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**ALL ORDERS PLACED BEFORE 4 PM ET WILL SHIP THE SAME DAY - FREE SHIPPING EVERY ITEM EVERY DAY**

Reviews by Tony Marino

900 Global Burner Solid

900 Global Eternity PI

900 Global Harsh Reality

900 Global Honey Badger Intensity

900 Global Reality

900 Global Reality Check

900 Global Sublime

900 Global Wolverine Dark Moss

900 Global Xponent Pearl

900 Global Zen Master

900 Global Zen/U

Roto Grip Attention Star

Roto Grip Critical

Roto Grip Dare Devil Danger

Roto Grip Eternal Cell

Roto Grip Halo

Roto Grip Halo Pearl

Roto Grip Halo Vision

Roto Grip Hectic

Roto Grip Hot Cell

Roto Grip Hustle 3TP

Roto Grip Hustle Au

Roto Grip Hustle Camo Solid

Roto Grip Hustle HSB

Roto Grip Hustle HYB Hybrid

Roto Grip Hustle INK Solid

Roto Grip Hustle PBR

Roto Grip Hustle RAP

Roto Grip Hustle USA

Roto Grip Hustle Wine Pearl

Roto Grip Hyped Solid

Roto Grip Hyper Cell Fused

Roto Grip Hy-Wire

Roto Grip Idol

Roto Grip Idol Pearl

Roto Grip Idol Pro

Roto Grip Idol Synergy

Roto Grip Magic Gem

Roto Grip Menace

Roto Grip MVP

Roto Grip MVP Attitude

Roto Grip MVP Pearl

Roto Grip No Rules

Roto Grip No Rules Exist

Roto Grip No Rules Pearl

Roto Grip Nuclear Cell

Roto Grip Optimum Idol

Roto Grip RST X-1

Roto Grip RST X-2

Roto Grip RST X-3

Roto Grip Rubicon

Roto Grip Rubicon UC2

Roto Grip Show Off

Roto Grip TNT Infused

Roto Grip UFO

Roto Grip UFO Alert

Roto Grip Wild Streak

Roto Grip Winner

Roto Grip Winner Solid

Roto Grip Wreck-Em

Roto Grip Wreck-It

Storm Absolute Power

Storm All-Road

Storm Alpha Crux

Storm AstroPhysix

Storm Axiom

Storm Axiom Pearl

Storm Code Red

Storm Code X

Storm Crux

Storm Crux Pearl

Storm Crux Prime

Storm Dark Code

Storm DNA Coil

Storm Drive

Storm Electrify G/O

Storm Electrify Hybrid

Storm Electrify Pearl

Storm Fast Pitch

Storm Fate

Storm Fever Pitch

Storm Fight

Storm Gravity Evolve

Storm Hy-Road Max

Storm Hy-Road X

Storm Incite

Storm Intense

Storm Intense Fire

Storm IQ Tour 30

Storm IQ Tour 78/U

Storm IQ Tour Emerald

Storm IQ Tour Fusion

Storm IQ Tour Nano Pearl

Storm Journey

Storm Joy Ride

Storm Lock

Storm Match Up Black Pearl

Storm Match Up Hybrid

Storm Match Up Pearl

Storm Match Up Solid

Storm Night Road

Storm Omega Crux

Storm Parallax

Storm Parallax Effect

Storm Phaze

Storm Phaze III

Storm Phaze V

Storm Physix

Storm Pitch Blue

Storm Pitch Purple

Storm Pro-Motion

Storm Proton Physix

Storm Rocket

Storm Rocket Ship

Storm Snap Lock

Storm Soniq

Storm Summit Peak

Storm Super Nova

Storm Super Soniq

Storm Timeless

Storm Trend 16 Only

Storm Virtual Energy Blackout

Storm Wipe Out

Storm Zero Gravity

Show all reviews

900 Global Burner Solid
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Burner Pearl:
The Burner Pearl features the S62 Pearl cover and the Centroid symmetric Core. The numbers on the Burner Pearl core are 2.53 RG, .037 diff.

Mine is drilled 4.5” to PAP with a 3.5” pin buffer. This is a great mid-level offering from 900Global. I would label the backend shape as fast response and medium strength. The Burner Pearl floats a little too far down the lane for my personally so I will get the most use out of the ball after hitting it will a 2,000 grit Abralon pad. If you like a skid-snap shape and a medium strength ball the Burner Pearl is a must-have.

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900 Global Eternity PI
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Eternity Pi
Cover: 901 Solid Reactive
Core: Epoch
RG: 2.47 RG (16lbs)
Diff: 0.052
Int Diff: 0.014

My layout: 4 x 4 x 2

The Pi is a big solid Asymmetrical ball that I see working best on medium-heavy to heavy conditions. The 901 solid cover is super strong and is a good combination strength and shape. The low rg asymm core combined with the big cover, makes the Pi a medium response high end ball for sure. I have found that the Pi is best when the on the fresh and on higher volume oil patterns. Once the lanes start to transition, the Pi will just flat out hook too much.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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900 Global Harsh Reality
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Harsh Reality
Cover: 902 Solid Reactive
Core: Disturbance + AI
RG: 2.47 RG
Diff: 0.054
Int Diff: 0.019

My layout: 4.25 x 4.75 x 2.5

The Harsh Reality is a big solid asymmetrical ball that I see working best on heavy to med-heavy conditions. The 902 solid cover on the Harsh is not quite as early as I was expecting, but still digs hard. It reads the fronts even in heavy oil without getting off line too quick. The AI plus the high diff of this big asymm core really shines, because it makes a strong medium response move down lane. I was expecting the Harsh to be more of a replacement of my original Reality, but the core definitely tips a bit harder. Because of this I will probably keep mine at 1000 - 1500 grit as my go to finish to best fit in my bag.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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900 Global Honey Badger Intensity
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Honey Badger Intensity
The Honey Badger Intensity features the solid S70 cover and the Grapnel 2.0 Asymmetric Core. I drilled mine 45x4x30 and I can see why the HB line has been so popular over the years. The HB Intensity rolls great, it’s a heavy-rolling, medium-response asymmetric ball. I see the Honey Badger Intensity being a benchmark ball for many, if you are a high rev or low ball speed bowler this ball may hold a more aggressive spot in your bag.

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

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Reality
I have been so impressed by the Reality. I drilled it 45x4x20 and man does this ball hook! If I had to describe it in one sentence, I would say it’s a high-end, solid, asymmetric ball that hooks a ton WITHOUT being a big snow tire… which is hard to do! I think Global hit a homerun with the Reality and I have seen a lot of them on racks in tournaments which speaks volumes to me. Go get one, it’s that good!

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900 Global Reality Check
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Reality Check features the S84 Beta Hybrid coverstock and the Disturbance core used in the Reality. I am a huge fan of the Reality Check. The Reality is one of the great asymmetrical balls I have ever thrown and I feel like 900 Global captured the shape very will with the release of the Check. For those of you hoping that the Reality Check would just be a rerelease of the Altered Reality, THIS IS NOWHERE NEAR THE SAME BALL… If that is a shape you are looking for then I encourage you to read some reviews on the Roto Grip RST X-3…

Now back to the Check! The S84 Beta Hybrid cover for me is the perfect blend of length and strength. It allows the slow predictable characteristic of the core that I love so much out of the Reality to be front and center but just at a different hook zone down lane. I will use this ball a ton on medium oil patterns or late in blocks at PBA tournaments. When I had to part ways with my Roto Grip UFO Alert, that left a huge hole in my bag, but now the Reality Check fills that gap very very well.
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900 Global Sublime
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Sublime
Cover: 802 Hybrid Reactive
Core: Immersed + AI
RG: 2.47 RG
Diff: 0.051

My layout: 4.5 x 2.5

The Sublime is a hybrid symmetrical ball that I see working best on medium to med-dry conditions. The 802 hybrid cover on the Sublime makes it feel more like a pearl than a hybrid, because it has not problem clearing the front part of the lane. The low rg, high diff core compliments the clean cover very well, because once it starts seeing some friction it creates a strong medium-quick response motion. I have found that the Sublime is best when the lanes transition past big solid balls like the Reality or Phase 2. It allows me to get more shape without overshooting the break point down lane.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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900 Global Wolverine Dark Moss
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Wolverine Dark Moss is the latest addition to the 900 Global line. The biggest difference between the Dark Moss and the original Wolverine is the coverstock. The Dark Moss uses the S70 Pearl cover and the same Lacerate 2 core. The Dark Moss is clean and super quick off the dry. It does have a higher 2.54 RG and diff of .053, the Dark Moss is designed to be used when there's a good amount of friction, when the bigger balls are too early. I drilled mine 4x5x3 and it picks up the kids extremely well. I can see myself using it on house shots when I need to get in and give away the pocket a bit. If I was to drill another one I would drill it much weaker and have it be my end of block ball. The Dark Moss really wants to get in and be wheeled!

