hand position, I was able to go away with the ball and still get it back. In combination with an original Rebel or new Cherry Vibe for when the pattern breaks down or lighter volumes generally, there is an excellent 1/2 punch in the Hammer line.

The new Diesel or the new Blue Vibe can be excellent choices for a new benchmark ball to start the upcoming season. The Diesel will be at its best on medium to heavier volumes and drilled properly, this ball should match up with different styles and rev rates.

The Diesel is currently available! See your local pro shop for more information on the new Hammer Diesel.

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Hammer Diesel Torque
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Diesel Torque by Hammer. The Diesel Torque comes with the same symmetrical core as the original Diesel with a stronger Juiced Solid coverstock. This release features an industry leading 3 year warranty in its Carbon Fiber manufacturing process. The ball comes with a 2000 Abralon polished surface.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the ball with a 0 x 5 ½ x 60 layout. I am drilling my equipment currently without weight holes in conformity with the new rules that go into effect on August 1, 2018. I have used this ball at factory finish on THS, USBC White and Shark Sport.
Compared to the original Diesel, as would be expected with a stronger cover, the ball does grab sooner. I would characterize the ball motion as a very heavy arc. I was able to throw the new Diesel to the dry on the THS without having it overreact on the normal over/under. On longer/flatter patterns, even the longer Shark, I was able to make the ball work as long as I kept my angles closed. Again, the motion of the ball is very “rolly” and is in play when there is a wet/dry or medium fresh patterns where control of the lane is required .
I believe with the stronger cover, this ball requires more oil in the front in order to be effective. Thus, I see this ball in play with medium/heavy volumes and medium to shorter distance patterns. It will also be effective when lanes are wet/dry from side to side as is often found on a THS.
See your local proshop for more information about the Diesel Torque!

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Hammer Effect
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the brand new Hammer Effect. The Effect features a brand new Huntsman asymmetric core (2.47 RG/.50 diff) wrapped by an HK-22 Cohesion Pearl cover. Factory finish is 1500 Siaair finished with Factory Compound. This is the 1st time Hammer is featuring a 4 color coverstock- maroon, blue, black and purple. I drilled mine with a 40 x 4 1/2 x 25 layout and I went over mine with a worn 2000 Siaair pad. I've tested mine on a high volume, 43 foot challenge pattern and fresh THS.
The mainstays in my bags in terms of asymmetric core pieces are the Widow 3.0, Widow 2.0 Hybrid and the Theorem. (For higher volume patterns, the Hammer Envy Tour is also a VERY frequent flyer ). When the Effect was announced, I was very interested in figuring out where the Effect would fit in terms of the 3.0 and Theorem. After trying the Effect, I see it in between the 3.0 and the Theorem. It is earlier than the Theorem but longer and stronger than the 3.0. The motion I see would best be described as length with strong continuation. I see the Hammer Effect as being in play in similar environments as the 3.0 but when the bowler is looking for a little longer and quicker downlane response. It also can easily be an option as a "ball down" from the 3.0 when the 3.0 is going too early. I used the Effect effectively doing just that on our Tuesday night scratch league on our challenge pattern. Plus, I must say the ball has great shelf appeal and looks very sharp going down the lane.
The Hammer Effect is available today. See your local pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Effect Tour
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I had a chance to work with the Hammer Effect Tour. The Effect Tour features a modified Effect (Huntsman) asymmetric core to lower the RG and differential so as to create the earlier/smoother motion. The coverstock is the Tour V3 solid colored in tour blue. Box finish is 1500 Siaair. I drilled one thus far using my favorite pin down layout of 60 x 5 x 70 and tried it today on leftover THS. I kept it at box finish.

Anyone that knows my favorite pieces of equipment knows how much I love the Hammer Envy Tour. I drilled 2 originally and I used them so much in tournaments, I drilled 2 more Envy Tours with the exact same layouts to replace the first 2. Thus, when the Effect Tour was announced, my interest was definitely piqued. The Effect Tour is designed to be another slower response, smooth type of motion to provide the bowler with control on fresh which is especially effective on demanding patterns. The Effect Tour has a little higher RG and differential when compared to an Envy Tour. I tested a fresh Envy Tour with the same layout and I put it at 1500 Siaair so I could get an accurate comparison. When comparing the Envy Tour to the Effect Tour, I definitely was about an arrow further left with the Effect. The Effect Tour was maybe a tiny bit cleaner but the difference is in the backend motion. The Effect Tour has a stronger motion than an Envy Tour. I had to be about an arrow further left getting the Effect Tour to the same point as the Envy Tour. That notwithstanding, the Effect Tour will be at its best on medium to high volumes of oil on the fresh. Like with the Envy Tour, I fully expect the Hammer Effect Tour to excel on fresh sport patterns where slower response equipment is often in play. I think any bowler that competes on higher difficulty patterns will want an Effect Tour in their bag for the fresh. Personally speaking, I'll definitely be punching another 1 or 2 of these pieces.

The Hammer Effect Tour releases officially on November 21, 2024. Please see your local pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Envy
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Envy. The Envy features the Launcher asymmetric core wrapped by a black/red/orange Envy solid coverstock. (Same cover on the original Obsession) Box surface is 1500 Siaair. I have tried the new Envy on Kegel Neon which is our house shot. The layout on the ball is 45 x 4 3/4 x 30 and was thrown at box surface.

The Envy, at box surface, definitely requires higher volumes of oil. Kegel Neon is a lower volume long pattern and our lanes surface is older AMF SPL synthetic. The Envy clearly is early in its response to the pattern with a slower more rounded shape to its motion. Yet, what is also clear is that the Envy does continue splitting the 8-9. The new Envy will be best suited to fresh patterns with higher volumes. In this environment, the Envy will be most effective. Depending on layout, I see the Envy best on medium to longer distance patterns. I have not tried any surface changes but will do so in the future to see how it responds to lower volumes.

The new Hammer Envy is readily available. See your local pro shop for more information!

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Hammer Envy Tour
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I recently punched up the new Hammer Envy Tour. The new Envy Tour features a modified Obsession asymmetric core. As expected in a tour edition ball, the RG was lowered as was the differential, compared to the original Envy, to create an early, smooth, slower response type of motion. Surrounding the modified Obsession core is a black Envy Solid cover (same cover as original Envy) finished at 1000 Siaair. The layout in the ball is 50 x 5 x 25 and thrown at box surface. I tried it on leftover Kegel Neon- our house's THS, and a 42 foot higher volume challenge pattern.

The concept behind the Envy Tour was to build on the successful Obsession/Obsession Tour combination by creating a Tour edition Envy which is similar in shape to the Obsession Tour...just more overall hook. Admittedly, when I tried it, it was on leftover THS and given how aggressive the box surface is, I had to use loft and as soft a hand as I could to make the Envy Tour work. That being said, the motion that the Envy Tour shows is clear- it reads early and indeed very smooth and controllable. This ball should be fantastic on medium to higher volume fresh patterns (especially at box surface) where slower response equipment is preferred. On the challenge pattern, the ball was again, early and smooth but with excellent continuation.I think this ball will be in play on a variety of patterns distances. I absolutely see this ball in play on fresh sport patterns. Again, the designers at Hammer, in my opinion, hit the target with their stated goal for the Envy Tour.

The Hammer Envy Tour is now readily available...see your pro shop for more information!

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Hammer Envy Tour Pearl
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I have had a chance to work with the brand new Hammer Envy Tour Pearl. The new Envy Tour Pearl features the same low RG/low diff asymmetric core as the original Envy Tour with a chrome color Envy Pearl coverstock with the popular HK-22 base. Box finish is Brunswick Crown Factory Compound. I have drilled one with a layout of 60 x 4 ¾ x 70. I've tried the new Hammer Envy Tour Pearl at box and at fresh 3000 siaair on fresh house shot and on one of our custom scratch league challenge patterns (40 foot, 26 ml, 4:1 ratio)
.
The manufacturer's target was to create a similar type of control motion but for lighter volume patterns. I've sung the praises of the original Envy Tour on any 30+ ml pattern and they have truly been my "best friend" in those environments regardless of pattern distance. In 2 words for the Envy Tour Pearl, MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! Our house shot and the challenge pattern are in the 25-26 ml range. The Pearl is definitely later and quicker off the spot compared to a similarly drilled Envy Tour but still with that unique Envy Tour control type of motion. I see the Envy Tour Pearl as a great option on more demanding, medium volume fresh patterns and as a potential go to ball when patterns are breaking down and an Envy Tour is losing too much energy. I will say I prefer the Envy Tour at fresh 3000 siaair on both patterns. I have enjoyed great success on tougher high volume patterns with the original Hammer Envy Tour- I cannot wait to try the Envy Tour Pearl on equally demanding patterns but with lighter to medium volumes of oil.

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Hammer Extreme Envy
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
3

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Recently, I had a chance to work with the Hammer Extreme Envy- one of the brand new Envy pieces in the Hammer line. The new Extreme Envy has a modified Envy core (lower RG) with a carbon fiber infused Envy solid cover finished at 2000 siaair. I went with a little stronger layout with the Extreme Envy than what I used in the original Envy- 50 x 4 1/4 x 20. I tried at it box surface on one of the custom designed patterns for our Tuesday night scratch league. (40 foot, 26 ml, 4:1 ratio)

The manufacturer's intent was to create a ball for higher volumes of oil and that had a little more motion off the end of the pattern than the original Envy. I think Hammer hit the target in terms of their stated goal. I used the original Envy with success during PBA league this summer on the 2023 PBA Shark pattern. I think from what I saw on Friday, I would have had equal if not a little more success with the Extreme Envy just because I do see a little more motion off the spot. Either way, the environment in which this new Envy will see the best chance of success will be on high volumes of oil because the core/cover combination definitely wants to read early. I believe the Extreme Envy can handle various pattern distances as long as there is sufficient volume in the pattern. On the above pattern, it's clear how early the ball wants to read, especially due to the medium volume of oil. Because this pattern, notwithstanding the 40 foot distance, wants to play much further out, the Extreme Envy definitely blends out the fresh and doesn't jump off the spot. Personally, I feel this ball will be in play for me on patterns with 30ml of oil or more. I will also try adjusting surface to allow me to try it on a little lighter volume of o

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Hammer Fierce Phobia
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Fierce Phobia by Hammer. This is the second release in the Phobia line. Box finish is 2000 Abralon.The core is the same symmetrical core used in the original Phobia and the cover is Semtex Hybrid. The Fierce Phobia, like all Hammer releases, has an industry leading 3 year warranty and comes in a blue/black and red swirl..
My specs are that I have a 405 rev rate, PAP is 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have used this ball at box surface, 4000 Abralon and polished with Factory Finish Polish. The layout I used was 55 x 5 ¼ x 70 with a weight hole. (I have an original Phobia with the same layout). I have used this ball on a variety of THS and a modified USBC White.
The new Fierce Phobia is a strong symmetrical piece of equipment best suited for medium to higher volumes of oil. At box surface, the Fierce Phobia picks up the midlane aggressively and continues through the back part of the lane. The best comparison I note was when I polished the Fierce Phobia and was able to compare it to an original Phobia with the same layout. On the same shot with the same polished surface, I saw similar length. However, the new Fierce Phobia shows a stronger response off of the spot compared to the original Phobia. If you liked the original Phobia for medium to lighter volumes, you will like the Fierce Phobia for higher volumes or when you need a little more recovery than an original Phobia.
I found the Phobia core to be “driller friendly” and should suit many different styles.
See your proshop for the latest on the Fierce Phobia by Hammer.

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Hammer Flawless
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Flawless. The new Flawless features an inverted symmetrical light bulb core wrapped around the Juiced Pearl coverstock found also on the Rebel Yell. Like all Hammers, the Flawless features a 3 year warranty in its Carbon Fiber manufacturing process. The ball comes with a 1000 Abralon polished surface. The color is a vibrant Pink/White/Blue which will catch eyes around the center.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a Flawless with a 50x5x40 layout which is the same layout used in my 1st Onyx Vibe. Where the numbers are comparable to a Onyx Vibe, I wanted a point of comparison. I am drilling my equipment currently without weight holes in conformity with the new rules that went into effect on August 1, 2018. I have used this ball at factory finish, 2000 Abralon surfaces. I have tried the new Flawless on THS, modified USBC White and Kegel Beaten Path.
Based on the comparison of the Onyx Vibe I found the Flawless to get through the fronts a little easier than the Onyx Vibe with a little more recovery/continuation. As an example, I bowled an event on Kegel Beaten path which is lighter volume 41 foot challenge pattern. I started with the Onyx Vibe and found little hold and poor corner carry as the ball seemed a little lazy off the spot. I stayed in about the same zone and switched to the Flawless and that opened up the lane with ease. I generated more hold as the ball was cleaner and the corner carry was improved. That is why I think on the medium to lighter volumes or on broken down patterns, the Flawless will be in play.
Because of the versatility/shape of the core, many shapes can be drilled into the ball and should suit a number of styles. I can see this ball in play on a number of different pattern distances depending on ball speed. I believe that the Flawless will excel on medium to lighter volume patterns generally.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Flawless!

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Hammer Fugitive
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Fugitive by Hammer. This is one of the 1st of 3 Hammer releases under the Brunswick family of equipment. The Fugitive features a symmetric core wrapped by the Juiced Pearl cover in Red/Silver Pearl. Box finish is 1000 Siaair with Crown Factory Compound
My Vitals are 403 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled my Fugitive with a 45 x 4 ½ x 30 layout. I have thrown it on THS, Kegel Abbey Road and Kegel Route 66. I have thrown it at box surface and at 1000 Abralon.
Even though the description for the ball reads skid/flip, I would more characterize the motion as skid/smooth. Thus, I feel the Fugitive is best suited for drier and shorter patterns. With drier and shorter patterns, the Fugitive wlll not over squirt through the front but should control the back end. Thus, if bowling on a shorter sport that is of medium to lighter volume, the Fugitive will be in play. I can also see the Fugitive in play as a possible transition ball when the fronts go but the backends are still crisp. I also think that bowlers with a medium to higher rev rate will see the most benefit from this ball. For medium to higher volume patterns and/or medium to longer patterns, consider the new Hammer Redemption Solid or Redemption Pearl.
See your local proshop about the new Hammer Fugitive.