Do not be surprised if you see this ball make a lot of PBA tour telecasts! I have seen a ton of these out in PBA regional competition and the righties with any kind of rev rate make it look silly!
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900 Global Xponent Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Xponent Pearl
Cover: 702 Pearl Reactive
Core: Shrapnel 2.0
RG: 2.48 RG
Diff: 0.041

My layout: 5 x 2

The X Pearl is a Pearl symmetrical ball that I see working best on med-dry conditions. The pearl 702 cover on the X Pearl is super clean. It does a great job of getting through early friction and really likes to whip off the dry. The low rg core compliments the clean cover very well. Because of the length of the cover, the fast revving core translates to a fairly quick response motion down lane for me. I have found that the X Pearl is best when the lanes transition past the medium balls like the Zen or the TNT Infused. It allows me to get more shape without seeing any friction up front.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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900 Global Zen Master
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Zen Master:
The Zen Master features the S77 Response Solid cover and the Meditate symmetric Core. The numbers on the Meditate core are 2.49 RG, .051 diff.

Mine is drilled 4.5” to PAP with a 2.5” pin buffer. The original Zen is a strong contender for “ball of the year”, so the Zen Master has big shoes to fill. And I will tell you now, the Zen Master is special! I would label the shape as medium-to-med/slow but the S77 cover is super strong. My Zen Master out hooked my Axiom and my Phase II and it reminds me of the original Roto Grip Idol.

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900 Global Zen/U
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Review: O.M.G. go get one! The end… ;)

In all seriousness, this is the type of shape I look for when using urethane. The new Zen U has the new S35+ cover and a modified Meditate Core. The 2 things to note there are the urethane+ in the cover which tells me that this is either a stronger urethane formula or a urethane/resin blend. The other thing to note is that the Zen U is using a low-medium flare symmetrical core. Why this matters is because like in the Storm Pitch Black (and unlike the UC3 and other asymmetrical urethanes), this type core allows the cover to be the star.

As a tournament player and someone who happens to also be left handed, urethane is a must have in my bag if I want to compete. And I have drilled every urethane ball that 900 Global, Storm and Roto Grip have released, and THE ZEN U IS THE BALL I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!

I have been begging for an upgraded version of the Pitch Black for years. And that is exactly what the Zen U feels like. I drilled my Zen U with my normal strong urethane layout of 3.5x5x0. Comparatively, the Zen U is a close to but a touch cleaner than the Pitch Black at the same surface, but the Zen U is wwaaayyyyyyy stronger overall and is not nearly as bogged down with oil farther down lane. I have only ever had 2 issues with the Pitch Black, 1 is that once the pattern starts pushing down it didn’t have the strength to fight through it without me really slowing my speed down and/or really increasing my rev rate (both of which I am not super great at). 2 was that there never seemed to be a ball I could switch to that was even in the same universe. The closest ball was the UC3 but both the UC3 and Pitch Black are super sensitive to oil down lane which for my style made them hard to use in tandem. The Zen U seems to fix those problems and fills this gab in my urethane bag in a HUGE way. Drill a Zen U, you won’t be disappointed.
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Roto Grip Attention Star
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Attention Star
Cover: eTrax+ Pearl Reactive
Core: Momentous AV+AI
RG: 2.48 RG
Diff: 0.052
Int Diff: 0.017

My layout: 5 x 4.5 x 2.5

The Attention Star is a Pearl Asymmetrical ball that I see working best on medium to med-dry conditions. The pearl eTrax+ cover on the Star is clean but still maintains traction compared to other clean pearl covers. It does a great job of getting through early friction without being hyper sensitive to oil down lane. The strong low rg asymm core compliments the clean cover by revving up and giving the Star a strong medium to medium-quick response motion. I have found that the Star is best when the lanes transition past big solid balls like the Magic Gem or Reality. The Attention Star seems like a unique shape that will always be in my tournament bag. Gives me a lot of UFO Alert and RST X2 vibes!!!! <3

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Roto Grip Critical
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Roto Grip Critical, which is part of the HP3 line, has the same asymmetrical Triliptic weight block that the Critical Theory had but has the 67mh hybrid coverstock.
I chose one of my favorite asymmetrical drillings for my Critical. 4” x 5” with a 3.5” pin buffer with a large P2 hole. This put my pin just outside of my ring finger and the mass bias just left of the thumb (left-handed).
I have used the Critical on a few different house shots as well as the 2014 USBC Open Championships team pattern. I quickly saw how good this ball could be. The cover is strong and slightly early for a hybrid, and the core was strong without wanting to rev up at the arrows.
The Critical is strong down lane but needs some oil (or ball speed). The core doesn’t rev up as fast as say the nucleus core in the Cell series. That gives it more shape down lane than most solid or hybrid asyms. For me, the Critical is more responsive in oil than the Eternal Cell (out of box), but makes a stronger move than the Haywire.
This ball will make a great addition to my bag and I see being a great companion to the Haywire and Zero Gravity. I would recommend The Critical for anyone looking for a good ball for oil that still wants a strong motion on the back.

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Roto Grip Dare Devil Danger
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The New Roto Grip Dare Devil Danger is the Hybrid version of the original Dare Devil. It uses the Psyched Hybrid coverstock and the Madcap core that has been in all of the Dare Devils.

The one word that I think of when I see this ball roll is, control. This is a smoother shape than any hybrid in the Roto Grip or Storm lines. Like I have heard from a few others, the DD Danger reminds me of the Hywire that used to be in Roto Grip’s HP3 line.

Because of the low RG in the core, this ball shapes more like a solid than a hybrid or pearl. I see this ball needing some coverstock tweaks to fit perfectly for some. I hit mine with 4,000 Abralon, and smoothing out that shape just a hair more made it fit right where I needed it to in my bag. So do not be afraid to tweak this super versatile cover!

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Roto Grip Eternal Cell
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Eternal Cell is part of the HP4 line, has the same asymmetrical Nucleus core as the Hyper Cell, and a 75m solid coverstock (slightly weaker cover than the Hyper Cell’s 80h microbite)

I chose one of my favorite asymmetrical drillings for my Critical. 4” x 5” with a 3.5” pin buffer with a large P2 hole. This put my pin just outside of my ring finger and the mass bias just left of the thumb (left-handed).

The Eternal Cell revs quickly and wants to hook early, but not as quickly as the Hyper Cell, or Zero Gravity. I have only had a chance to throw it on the 2015 USBC Open Championship team pattern, but I will do my video review on a house shot so be on the look-out (shameless plug :]).

The Eternal is too strong for that USBCOC team pattern on the fresh, but once the oil pushes down and my IQ Tour isn’t strong enough on the back, the Eternal Cell was phenomenal. Being left-handed and slightly speed dominant, I love to see a core that gets started quickly, so needled to say, the Cell series has that in spades. The cover is strong but out of box, it has some much needed length.

I have not played around the different surfaces on the Eternal yet, but I have seen others use it dull at 1,000 grit and it rolls great. I will definitely be giving that a try on some longer tournament pattern that I have coming up.

The Eternal Cell is great for high-rev players who likes to get in and hook it and aren’t afraid of a ball that has strong down-lane motion, or speed dominant players who need the fast revving high octane shape down lane.

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Roto Grip Halo
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Halo

The new Roto Grip Halo is in the HP4 line and features the strongest core and cover stock combination that Roto Grip has to date.

When I threw the halo it was exactly what I was hoping for… It hooks! This ball needs oil in the front part of the lane. At first blush the Halo gave me flashbacks of the original Cell. The core transitions very quickly and delivers a very strong predictable motion.

Since the Halo and the Idol have the same cover stock I decided to compare the two. And heavy oil, the Halo definitely picks up earlier. The Idol has more backend but the Halo picks up a bit quicker in heavy oil when the Idol wants to push.

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Roto Grip Halo Pearl
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Halo Pearl

The Centrum Core was very popular in the original Halo as it revved up quick and gave that traditional early rolling core shape that most players love from high-end asymmetricals. The Halo Pearl is using the Centrum Core but wrapping it in the eTrax-18 pearl cover was first introduced in the Idol Pearl. Using this super strong pearl cover creates a lot of down lane motion in a very different part of the lane than the original Halo.

I love throwing big core, pearl bowling balls so this ball is making a home in my bag with the Code Black and Intense Fire.

For me the shape of the Halo Pearl is between the original Halo and the Idol Pearl. It is significantly cleaner than the Halo, but because of that big-block core it revs up faster and is smoother than the Idol Pearl.