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Hammer Gauntlet
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my impressions of the new Gauntlet by Hammer- available for purchase starting February 14, 2017 from your favorite proshop. The Gauntlet features a brand new asymmetrical core with a hybrid Semtex Carbon Fiber cover. As with all Hammer equipment, the Gauntlet comes with an industry leading 3 year warranty and comes in a bright orange/black/silver color scheme which will be sure to garner looks!
I drilled mine with a 65 x 6 x 65 layout with a weight hole. I have thrown it on both fresh and broken down THS as well as USBC White. I have thrown it at box surface (2000 Abralon) as well as polished with Factory Finish Polish. My rev rate is approximately 400 and my PAP is 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. And with an average speed of 17 mph.
In a nutshell, this ball loves oil. I was able to successfully throw the Gauntlet on all of the above patterns with polish. I will note that with notwithstanding the strength of this new release, the ball does continue and I did see definite continuation with this ball even on broken down THS when polished. Arguably, this is one of the strongest releases I have seen from Hammer in 12 years of being on staff.
That being said, the Gauntlet is best suited for high volume patterns and longer patterns and will excel in that environment. If you are bowling on a medium to lighter volume of oil, the Hammer Phobia might be a better selection. While I do believe that different ball motions can be drilled into this piece, again its preferred environment will definitely be high volume/longer patterns. The Gauntlet will be an excellent selection for speed dominant bowlers and/or bowlers with lower rev rates.
As an added bonus with the Gauntlet, if you purchase one quickly, you can register the ball with Hammer and you will receive a free sublimation dye shirt from Hammer. However, shirt supplies are limited so see your favorite proshop operator about the new Gauntlet by Hammer.

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Hammer Gauntlet Fury Ltd
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts about the new Gauntlet Fury by Hammer. The Gauntlet Fury features the aggressive asymmetrical Gauntlet core with the record setting Semtex Pearl CFI cover- the same cover used on the Scandal Pearl. The box finish for the ball is 1000 Abralon with Factory Finish polish. The color is a pearl swirl of smoke/orange/purple. Like with all Hammers, the Gauntlet Fury comes with a 3 year warranty
I am on Hammer staff and my vitals are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled mine similar to a Hammer demo ball and have tried it on a variety of THS. I have thrown it at box surface and 2000 Abralon.
I think that with the pearl cover, the new Gauntlet Fury will excel on a greater number of patterns. The original Gauntlet’s strong suit was heavy volume patterns mostly due to the highly aggressive nature of the coverstock. The Gauntlet Fury still shows an aggressive read of the lane but with the weaker cover, the motion is further down the lane with better continuation which I believe puts this ball in play on a greater variety of patterns. The ball will be best suited for medium to longer oil patterns and should be in play on medium volumes or with a proper surface, heavier volumes. I also believe that with the weaker cover, more styles of play will find success with this ball. For lighter volumes and or shorter patterns, consider one of the Hammer Vibes.
See your local pro shop for more information about the Gauntlet Fury by Hammer!

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Hammer Hammerhead
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Recently, I had a chance to work with the new Hammer Hammerhead. The Hammerhead features the Spheroid symmetric core featured in prior Hammers like the Bad Intentions, the Rhodman and the Web series. The Hammerhead has an Aggression Solid reactive cover colored in blue/navy/sky. Box finish is 2000 Siaair. I have tried to Hammerhead on fresh and leftover THS. The layout used is 55 x 4 1/2 x 25.

From the moment I started throwing the Hammerhead, the immediate impression I got was GREAT BENCHMARK BALL. The Hammerhead is very rolly with a slower type of response and a more arc shape to it. The Hammerhead is a bit quicker and more overall than a Scorpion Low Flare but the motion is definitely smoother and the response feels slower. I see this ball, at box surface, as a definite ball for fresh patterns with medium to higher volume. I think this ball will also excel on very cliffed lanes where the bowler needs a ball to blend out the pattern. I also think, watching the motion, that this ball will work with a variety of styles, rev rates, speeds etc

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Hammer Hazmat
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the brand new Hammer Hazmat. The Hazmat is a low RG/high differential symmetric core release wrapped by a black, jade, sapphire semtex hybrid cover with the HK-22 base. Box finish is 1500 Siaair finished with factory compound. The one I've drilled has a 40 x 5 x 30 layout at box finish. Ive have tried the new Hazmat on several fresh THS patterns.

The purpose of Hazmat by design is to create a "big ball" in a symmetric core release with a stronger back end motion. From what I see, the Hazmat definitely covers a good amount of territory and shows a quicker down lane response at box surface. As I've been working on trying to slow down the response down lane and get the ball to read a little sooner and be smoother, I will hit the Hazmat with maybe a fresh 2000 pad and see what it does. Either way, the Hazmat reminds a bit of the more recent Brunswick Knock Out/Melee Jab releases- and to be sure, I've had good luck with that series of bowling balls. So, I expect I will see the Hazmat getting plenty of usage and will likely show “usability” on a variety of patterns.

The Hammer Hazmat releases on November 16- see your pro shop for more information!

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Hammer Hazmat Pearl
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
3

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I recently had a chance to punch the Hammer Hazmat Pearl and here are my impressions. The Hazmat Pearl features the same low RG/high diff Hazmat symmetric core found in the prior two Hazmat releases over the last 2 years. The cover is a blue/white/cobalt Semtex Pearl with the HK-22 base found in many Brands of Brunswick releases. Box finish is Factory Compound over 1500 Siaair. I have drilled one with a 55 x 5 1/4 x 25 layout and I went over the ball with a 4000 Siaair pad. I have tried the Hazmat Pearl on a variety of THS. Hammer's intent was to create a stronger piece with a little quicker downlane response for medium volume patterns.

This was the first ball I drilled since I did a finger pitch change on all of the balls that are currently in the arsenal. So, being the first new ball, I was anxious to try it. I also had some issues getting the prior Hazmat releases to match up for my game. I talked with fellow Brands of Brunswick staffer John Zawalick about what I could do to make the Hazmat Pearl work. We came up with a little different layout to try.

I don't know if it is the layout or the finger pitch change but the Hazmat Pearl is exactly what I wanted. I can usually tell pretty quickly whether any given ball offers a shape I'll like and to be sure, the Hazmat Pearl has already earned a spot in my bag. The Hazmat Pearl has a wide range of motion handling increased rotation and a much steeper launch as well as handling a more up the back release with a straighter launch. The Hazmat Pearl handled both with ease splitting the 8-9 when it entered the pit. This release hits the target in terms of its designated purpose. Plus, I have to say this release just looks great going down the lane with that color combination.


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Hammer Hazmat Solid
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Introducing the Hammer Hazmat Solid- formally introduced yesterday. The new Hazmat Solid features the same core found in the original Hazmat but this time with a Semtex Solid cover colored in onyx, lime and purple. Box finish is 2000 Siaair. Mine is drilled with my favorite pin down layout, 60 x 5 x 70. I have tried the Hazmat Solid on THS and a variety of sport patterns.

For some of my favorite symmetrical core balls for fresh or for benchmark purposes, I generally like to see lower RG/medium to higher diff balls. I loved the original Track Stealth and the original Brunswick Knock Out. I also had success with the Hammer Dark Web Hybrid. So, when I saw a solid version of the Hazmat, I was very intrigued. I've been looking for a ball with that type of core/cover match up to have strong benchmark symmetrical core options. The Hazmat Solid did not disappoint. It is indeed that heavy rolling strong arc type shape that I was looking for. The video tells the story and truth be told, I missed it a little at the bottom and still slapped the 10 pin. While I haven't tried it yet, I will be trying different surfaces to see the Hazmat Solid's versatility. But I think this is that benchmark look I've been seeking to replace the Stealth for example and I will be looking forward to drilling another one with a pin up layout to create a different shape. I think it will complement some of the stronger asymmetric pieces I have and the weaker symmetric pieces.

The Hammer Hazmat Solid is readily available. See your pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Infamous
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts on the new Hammer Infamous. The Infamous features a brand new, multi density high RG/high differential symmetrical core wrapped by an Envy Solid coverstock colored in gray/royal/coral. Box finish is 2000 Siaair. The layout on the one I drilled is 60 x 5 x 20 and I have thrown it on both fresh and burnt THS. I have tried it at box surface and 4000 Siaair. My vitals are 403 RPM and a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up.
The Infamous covers an awful lot of territory and definitely is best suited for higher volumes of oil. I preferred mine at 4000 Siaair for the THS just because I don't have a ton of speed and with the older SPL surface, it helps to get the ball down the lane a little easier than the 2000 Siaair box surface. Once the Infamous sees friction, it goes left quickly and keeps going. Personally, given the amount of response down lane, I probably will put this ball in play on higher volume patterns with medium to longer distances. From what I see, the response to friction is quick so if the pattern is too short or there is alot of wet/dry, the Infamous may be a bit touchy (unless you have sufficient speed to control any wet/dry in which case the Infamous may be in play) which is why I will like it on longer distances with the proper volume.
See your local pro shop for more information on the new Hammer Infamous!

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Hammer Nail Titanium
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I have just drilled the Nail Titanium. I will state at the outset that I am on Hammer staff. I drilled the Nail Titanium with a 30 x 5 20 layout with a weight hole on my PAP. I dusted the cover with a fresh 4000 Abralon pad to take off the factory polish. (I usually do this with all factory shined balls)

I found this ball to be an imnprovement over the original Nail which I had drilled similarly last year. I found the overall hook to be similar but the motion to be different. I find the new Titanium to be cleaner in the front with a stronger backend motion than the original Nail. On a THS, throwing the ball resulted in a big move off the spot. To control the movement, a more "up the back" release controlled the hook in the back. As the lanes transitioned, I was able to rotate the ball harder and was able to keep a similar line. The carry on this ball is excellent.

I have tried this ball on a longer sport pattern (46 feet) and with the surface it had, the ball was not strong enough to read the pattern. A very aggressive surface did help but overall, a stronger ball was a better option. However, on a lighter volume mid range sport pattern (40 feet) with a little more surface (2000 Abralon) I found this ball to be in play with a little straighter line.

As such, I believe that this new Titanium Nail is best suited for medium volume patterns. Too much volume or a very long pattern and this ball will not be the best option. However, for the THS and medium volume shorter to mid range length patterns, this ball will defintely be in play and will excel. Additionally, the ball is very sharp looking with its bright color combination!

See your local pro shop for the Nail Titanium!
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Hammer NU Blue Hammer
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
This new Hammer NU Blue release is designed to provide a urethane type motion and be compliant with the new PBA rules. (Please note Purple Urethane Hammers are still legal outside of the PBA.) The NU Blue Hammer features the LED core used in the Purple Urethane Hammer (appears core numbers are slightly modified) wrapped by a "not urethane" coverstock finished at 1000 Siaair. I drilled the first NU Blue Hammer with my favorite layout on a Purple Urethane Hammer- 40 x 5 x 10.

I keep my Purples at 500 Siaair and I went over this first NU Blue Hammer on the spinner with a 500 Siaair pad. Thus far, all I am going to say is I am VERY IMPRESSED and the NU Blue Hammer strikes a lot. The Purple Urethane Hammer seems a bit earlier and smoother than the NU Blue Hammer. That being said, I did make this observation...not only does the NU Blue Hammer NOT seem sensitive to slight release mistakes but also I noticed that I tripped LOTS of corner pins. I don't know if it just matches up on our THS but I definitely noticed lots of slap 10 strikes which is a great thing to see. I definitely see this ball in play whenever a Purple Urethane would otherwise be used. While not exactly like a Purple Urethane Hammer, the NU Blue Hammer absolutely delivers the slower response urethane type of motion as well as strikes a ton! Just in 2 practice sessions, this ball has already earned a spot in the arsenal!

The NU Blue Hammer releases on November 16, 2023- see your local pro shop for more information!


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Hammer Obsession
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Obsession. The new Obsession features a large, asymmetric core wrapped by the Envy Solid CFI reactive cover. Box surface is 1500 Siaair and the Obsession has a bright Black/Pink/Burgundy cover.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a Hammer Obsession with a 60 x 5 ½ x 70 layout. I have used this ball at factory finish on multiple THS.
The new Hammer Obsession will handle the highest volumes of oil…the Obsession just flat out hooks. The Obsession reminds me of a Redemption Solid from last year but with a little more backend motion. Even with the weaker layout, the Obsession reads very aggressively in the oil at box surface. The Hammer Obsession will require a high volume of oil and order longer pattern distance in order to be most effective. Bowlers will higher ball speeds or lower rev rates will find lots of success with the Obsession. This new release has already made a splash on the PBA Players Championship Central Regional telecast with Zach Weidman using the ball in a fine 2nd place finish.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Hammer Obsession!

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Hammer Obsession Tour
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Obsession TOUR. The Hammer Obsession Tour has a low RG/low diff. asymmetrical core wrapped by a burgundy colored solid Tour V2 cover. Box finish is 1000 Siaair.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Obsession Tour with a 60 x 6 x 20 layout and have thrown it at box surface and 3000 Abralon. I have tried the Obsession Tour on various THS as well as a 40 foot 2.75:1 medium volume sport pattern.
Don’t let the Tour in the name fool you, the Obsession Tour flat out hooks a ton. The shape would be best described as strong yet smooth/continuous…they type of motion you would expect on a Tour ball. At 3000 Abralon, the Obsession Tour does show more length but even with the smoother surface, the Obsession Tour covers a lot of boards. Given the strength of the cover, you will be able to use this ball on the medium to higher volume patterns, depending on surface prep. This ball should especially be in play on medium to high volume SPORT patterns where control of the lane is key. In terms of comparison, the Obsession Tour reminds me a bit of the Track Kinetic Obsidian, but with an earlier motion and move overall hook.
See your local proshop for more on the Hammer Obsession Tour.

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Hammer Obsession Tour Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Obsession Tour Pearl is an asymmetric low RG/low diff release wrapped by the Tour V2 gold Pearl cover. I have tried this on fresh THS at box surface which is Factory Compound. The layout is 60 x 5 1/4 x 70 for the one I drilled. My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up.

Like with the original Obsession Tour, this new ball covers more boards than I originally expected. The best comparison I can provide is the new Radical Intel SE...another low RG/low diff. pearl release. The Intel SE has a symmetrical core however. The Obsession Tour Pearl puts me a little further left and appears to be a little earlier and slower in response when compared to a similarly drilled Intel SE. Compared to the original Obsession Tour, the Obsession Tour Pearl, as expected, is cleaner through the front part of the lane. So, it appears that the Obsession Tour Pearl, in comparison to other low RG/low diff. releases is somewhere in between an original Obsession Tour and a Radical Intel SE. I would expect this ball to be in play on medium volumes of oil.

See your local pro shop for more information on the new Hammer Obsession Tour Pearl!

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Hammer Ocean Vibe
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Ocean Vibe by Hammer. IT’S BACK! The Vibe line in EBI days was the premier line of symmetric core equipment from Hammer. Any Vibe was the “go to” ball in the Hammer line when a symmetric core option was needed. The new Ocean Vibe will NOT disappoint. The new Ocean Vibe features the same “hour glass” symmetric core wrapped by a CT Reactive Pearl cover in a cool looking turquoise color. Box finish is 2000 Siaair polished. I drilled mine with my favorite pin down layout for a Vibe- 60 x 5 x 70. I have thrown it on several THS and 2022 PBA Chameleon. I did alter the surface to 4000 Siaair.
The new Ocean Vibe holds true to form in terms of Vibe ball motion. The new Ocean Vibe reminds me of a remake Cherry Vibe on steroids. The Vibe gets down the lane with ease and shows great continuation off of the spot. I used the Vibe during 3rd game of league on the Chameleon pattern once the fronts dried up and could not get the ball I was using to go through the pins properly. The Vibe, as noted above, cleared the fronts and was the right move. As such, I see the Vibe as being in play on shorter to medium distance patterns. I also believe the Vibe will be at its best on medium to light volume patterns/broken down patterns. As with previous Vibes, this new Vibe will suit many styles of bowlers and different shapes can be achieved depending on layout.


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Hammer Phobia
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts about the new Phobia by Hammer. The Hammer Phobia features the Semtex Pearl cover (similar to the highly successful Scandal Pearl) with a symmetrical core shape. The core is manufactured with the Carbon Fiber process and thus, comes with the industry leading 3 year warranty. The color of ball is blue/bronze and box surface for the ball is 1000 Abralon with Factory Finish Polish.
My PAP is 5 9/16 over and 1/8 with a 400 rev rate. Average speed for me is in the vicinity of 17 mph. I have thrown the new Phobia at box finish and at 4000 Abralon. I have tried the ball on THS, USBC White and Kegel Abbey Road. The layout on the Phobia that I drilled is 45x 6 x 35 with a weight hole 4 inches from the center of the grip. I drilled a 2nd one with a 60 x 5 ¼ x 70 layout with a weight hole 4 inches over and 2 inches down from center of grip.
Initially, I was told to conceive of this ball as a symmetrical version of a Gas Mask core such as is found in the Hammer Legend, Taboo and Widow series of bowling balls. As such, the layout used is one of my personal favorite layouts in a Gas Mask core. On each of the patterns on which I have tried the Phobia, the description of it being a symmetrical version of a Gas Mask core is ABSOLUTELY ACCURATE! Thus, if you are a fan of the Legend, Taboo or Widow series of bowling balls, the Phobia is absolutely for you! In comparing the Phobia to a similarly drilled original Legend, the ball shape is very similar, but with the Phobia, the motion is further down the lane. As such, on medium volume patterns of any length or broken down patterns, the Phobia has a great chance of being in play. Given what appears to be the overall characteristic of the ball, the Phobia may well be a good benchmark ball.
Similarly, based on what I have seen thus far, I fully expect that this ball will appeal to a wide variety of bowler styles and rev rates. I also further expect that the ball will be versatile and can be drilled to achieve many different reactions. The first Phobia is clearly more angular and the 2nd one is earlier and overall stronger as would be expected.
See your local pro shop for more information about the new Hammer Phobia.

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Hammer Pure Envy
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Hammer Pure Envy released a couple of weeks ago. It features the same Launcher asymmetric core found in the original Envy wrapped by a black/pink/purple HK-22 cohesion coverstock. Box finish is 2000 Siaair and the videos were shot on fresh THS. I've also used the Pure Envy with good success on higher volume, 45 foot 4:1 challenge pattern. For comparison, I threw an original Envy at box finish with a comparable layout.

Compared to the original Envy, I definitely see a little more length and a stronger backend. In practicing with both pieces on the same pair, I got the Pure Envy a little wider and it came back with a little quicker motion off the spot. The original Envy is a bit earlier and smoother from what I saw. That being said, the Pure Envy, like other releases in the Envy line, are designed for higher volumes of oil. I see this new Pure Envy as a good choice for any higher volume patterns and depending on the bowler's speed, could be in play on a variety of pattern distances.

The Pure Envy is readily available, see your pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Purple Pearl Hammer Urethane
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Purple Urethane Hammer. The new Purple Urethane Hammer is an exact remake of the original Hopkinsville Purple Hammer. It features the LED symmetrical core wrapped by purple pearl urethane cover. Box finish is 2000 Siaair.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a new Purple Urethane Hammer with a 40 x 5 x 10 layout and have thrown it at box surface on various THS, 40’ low volume challenge pattern and the 2021 PBA Del Ballard pattern.
When a company basically builds the same ball and rereleases it, there is usually a good reason. Such is absolutely the case here. The Purple Urethane Hammer had an unmatched ball motion compared to other urethanes on the market. I compared the remake Purple Urethane Hammer with an original EBI Purple Hammer with a 50 x 3 ¾ x 35 layout with the same surface. In all honesty, for those that had any doubt, the unique ball motion of EBI Purple Urethane Hammer is replicated in the new Purple Hammer. If anything, the new Purple Hammer may be a tad stronger in the back part of the lane. The appearance of the ball is the same and the ball motion is almost identical. If you liked the original EBI Purple Urethane Hammer, you will want the new Purple Urethane Hammer.
See your local pro shop for more information on the new Purple Urethane Hammer.

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Hammer Purple Solid Reactive
2 of 6 people found this review helpful
1

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I have had a chance to drill the brand new Hammer Purple REACTIVE. This is a brand new release to complement the Hammer Purple Urethane. The Purple Reactive features the same core in the Purple Urethane wrapped by a Solid Reactive cover finished at 1500 Siaair. However, from the Hammer website, due to the different coverstock, the core numbers are slightly different...a little lower RG and slightly higher differential. I tried the ball today on a 40 foot, 4:1. 30ml challenge pattern at box surface. The pattern was fresh. For layout, I copied the layout on my favorite Purple Urethane Hammer, 40 x 5 x 10.

When we got the information on the new Hammer Purple Reactive, suffice it to say the ball piqued my curiosity. I've had very good success with the Purple Urethane Hammer shown below on a number of patterns and to see the same core wrapped by an aggressive reactive cover...yeah that sounded like a fantastic combination! I will say thus far, the new Purple Reactive Hammer was more impressive than I expected. Granted, there are dry boards to the right, but the pattern still has almost 31 ml of oil. I wasn't sure this new release would match up given the core numbers. Boy was I surprised. The new Purple Reactive handled the volume with ease.The motion is best described as smooth but very continuous. Once the Purple Reactive sees the friction it truly continues. What I think impressed me was once the transition began, I figured, again given the core/cover combination, I would need to stay further right. I figured that if I needed to go with steeper angles, the ball wouldn't get there. Boy was I wrong! After trying to stay further right with hand, sight and speed adjustments with spotty success, I decided to jump 5 left, get around it a little more and throw it to the same spot. The Purple Reactive made the corner without any issues and just kept coming. I was truly surprised that this core/cover combination in the Purple Reactive Hammer could do that so easily. It just kept ending up behind the 8 pin spot in the pit. This ball truly impressed me going through the pins.

The new Purple Reactive Hammer is available. Please see your pro shop for more information.


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Hammer Radioactive Vibe
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Whenever Hammer releases a Vibe, I am a happy person! Starting back in 2005 when Hammer first released the original Purple Vibe (won my 1st NEBA with a Purple in Brockton in 2005), the Vibe has always been a mainstay in my arsenal. From the Purple, the Cherries, the Blues, Orange, Onyx, Jet Black, Ocean and the list goes on, there has yet to be a Vibe made that I didn't like. For whatever reason, the Vibe core, like the Gas Mask cores, just seem to match up so well for my game. So, when I saw the new Radioactive Vibe in Fluorescent Yellow announced, I was very eager to drill them ASAP. The new Radioactive Vibe has the usual Vibe symmetrical core with an updated CT Reactive Max cover (HK-22 base). In the first one I drilled, I used my favorite pin down layout- 60 x 5 x 70 and went over the ball with a 4000 Siaair pad. I have tried the new Radioactive Vibe on THS and PBA Scorpion.

The new Radioactive Vibe has the expected, predictable motion that has made Vibes successful. One thing I've always noticed about Vibes is that they are very predictable...rarely will they do anything crazy or unexpected which is why I love them. The Radioactive Vibe glides easily through the front and at the 4000 Siaair surface, reads well down the lane. The motion is fairly quick downlane and continuous. I think it is a little slower in its response, but more overall compared to a similarly drilled Ocean Vibe which was very angular. That being said, I think I am going to go over the ball with a 3000 Siaair pad to get it started a little sooner and be a bit more blended. I will be drilling another one with a stronger pin placement and pin up to create a different shape. Over the years, I have found that Vibes are very versatile in that they work for many styles of bowlers, rev rates, speeds etc. I expect the Radioactive Vibe to be no different!

The Radioactive Vibe is currently available- see your local pro shop for more information!

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Hammer Raw Hammer Black Solid
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Raw Black Solid. The Hammer Raw Series comes in 4 models-1 solid, 1 hybrid and 2 pearls. This review will focus on the Raw Black Solid. This Raw features a medium RG/lower diff. symmetrical core wrapped by a Juiced Solid cover. The factory finish is 3000 Siaair.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled mine with a standard 40 x 6 x 25 layout and have thrown it at box surface on THS and modified THS.
The new Raw series adds a much needed drier lane option within the Hammer line of equipment. In terms of ball motion, the new Raw Black Solid reminds me of the Hammer Ruthless. Indeed they have the same coverstock and similar symmetrical core numbers. The Raw Black shows medium length down the lane with a smoother more gradual down lane motion. This piece is definitely best used on medium volume patterns and on patterns that are medium to shorter in length. Compared to the Pearl Raw, this puts the bowler several boards to the left. This is not a ball for heavier volumes of oil. However, this again gives the bowler a nice option in the Hammer line to get on top of the dry and not see early ball reaction. This ball might be particularly effective for certain THS where the bowler with stronger equipment is forced too far to the left. This may be an effective benchmark ball on some wet/dry patterns as well.
See your local proshop for more on the new Raw series from Hammer.

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Hammer Raw Hammer Purple/Pink/Silver Pearl
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Raw Purple/Pink/Silver. The Hammer Raw Series comes in 4 models-1 solid, 1 hybrid and 2 pearls. This review will focus on the Raw Purple/Pink/Silver which is one of the pearls. This Raw features a medium RG/lower diff. symmetrical core wrapped by a Juiced Pearl cover. The factory finish is 2000 Siaair with Crown Factory Polish.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled mine with a standard 40 x 6 x 25 layout and have thrown it at box surface and at 4000 Abralon on THS and modified THS.
The new Raw series adds a much needed drier lane option within the Hammer line of equipment. In terms of ball motion, the new Raw Purple/Pink/Silver reminds me of the Hammer Flawless. Indeed they have the same coverstock and similar symmetrical core numbers. The Raw Purple/Pink/Silver shows easy length down the lane with a smoother more gradual down lane motion. This piece is definitely best used on medium/light volume patterns or broken down patterns that are medium to shorter in length. Compared to the solid Raw, this puts the bowler several boards to the right. This is not a ball for heavier volumes of oil. However, this again gives the bowler a nice option in the Hammer line to get on top of the dry and not see early ball reaction. This ball might be particularly effective for certain THS where the bowler with stronger equipment is forced too far to the left.
See your local proshop for more on the new Raw series from Hammer.

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Hammer Rebel
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Rebel by Hammer. The Rebel is a mid-performance product featuring the NBT Pearl cover and a brand new symmetrical core. It comes factory polished and is bright red/blue in color. As with all Hammer balls, the core is manufactured with Carbon Fiber and thus comes with a 3 year warranty.
In designing this ball, Hammer’s goal was to create an angular ball that would perform well in oil with a factory shine. I have tried this ball on PBA Bear, PBA Chameleon and a variety of other THS. I have tried it at factory surface and at 3000 Abralon finish. I have been on Hammer staff for now a 12th season.
In my opinion, the Rebel not only meets their target performance goal, it provides a ball motion that Hammer has not seen for quite some time. It provides excellent length similar to an original Viral. The difference is in the amount of backend that the Rebel gives to the bowler. I used a very weak layout in the Rebel- 85 x 5 ½ x 65. There is no weight hole. In a similarly drilled Viral, the Viral would not pick up until too late. The Rebel, however, not only picks up the lane quicker, but make a very strong, continuous move to the pocket. Interestingly, in trying the Rebel with the new Dark legend Solid at the same time, I could actually play very similar lines (in terms of overall hook) but the shape of the ball was very distinct and more angular. Given this type of ball motion, I believe that this ball could easily be a benchmark ball on a variety of conditions.
From what I have seen, this ball should excel on most medium volume patterns and depending on the layout used, should work on many different pattern lengths. For heavier volumes of oil where the bowler requires a quicker read, consider either the Scandal or the Red Legend Solid. That being said, I believe that the shape the Rebel offers is something unique to the Hammer line and is a very welcome addition.
Please be sure your local proshop for additional information on the Hammer Rebel.

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Hammer Rebel Solid
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Hammer Rebel Solid. The Rebel Solid features the same core as the original Rebel along with a bright Blue/Orange NBT Solid coverstock. Box finish is 500/2000 Abralon. Like with all current Hammer pieces, this new release features the durability enhancing carbon fiber technology and thus comes with an industry leading 3 year warranty.