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Roto Grip Halo Vision
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Halo Vision
The new Halo Vision has the Centrum core & the eTrax-H19 hybrid cover. It fits perfectly between the other 2 Halo's for me. When the solid starts to read to early and the pearl is just a little to clean still, the Vision is here to save the day. The Vision still clears the fronts really well but gives a very strong continuous arc. The Vision is a great addition to the line. I think it’s the cover that sets this ball apart.

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Roto Grip Hectic
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Hectic is part of the HP2 line, has the same symmetrical Late Roll 56 core as the Devour, and a 50ML pearl coverstock.

I chose a strong drilling for my Hectic. 3.5” x 4.5” with a 3” pin buffer with a P2 hole. This put my pin just down and outside of my ring finger.

The 50ML cover is very clean and has no problem going through dry lane conditions. I have had a chance to throw it on the 2015 USBC Open Championship team pattern, and a 40’ house pattern.

The Hectic is too clean of a motion for that USBCOC team pattern on the fresh, I could see it being a good game 3 ball on that pattern if you had multiple people breaking the lane down together. Even with how clean it is, it’s not super angular. Much like its solid counterpart, the Devour, the Hectic generates smooth ball motion without picking up the front part of the pattern, which is a much desired trait if you have slower ball speed or are bowling on a high friction lane surface. This really showed well on the house shot, it rolls great on the house shot at my center. I can play up the oil line (or even a bit outside of it) and it gives me the proper shape and highlights the margin of error.

The Hectic is a great benchmark pearl ball and will get a lot of use for me on shorter to medium oil patterns as well as on higher friction houses.

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Roto Grip Hot Cell
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Hot Cell is the latest in the world of urethane bowling balls. It combines the smooth and controllable urethane shape with the power of one of the most popular Roto Grip cores to date in the Nucleus core from the Cell series.

What the Hot cell does more than anything else is FLARE! The problem that some have with most urethane balls is that the lack of flare creates too much carrydown and not enough power through the pins. The Hot Cell changes all of that. You can now better control the flare and shape because of the asymmetric core. Urethane isn’t just for super high-rev players anymore!

The Hot Cell is noticeably stronger through the pins for me without sacrificing the benefit of using urethane.

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Roto Grip Hustle 3TP
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
This new pearl Hustle is the most skid/flip of any other current Hustle, and once again has packed a lot of performance in a low price point ball. These newer pearl Hustles seem slightly weaker than their previously released counterparts and I am very happy to see that. I see this ball being great for when the lanes start hooking in the front or when bowling on very worn lane surfaces.
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Roto Grip Hustle Au
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
This new pearl Hustle is the most skid/flip of any other current Hustle, and once again has packed a lot of performance in a low price point ball. These newer pearl Hustles seem slightly weaker than their previously released counterparts and I am very happy to see that. I see this ball being great for when the lanes start hooking in the front or when bowling on very worn lane surfaces.
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Roto Grip Hustle Camo Solid
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Hustle CAMO:
The best value line in bowling keeps getting better! The CAMO is made up of the Hustle core with an RG of 2.53 and a diff of 0.030, wrapped in a polished VTC Solid cover.

If you were someone who missed out on drilling the Hustle INK, then here is the closest thing you can find in the current line. Because of the finish of the VTC cover, the CAMO has good length for a solid ball. I would categorize the backend shape as medium-to-med/fast response and medium strength. Dollar for dollar you will not find a better value than the Hustle line. This ball has earned a spot in my tournament bag.

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Roto Grip Hustle HSB
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Hustle HSB
This new hybrid Hustle is the strongest and smoothest of any other current Hustle, and once again is packed a lot of performance in a low price point ball. These newer pearl Hustles seem slightly weaker than their previously released counterparts but the HSB stands out as the strongest and smoothest shape. This is a great piece for those looking for a weaker ball that is slower response to friction.

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Roto Grip Hustle HYB Hybrid
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Hustle HYB
Outside of a spare ball, this is the best ball for your money on the market. Period!

The Hustle HYB combines the Hustle core with the new VTC-H18 hybrid cover. Even though this ball is in the HP1 line, it easily provides HP2/3 performance. It hooks more than anything in the HP1 line and more than some in the HP2 line. Even though the HYB is a hybrid cover, it is earlier and smoother than the INK or any other Hustle. So if you are looking for a dry lane ball, this isn’t it… But if you want a great benchmark ball at an entry-level price, the HYB is a must have.

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Roto Grip Hustle INK Solid
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Baby IQ Tour… the end!

Seriously though, the Hustle Ink is the newest ball in the Roto Grip Hustle family. It has the same Hustle core that are in the others but uses the Thrilled solid coverstock.

I drilled my 4.25” from my axis with a 3” pin buffer and no hole. Hoping this would be my go to on lower volume patterns. This ball has become my security blanket. It rolls like a weaker benchmark ball. It is smooth and predicable on the back but does not hook too early.

Now the cover is not super strong, so unless you are rev-dominant, it will not find its way to heavy oil. But when the Dare Devil Trick or IQ Tour are too early, this ball is PERFECT. A lot of drier lane balls tend to be one dimensional, but the Hustle Ink is very versatile. I have already used this ball a ton, and it should be in every tournament players bag.

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Roto Grip Hustle PBR
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Building on its success and amazing value, the Hustle line has another winner with the PBR! The PBR has a new solid cover but the same great core which makes this the slowest response Hustle to date. As someone who likes to use slow response solid balls on house shots this is my house shot killer! I drilled mine 2” from my PAP with a 1” pin buffer. It’s nice and smooth but the solid cover still picks up early to read the pattern correctly.
If you are looking for a slightly weaker benchmark solid ball, you will not find a better value than the Hustle PBR!

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Roto Grip Hustle RAP
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Building on its success and amazing value, the Hustle line has another winner with the RAP! The Hustle RAP is easily the quickest response Hustle to date. The RAP for me gives me a lot of length and when it sees friction it will change direction pretty hard. Mine is drilled with a 4.5 pin to PAP and a 2” pin buffer.
If you need a skid snap shape for medium to light oil, the RAP is a must have!

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Roto Grip Hustle USA
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Hustle USA features the VTC Hybrid cover and the well-known Hustle core.

The biggest difference I see in the USA versus say the Hustle Wine and Camo, is that the USA is earlier and more continuous than the its counterparts. While the overall hook values are similar, the USA feels like it can handle more oil because it is not as quick off the friction or quick to stop as other Hustles.

I was expecting the Hustle USA to remind me of the Hustle HYB of years past but I don’t get those vibes at all. The USA almost feels like the hyped Solid’s little brother. For me It seems to work best when it does not try to cover a ton of boards. Once I get too far in and swing it away from the pocket the USA doesn’t seem to be strong enough. But for me it is a monster and playing straighter up the lane either on the fresh or the transition before having to go into a weaker cover and opening up the lane.
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Roto Grip Hustle Wine Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Hustle Wine:
The best value line in bowling keeps getting better! The Wine is made up of the Hustle core with an RG of 2.53 and a diff of 0.030, wrapped in the VTC Pearl cover.

I was a big fan of the gold Hustle and that this was just a remake of sorts, but nope! The Hustle Wine is way faster response down lane. I would categorize the backend shape as fast response and medium strength. I think the Wine floats a little too far down the lane for my personally so I will get the most use out of the ball after hitting it will a 3,000 grit Abralon pad. But HOLY COW does this ball hook on the back for the price!

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Roto Grip Hyped Solid
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Hyped Solid is a ball you are going to see a lot of tournament player gushing over!

The new Hyped Solid has the Hyped core and the VTC solid cover. This combination offers a strong, smooth and extremely controllable shape. Think of Storm’s IQ Tour solid but with a little more teeth to pick up the lane sooner.

My layout is 4x5x1. Which allows me keep my angle closed easier on short and medium oil patterns. I cannot say enough good things about the Hyped Solid. I am actually going to stash 1 or 2 of these away for the USBC Open Championships next year because I can see this type of ball motion giving me the absolute look on those types of conditions.
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Roto Grip Hyper Cell Fused
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Hyper Cell Fused (HCF)
The Hyper Cell Fused combines the hybrid eTrax-H18 cover stock and Nucleus core. That combination creates a strong shape on the back. Because of the quick revving core, the HCF’s backend is more midlane for me than skid snap. I personally love how fast the Nucleus core transitions (dating all the way back to the Cell Pearl), so I am happy to see some of the same core shape that has become so loved still in this new release. The new hybrid eTrax-H18 cover is probably the most versatile cover I have used in the Cell line. Out of box the HCF will give you great backend for a hybrid, but I was also able to knock some of the shine off and the HCF picked up the fronts really well and smoothed out the shape tremendously. All in all, if you are looking for a highend ball with controllable backend, Hyper Cell Fused is it.