My PAP is 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up with a 400 rev rate and average speed of 17 mph. I have tried the Rebel Solid on several different THS, USBC White, and Kegel Winding Road. I have tried this piece at box surface as well as polished. My Rebel Solid was drilled with a 50 X 5 X 20 with a weight hole on the PAP.

If you are looking for a Rebel type motion on heavier volume patterns, the Rebel Solid is for you. The motion on this ball is a strong, heavy arc (original Rebel was more angular) and as previously noted, will excel on heavier volumes of oil. People with higher ball speeds and/or lower rev rates will also benefit from this release. My experience with this core is that within the ball's capabilities, different shapes can be achieved. Personally, for my style in the environments in which I've tried this piece, the polished surface worked best to help the ball conserve more energy. (Most of the environments referenced have been medium to medium low volume patterns). Thus if you find yourself on a fresh pattern with heavier volumes of oil, the Rebel Solid will be in play. If you find yourself on a medium or light volume of oil or broken down condition, consider an original Hammer Rebel or a Viral Hybrid.

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Hammer Rebel Yell
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts about the 3rd edition to the Hammer Rebel line of bowling balls…the Hammer Rebel Yell. The Rebel Yell features the same symmetrical core in previous Rebels. The coverstock used is “juiced pearl”. The box finish for the ball is 2000 Abralon with Factory Finish polish. The color is a bright steel/blue/yellow pearl swirl.
I am on Hammer staff and my vitals are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have drilled my Rebel Yell with a 45 x 4 ½ x 40 layout, weight hole on PAP and have thrown it at box surface and at 2000 Abralon. I have tried the ball on a variety of THS.
I drilled my Rebel Yell with a similar layout to one of my favorite original Rebels which I have had great success on longer sport patterns with medium volume. I find the new Rebel Yell to be a little more angular than the original Rebel likely due to the coverstock difference. I did prefer the ball at 2000 Abralon as that blended out any over/under on the THS. Generally speaking, unless I am bowling on very high friction surface/low volume of oil, I usually dust off at a minimum any factory polish regardless of the ball released. That being said, with the addition of surface, the Rebel Yell had no issues getting around the corner like the original Rebel.
This ball is definitely best suited to medium to lighter volumes of oil and depending on layout, can work on a variety of pattern distances. Like with the original Rebel, the Rebel Yell should work for many different styles but I think bowlers with medium ball speeds and/or rev dominant players will really appreciate this new Hammer!
See your local pro shop for more information about the Rebel Yell by Hammer!

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Hammer Redemption Hybrid
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Redemption Hybrid. The Redemption Hybrid features the same low RG core as the earlier Redemptions wrapped by the Aggression NE Hybrid cover colored in navy/red/white.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. My Redemption Hybrid is drilled with a 40 x 4 ½ x 15 layout. I have tried this ball at box surface (factory compound sheen), 1000 worn Abralon and 3000 Abralon. I have tried this Redemption on fresh/burnt THS as well as a burnt 44 foot collegiate sport pattern.
My take on this new release may be a little different than other people. I see this ball as the “transition ball” from the other Redemptions. At factory finish, I had a little difficulty getting the ball to read the lane at the right spot and continue through the pins properly. However, with the additional surface, I was able to use the ball effectively use this ball when the lanes are in transition. By that I mean when other Redemptions put me into bad angles after the lanes begin to transition, I was able to take Redemption Hybrid, jam it into where the pattern had opened up and have it stand up nicely. Thus, my sense is that this release will not be the first ball out for fresh but absolutely will be in play when the lanes begin to transition.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Hammer Redemption!

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Hammer Redemption Pearl
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Redemption Pearl, one of the very first Hammers made under the Brunswick umbrella. The Redemption Pearl features a low RG/high diff asymmetric core (using DOT technology) wrapped by the Aggression NE Pearl cover. Factory finish is 500 Siaair finished with Crown Factory Compound. Color is Black/Blue/Gold.

My vitals are 403 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I've tried this new Redemption Pearl at box surface and 2000 Abralon. I've used the ball on leftover Abbey Road, THS, and Route 66. The layout used was 50 x 4 1/2 x 50, no weight hole.

This ball has grown on me in a very short period across the variety of patterns. At all surfaces, even on burnt patterns, the Redemption Pearl shows excellent length and unlike other asymmetric core balls which can often spin up too quickly and lose energy, the Redemption Pearl continued through the backend efficiently. I also found the ball to be in play easily on the medium sport pattern, longer sport pattern as well as THS and was a good benchmark ball to judge the pattern. Given this level of versatility, I expect that this ball will work for a variety of styles and rev rates. Further, I believe this release will be in play on a variety of patterns both in terms of volumes and lengths, except for the extremes.

Check out the brand new Redemption Pearl from Hammer.
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Hammer Rhodman
9 of 13 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Rhodman. The Rhodman features the same “Spheroid” core as the Bad Intentions with the “Juiced Maxx” cover. The box finish is 2000 Abralon and comes in black. Like all Hammers, the Rhodman comes with a 3 year guarantee.
I drilled my Rhodman with a 50 x 5 x 25 with a weight hole on PAP layout and have thrown it at box surface. I have tried the ball on PBA Wolf and several different house patterns. My “vitals” if you wish are a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up with an average speed of around 17-18 mph. My rev rate is around 400.
The Rhodman has a very interesting history behind its name. The Hammer website has that interesting story.
Not surprisingly, this ball reminds me a lot of the original Bad Intentions. The ball has a very early and smooth type of ball motion to it. As such, given its aggressive cover and low RG core, the ball definitely excels on heavier volumes. I actually had very good success with the Rhodman on PBA Wolf as the ball picked up before the end of the pattern yet controlled the back part of the lane very easily. If you are on a wet/dry house shot with a heavier volume, the Rhodman may work very well to blend out any over/under reactions. In trying the Rhodman on lighter volumes, I felt it was a little too early and smooth and had better success with more angular equipment. Overall, like with the original Bad Intentions, the environment in which the Rhodman will excel is heavier volume/fresh patterns with medium to shorter length. The Rhodman will be in play for a variety of styles/rev rates when again, control on fresh is needed.
Check out at your local pro-shop the new Hammer Rhodman- available now.

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Hammer Rhodman Pearl
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Hammer Rhodman Pearl. This release features the same core as the original Rhodman with a purple Juiced Maxx Pearl 2000 Abralon polished cover. Like all Hammer equipment, it carries with it the industry leading 3 year warranty. This is the 2nd TNBA Rhodman release by Hammer.
I have tried this ball at box and at a straight 2000 Abralon finish. My rev rate is 405 and have a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. Layout used was 50 x 5 ¼ x 70 with a weight hole 4 inches over/2 inches down from grip center. I have used this ball on a varied of THS/modified THS as well USBC White.
Like the original Rhodman (and the Bad Intention series of Hammers) the Rhodman Pearl is a very early rolling ball. What distinguishes the Rhodman Pearl’s motion from the original Rhodman is that it does have a more angular move. (Again, more angular within the parameters of this early rolling core)
I have found best success with this ball where there is a big over/under and need to blend out the pattern. Alternatively, this is a good selection for when an original Rhodman (or original Bad Intentions) is burning up and the bowler seeks a similar motion but with a little more length. I also like this ball on the medium to shorter distance patterns where there is at least a medium volume to the pattern. Again, this ball is best suited for blending out over/under either front to back or side to side…as long as there is sufficient volume to the pattern.
See your local proshop about the Hammer Rhodman Pearl!

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Hammer Rip'd
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts concerning the new Rip’d and Rip’d solid by Hammer. I am doing this as a joint review for both balls as they are being released together as a new “one/two punch” in Hammer’s asymmetrical bowling balls. The Rip’d comes in comes factory polished and comes with the Aggression Hybrid CFI cover in black/gold/white swirl. The Rip’d Solid comes with Aggression Solid CFI cover at 2000 Abralon and has a blue/black/orange swirl cover. Both feature the same asymmetrical core and like with all Hammer releases, use carbon fiber technology and come with an industry leading 3 year warranty.
My “vitals” as a bowler are as follows: PAP= 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up- 405 rev rate. I have tried the Rip’d at factory finish and at 4000 Abralon. I have tried the Rip’d Solid at box surface and at an Ebonite “Clean n’ Sheen” finish. I have tried both releases on various THS as well as USBC White. Both of my staff balls came with the same pin distance and top weight so for comparison purposes, I drilled both with the same layout- 60 x 5 ¼ x 40- no balance hole was used.
There is a definite difference in reaction between the 2 new releases. At box, the Rip’d does glide through the front quite easily and especially for an asymmetrical core, gets around the corner quite easily and continues on both THS and White patterns. With 4000 Abralon (just to knock off the factory shine) any slight over/under was erased but in the overall, the same reaction characteristic was present. The new Rip’d reminds me a bit of the original Widow Legend in terms of being able to get around the corner with ease in an asymmetrical core. There is a significant difference in performance with the Rip’d Solid with the different cover. At box surface, I was easily 10-15 boards further left throwing to the same spot. I had to really rotate the ball at the release in order to get the ball down the lane and to recover in the back. At “Clean n’ Sheen” finish, I liked the performance better. Still, because of the different cover, I was further left in the address in order to get the ball through the front.
There is a clear distinction in reactions from both releases from the different covers and as such presents great options for bowlers. I believe that the Rip’d Solid is best suited for higher volumes of oil or a bowler with higher ball speeds. A person with a lower rev rate would also see increased ball motion from the Rip’d Solid. The Rip’d will perform better on medium to higher volumes as well as medium volumes and I think will be a little more versatile in terms of being able to conquer a variety of conditions and be “user friendly” for more bowlers.
See your proshop for more information about the new Hammer “one/two punch”- the Rip’d and Rip’d Solid.

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Hammer Rip'd Pearl
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Rip’d Pearl. The core used is the same core as the other 2 releases in the Rip’d Series. The difference is the coverstock and in this new release, the coverstock used is the Aggression Pearl CFI finished at 3000 Abralon. The ball comes with a 3 year warranty and is colored in blue/gold/and light blue.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled mine with a 40 x 4 x 20 layout and threw it at box surface. I have tried the new Rip’d Pearl on THS, and modified USBC White.
My general sense is that the Rip’d series excels when straighter angles are able to be used through the front part of the lane. Thus, the Rip’d Pearl, even with the 3000 Abralon finish, still clears the fronts efficiently. However, because of the finishing process, the ball will reads aggressively the mid lane and make a strong move off the spot. Again, my best looks with the Rip’d series has been when I can be straighter through the front. Thus, if you have a medium volume pattern this Rip’d Pearl should be in play on fresh on different pattern distances. When the lanes transition and you need to go more left to right, I prefer using either a gas mask core ball like the Widow B/G or a stronger symmetrical core ball.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Rip’d Pearl by Hammer!

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Hammer Rip'd Solid
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts concerning the new Rip’d and Rip’d solid by Hammer. I am doing this as a joint review for both balls as they are being released together as a new “one/two punch” in Hammer’s asymmetrical bowling balls. The Rip’d comes in comes factory polished and comes with the Aggression Hybrid CFI cover in black/gold/white swirl. The Rip’d Solid comes with Aggression Solid CFI cover at 2000 Abralon and has a blue/black/orange swirl cover. Both feature the same asymmetrical core and like with all Hammer releases, use carbon fiber technology and come with an industry leading 3 year warranty.
My “vitals” as a bowler are as follows: PAP= 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up- 405 rev rate. I have tried the Rip’d at factory finish and at 4000 Abralon. I have tried the Rip’d Solid at box surface and at an Ebonite “Clean n’ Sheen” finish. I have tried both releases on various THS as well as USBC White. Both of my staff balls came with the same pin distance and top weight so for comparison purposes, I drilled both with the same layout- 60 x 5 ¼ x 40- no balance hole was used.
There is a definite difference in reaction between the 2 new releases. At box, the Rip’d does glide through the front quite easily and especially for an asymmetrical core, gets around the corner quite easily and continues on both THS and White patterns. With 4000 Abralon (just to knock off the factory shine) any slight over/under was erased but in the overall, the same reaction characteristic was present. The new Rip’d reminds me a bit of the original Widow Legend in terms of being able to get around the corner with ease in an asymmetrical core. There is a significant difference in performance with the Rip’d Solid with the different cover. At box surface, I was easily 10-15 boards further left throwing to the same spot. I had to really rotate the ball at the release in order to get the ball down the lane and to recover in the back. At “Clean n’ Sheen” finish, I liked the performance better. Still, because of the different cover, I was further left in the address in order to get the ball through the front.
There is a clear distinction in reactions from both releases from the different covers and as such presents great options for bowlers. I believe that the Rip’d Solid is best suited for higher volumes of oil or a bowler with higher ball speeds. A person with a lower rev rate would also see increased ball motion from the Rip’d Solid. The Rip’d will perform better on medium to higher volumes as well as medium volumes and I think will be a little more versatile in terms of being able to conquer a variety of conditions and be “user friendly” for more bowlers.
See your proshop for more information about the new Hammer “one/two punch”- the Rip’d and Rip’d Solid.

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Hammer Ruthless
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Ruthless. The new Ruthless features the 40 Watt symmetrical core wrapped by a Dark Blue/Blue/White Juiced Solid cover. Factory finish is 2000 Abralon.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Ruthless with an 85 x 5 ½ x 70 layout. I have used this ball at factory finish and at 4000 Abralon. I have tried the new THS and the new Kegel Tungsten pattern.
This is the “brother” ball to the Flawless that was released earlier this year. This ball has the Juiced Solid cover which does, across both patterns I threw on, allows for more overall motion compared to a Flawless. With the layout I used, the Ruthless allows me to have a more “up the boards” option because of the higher RG/lower diff core. However, the ball does show continuous recovery off of the spot. It is not the strongest ball but it is very predictable and allows me to go straighter on medium volumes/medium/shorter patterns. It is controllable like the Web series but with the higher RG, it goes a little further downlane with a little stronger motion from what I am seeing.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Ruthless by Hammer!