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Roto Grip Hy-Wire
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Haywire has been one of my favorite Roto Grip balls for some time now, so I was excited for the Hy-wire release. They both use the same core, but the Hy-wire is wrapped in a hybrid coverstock. I drilled my Hy-wire 4.25” from my PAP, which puts the pin above and outside my ring finger with no extra hole.

My Hy-wire is a great compliment to the Haywire. Where the Haywire picks up the pattern early and reacts slowly to friction, the Hy-wire clears the front part of the lane much easier and is more responsive to dry. I wouldn’t call the Hy-wire a skid snap reaction, like a Snap Lock or Optimus. I see the Hy-wire being the first non-solid coverstock ball out of my bag for a long time.

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Roto Grip Idol
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Idol
Like many, I was extremely unhappy to see the Haywire go away in the Roto lineup (I still have a couple in the closet for a rainy day), so I felt a huge relief when I threw my Idol for the first time. Even though the Idol has a brand new Ikon core and Micro Trax-18 cover, it has that same strong, predictable, even rolling, shape that so many loved from the Haywire. The Idol is the strongest ball in the HP3 line. The Idol is that strong smooth shape that most serious players look for in their bag. I see myself drilling MANY of these in the future.

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Roto Grip Idol Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Idol Pearl

The Ikon Core that was in the original Idol changed the way everyone looks at the HP3 line. The low RG symmetrical shape with high differential not only provides plenty of flare throughout the lane, it also provides superb motion down lane and through the pins. The original Idol used a solid cover which was great for controlling and reading the front part of the lane, but the new Idol Pearl is using the eTrax-P18™ Pearl Reactive coverstock and this thing is STRONG. This is the strongest pearlized ball Roto Grip has ever created in the HP3 line. Between the core and cover, this ball is ideal for medium to medium/heavy conditions where there is a little friction.

What I notice the most about the Idol Pearl is just how strong of a shape it makes. The cover is a very “grippy” pearl, so it is not as clean as most pearls in either Roto or Storm lines, but man does this ball shape down lane. I am really impressed with the Idol Pearl so far and the cover seems to be fairly versatile for a pearl, because I like it even at 4,000 and 2,000 grit.

We cannot stop selling these balls at the pro shop and there seems to be a 300 shot with it every other night in my area. I highly recommend.

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Roto Grip Idol Pro
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Idol Pro
The Roto Grip Idol Pro utilizes the Ikon Core and e-Trax S-19 solid coverstock. The Pro goes longer down the lane than the Idol, and has a much more defined shape as well. Just as strong as the Idol but the cover/finish combo of the Pro gives the shape a quicker response. This is a perfect benchmark ball to keep in your bag.

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Roto Grip Idol Synergy
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
IDOL SYNERGY
The Idol Synergy features the eTrax hybrid cover that was also on the Halo Vision but with the Ikon core from the Idol line (RG=2.49, Diff=.052).

I have absolutely LOVED all of the Idol balls to date so I was excited to try a hybrid Idol for sure.

I drilled my Synergy 4.5” from my PAP with a 2” pin buffer. I wanted a little bit of length out of this ball but I wanted to take advantage of the smooth strong Ikon core as well. I think the Idol Synergy fits exactly what I think of when I think of a hybrid symmetrical ball. It does not pick up the front part of lane nearly as fast as the OG Idol but is clearly stronger and fast response down lane without going sideways.

I see the Idol Synergy being great for what flatter patterns start to transition or as a great benchmark piece for lower speed players.

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Roto Grip Magic Gem
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Magic Gem
Cover: MicroTrax Hybrid Reactive
Core: Defiant LRG
RG: 2.47 RG
Diff: 0.051
Int Diff: 0.016

My layout: 4.5 x 5 x 2

The Magic is a Hybrid Asymmetrical ball that I see working best on medium to med-heavy conditions. The hybrid MicroTrax cover on the Magic is feels more like a solid to me than a pearl which is what I like to see in hybrid covers. It does a great job of reading the front but not burning up right away unlike some some high end big covers. The low rg asymm core compliments this strong cover. The combo of the big hybrid cover and a the fast revving core translates to a medium response motion down lane. I have found that the Magic is best when the lanes need a big solid cover, but balls like the OG Gem and Reality are too early and forward. It allows me to get a bit more shape on the fresh without worrying about overshooting the break point down lane.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Roto Grip Menace
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The newest addition to the Roto Grip HP4 line is the Menace. The Menace uses the Cage Core which was in the Sinister and wraps it with the 74H solid cover stock. The mixture of two results in a ball reaction that is as crazy as the colors on the Menace!

I drilled my Menace 4.25 x 5.25 with a 4” pin buffer, which put the pin in my ring finger. With this layout, the Menace gives me a fast revving core that gives a great midlane motion while still continuing well through the pins. The 74H coverstock is the perfect combination for the Cage core. It is a versatile solid cover allows the core to be the star. I compared the Menace to the Haywire, and the Menace was noticeably cleaner through the fronts and much more shape on the backend. It’s great on the fresh, but it really shows how great it is once the lanes transition. If you’re someone who loves to throw asymmetric cores, this is a must own. I see myself bringing at least one of these to the USBC tournament this coming year, regardless of the oil pattern… Yea, it’s that good.

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Roto Grip MVP
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
MVP
As someone who loved the Wrecker I was very excited to see the release of the MVP. The Roto Grip MVP utilizes the Neutron NXT Core and VTC-H19 hybrid coverstock. More length without creating too much angle. You will get a lot of ball for the money here and I definitely see a lot of the Wrecker shape in the MVP. Medium response but great length.

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Roto Grip MVP Attitude
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The MVP Attitude is the latest of the MVP line and to me is the best. The Attitude gives me great control down lane on medium oil patterns. What stands out most to me is the versatility. My Attitude is drilled with the pin under ring finger (4.5” to PAP) and with this layout gives me medium length and medium response. To me the Attitude reminds me of the Wild Streak but just a smaller piece.
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Roto Grip MVP Pearl
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Roto Grip MVP Pearl utilizes the Neutron NXT Core and VTC-P19 pearl cover. The MVP Pearl is cleaner through the front part of lane in comparison to the original MVP. The MVP Pearl will be a great option to ball down to from the Idol Pearl when it starts to hook too soon and a step up from the Hustle AU.
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Roto Grip No Rules
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The No Rules is the latest high-end release from Roto Grip. The combination of the strong asymmetric Chaotic core and the Micro DNA solid coverstock, make this the strongest ball in the Roto line to date.
I drilled mine with the pin up in outside of my ring finger (3.5”) and the mass bias just inside of my thumb (4.5”) with a 2.5” pin buffer.
I got exactly what I expected out of the No Rules. It revs up quickly and makes a smooth and STRONG move down lane. It is easily the earliest ball in my bag, but it continues extremely well through the pins.
In my ball motion video, I threw the No Rules and the Wreck It on a 43’ medium volume sport pattern and was able to get them both to match up very nicely. You can find that video here: https://youtu.be/XwYDJHFiBck.

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Roto Grip No Rules Exist
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The No Rules Exist is the newest addition to the HP4 line from Roto Grip. It features the Chaotic core that is in the other No Rules balls, but the Exist has the Reckless cover that was also on the Dare Devil Trick. This ball was designed to fit between the original No Rules and the No Rules Pearl, and I think Roto Grip nailed it. The original No Rules was very early and almost too smooth done lane for me, so the Exist will be in play way more often. Because the Reckless cover slightly cleaner, it makes a much more defined shape on the backend.

Comparing the No Rules Exist(NRE) to the Dare Devil Trick(DDT), the NRE is faster to respond at the end of the pattern than the DDT. And I have the NRE about 3-5 boards stronger.

The NRE needs to volume or oil up front, but it a great piece if you need a heavy oil ball that shapes downlane.

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Roto Grip No Rules Pearl
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The No Rules Pearl (NRP) has the same Chaotic Core that was used in the original No Rules, but uses the new Amped pearl coverstock.

I drilled my NRP with the pin above my bridge and the mass bias left of my thumb, 5.25 x 4.5 and a pretty big weight hole on my VAL. The Pumped pearl cover is very strong without sacrificing much shape on the back. As I share in my video, this might be one of the strongest pearl covers I have thrown. I am glad I drilled my NRP with a longer pin because that helped give me the shape on the backend I was hoping for with this ball. I would be careful not to drill this ball too strong if you are looking for a sharper shape, unless you are speed dominant or want a smoother shape anyway.