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Hammer Scandal
28 of 28 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Scandal by Hammer. The core is symmetrical featuring a 2.48 RG (15# ball) and a differential of .054. The coverstock is the Semtex Solid cover infused with carbon fiber for increased durability. The new Scandal is colored with bright green and black and box surface is 500/2000 Abralon. Like with all Hammer equipment featuring carbon fiber, the Scandal comes with the industry leading 3 year warranty.
To help you understand my take on the ball, my “vital statistics” are that my PAP is 5 ½ over and 1/8 up with a rev rate of 405. Additionally, I have thrown this ball on USBC White pattern as well as a variety house shots/surfaces. I have thrown the ball at box surface and at 500 Abralon finished with Clean N/ Sheen. I drilled the Scandal with a 90 x 5 ½ x 15 layout.
Prior to drilling my staff ball, I had the opportunity to throw the Scandal at a demo. The ball came with the standard demo ball layout and was at box surface. On a fresh house pattern, I still found myself standing 35 shooting over 20 to about 5. This ball is one of the most hooking balls that Hammer offers. With that being said, unlike many stronger balls with aggressive surfaces, the Scandal continues through the back part of the lane. Thus, after having thrown the demo ball, I immediately went to a smoother surface to try and generate additional length. Even with the smoother surface and the very weak layout, I still found myself standing on the far left part of the lane and taking a steep angle through the front in order to give the ball enough room.
In a nutshell, this ball is all about hook and lots of it. As such, this ball is best suited for heavier volumes of oil with longer pattern distances. With sufficient oil, the ball will retain sufficient energy and go through the pins properly. I believe that people with lower rev rates would benefit very much from the strength of this piece of equipment in generating additional ball motion. People with higher ball speeds combined with a higher rev rate will also benefit from the Scandal where other pieces of equipment do not read the lane fast enough. Those who have medium speed/medium to higher rev rate will definitely need a higher volume of oil in order to make this ball work effectively. If there is insufficient volume to get the ball through the front, bowlers should consider going to weaker pieces in the Hammer line such as the new Dark Legend, High Flare Solid, or perhaps even a Viral Solid.
Go see your local proshop operator for additional information about the Hammer Scandal.

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Hammer Scandal Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my thoughts about the new Scandal Pearl by Hammer. It is one of Hammer’s newest high performance bowling balls which features the symmetrical Scandal core with a polished Semtex Pearl cover. The cover and core are manufactured with carbon fiber and come with the industry leading 3 year warranty. The color of this ball is green/smoke/gold swirl. It should be noted that recently, this ball was used by female professional bowler Liz Kuhlkin in setting the new female series record of 890.
I have a rev rate of around 400 with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have tried the new Scandal Pearl on a variety of THS as well as USBC White pattern. I have thrown it box and with a 3000 Abralon surface. The layout I used on mine was 60 x 5 x 70 with a weight hole 4 inches over and 2 inches down from my grip center.
The original Scandal served a specific purpose in my opinion- heavy volume/longer patterns. In that environment, the original Scandal excelled to be sure. On the new Scandal Pearl, I believe that it will hit a much greater variety of conditions. It is much cleaner through the front given the pearl cover. That is not to say that the ball does not offer strong ball motion as it most certainly does. I believe that this ball is best suited for medium volume patterns and will best suited for a variety of pattern lengths except the extremes. I also believe that where the original Scandal would be best for a speed dominant player…the new Scandal Pearl will suit many different styles and rev rates. It should be noted that while this is definitely a weaker version of the original Scandal, it is not in the overall a weaker ball. With proper surface preparation, this ball could easily be one of the first options out of the bag in many different environments.
The Scandal Pearl is readily available. See your local pro shop for additional information on the new Scandal Pearl by Hammer.

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Hammer Scandal/S
7 of 10 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Scandal/S. The new Scandal/S features the same core in the record setting Scandal Pearl wrapped around a Semtex Hybrid cover. Factory finish is 2000 Abralon. The color of the new Scandal/S is a Blue/Red Pearl swirl. Like all Hammers, the Scandal/S comes with an industry leading 3 year warranty.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a Scandal/S with a 55x5x70 layout. I am drilling my equipment currently without weight holes in conformity with the new rules that go into effect on August 1, 2018 thus this layout has no weight hole. I have used this ball at factory finish. I have tried the Scandal/S on THS, Roth Sport and Shark Sport.
This ball does require oil in the pattern in order to be effective. Where I think this ball excels compared to the original Scandal which also required a considerable amount of volume, is the fact that the Scandal/S is cleaner and thus reads when there is oil but still has plenty of energy on the back to continue at the end of the pattern. So, in effect, what the Scandal/S allows you to do have an aggressive core/cover combination that still continues effectively on the back part of the lane. The Scandal/S will allow you to see strong, continuous motion on longer/heavier volume patterns without seeing quit.
As noted above, the Scandal/S does require volume in the pattern in order to be effective. Medium to lighter volume patterns will require a less aggressive piece such as the new Onyx Vibe. I also believe that this ball will be at its best on medium to longer distance patterns. This ball should work for a variety of ball speeds/rev rates.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Scandal/S by Hammer!

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Hammer Scorpion
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
So, here are some initial impressions on the new Hammer Scorpion. The Scorpion features a modified LED symmetrical core (similar to those used in the Purple Urethane Hammers) with a Semtex Hybrid cover. I have had a chance to try it on fresh THS and a 42' 5:1 challenge pattern with 27 ml of oil. I did a bit of an experiment in going with a 60 x 4 x 25 layout. I have not drilled such a strong pin placement in a long time. I tried the ball at box surface which is 2000 Siaair on THS and then put a 4000 Siaair surface on it when I again tried it fresh THS and the fresh challenge pattern. My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up.

Surprisingly, the Scorpion covers more boards than I expected at either surface. The motion is a little smoother and continuous but again, it covers a lot of territory so to speak. I prefer the 4000 Siaair surface simply because it creates a little easier length. At that surface there was no issue with the Scorpion properly reading the midlane on either THS or the challenge pattern. It is easy to see the earlier read at 2000 Siaair.

I see this ball in play on medium to higher volume patterns with medium to longer distance patterns. It does not have the quickest response off the friction...but it is absolutely smooth and continuous and again should be in play in many different environments.

The Scorpion already made one TV show in Portland, ME several weeks ago and is formally available as of July 30, 2021. See your local pro shop for more information on the Hammer Scorpion.

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Hammer Scorpion Low Flare
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Today's review will focus on the new Hammer Scorpion Low Flare. I was a huge fan of the Web Tour series...especially the Web Tour Hybrid. I particularly liked the slower response those balls offered with the low RG/low differential core...especially on shorter patterns and on a variety of fresh sport patterns where I needed control of the lane. The Hammer Scorpion Low Flare, has a symmetrical low RG/low differential LED 3.0 Low Flare core wrapped by a purple and black Semtex Hybrid cover, I drilled one with a 60 x 5 x 70 layout...the same as my favorite Web Tour Hybrid. I used mine at box surface (2000 Siaair) on fairly fresh THS and on a medium volume 40 foot 4:1 challenge pattern.

After throwing the new Scorpion Low Flare, I LOVED it- it was exactly what I was hoping it to be! That unique motion is back in the bag! The Scorpion Low Flare, is definitely a little stronger than the Web Tour Hybrid. The slower response controlled motion is there and that is what I was looking for most of all. Like with the Web Tour Hybrid, I expect this ball to be in play on shorter patterns and actually a variety of fresh sport patterns. I think appropriate surface adjustments will allow this ball to be in play on different volumes of fresh patterns. That being said, I believe this ball is best used on fresh- to blend out and smooth out patterns. In comparison, the Scorpion Low Flare is similar in slower response motion to an Envy Tour but less overall. I cannot wait to use this ball in upcoming events!

The Scorpion Low Flare is now available- see your local pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Scorpion Sting
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I had a chance to work with the new Hammer Scorpion Sting today. I tried it on our fresh lower volume THS. The layout I used is 50 x 4 1/2 x 25. I tried it at box surface which is Crown Factory Compound. The Scorpion Sting has a modified symmetric core used in the original Hammer Scorpion wrapped by the purple/silver/turquoise Symtex Pearl cover. I have tried the Scorpion Sting on Kegel Neon, our house shot, which is a low volume, longer pattern.

The intent of the ball is to be a cleaner version of the original Scorpion...a ball to fit in between the Widow Ghost and the Ocean Vibe. From what I see, it appears that the intended purpose of the ball was achieved. For a compare and contrast, I threw my Ocean Vibe today with the Scorpion Sting. The Ocean Vibe, even with a pin down layout which should be a slower/longer transition, is to my eye, a bit quicker than the Sting. The Sting is a little slower/smoother than the Vibe...but definitely quicker than the original Scorpion. Thus, the Scorpion Sting will be best used on medium to lighter volumes of oil- definitely in play when the pattern is breaking down and you need a cleaner piece. I also think that this ball will be effective with a number of different players, styles, rev rates etc.


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Hammer Scorpion Strike
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I was able to recently punch the new Hammer Scorpion Strike. The Scorpion Strike features the same symmetrical LED 3.0 core found in the Hammer Scorpion Sting wrapped by the HK-22 Semtex Pearl covered colored in Black/Magenta/Indigo. Box finish is factory compound. I've drilled 2- one has a 40 x 4 1/4 x 30 layout.. I drilled a 2nd one not shown here with my favorite pin down layout- 60 x 5 x 70. They were tried on fresh THS both at box surface.

The Scorpion Strike is designed to be a more angular piece of equipment in the Hammer mid performance line of equipment. The difference between the original Scorpion Sting and the new Scorpion Strike is the HK-22 base added to the Semtex Pearl cover in the Scorpion Strike. Compared to the original Scorpion Sting, there is a noticeable difference in overall motion as I recall. Compared to the Scorpion Low Flare, the difference in motion is very noticeable. The Scorpion Low Flare definitely shows an earlier and smoother motion. When I threw the Scorpion Strike on the same line, the Strike definitely went longer and showed a stronger motion off spot. A slight move right with feet and eyes and boy did the Scorpion Strike go through the pins nicely. I was very impressed. I believe that the Scorpion Strike will excel on medium volume patterns or as a go to ball when lanes go through transition.

I will say this- Hammer has an amazing line up in symmetrical core pieces. For fresh and/or higher volumes of oil, there is the Hazmat Solid. For a very controlled motion, there is the Scorpion Low Flare. For medium volumes of oil and/or transition when the fronts go and a quicker response ball is required, this Scorpion Strike looks awfully good thus far. For light volume patterns and/or burn, there is the Arctic Vibe. This line up has a wonderful progression of motions and will be easy for the bowler to make decisions knowing again how these 4 symmetrical core pieces interrelate with each other.
The Scorpion Strike is available. See your pro shop for more information!

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Hammer Special Effect
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Last Tuesday, Hammer announced the 3rd release in the Effect line of bowling balls...the Special Effect. The Special Effect features the same asymmetric Huntsman core wrapped by a 4 color (purple/red/grape/black) cohesion solid cover with the known HK-22 base. I drilled one with a 60 x 4 3/4 x 30 layout and I went over the ball with a 4000 Siaair pad. (Box surface is 1500 Siaair/Factory Compound) I tried the Special Effect on fresh and leftover THS.

Being honest, I never really used the original Effect a great deal. Between the Black Widow 3.0 and the original Theorem, I had an excellent range of motions in asymmetric core equipment. (Also there was one of my favorites as well, the Envy Tour for a much slower response on higher volumes for fresh. I also like the new Effect Tour for similar purposes) Additionally, I had a little trouble getting the original Effect to match up with my game. I did use a little weaker MB and pin placement to see if I could get a better look. (The original Effect had a 40 x 4 1/4 x 25 layout) I can already tell I am going to like the new Special Effect more. They are similar and from what I can see in terms of watching them from shot to shot, they are pretty similar. That being said, I used it in league and what I noticed is that the Special Effect got around the corner better in the last game when I had to use a very steep angle through the front. I don't know if it's cover or layout but I do like the motion of the Special Effect better. I do see the new Special Effect being in my bag and I'll be looking forward to drilling a second one shortly.

The Hammer Special Effect releases officially today, March 20, 2025. See your local pro shop for more information!

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Hammer Spike Black/Blue
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my ball review for new Black/Blue Spike by Hammer. It features the same core from the original Spike (made with the new Carbon Fiber)with a pearl version of the GTR III coverstock similar to that used on the Wrench.I drilled mine with a 25 x 4 ½ x 25 layout. I left the ball at box surface and put a weight hole on my PAP. I figured based on the core having a high RG/high differential and a pearl version of a coverstock that generally gets down the lane very well, that this ball would be a very angular ball. The ball did not disappoint!!! Even with the aggressive layout that I used in the new Black/Blue Spike, the ball got through the front with no difficulty and saved PLENTY of energy to the back part of the lane. As such, I found the carry and hitting power to be excellent. Watching the ball as it goes through the pins, it will be very easy to note that the ball continues very well…it does not quit. As is this ball is all about length and flip, this ball probably will not match up well on heavy volume patterns. I do see this ball matching up very well on lighter to medium volume patterns and/or patterns that have broken down toward the end of a block. The ball comes polished in a stunning vibrant blue and black swirl. The ball is scheduled to be released on June 10. If you are looking for a ball that will get down the lane and take a left turn, check out the new Black/Blue Spike by Hammer!
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Hammer Spike Black/Gold
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Black/Gold Spike by Hammer features the same carbon fiber Spike core as previous Spikes and thus the industry leading 3 year warranty. What makes this Spike different is that the Black/Gold has the most angular cover in the Spike line.

I drilled mine 60 x 5 x 60 with a weight hole below my PAP on the VAL. I have thrown the ball on THS at box surface and lightly dusted with a 3000 Abralon pad. Compared to a Black/Blue Spike, this new Spike moved my straying position about 4 boards right with a straighter trajectory. The strong backend motion, however, is very similar. The carry and hit on this ball is excellent. I would suggest very lightly dusting off the polish so as to avoid any sensitivity to transition in the back part of the lane. This symmetric release should suit many different styles of bowling and can be drilled to achieve different ball reactions. This ball will be best suited for light to medium volume patterns and broken down patterns.
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Hammer Spike Orange/Blue
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Spike is truly something new in terms of ball motion for Hammer as it has been a long time that we have seen a High RG/High diff core. Add the Black Taboo cover and that spells a ball that is very angular. I drilled mine with a 70 x 4 7/8 x 65 layout with a weight hole 4 inches over and 2 1/2 inches down from grip center. I used it with box surface and threw it on a THS and Master pattern. I agree with advice that had been provided to me that stronger pin positions tend to work a little better on this ball. Even with a stronger pin placement, this ball truly does lope through the front and then revs up very fast and kicks hard on the back. It is very sharp and striking looking in its Blue/Orange cover. I will state that with the shiny over, the ball may over/under a little bit even with a stronger layout. Purchasers of this ball may, depending on style and rev rate, want to dust the shine off to smooth out the motion just a bit without losing the charcateristic of the ball. The strength of this ball will be drier patterns or broken down patterns. This ball will be especially effective for people who tend to be rev dominant need and/or little extra help getting the ball down the lane. This ball truly does get down the lane very easily and does hit hard.
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Hammer Statement Hybrid
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Statement Hybrid. The new Statement Hybrid features low RG/high differential Statement core wrapped by an Aggression Hybrid CFI coverstock colored in Black/Aqua/Blue. The ball comes with a 1000 Abralon polished box surface.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Statement Hybrid with a 30x6x20 layout. I have used this ball at factory finish and at 3000 Abralon. I have tried the new Statement Hybrid on THS, Kegel Tungsten and PBA Dragon.
At the outset, I will say this is probably my favorite Statement of the 3 across a variety of patterns. I thought the Statement Solid was great on heavy volume patterns. I was actually pretty impressed with how well the Statement Solid stored energy for an asymmetric core ball. What I think impresses me most about the Statement Hybrid is how much recovery the ball has. While many times asymmetrics for me are good on heavier volumes, they sometimes spin up too quickly and can lose energy. Not the Statement Hybrid. There is no laziness in the motion with this ball. The Hybrid has lots of downlane recovery by any standard. Even at 3000 Abralon, the Hybrid had a very sharp/defined motion on multiple pattern distances. I had a very good look on Kegel Tungsten and THS. On Dragon, needed more surface in order for the ball to be effective. I think the Hybrid will be at its best on medium to heavier volumes. I also think, given the amount of downlane recovery, with proper surface preparation, many styles can effectively use this new release.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Hammer Statement Hybrid!

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Hammer The Sauce 15 SOLD OUT
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Sauce. The new Sauce features a modified Contrusion Core wrapped around a Red/Black/Magenta Aggression Solid CFI coverstock. The ball is finished at 2000 Abralon.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a Sauce with a 50 x 5 1/2 x 20 layout, no weight hole. I have used this ball at box finish. I have tried the new Sauce on THS and on 37’ PBA Petraglia Sport pattern.
I recall well the original Sauce and Arson lines and their hallmark was strong, smooth, controlled ball motion. The updated Sauce is no different but with a very aggressive cover and thus a stronger overall motion/hook potential. On THS the new Sauce does not see over/under. It is easily allows the bowler to get on the oil and throw it to the dry but without the over/under that is often seen on house patterns. Similarly, on the high volume (29ml) 37’ sport pattern, the new Sauce was able to handle the increased volume by being several boards further right of a similarly drilled Statement Solid with similar surface preparation. The Sauce, even though it is not angular in its motion, does show plenty of continuation and hitting power. For many, the new Sauce may be a good benchmark ball. This core/cover combination can definitely handle fresh oil and a variety of pattern distances. For lighter volumes or broken down patterns, the new Vibe Orange might be the preferred option.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Hammer Sauce!

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Hammer Vibe Onyx
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Onyx Vibe. The new Onyx Vibe features the ever versatile Vibe “hourglass” shaped core wrapped about a black sparkle CT Reactive Max coverstock. Like all Hammers, the Onyx Vibe features an industry leading 3 year warranty in its Carbon Fiber manufacturing process. The ball comes with a 2000 Abralon polished surface.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled an Onyx with a 50x5x40 layout. I am drilling my equipment currently without weight holes in conformity with the new rules that go into effect on August 1, 2018. I have used this ball at factory finish, 2000 Abralon and 1000 Abralon surfaces. I have tried the new Onyx Vibe on THS, Roth Sport and Shark Sport.
At the outset, it is clear that each of the current Vibes as its own unique motion. The Cherry is definitely the most angular. In my opinion, the Blue is good on a variety of patterns as it is strong yet controllable. The Onyx shows similar control as we see in the Blue but I think with the ability to go a little more left to right. Even without a weight hole, I can play straighter on the longer Roth and Shark patterns to start but I am also able to go a little more left to right with the Onyx as the first transition occurs. I would describe the motion on the Onyx as a very strong, defined hook. The stated purpose by Hammer that the Onyx offers the recovery of the Cherry with the length of the Blue does seem to be accurate.
Like with the any Vibe, because of the versatility of the core, many shapes cane be drilled into the ball and should suit a number of styles. I can see this ball in play on a number of different patterns depending on ball speed. I believe that the Onyx can handle a variety of pattern volumes given the cover strength except the very high volumes at which one you would look for a stronger core/cover combination.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Onyx Vibe!

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Hammer Vibe Orange
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Vibe Orange. The new Vibe Orange features the ever versatile Vibe “hourglass” shaped core wrapped around a bright orange CT Reactive Plus coverstock. The ball comes with a 2000 Abralon polished surface.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled an Orange with a 60 x 5 ¼ x 70 layout, no weight hole. I have used this ball at 4000 Abralon as I usually like to “dust” all factory shined releases. I have tried the new Vibe Orange on THS and on 37’ PBA Petraglia Sport pattern.
This new Vibe shares the same cover as the remake Blue Vibe released 2 years ago. My favorite Blue Vibe has the same layout except that it has a weight hole 4 inches over and 2 inches down from grip center. I found myself with the new Vibe Orange, on THS, to be several boards left than with the Blue Vibe and I see a stronger, more continuous motion off of the spot. I have both balls set up with similar surface preparation as well. Even on fresh 37’ foot sport (29ml pattern), I was able to get right on top of the dry and get the new Vibe to read the midlane correctly and not oversquirt in the higher volume of oil. Thus, what I find interesting is that even though the Blue and Orange Vibes share the same cover/core, the motion is sufficiently different to be noticeable. The hitting power/carry with the Vibe Orange is fantastic as is the case with most Vibes I have thrown over the years. Plus, with the solid orange color/dark lettering, it is very easy to see where the ball begins to read. The ball has GREAT shelf appeal and will catch everyone’s eye going down the lane.
Like with the any Vibe, because of the versatility of the core, many shapes cane be drilled into the ball and should suit a number of styles. I can see this ball in play on a number of different patterns depending on ball speed and rev rate.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Vibe Orange!

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Hammer Viral
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here are my thoughts about the Hammer Viral which is currently available in proshops. I have drilled 2 thus far, one pin up (5” from PAP with weight hole on PAP) and the other with pin directly below my bridge with CG out, no hole. I have thrown them on the USBC White pattern as well as various House Shots. This ball features basically the Vibe Core (Carbon Fiber manufactured with 3 year warranty) along with the Violent Flip Reactive Pearl cover similar to that originally used on the Widow Pearl.
In a word, this ball is ANGULAR. At box surface, I found both balls went a little too long for my liking. However, when lightly hit with a fresh 3000 Abralon pad to lightly take the shine off, I found this ball cleared the fronts very easily and simply turned left when the ball saw friction. I was able to use, for me, very steep angles through the front and yet still see excellent recovery on the back without any appreciable energy loss. As such, the carry on this ball is excellent. If you liked the Vibe series, especially the Vibe Jet Black, this ball is definitely for you. I would best compare this ball to a Vibe Jet Black…perhaps a little cleaner with even more recovery. As most know, the Vibe core can be drilled to suit many different styles and to achieve many different ball motions. This ball will also suit many different styles. I think this ball can definitely handle many different patterns lengths…in terms of volumes, the Viral’s strength will be on medium to medium low volumes or when the heads have broken down. This ball will also be extremely noticeable going down the lane with its gunsmoke color.
See your local proshop about the Hammer Viral...if you want length with strong down lane motion…the Viral will definitely be for you!

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Hammer Viral Hybrid
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Viral Hybrid. The Viral Hybrid combines the tried and true Vibe core (Carbon Fiber process and thus carries a 3 year warranty) with a hybrid version of the Violent Flip reactive cover. Box surface for the new Viral Hybrid is 500 to 2000 Abralon polished. This ball has great shelf appeal with its Lime/Gold Pearl cover.
I drilled mine with a 40 x 6 x 40 layout with a weight hole on my PAP. I have thrown the ball with box surface and with 500 to 2000 Abralon without polish. I have tried the ball on several THS as well as Chameleon sport pattern. My specs are average speed 15-16 MPH, 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 7/8 up. I have been a Hammer Staffer for 12 years.
The Vibe/Viral line has been of the true mainstays of Hammer’s line up through the years and offers very predictable, consistent ball motion. As expected, the Viral Hybrid does indeed fit in between the original Viral and the Viral Solid. I personally have found the ball to be a little closer to the original Viral than the Viral Solid, especially in terms of length. I also found that the box surface may over/under a little especially on a THS. By using a straight 500 to 2000 Abralon surface without the polish, the length is still there but it blends out most patterns. I also found that by adding a little surface, because the ball is so clean, backend motion and hitting power does not suffer.
I believe that this ball is best suited for medium/lighter volume patterns. I also believe, based on what I have seen, that the Viral Hybrid can be used on a variety of pattern distances. I was able to easily use the Viral Hybrid on broken down Chameleon with good success. On most THS, the Viral Hybrid will allow you to stand a little further right than other stronger equipment. Like with most Vibes/Virals, this new Viral can be drilled to achieve a number of different ball motions and will also suit many different styles of bowlers. My sense is that using this ball on the right volume of oil will be the key as again, I can easily see this ball being in play on a variety of pattern distances. If you are bowling heavier volume patterns, consider either the Hammer Scandal, Dark Legend, or one of the stronger Hammer symmetrical pieces such as the High Flare Solid or Bad Intentions. Alternatively, if you like the general shape of the Viral Hybrid but want a little earlier move and/or more overall motion, consider the Viral Solid.
See your local proshop operator for further information about the Viral Hybrid by Hammer.

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Hammer Viral Solid
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Viral Solid. It features the Viral core (originally the highly successful Vibe core- carbon fiber) with a solid version of the Violent Flip reactive cover. Like all Hammer balls, it comes with a 3 year warranty. The color of the new Viral Solid is bright green and black.
I used a 60 x 5 ¼ x 70 layout with a weight hole 4 inches over and 2 inches down from my grip center. I left this ball at box surface and have thrown it on THS and PBA Wolf. Most recently, I tried the ball with 3000 Abralon on THS and WTBA Athens.
There has yet to be a Vibe/Viral I did not like and the new Viral Solid is no exception. Compared to an original Viral, the Solid is stronger overall. I prefer the ball at the 3000 Abralon surface as it eliminates any “squirt” through the front and/or over/under in the back and generally gives a more defined breakpoint to the bowler.(I found the same to be the case for the original Viral as well) This ball, compared to the original Viral (both at 3000) is definitely about 3-4 boards stronger and does read earlier. I see this ball, like all previous Vibes/Virals, to be very “user friendly” in that it will be successful with many different styles of bowler and can be drilled to achieve many different ball motions. I expect that this ball’s strong suit will be the lighter to medium volume patterns on a variety of lengths.Depending on starting volume/pattern length and surface preparation, the new Viral Solid could be in play on broken down patterns.On heavy volume patterns or very long patterns, I believe that a stronger ball will yield better results such as the new Red Legend Solid, original Legend, or Bad Intentions, all made by Hammer.
See your local pro shop for more information about the new Viral Solid by Hammer.

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Hammer Web
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Web. The new Web Tour features a Spheroid core found in the Bad Intentions and the popular Rhodman series. The Web comes with the Aggression Hybrid cover in Blue/Black and Purple and also comes with a 3 year warranty as do all Hammer releases.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Web with a 45 x 5 x 30 layout. I am drilling my equipment currently without weight holes in conformity with the new rules that go into effect on August 1, 2018. I have used this ball at factory finish, 1000 Abralon and polished. I have tried the new Web on a variety of THS and sport patterns.
The Web is the companion ball to the Web Tour that was released at the same time. Compared to the Web Tour, the Web is longer and stronger for. (I used the same layout for both balls). The Web is similar in motion to the popular Rhodman Pearl but with a little earlier read of the lane. The ball motion for the Web is best described as a strong arc. The Web should be in play on a number of different patterns lengths and distances. It is a good all-around ball and can easily be a first ball out of the bag, benchmark ball.
See your local proshop for more information on the new Web by Hammer.

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Hammer Web M.B.
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Web MB. The Hammer Web MB features a new asymmetric version of the original Web core wrapped by a Semtex NE Pearl cover. The Web MB is Dark Blue/Purple in color and factory finish is Factory Compound.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Web MB with a 60 x 5 ¼ x 70 layout and have used on both fresh and leftover THS, a left over medium distance challenge pattern and fresh Kegel Tungsten. I have thrown it at factory finish and 4000 Abralon.
I have been a fan of the previous Web releases, especially the Tour Edition versions. So, when Hammer announced the Web MB, I was intrigued. The Web MB performs EXACTLY as advertised. The core/cover combination allows the ball to be very clean through the front. Personally, I preferred the 4000 Abralon finish just to see the ball pick up a bit earlier. However, the motion in the back was what really got my attention. When the Web MB saw the friction, it simply took off with a very angular and defined motion. That is impressive, especially in an asymmetric core ball. Given this core/cover combination, this ball will be a great choice on medium volumes of oil or when the pattern is breaking down and the bowler is looking for a cleaner yet strong ball. Given how easily the ball gets through the front, this ball will be a great choice for bowlers who have lower speeds or are rev dominant.
See your local proshop for more on the Hammer Web MB.