I have used the NRP on a number of league patterns as well as many flatter sport patterns. The best look I have had with this ball has been on a 42’ sport pattern when the lane had started transitioning and I needed just little more shape on the back.
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Roto Grip Nuclear Cell
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
One of my favorite Roto Grip balls of all time was Cell Pearl (still have one). The Nuclear Cell is almost like the rebirth of the Cell Pearl. The Nuclear is very clean and does a great job of skidding through the front part of the lane. The HOF-worthy Nucleus core is fast revving which makes the Nuclear want to pick up and transition sooner than a pearl symmetric like the Idol Pearl or Hyroad Pearl, but that doesn’t mean that the Nuclear Cell is weak on the back… Actually, quite the opposite! I am in love with how much shape this ball creates without sacrificing the mid-lane read that you sometimes need to give up out of big back-ending, pearl, balls. Don’t miss out!
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Roto Grip Optimum Idol
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Optimum Idol
Cover: Micro Trax Solid Reactive
Core: IKON + AI
RG: 2.47 RG
Diff: 0.054

My layout: 4 x 2

As a staffer, some ball announcements make me more excited than others… Well let me tell you, when the Optimum Idol was announced I may or may not have let out a “HELL YEA!”. haha

The Optimum Idol is a solid symmetrical ball that I see working best on medium-med/heavy conditions. The Mirco Trax is a strong solid cover that I would call early-medium/early. The low rg IKON core combined with the AI tech creates more flare than the OG Idol did. So all in all the Optimum Idol is SUPER close to the original pink Idol, but maybe just a hair stronger. If you are like me and still have an OG Idol (or maybe a couple more than 1 lol) in your bag, then rest assured they roll very similarly. If you are looking for a straight 1:1 replacement, because of the increased flare of adding the AI to the core I recommend adding about a 1/2” pin distance to the Optimum Idol layout from how your OG is drilled. The Optimum Idol creates to a medium response motion ball. I have found that the Optimum Idol is a bit slower than a Phase 2 but quicker than the Summit. I see this ball working well in many different situations. The Idol was only of the most versatile ball of all time for me and I see the same thing out of the Optimum Idol. I will have many of these in my tournament lineup and at least 1 will go to Vegas for the Open Championships.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Roto Grip RST X-1
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
RST X1
The RST X1 features the MicroTrax™ Hybrid cover along with the all new RST™ core (RG=2.53, Diff=.053 int diff=.016).

I drilled my X1 5x4x3 because I wanted to be able to use it when the front part of the lanes were hooking a bit but they weren’t quite ready for a skid snap shape yet. For me the X1 fits this spot perfectly! When balls like the UFO or Proton Physix ready too quickly, the X1 rolls great. What I really love about the X1 is the float through the front without sacrificing the quick revving asymmetrical shape that I love.

If you are looking for a ball for medium to heavy oil but don’t want something that hooks in our backswing, the RST X1 is it!
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Roto Grip RST X-2
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
RST X-2:
The RST X-2 features the eTrax Plus Pearl cover and the RST asymmetric Core. The numbers on the RST core are 2.53 RG, .053 diff and a .016 intermediate diff.


My X-2 is drilled 5” x 4” with a 2” pin buffer. Right off the bat you can see that the X-2 is much cleaner than the X-1. Where the X-1 was very strong in the front part of the lane, the X-2 is the opposite. It floats very easily through the front and when it reads friction it makes a fast, strong shape down lane. If you are a player who likes to get in and throw it to the dry, the RST X-2 is a winner.

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Roto Grip RST X-3
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I don’t normally do this type of thing in my reviews but let me just come out and say this… THIS IS WHAT A HIGH END HYBRID BALL SHOULD BE!

The X-3 has the MicroTrax Hybrid cover which 2:1 pearl:solid hybrid cover. From what I’ve seen, the X-3 is earlier than the X-1 and more forward, and obviously also earlier and stronger than the fully pearl X-2.

With a highish 2.53RG and diff of .053, this ball is designed to be a step down from your Gem, Reality, or Infinite Physix. The X-3 fills a gap for me in my bag for sure. I struggled to find the right ball to go to after the Reality, because most of the time I am still looking for an asymmetrical shape but nothing quite fit the bill UNTIL the RST X-3! Mine is drilled 4.5x5x2.5 and I am debating on drilling a 2nd one. What I see out of the X-3 is it is strong and versatile enough to play up the lane or be the piece to go to after the big dull ball has made the lanes transition but it is not yet time for a ball like the Idol Helios.
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Roto Grip Rubicon
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Rubicon to me is the future of benchmark balls. Having a slow response asymmetrical core and a medium strength solid cover allows bowlers and ball drillers the versatility to create the ideal motion for that “first ball out of your bag”. The Rubicon to me is a ball that will be in my bag every single time I bowl regardless if it’s on a house shot or a PBA tournament. It is that good! It reminds me a lot of the Storm Code X which was my favorite bowling ball for a while until it was discontinued. The core revs up quicker than its symmetric counterparts which translates to a slower shape, and the cover allows the Rubicon to be in play when the pattern is fresh. To me this ball does not read as a hook monster that wants to dig high volumes of oil, but more of a ball that will allow you to read oil patterns easily and be in play way more than not. Every tournament player should have a Rubicon in their bag!
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Roto Grip Rubicon UC2
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Rubicon UC2
The Rubicon UC2 is a pearl small asymmetric ball (cores with low intermediate differential) and pearl version of the original Rubicon solid. First blush is that the UC2 is amazing, and it is already making BIG waves on the PBA tour and in leagues throughout the country. The Rubicon UC2 out of box is very clean and because of the low int. diff. is a med-med/fast response reaction down lane. I am really impressed with how versatile the UC2 is for as clean and responsive it is.

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Roto Grip Show Off
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Show Off is the newest solid cover ball in the Roto Grip HP2 line. It has the Hotshot core with a 2.55 RG value, a .045 Diff and the Micro DNA solid coverstock. So it has a core that should respond quicker than average to friction and a fairly aggressive coverstock.

I drilled mine 4.25” from my axis with a 2.5” pin buffer and low p3 hole. Hoping this would be my go to on medium volume, medium length patterns. This ball for me rolls like a strong benchmark ball. It is smooth and predicable on the back and is not too clean on the fresh. I am surprised with how much hook the Show Off has for it’s price point.

I found the cover to be pretty strong, so unless you are speed-dominant, it probably will not find its way to the lane for light oil. But when the Dare Devil Trick or No Rules Exist are too early, this ball is PERFECT.

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Roto Grip TNT Infused
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
TNT Infused
Cover: eTrax+ Hybrid Reactive
Core: Torpex
RG: 2.47 RG
Diff: 0.050

My layout: 4.75 x 2.5

The Infused is a hybrid symmetrical ball that I see working best on medium to med-dry conditions. The hybrid eTrax+ cover on the Infused is very clean compared to the original TNT. It gets through early friction easily is much quicker than I was expecting. The low rg core translates the clean cover to a medium to medium-quick response motion down lane. I have found that the Infused is best when the lanes transition past big solid balls like the Absolute Power or Phase 2. It allows me to get more shape without picking up the fronts too hard.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Roto Grip UFO
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The UFO is out of this… I’m not gonna do it. Lol! The UFO is a hook monster. Mine is drilled 90x4x40 because I wanted this ball to be my heavy oil, fast response option in my bag. And I am glad I did! The UFO hooks way more than the previous ball in that spot. What surprises me is the fact that the UFO doesn’t read the front part of the lane quicker. It skids more than most heavy oil hook monster type of balls I’ve thrown in the past, but still has a smooth and very strong shape. I highly recommend the UFO!
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Roto Grip UFO Alert
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
UFO Alert:
The UFO Alert features the eTrax hybrid cover and the Equalizer Technology asymmetric core. The numbers on the Equalizer Technology are 2.52 RG, .054 diff and a .016 intermediate diff.

Mine is drilled 4.5” x 5.25” with a 2” pin buffer. Because of the slightly higher RG on this core and the hybrid cover I wanted to take advantage of the down lane shape in the UFO Alert. My first impression is that the UFO Alert is stronger than I thought it was going to be. I was expecting the ball to read farther down the lane than it did initially, but it is the perfect complement to the RST X-1 and X-2. I found that it fits right in between them nicely. For me, the UFO Alert offers a strong, medium-fast response shape without reading too early.

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Roto Grip Wild Streak
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Roto Grip Wild streak utilizes the Mutated Rotary core and the SureTrax-19 solid cover. The Wild streak is designed with a core not a weight block (think HyRoad) allowing for an extra thick shell. A thicker shell tends to increase the length of the ball motion. Because of this extra length, the Wild Streak doesn’t pick up the front part of the lane as quickly as most solid symmetrical balls. Even with this extra little length, the Wild Streak is still very smooth and predictable. I think this ball will be great on medium patterns.
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Roto Grip Winner
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Winner

The Roto Grip Winner is the newest ball in the HP2 line. It features the altered Hot Shot core, which is a slight variation of what is inside the Show Off. And also has the new VTC – P18 Pearl reactive cover stock.

The Winner is one of the cleanest and strongest down lane shapes I have seen from Roto Grip in a long time. It really likes to get down the lane and have a strong change of direction at the back end of the pattern.