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Hammer Web Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Web Pearl. The new Web Pearl features a Black/Silver Pearl Aggression Pearl cover with the symmetrical Spheroid core. Factory finish is 1000 Abralon with Factory Finish Polish.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Web Pearl with a 40 x 4 ½ x 40 layout. I have used this ball at factory finish. I have tried the new THS and the new Kegel Tungsten pattern.
By its nature, the ball design calls for a smooth ball motion. The Web Pearl offers a very smooth “rolly” motion. However, the pearl in the cover, as expected, gives a little more length but again the motion off of the spot is very smooth and controllable. I see the Web Pearl at its best on medium to lighter volumes or broken down patterns. The Web Pearl will also be in play on shorter sport patterns where control of the back is important. This ball could easily smooth out any over/under on lighter house patterns as well and is easily a good benchmark ball for such an environment.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Web Pearl by Hammer!

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Hammer Web Pearl Jade/Smoke
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Web Pearl. This new Web Pearl is a remake of the EBI Web Pearl from 2 years ago- same symmetrical Spheroid core and Aggression Pearl cover. The new Web Pearl however is colored in Jade/Smoke. Box surface is 1500 Siaair with Crown Factory Compound. My Web Pearl is drilled with a 60 x 4 1/2 x 40 layout...very similar to the original one I drilled.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have used this ball at factory finish. I have tried the new Web Pearl on THS.
My recollection of the original EBI Web Pearl was that it had good length with a little smoother motion downlane. The new Web Pearl, to me, seems a bit earlier/stronger overall with increased down lane motion. The motion off of the spot, in my opinion is not smooth with the new Web Pearl. Unlike the original EBI Web Pearl, the motion with the new Web Pearl remake is very sharp and defined. I do not recall ever seeing this type of shape seen in the new Web Pearl in the original one. The continuation in the new Web Pearl is pretty impressive!
In terms of best usage, I think the new Web Pearl is best suited for medium volumes of oil or on broken down conditions. I also think for most bowlers, the Web Pearl will excel on medium to medium/longer pattern distances.
Again, the Web Pearl is now available! See your local pro shop for more information.

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Hammer Web Tour Edition
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Hammer Web Tour. The new Web Tour features a modified Spheroid core to remove differential wrapped around the Tour V1 cover. The ball is navy in color. The Web Tour comes with a 3 year warranty as do all Hammer releases.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Web Tour with a 45 x 5 x 30 layout. I am drilling my equipment currently without weight holes in conformity with the new rules that go into effect on August 1, 2018. I have used this ball at factory finish, 2000 Abralon, polished and 500 Abralon surfaces. I have tried the new Web Tour on a variety of THS and sport patterns.
I think what makes this ball unique is the CONTROL that it shows on sport patterns. Although some videos have shown to the contrary, this is not the biggest hooking ball out there. This ball has an early, smooth move with lots of control of the midlane. It is very easy to see where the ball reads and thus make adjustments that make sense. This ball reminds me a lot of the original Low Flare back in 2013 but with a much better cover thus allowing it to play on more pattern distances. (The original Low Flare was amazing on short patterns but struggled when patterns got longer.) The Web Tour will play on short but will be in play on longer pattern distances. The surface chosen will determine when the ball reads the midlane but regardless the ball motion is very controlled which on sport is often extremely important. This ball has generated a lot of buzz lately because of its performance and for good reason.
See your local proshop for more information on the new Web Tour by Hammer.

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Radical Bonus
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Radical Bonus. The Radical Bonus features a low RG/low diff. symmetrical core with a violet/black Forged Solid Cover. The Bonus comes with a 2 year warranty.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Bonus with a 60x5 1/4x70 layout. I have thrown the ball at box surface (500/2000 Siaair) I have tried the ball on both fresh THS.
I expected the Bonus to replace Web Tours and be give another option for the remake Brunswick Phantoms. The Bonus did NOT disappoint. I like low rg/low diff. equipment for shorter sport patterns or to blend out wet/dry patterns. The Bonus, as expected, did see the lane early and showed a smooth continuous arc type of motion. It does go longer than a similarly drilled Phantom. What impressed me most about the Bonus was the motion off the spot. With the Web Tours, they were great for the fresh but once the first transition would occur, they could struggle to get around the corner. The Bonus, however, compared to a similarly drilled Web Tour, shows increased motion down the lane. Thus, the Bonus can handle the fresh but should be able to handle the first transition as well on a shorter sport pattern. Moreover, given the amount of motion, the Bonus may be equally in play on fresh medium distance sport patterns as well. I plan on drilling one with a pin-up layout and I fully expect these to be a great 1-2 punch in a tournament arsenal.
See your local proshop for more information about the Radical Bonus!

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Radical Bonus Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Radical Bonus Pearl. The Radical Bonus Pearl features the same low RG/low diff. core found in the original Bonus wrapped by a black pearl Forged Pearl Cover. Factory Finish is 1500 Siaair/Crown Factory Compound. Like other Radical balls, it features a 2 year warranty.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled a Bonus Pearl with a 60 x5 ¼ x 70 layout. I have used this ball at factory finish and at 3000 Abralon. I have tried the Bonus Pearl on THS, an unnamed 40 foot Sport pattern and Kegel Tungsten.
Low RG/low diff. type equipment are usually great tournament pieces and give excellent control of the lane, especially on sport patterns. Compared to a similarly drilled Bonus, the Bonus Pearl’s shape is similar…but a little longer and stronger. Like with the original Bonus, I expect the Bonus Pearl to be in play on medium/shorter sport patterns, wet/dry patterns or broken down sport patterns in that distance range. I think the key to the Bonus Pearl is that it be used on medium to lighter volumes. Personally, I also liked the 3000 Abralon surface as it made the ball motion a little more predictable.
See your local proshop for more on the Bonus Pearl.

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Radical Incognito 15 Only
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Radical Incognito. The new Incognito features an asymmetric core wrapped by a brand new coverstock called S.H.A.R.P.- designed to create a sharper downlane motion. Factory finish is 2000 Siaair. Like all balls from the Brands of Brunswick, the Incognito comes with a 2 year warranty.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled an Incognito with an 80 x 5 ¼ x 30 layout. I have thrown it on THS (fresh and burnt) as well as Kegel Tungsten and have worked with the Incognito at box surface.
What was most interesting about the Incognito, even at box surface, was the fact that the Incognito allowed me to stand further right and play a little straighter compared to other asymmetric core equipment. When I first worked with the Incognito, I warmed up with a Hammer Web MB, another asymmetric core ball that has become a favorite of mine. Given the surface of the Incognito, I figured I had to stand a little further left. To the contrary, to get lined up, I ended up being about 3-4 boards further right and throwing to the same spot. That being said, once lined up, the Incognito, true to its expected motion, did show a very defined and strong motion off of the spot. The Incognito will work on any pattern length/volume where asymmetric equipment will work but where a little straighter angle is preferred.
See your local proshop for more information about the new Radical Incognito!

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Radical Intel Pearl Special Edition
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Radical Intel SE is quickly becoming one of my favorite "benchmark balls". This is low RG/low diff symmetrical piece of equipment that packs a lot of punch. It features the original Intel core with an upgraded pearl cover from the original Intel Pearl.

The layout I used is 60 x 5 1/4 x 70. I have thrown it at box surface and tried it on Fresh THS and the 2021 PBA Roth pattern. My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up.

What I think is most impressive is the motion that the Intel SE shows...in particular at the back part of the lane. Normally, I like low RG/low diff balls for shorter patterns where I am looking for control. The Intel SE, to my surprise, shows a very strong down lane motion...considerably more than I expected. I have found that the Intel SE gives me more area on my THS than normal. I also note that there is excellent continuation with this new release and the ball goes through the pins as well. For comparison, I would say that the Intel SE is stronger off the spot and covers more boards overall than Radical's previous low RG/low diff pearl release in the Bonus Pearl.

See your local pro shop for more information about the new Radical Intel SE.

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Radical Katana Assault
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
So, I decided to punch the new Radical Katana Assault. The Katana Slash made some telecasts back in 2018...pre EBI acquisition. The Slash originally looked like a good piece. With the new Katana Assault having the HK-22 additive in the cover coupled with my liking the Defender Hybrid with the HK-22, I figured I would try one.

I decided to do a little weaker pin to PAP layout as I've been drilling most of my stuff in the 4 3/4- 4 1/2 pin to PAP range. I went with 45 x 5 1/2 x 25 and threw it at box surface which is Crown Compound. The shot I tried the new Katana Assault was on left over THS. The ball appears to be pretty quick off the spot and definitely makes a pretty defined move on leftover THS. My sense is, from what I see, is this asymmetric core release will be best on medium to longer distances or definitely on broken down patterns where you need a little cleaner look through the front and a stronger down lane change of direction. Overall, from what I have seen on social media, the new Katana Assault is getting many positive looks!

The Radical Katana Assault is readily available. See your pro shop for more information.

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Radical Radical Conspiracy
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
As I love black and yellow coimbined, when I saw the brand new remake of the Radical Conspiracy, solid black HK-22 base coverstock with bright yellow lettering, I figured I'd have to give it a try. Plus another fellow staffer recommended the ball- I figured I would give it a try. I am honestly glad I did. It has the exact same asymmetric core as the original Conspiracy. I haven't drilled a stronger asymmetric core ball with a weaker layout in a while so I went with a 55 x 5 1/2 x 25 and left it at box surface which is 500/2000 Siaair. I've tried it on fresh and leftover THS as well as a 43 foot high volume challenge pattern.

Notwithstanding the weaker pin placement, there is plenty of track flare and plenty of motion. If I had to describe the motion of the ball, I would describe it as similar to a Radical Hitter...but with more back end. The Radical Conspiracy remake is definitely best in higher volumes of oil at box surface. I believe depending on layout, the Conspiracy can be used effectively on a variety of pattern distances...again as long as there is sufficient volume in the pattern. Plus, with the solid black color and the bright yellow lettering, it actually makes it look like I have a higher rev rate! But the Conspiracy shows plenty of motio and continuation and should work well for many styles of bowlers.

The Radical Conspiracy remake is readily available- see your pro shop for more information.

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Radical The Hitter
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I recently drilled a Radical Hitter- an asymmetric core piece designed for higher volumes of oil. The cover on the ball is the Utility Solid colored in black/purple. Box finish is 2000 Siaair. I drilled one with a 60 x 5 x 70 layout, my favorite pin down layout. I tried the Hitter on fairly fresh THS and I left the Hitter at its box surface- I didn't make any surface adjustments.

I genuinely liked what I saw with this ball. I was hoping this ball might be a little quicker and more off the spot compared to one of my true favorite balls in the past year, the Hammer Envy Tour...again just to give me another option. From what I saw and what the video shows, it has a little more back end than an Envy Tour. However, that being said, the Hitter is definitely an earlier, heavy rolling, continuous ball which will be at its best on higher volume FRESH patterns. I do not see this ball in play on broken down patterns and/or when extreme angles are needed through the front. I think the Hitter will be in play on a variety of pattern distances as long as there is sufficient volume.

The Radical Hitter is readily available- see your local pro shop for more information.

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Track Cypher
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Recently, I had a chance to punch up two Track Cyphers. The Track Cypher brings back an updated version of the symmetrical Synergy core from the mid 90's wrapped by an MR-8 solid coverstock (HK-22 base) colored in black, dark green and lime. Factory box finish is 2000 Siaair. I did one with my favorite pin down layout-60x5x70. I did drill a second one with a stronger pin up layout. I tried them on the USBC Nationals team pattern...I have also tried them on a leftover THS.

The factory intent was to match a little higher RG/higher diff with a stronger cover to create a benchmark type of reaction. I have truly liked the Track Theorem having won in Bayside with one as well as the Track Stealth so I was interested in seeing what the Cypher would bring. The Cypher has already made a couple of TV shows at the WSOB. I think the Cypher hits the mark in terms of being one of the first balls out of the bag to begin to read the pattern. At first, on the Nationals pattern which is flat and higher in volume, I found the Cypher to be a bit "touchy" and sensitive and thus would have preferred a ball with a little smoother and slower response. After 2-3 games, I found the Cypher to be at its very best as the front had dried out a bit and the pattern had blended out. I would describe the motion as a little quicker and continuous. Thus, from what I see, the Cypher is a good first option out of the bag to evaluate the pattern. It will be a great piece on fresh medium volume patterns on a variety of pattern distances. I think the Cypher will also excel as a "ball down" option from a stronger asymmetric or symmetric piece when the lanes go through transition. At box surface, I think the key for the Cypher is not so much pattern distance but the volume. On the right volume, the Cypher rolls sweet. Plus, it just looks cool going down the lane.

The Track Cypher is readily available- see your local pro shop for more information.

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Track Kinetic Black Ice
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I have drilled a new Track Kinetic Black Ice. The Kinetic Black Ice features the same successful “shuttle core” found in the Kinetic Platinum. However, the difference between the Black Ice and the Platinum is that the Black Ice has a stronger cover- QR-7 pearl finished at Factory Compound. My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up and tried on multiple fresh THS.I drilled mine with a 50 x 4 ¾ x 70 layout and threw it at box surface.

The intent of the Kinetic Black Ice was for it to be stronger down lane than the Platinum. In conformity with the intended purpose, compared to a similarly drilled Kinetic Platinum, I found that the new Kinetic Black Ice is about 2-3 boards left crossing the arrows and shows more motion off of the spot. I did a video on my Facebook page and the difference in ball motion is noticeable. If you liked the original Kinetic Platinum but looking for an option for higher volumes of oil, the new Kinetic Black Ice may well be your solution! I am definitely looking forward to adding this new Kinetic to the arsenal.

See your local pro shop for more information about the new Kinetic Black Ice by Track.

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Track Kinetic Platinum
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Track Kinetic Platinum. The new Kinetic Platinum features the original asymmetric Shuttle core (not the modified Shuttle core found on the Emerald, Amethyst, Ruby, and Obsidian Kinetics) wrapped by a stunning DR-7 platinum colored pearl coverstock. Factory finish is 1500 Siaair with factory compound over it. I have tried this ball at box surface and 3000 Abralon and tested it THS, Kegel Tungsten and a 35 foot 2:1, 24 ml sport pattern.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have drilled 1 Kinetic Platinum with a 60 x 5 ¼ x 70 layout.
This ball was designed to be angular and given the asymmetric core numbers/coverstock used, I figured the best point of comparison would be a similarly drilled Web MB by Hammer. The Kinetic Platinum, as would be expected, gets down the lane very easily. Compared to the Web MB, the Kinetic Platinum seems to be a little smoother off the spot. Thus, I would expect the Kinetic Platinum to excel on medium to lighter volume patterns. I also expect that the Kinetic Platinum would be in play on medium to shorter distance patterns. Additionally, given the color choice, the ball will definitely stand out from other balls going down the lane. Plain and simple, it is a sharp looking ball with excellent performance at its price point.
See your local proshop for more on the Track Kinetic Platinum.

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Track Latitude
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Track Latitude. The Track Latutide is a mid-performance ball in the Track lineup featuring the MC2 symmetrical core wrapped by a QR8 Solid cover. The color is Dark Purple/Light Purple and box finish is 3000 Siaair.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled one with a 60 x 5 x 70 layout (Pin down) and another with a 50 x 5 x 20 layout (pin up). I have thrown them at box surface and 4000 Abralon. I have tried the Latitude on various THS as well as Kegel Tungsten.
This ball, by design is close to the popular remake of the Track Triton Elite of 2 years ago. The Latitude has “benchmark ball” written all over it and indeed it is a phenomenal starting point in one’s arsenal. Like the Elite, the Latitude is effective, I believe, on a variety of pattern volumes/pattern distances. Compared to an Elite, I see the Latitude as having a little bit more definition and motion off of the spot. Like with the Elite, the Latitude hits with plenty of power. In drilling 2 of them, I do see different shapes and as such, it appears that the Latitude will be versatile and should be effective for a variety of styles, rev rates etc.
See your local proshop for more on the Track Latitude.

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Track Proof
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Track Proof. The Track Proof features the Proof asymmetrical core with Black/Gray Solid Prime Response Cover. The Track Proof comes with a 1 year warranty
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I have drilled 2 Track Proofs, one with a 60 x 5 ½ x 65 (pin down) layout and the other with a 70 x 5 x 20 layout (pin up). I have thrown the ball at box surface (500/2000 Siaair) and at 4000 Abralon over box. I have tried the ball on both fresh and burned out THS.
At the outset, I tried the Proof after a 4 month layoff from bowling due to COVID-19 closures. Thus, among other things, my ball speed is lower than normal. I would put this ball in between both Hammer Redemptions and stronger than a Pink Widow for those looking for an asymmetric option. Due to lower ball speed at this point, both Proofs was very strong and saw the lane early at box surface . I preferred the 4000 Abralon as it allowed the ball to get down the lane easier and retain more energy. I definitely noticed that with different layouts, the Proof does show very different ball motion with the pin down Proof being a more rounded, smoother shape and the pin up showing a quicker and stronger down lane motion. What I did note on both burnt and fresh THS, at the 4000 Abralon surface, was the ease through which the Proof was able to get through the fronts and store energy to the back. Often, for me, I sometimes have trouble getting asymmetric balls to retain enough energy. I did not find that to be the case with the Proof and given the very different shapes the layouts provide, it would appear that the Proof is very versatile and depending on surface prep, should be able to handle most medium to higher volume patterns.
See your local proshop for more information about the Track Proof!

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Track Proof Pearl
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Track Proof Pearl. The Proof Pearl features the Proof asymmetrical core wrapped by a Prime Response Pearl cover. The color of the Proof Pearl is black/smoke pearl and box surface is Crown Factory Compound.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I’ve drilled 2- one with a 45 x 4 x 45 layout and on with a 45 x 6 x 30 layout. with a 40x6x25 layout. I have used this ball at factory finish and 1000 Abralon as well as 4000 Abralon. I have tried the ball on a 44’, high volume sport pattern, a 42’ challenge pattern and various THS.
The Proof series, in a very short time, has become my “go to” equipment when the pattern dictates an asymmetric option. Personally, having lower ball speed often results in asymmetrical core equipment burning up too early thus reducing downlane response and carry. I have not found that to be the case with the Proof series. I have found both Proofs to get through the front part of the lane easily and retain more than sufficient energy to go through the pins properly. The Proof Pearl, in my opinion, is actually a little smoother downlane compared to the Proof Solid. That being said, even on the high volume 44’ sport pattern, the Proof Pearl read the pattern properly (at box surface) and went through the pins very well. The Proof Pearl had no problem handling the higher volume of oil (probably due to my lower ball speed) but did not burn up early either which would normally result in weak hits/corner pin spares. Again, the Proof series by Track are truly unique pieces in asymmetric core equipment in that they actually clear the fronts easily and retain energy effectively. My opinion is that the Proof Pearl is best on medium to higher volumes. Being that it seems to me a little smoother downlane, my thinking is that the Proof Pearl would be best on medium distance patterns but again, the Proof Pearl was able to handle the longer sport pattern with ease.
See your local proshop for more on the Track Proof Pearl.

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Track Sensor Solid
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
This is the brand new Track Sensor Solid. The Sensor Solid features a lower RG/lower diff symmetric core wrapped by an orange/red MR-6 solid cover finished at 2000 Siaair. I've drilled 2 of them- the one in this video is laid out with a 50 x 4 1/2 x 20 layout. I kept mine at box surface. I've tried the Sensor Solid on fresh THS, a low volume 50 foot sport pattern and a 40 foot medium volume challenge pattern.

I drilled these for an earlier/smoother type of motion. The one here is a little quicker than I expected for this type of ball but looks good on this THS. The pin down one is ideal for medium to shorter patterns as it is slower than the pin up one. I found this one to be a little too early on the light volume long sport pattern. Thus, that tells me that, at least at box surface, the key to this ball is having sufficient volume in the pattern. I will try some surface alterations to see how the Sensor Solid works on medium to lighter volumes. Still, my sense is, given how strong the cover appears to be, the Sensor Solid is best on fresh, higher volume patterns where a smoother, controlled motion is desired.

The Track Sensor Solid is readily available- see your pro shop for more information.

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Track Stealth
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the new Track Stealth. The Stealth features a low RG/high diff symmetrical core with a QR-9 black solid cover. I drilled one with a 45 x 4 ¾ x 35 layout and threw it at box surface which is 1500 siaair. I have thrown it on THS and the 2022 PBA Chameleon pattern.
The motion from the Stealth I would characterize as a strong yet continuous motion. At box surface, the Stealth definitely requires some volume in order to get the ball through the front. Given my medium ball speed, I will likely being going over the ball with a 3000 siaair pad in order to make the Stealth more effective on our house shot which is lower in volume. However, when the Stealth picks up, it definitely has continuation. For those that have thrown the original black Brunswick Knock Out, the Stealth to me seems to be a little earlier and a bit smoother. While I have yet to change surface, my sense is that the Stealth, depending on surface prep, will be usable on medium to higher volumes of oil on medium to longer patterns.
See your local pro shop for more information on the new Track Stealth!

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Track Stealth Hybrid
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I've recently had a chance to drill the recently released Track Stealth Hybrid. I had very good luck with the original Track Stealth so I was definitely interested in this ball. This ball further intrigued me as it shares the same coverstock as the Track Theorem, one of my favorite asymmetric core releases over the last 8 months or so. In a nutshell, while working at the trade show at Foxwoods, basically the Track Stealth Hybrid was best described as a "baby Theorem". The Stealth Hybrid features the original Stealth symmetric core as the original Stealth (low RG/high diff) wrapped by a Prime Response Hybrid coverstock with the HK-22 base colored in raven and navy blue. I drilled 2, one is with my favorite pin down layout- 60 x 5 x 70, the other I drilled with a stronger pin placement pin up. As box finish is the factory compound, I went over each one with a 2000 Siaair pad. The videos were shot on the new Bowlero Worcester THS which is basically a modified Kegel High Street.

The thing that always impressed me about the Theorem was as an asymmetric piece, how easily it got down the lane and how quick it was off the spot. I think the description of the Track Stealth Hybrid as a "baby Theorem" is very appropriate. The Stealth Hybrid did show a little more length as evidenced by the Theorem getting a trip 4 and the Stealth Hybrid being dead flush on similar shots. Even though as I've gotten old I've had to learn to keep my angles a little more in front of me and not open up as much, for fun I thought I'd try and move an arrow or so left and using more rotation, really open up. I wanted to see if the Stealth Hybrid with its quicker response would work. With what the Stealth Hybrid showed, I can do that with ease as well! The difference between the two was that I was a board or 2 further right with the Stealth Hybrid. But both showed a very quick response when they saw friction. In all honesty, given the amount of friction in our new house shot, I would definitely be starting with a slower response piece of equipment to blend out the pattern. But once the pattern transitions, I could easily see the Stealth Hybrid in play. Generally, I could easily see the Stealth Hybrid at its best when the lanes are transitioning and the player needs to move left and open up. Alternatively, it could also be in play perhaps on a medium volume fresh pattern that has some distance to it. Basically, if you liked the Theorem, you'll absolutely like the Stealth Hybrid!

The Stealth Hybrid is readily available- see your pro shop for more information.

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Track Stealth Pearl
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Recently, I had a chance to drill the brand new Track Stealth Pearl. I have had very good luck with the original Stealth winning a NEBA with one back in December, 2022 so I figured I would give the pearl version a try. The Stealth Pearl has the same symmetrical core as in the original Stealth- low RG/high diff. The main difference between the 2 is the QR-9 pearl reactive cover featuring the new HK-22 base to enhance back end motion. I drilled the new Stealth Pearl with a slightly different layout than the original. (New Stealth- 50 x 4 1/2 x 25, original Stealth- 45 x 4 3/4 x 35). I also went over the cover with a 4000 Siaair pad.

I am very pleased with what I see in the new Stealth Pearl as it appears to have met its intended goal of being a little "longer and stronger" version of the original Stealth. A comparison between the original and the new Pearl shows the original Stealth being a little further left on the oil where the Stealth Pearl shows a little quicker response and thus, had to be a little further right. This ball will be a great benchmark ball on medium to lighter volume patterns or as a "go to" ball when the lanes are breaking down and you need a cleaner, more responsive ball downlane. The new Stealth Pearl definitely has a quicker response to friction than the original Stealth.

The new Stealth Pearl by Track is currently available. See your pro shop for more information!

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Track Tempo
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Track Tempo. The Track Tempo features a high RG/lower diff. symmetrical core with a DR-5 emerald pearl Cover. The Tempo comes with a 2 year warranty.
My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled 2 Tempos- one with 70x5x20 (pin up) and 60x5 1/2x65 (pin down). I have thrown the ball at box surface (1000 Siaair compound) and at worn 1000 Abralon. I have tried the ball on both burned and fresh THS.
As a bowler with lower ball speed with a fairly high rev rate, I sometimes have trouble with lower volume patterns in the 20-22 ml range. Thus, I drilled the Tempo to give me options in such an environment with the high RG core. The Tempo performed as expected. On fresh THS, with the normal puddle in the middle, at box surface, I did find the Tempo to squirt a little. I then went over the ball with a worn 1000 pad in order to knock the shine off and that absolutely did the trick. That would also confirm that the ball, at box surface, will work great on lower volume patterns. Thus, on lighter volume fresh, the Tempo will do very well. On broken down, short sport, the Tempo should also perform well and with its high RG/lower diff core and make a nice combination with the Radical Bonus. Generally, the Tempo should work well with bowlers with lower ball speeds and/or rev dominant bowlers. Plus, with its emerald pearl cover, the Tempo has great shelf appeal.
See your local proshop for more information about the Track Tempo!

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Track Theorem
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Here is my take on the Track Theorem. The Theorem has a modified MC2 asymmetric core wrapped by a Prime Response Hybrid cover with the HK-22 base. Color is black, red and violet. Factory finish is 1500 Siaair polished. The layout in the 1 I drilled is my favorite pin down layout- 60 x 5 x 70. As I do with all factory polished balls- I dusted the polish off with a worn 3000 Siaair pad. I have used the Theorem on fresh and leftover THS. I have tried this ball as well on broken down Kegel Sphinx pattern.

The Theorem shows a quicker, more violent response off of the friction- a very unique quality for an asymmetric core ball. On the leftover THS and Sphinx, both were dry up front and yet, the Theorem cleared the fronts with ease and retained plenty of energy at the back. I see the Theorem at its best on medium volume patterns or actually, given the quick response, I see myself using this ball in transition- when the fronts are starting to go and I need to get left and go around the pattern. I was very surprised and pleased with what I saw with the Theorem and without a doubt, it has earned a spot in my bag. I can see why it comes highly recommended. I just won an event at Bayside Bowl using the Theorem in finals on broken down Sphinx with a high friction AMF SPL lane surface.

The Track Theorem is readily available- see your pro shop for more information.

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Track Theorem Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
230+
PAP:
5 9/16 over 1/8 up
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
210+
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Recently, I threw for the first time the Track Theorem Pearl. The Theorem Pearl is the next generation of Theorem bowling balls. The original Theorem was very popular at the beginning of 2024 and has definitely been one of my favorite asymmetric core pieces in the Brands of Brunswick family. Theorem Pearl features the same MC2 asymmetric core wrapped by a purple/blue/sky blue Prime Response Pearl cover with the HK-22 base. 1500 Siaair finished in Factory Compound is box finish. I drilled one exactly as I did my first original Theorem, 60 x 5 x 70. I used the Theorem Pearl at box finish on our scratch league pattern which is Kegel Lithium (recreational) and our regular house shot.

As I noted above, the original Theorem has been one of my favorite pieces for the ball motion it delivers. To my eye, the Theorem Pearl is very close. It is a touch longer and quicker than the original Theorem but it is a safe bet in my mind that if one liked the original, they'll absolutely like the Theorem Pearl. The Theorem Pearl will be at its best for medium volumes of oil just like the original. Again, the motion the Theorem Pearl offers, is at least for my game, a good match for many conditions. I shot 750+ out of the box without any practice with the Theorem Pearl in our scratch league. I definitely liked what I saw playing the lanes as I would normally play our house shot. However, I was practicing with a good friend who is a higher rev rate two hander so to see what the Theorem Pearl could do, I jumped way in and increased the launch angle with more rotation. The Theorem Pearl had absolutely no issue handling the increased launch. The Theorem Pearl should work, from what I see, for a variety of styles, speeds, rev rates etc.

The Theorem Pearl is readily available. Please see your local pro shop for more information!

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