If you’re looking for that skid snap shape the winner is the ball you need!

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Roto Grip Winner Solid
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Roto Grip Winner Solid

To compliment the original Winner, the Winner Solid has the same Altered Hotshot™ Core but features the new VTC-S18 Solid Coverstock. According to Roto Grip, “The major key was getting the ratios of materials just right to provide traction throughout the lane without gripping too early.”

The Winner Solid will be able to handle a little bit more oil than its pearl counterpart for sure. Compared to the original Show Off, the new Winner Solid will clear the front of the lane easier and give more backend motion. I thought the original Winner was too clean and really needed a high rev rate or slow ball speed player for it to match up properly, the Winner solid though seems to be the perfect bride between the Hustles and the Show Off. I would say it’s a… wait for it… Winner. (Sorry, not sorry LOL)

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Roto Grip Wreck-Em
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Wreck-em has the same Neutron Core that was used in the Wrecker and Wreck-it, but uses the new Pumped pearl coverstock.

I drilled my Wreck-em with a “Rico layout”, which puts the pin in the center of my grip and kicks out the cg ~ 45* with a weight hole on my VAL. Right away I could tell that the Pumped pearl cover was very clean. The Wreck-em goes significantly longer down lane than the Wreck-it and even longer than the Dare Devil. Since I drilled this ball with a Rico layout it is a little smoother on the backend than most layouts would be, but mine still corners. I would compare the shape to the Storm Street Fight or a more angular Hectic.

I have used the Wreck-em on a number of league patterns as well as many flatter sport patterns. The best look I have had with this ball has been on a house pattern when the oil in the front part of the lane had been chewed up a bit.
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Roto Grip Wreck-It
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Wreck It is the newest release in Roto Grip’s HP2 line. The combination of the symmetric Neutron core and the Psyched hybrid coverstock, makes this one of the more versatile balls in the Roto line to date.

I drilled mine with the pin under my ring finger (4.5”) with no extra hole.

With this layout, the Wreck it revs up mid-lane and makes a STRONG move down lane. It doesn’t pick up nearly as early as the new No Rules, but still has a strong enough cover/core to be used on medium-heavy conditions.

In my ball motion video, I threw the No Rules and the Wreck It on a 43’ medium volume sport pattern and was able to get them both to match up very nicely. You can find that video here: https://youtu.be/XwYDJHFiBck.

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Storm Absolute Power
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Absolute Power
Cover: R2S Deep Solid Reactive
Core: Sentinel
RG: 2.48 RG
Diff: 0.050
Int Diff: 0.021

My layout: 5 x 4.5 x 2

The Absolute Power is a solid Asymmetrical ball that I see working best on medium to med-heavy conditions. The solid R2S Deep cover on the AP is medium strength, so it reads the front but not so much that it needs a ton of volume in the heads. The low rg, high int diff core compliments this cover well. Because of the medium length of the cover, the fast revving core translates to a medium to medium-quick response motion down lane which is not common in many solid asymmetrics. I have found that the AP is very versatile and is a great benchmark asymm for the fresh on most patterns.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Storm All-Road
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The All-Road has the same inverted Fe2 core as all the Hyroads, and the NRG hybrid cover on the Physix and Super Soniq. It reads the mid-lane harder than the Hyroad, Hyroad Pearl and Hyroad X but still has that Hyroad shape. Because of the Nano tech in the cover, it grabs the lane a little more than any other Hyroad and it blends out oil patterns really well.
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Storm Alpha Crux
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Alpha Crux is the newest ball in the storm line with the catalyst Core. The new GI-16 solid reactive that provides extreme traction in the oil and an aggressive move when it hits the dry. The layout I choose for the Alpha Crux was pin above the middle finger with Mass Bias just inside of my thumb with no extra hole. My PAP is 5 over and ¼ up.

I compared the Alpha Crux to the LOCK and the Crux Pearl on the house pattern as well as the 2016 USBC team pattern. The biggest difference was the Alpha Crux started up quicker and was much smoother at the break point than the LOCK than both other balls. The Alpha responds to friction slowly compared to the other balls, so on the house shot it created a smooth predictable shape to the pattern and I could play just inside the oil line. Once I moved to the USBC pattern, the Alpha was just too much ball. It was still slower and smoother than the other two pieces, but the cover was just too strong and forced me too far in on the fresh.

The Alpha is great ball to use as the first ball out of the bag. The only time I have to put the ball down was when the cover was just too strong for the pattern. So short-to-medium sport patterns and light volume house patterns may not match up the best for the Alpha Crux. But if you have the oil, or need a little more ball, the Alpha Crux is a must have! It has earned a spot in my bag for the foreseeable future.

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Storm AstroPhysix
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Astro Physix
The Storm AstroPhysix utilizes the new Atomic core and the R2S Pearl Reactive coverstock. I drilled mine 45x4.75x35. I am a big fan of putting weaker covers on strong cores and that’s exactly what the Astro is. The new Atomic core is a very big engine in this ball but the R2S pearl allows you to use it when the lanes hook in the front.

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Storm Axiom
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Axiom’s coverstock (NeX Solid) is the EARLIEST ROLLING COVER STORM HAS EVER MADE! That’s a huge deal. And it is clear to see that fact when you throw the Axiom. Mine is drilled 70x4.25x60 because I wanted the core and cover to transition similarly. There are no surprises on how this ball rolls. The Axiom reads the lane early with a smooth and predictable shape down lane. My Axiom is an earlier, smoother and stronger Phaze 2.

A lot of people are comparing the Axiom to the Phaze 2 and I think that speaks volumes to how good this ball rolls! The Axiom will be in my bag for a really long time!

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Storm Axiom Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I strongly believe the Axiom solid is the best new release in the last few years (if you don’t have one... go get one!) and seeing the Axiom Pearl go down the lane it’s pretty clear that this one is really special too. The pearl has a lot of the same great characteristics as the solid. I am most impressed that even with the pearl cover, the Axiom Pearl still kind of has that strong, grippy, slower response shape.
Mine is drilled with the pin in the ring finger which is about 4.5 from my PAP. The best comparison I can make is it reminds me a lot of the Marvel Pearl. And there aren’t many pearl balls in Storm’s history that have been more beloved than that!

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Storm Code Red
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I loved my Code Black, so I was really looking forward to the Code Red. I drilled my Code Red the same way I drilled my Black with Dual Angle numbers of 55* x 4.75” x 65*, which for me puts the pin under my bridge and the MB near my VAL with a weight hole near the P3 location.

I have the Code Red about 5 boards stronger overall from the Black and reads the mid-lane much sooner. Now the Red has a stronger hybrid coverstock which makes a huge difference.

My Code Red actually rolls the best at 4,000 Abralon with no polish. I can see a lot of rev dominant players taking some of the shine off of this ball to fine tune it with great success.

Where this fits for me is just underneath my Sure Lock. When the head oil starts to go and the sure lock is picking up too quick, the Code Red is a great ball change.

I love hybrid covers, so having the Code Red in my bag is pretty much a given for me now.

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Storm Code X
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Code X
The Code X is the solid addition to Storm’s Premier line that uses the asymmetrical RAD4 weight block and the R2S solid cover. Makes its return to the Premier line with this release, and it is finished from the factory at 3000 Abralon.

I drilled mine to be pretty rolly and continuous and I absolutely love my Code X. Many are comparing the Code X to the Alpha Crux, but I think the Sure Lock is a closer match. For me the Code X is cleaner and smoother at the break point than both the Alpha and Sure Lock. The Code X leans more towards a benchmark ball than a high volume hook monster in my option, and because of that it has been finding its way in bag everywhere I go!

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Storm Crux
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Crux review by Storm staffer Tony Marino

There was a lot of hype and excitement about this release, so I could not wait to drill mine and test it out. The early talk was about the Catalyst core. Its shape is truly unique because the indentation in the core allows the core numbers to be a truer representation (after drilling) for most bowlers… yes, I am a pro shop nerd. That, along with the strong ERG hybrid coverstock makes the Crux the strongest ball is the Storm line. The Crux is by far the strongest ball in my bag. The duel angle numbers on mine are 45° x 4.5” x 35° with a neutral weight hole.

I have had a chance to throw the Crux on several medium to medium-long house patterns, as well as a few medium volume sport patterns. What I have noticed so far is that is needs oil in the front part of the lane. While the cover is hybrid, it is still very strong. I have thrown it against a lot of different Storm balls and it is a unique roll to anything in my bag. I initially threw it against my IQ Tour Solid on a house shot and it was laughable how much stronger the Crux was. I had the Crux about 8 boards stronger. Likewise with the Optimus. The Crux picked up much sooner in oil and never hesitated, where the Optimus just kept skidding. The closest ball in my arsenal to the Crux was my Zero Gravity, which isn’t that big of a surprise since they both have a similar ERG cover. My Zero Gravity at the same surface as the Crux actually grabbed the lane a little quicker, but the biggest difference showed down lane. Once I moved farther inside into the heavy oil, the Zero Gravity would hook and quit. Even after I was able to adjust with the Zero inside and get to the pocket, it would ring a lot of corner pins. The Crux on the other hand, was able to store energy in heavy oil and made a very strong move that went through the pins HARD. I believe a lot of this has to do with the stronger intermediate differential in the Catalyst core (.016 vs. .011), as well as the slightly cleaner hybrid ERG coverstock.

I have used the Crux on all kinds of different patterns, and I can tell you that it flat out hooks. I tried using it in a few medium volume, medium distance sport pattern tournaments, but I had to put it away. I am really looking forward to using this on longer PBA oil patterns and heavy sport patterns. Being left handed, the longer, heavier patterns are tougher for me to match up on, but the Crux will definitely give me a little better look.

If you need a heavy oil ball that gives a strong motion down-lane, you need to drill a Crux.

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Storm Crux Pearl
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Crux Pearl review by Storm staffer Tony Marino

I have had great success with the original Crux when there is enough oil to throw it. So drilling up the Crux pearl which should clear the front part of the lane easier was a no brainer. The Crux Pearl combines the same Catalyst core from the original, with the pearlized ERG coverstock. I drilled mine with my favorite pin down layout; 5” x 4” with a 4.5” pin buffer and a P3 weight hole.

Like the original, the Crux Pearl needs some oil. The ERG pearl is much cleaner through the front part of the lane than the Hybrid ERG of the Crux, and makes a very strong midlane move. I can see this ball being a house shot killer! I typically like to keep my angles fairly square and play the oil line on house patterns, but I was able get in and really open up the lane with the Crux Pearl. I tried playing up the edge of the oil line, but the ERG cover was too strong and forced me inside to the heavier oil. The overall strength was comparable to the Crux. I also compared it to the IQ Nano, and I have my Crux Pearl about six boards stronger. The Crux pearl reads the lane later than the Nano, and makes a much stronger move off the breakpoint.

I believe the Crux Pearl will be a great ball for house patterns! I can’t wait to use it on some flatter tournament oil patterns I’ve got coming up. The Crux Pearl is the perfect complement to the original Crux. The pearl is great for people who like opening up the lane, or speed dominant players who need a strong ball that won’t pick up at the arrows.


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Storm Crux Prime
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Crux Prime


If you know me and my ball reviews, you know I do not like to make blanket statements about bowling balls… BUT… the Crux Prime is THE BEST BOWLING BALL ON THE MARKET. Period! It is “Virtual Gravity” and “Cell” good!

The Prime uses the proven Catalyst Core that has been in all of the Crux ball of the past, and to this day bowlers on the PBA Tour as still throwing the Alpha Crux even though it’s been discontinued for over a year. What makes the Crux Prime really SPECial is the new SPEC coverstock. I don’t know the science behind what makes this cover so good but all I know is that it creates a ball motion that I have never had in my bag before.

I have mine earlier and stronger than a Sure Lock, but it has more shape than a Halo and way stronger than a Code X.

It is the strongest coverstock that Storm makes but somehow doesn’t read at the foul line and quit like you would expect a super strong cover to do. The only thing I don’t like about the Prime is the color scheme (I hate bowling balls with white in them) … but outside of that, this ball continues to give me a look that I cannot get with any other balls in my bag!

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Storm Dark Code
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Dark Code:
The Dark Code features the new ReX pearl cover and RAD4 asymmetric core. The RAD4 core is one of the strongest cores Storm offers with numbers of 2.50 RG, .058 diff and .020 intermediate diff.

I drilled mine 4.5” x 5” with a 3” pin buffer. This gives me some length and a medium-strong shape on the back. My initial thoughts on the Dark code are that the cover picks up the lane sooner than I thought it would, which is a testament to how strong the ReX cover is. So, if you are rev dominant or have slower speed you may want to caution against too strong of a drilling. I really like the way the Dark Code rolls, I can still see some of the shape that I loved out of the Code Black (RIP) but with a noticeable upgrade. I can see this ball being a house shot killer when they’re cliffed.

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Storm DNA Coil
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
DNA COIL
Cover: EXO Pearl Reactive
Core: Supercoil
RG: 2.47 RG
Diff: 0.053
Int Diff: 0.023

My layout: 5 x 4.5 x 3.5

The DNA Coil is a Pearl Asymmetrical ball that I see working best on medium conditions. The EXO pearl cover feels pretty clean but not as long as say the Virtual Energy Blackout. The low rg asymm core combined with the clean cover creates to a medium/med-slow response motion ball. I have found that the DNA Coil is a slower shape than some of the other cleaner balls in the Storm/Roto/Global line. I see it best fitting in the Exotic Gem spot, so when balls like the VEBO and Attention Star are too quick and creating too much angle, the DNA Coil will give you the right shape. After seeing a few other players using the Coil, I think the “medium” length of the pearl cover makes it more on the speed/rev dependent side… Meaning if you are lower speed or more speed dominant you might see the Coil as a stronger ball than those who are higher speed and/or lower rev players. So I recommend adjusting your cover finish accordingly.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Storm Drive
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Drive
The Drive is a 2nd release of the collaboration between Storm and Jason Belmonte. The Drive features the same dual drive core, but has a new cover that blends the R2S solid and the Nano covers together. This blend really makes the Drive stand out from the Timeless. The drive is way earlier and smoother than the Timeless, and has a great forward rolling shape versus the angular motion in the Timeless.

Because of the Nano cover I see similarities between the Drive and the Hyroad Nano, but the Drive is smoother and slightly earlier in the mids and the Hyroad Nano.

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Storm Electrify G/O
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
If you are looking for length and backend this Electrify will have you yelling LET’S GOOO! Reactor Pearl cover and the higher rg Circuit core, the GO is the type of shape that Storm Bowling balls are known for.

The balls I think this compares best to are the Hy-road pearl and the Night Road. The Electrify GO is cleaner and sharper than both. So when you need to get in and wheel it to the dry this ball is the way to GO.
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Storm Electrify Hybrid
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Electrify Hybrid (EH) has a rg of 2.51 and .030 diff, so by nature the core will want to go long down lane. I drilled this ball pretty strong (4x4) just to assure it didn’t go too long. I also hit the cover with a 2000grit pad to take a little bit of the shine off and slow down the reaction some.
I am happy I drilled the EH 4x4 and hit it with some surface! It rolls perfect for when I need to get away from a stronger symmetrical solid ball like the Phaze 2. I can see a lot of bowlers liking the EH on house shots where you need to get in and throw it out or on some longer patterns when the fronts start to hook.

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Storm Electrify Pearl
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Electrify Pearl (EP) has a rg of 2.51 and .030 diff, so by nature the ball wants to go long down lane. For my game I had to drill this ball pretty strong just to assure it didn’t go too long. I also hit the cover with a 4000grit pad to take a little bit of the shine off.
Even with my drilling (4x4) and taking a little of the shine off, the EP was still plenty strong down lane. I didn’t think it would be as fast response as it was which was a pleasant surprise. I can see a lot of bowlers liking the EP on house shots where you need to get in and throw it out.

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Storm Fast Pitch
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Love them or hate them, urethane balls are a big part of competitive bowling right now. I personally love throwing urethane and am able to throw them a lot in tournament competition. I have multiple Pitch Blacks in tournament my bags and let me tell you the Fast Pitch fills a huge gap in the urethane lineup for me. For me there was a huge gap between the super early and slow Pitch Black and the much cleaner and faster Pitch Purple. The Fast Pitch fills that gap perfectly. It rolls more like traditional urethane (unlike the Pitch Purple, which I think rolls more like resin) but is noticeably cleaner than the Pitch Black which gives it more shape down lane.
I can definitely see myself drilling a few more of these to round out my urethane bag for tournaments.

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Storm Fate
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The latest Storm and Jason Belmonte collaboration in the Signature line is the Storm Fate. The fate uses a brand new F-8 core and the proven REX Pearl cover. This new F-8 core gives me a lot of Phaze/Velocity vibes with its medium RG and high diff values. Combine that with the unique feature of the REX Pearl cover and you have a very versatile ball that should appeal to bowlers of all styles regardless of rev rate.

What really makes the Fate stand out for me is the cover. The REX is proven for being able to handle oil without being too early. Much like in the Dark Code and Infitinite Physix, The Fate does not hesitate in oil down lane the way that pearl balls with weaker covers do.

I went with a weaker layout than I typically use on pearl balls of a 5x3x2.5. The shape I see for me is a stronger and smoother Phaze 5. I say “for me” in this review because I feel like the Fate is one of those balls that can look different depending on how you throw it. It could be the most angular ball in the bag for speed dominant players and could also be a rev dominant players go to ball on the fresh when they need to ball to blend a pattern. I see the shape and versatility of the F-8 core being able to appeal to a wide range of players.
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Storm Fever Pitch
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Fever Pitch

As someone who throws urethane from time-to-time and bowls a lot of tournaments… THANK YOU, STORM!!!

This is a shape that was sorely missing for the Storm line. The traditional urethane covers that were on the Pitch Black and Blue are great at blending a pattern and giving a super smooth and predicable shape down lane, but if they are not so great on longer patterns or on carry down.

The Fever Pitch solves for all of this! It is not as early as the Pitch Black but corners way harder than the Pitch Blue. The Fever features the brand-new PWR+CTRL Urethane cover that is very versatile for a urethane. I have thrown mine at box as well as a few different surfaces and my favorite default surface so far seems to be 1,000 grit. Even there it is not as early as the Black and still has more shape the Blue. I am so happy with this ball and see myself having many of these in the future.

I see this being THE urethane ball on the market for many years to come. If you want to incorporate a urethane ball in your arsenal or need something for when the Pitch Black/Blue don’t give you enough shape on the back, you NEED THE FEVER.

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Storm Fight
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Storm Fight is part of the Thunder line, it features brand new symmetrical Iron CrossTM core, R4S Solid coverstock.

I drilled my Fight 4.5” x 5.5”. This put my pin just under my ring finger.

The Iron Cross core provides a good amount of midlane roll, and even though the R4S cover is solid, the Fight produces a lot of backend. I have thrown it on the 2015 USBC Open Championship team pattern, and a few different length and volume house patterns. When I first saw the specs of the Fight, I saw the shape and the super high RG numbers on the core (RG of 2.60 for 16 lbs!). I am glad I went with a pin-buffer on the higher side when drilling my Fight. I do not see much laboring, if any, out of the huge Iron Cross core. I love seeing cores rev up on the quicker side, so I am very happy to see that the Fight doesn’t just lope down the lane.

On the USBCOC team pattern, the Phaze was too angular at the end of the pattern on the fresh. Once the lanes transitioned and pushed some oil down, the Fight rolled well and really opened up the lane nicely. On the house shot however, the Fight with a 1,500 grit Abralon pad by hand created some ridiculous amount of area. It is a motion that was definitely missing in my bag and is the perfect shape to go with the Hyroads in the Thunder line.

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Storm Gravity Evolve
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
When you think of the ShapeLock HD core from the famed Virtual Gravity. The Gravity Evolve uses that same core and wraps it in the SPEC cover. I drilled mine 4.75 x 5.5 x 3.75. The Evolve gets into its hook phase nice and early and the SPEC cover helps it handle a good amount of oil. This ball will be in my bag for every medium and long patterns that I bowl on.
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Storm Hy-Road Max
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Hyroad Max
The Hyroad line has always rolled well for me so I was very excited to drill the Hyroad Max. The Max has the same core as the other Hyroads do in the Inverted Fe2 but features the new NEX cover that is on the Axiom and Proton Physix. This combination creates the strongest and earliest Hyroad yet!

I drilled mine with a 2.5” pin with a 1.5” pin buffer. The reason I chose this layout is because the NEX cover is very strong and also very smooth, so I wanted a layout that would highlight that attribute of the Hyroad Max. Thankfully, the Hyroad Max rolls just as I expected. It picks up the lane quickly and is very smooth down lane. It reminds me a little bit of my original Roto Grip Idol. For my game and layout, the Hyroad Max is best going up the lane when I need a slower response ball that will not overact on the back. I have heard some say that adding polish to the Hyroad Max allowed them to get in and shape it a little more as well. But I really believe the Max is best utilized as a slow response benchmark type of ball in your bag.

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Storm Hy-Road X
17 of 19 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
If the IQ Tour is the greatest bowling ball of all-time (it is in my opinion), then the Hyroad is a close 2nd.

The Hyroad X is the latest release in the Hyroad family. It features the same Inverted Fe2 core that is known for creating effortless length and a defined down-lane shape but is wrapped in the R2X solid coverstock which is a medium strength formula cover in Storm’s current lineup.

I have thrown the ball on a 42’ house shot as well as a 40’ 2.5:1 pattern and what I see out of the X is a ball that likes to get down lane and makes a slightly aggressive move on the back. I wouldn’t say the X is skid snap or super roll-y, but somewhere in the middle.

I think the Hyroad series as a whole is one of the most versatile in our sport, so I believe the surface preparation and my layout had some to do the final shape. Speaking of versatility, the R2X solid cover really shows off what a solid cover can be. Out of box, the Hyroad X sits between an IQ Tour and the Roto Grip Hustle INK in both length and shape. I tend to matchup better to duller finishes, so it is no surprise that the X rolls better for me once the front part of the lane starts to dry up, but I can see higher rev rate or softer ball speed players loving this ball out of the gate. But I sanded the cover (I started at 500 grit then went 1000 grit, 2000 grit ABR) and the ball definitely started its hook phase sooner. With this surface prep I would almost consider the Hyroad X to fit between my IQ Tour and Hyroad Nano.

If you are looking for a benchmark ball with some versatility and a core that tends to give more than average length, you need to drill a Hyroad X

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Storm Incite
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Incite
The Incite is a combination of the new Tensor core and the R4S hybrid cover. Where I see this ball fitting in the Storm lineup is right in between the high-end asymmetric balls like the Parallax Effect and the more traditional symmetric balls like the Axiom Pearl.

I drilled my Incite 45x4x20 and I am really impressed by the length I get even with the sanded hybrid cover and the control on the back that the Incite gives me. I like to think of these small asymmetric cores (cores with low intermediate differential) as hybrid cores. These types of cores allow you to have the best of both worlds, much in the same way that hybrid covers do. The Incite is an instant success!

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Storm Intense
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Intense contains the brand new RAD-E Core and is surrounded by the R3S Pearl coverstock. The Intense is factory polished at 1500 grit which gives the ball length and a strong move off the breakpoint.

In the Premier line this fits perfectly as a move up from the Code Red. The Code series is great, but the covers sometimes aren’t strong enough for volumes of oil. The Intense’s R3S cover reads the lane a little earlier but still has a strong midlane roll. It has more of a continuous backend shape that isn’t too sharp. The closest thing in the Storm line to the Intense was the Snap Lock since they both shared the same cover, but the Intense’s RAD-E core stores more energy than the Snap Lock ever did.

If you need a strong aysm pearl, you need to drill an Intense.

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Storm Intense Fire
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Intense Fire

The Intense Fire is the new asymmetrical bowling ball in Storm’s Premier line. It features the RAD-E core along with the R3S hybrid cover stock.

I have the Intense Fire sitting between the original Intense and the Code Red. Although the original Intense had a pearl cover stock it actually reads the lane earlier than the Fire does for me. So I think the Fire is a little bit cleaner and more on the backend than the original Intense, but not quite as clean as a Code Red.

The Intense Fire is great for anyone looking for an aggressive ball with backend or someone who needs a ball to go to when their strong dull asymmetric ball is picking up too early.

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Storm IQ Tour 30
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm’s IQ line is arguably the best line of bowling balls that have ever been released. The IQ Tour Solid, is my all-time favorite ball. I never had a chance to throw the “Gold Ball”, so I was very excited to drill the IQ 30. While both the IQ Pearl and the 30 have the same core and a R2S Pearl cover, I have heard and seen that the reactions between the two are noticeably different.

I drilled my IQ 30 pin down, with a 4 3/8 x 5.25 and no weight hole. The C3 core transitions quickly without forcing the ball to make a sudden change in direction, which in a nutshell is the reason I love the IQ line. The cover is very clean and makes a strong, controllable, downlane motion. I was able to play up the lane on a 43’ sport pattern, and I was able to get into 3rd arrow and give the pocket away on the house shot. As someone who loves the Sky Rocket, I have to say that the IQ 30 might be the most versatile pearl bowling ball I have ever thrown and I see drilling many more of these down the road.

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Storm IQ Tour 78/U
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
IQ Tour 78U
Cover: Control 78 Urethane
Core: C3
RG: 2.49 RG
Diff: 0.029

My layout: 3.5 x 1.5

The 78U is a solid urethane symmetrical ball that was created to comply with the new PBA tour hardness guidelines. I see the 78U working best on short oil patterns or medium patterns with light oil volume. The new harder Control 78U cover is less responsive which gets the ball started a little later than a Pitch Black. That really does help to stay in the friction without getting off line too quickly. The C3 core from the IQ line helps compensate for the slightly weaker cover very well. The faster revving core, compared to most symmetrical urethane balls, helps create a similar but upgraded shape of traditional urethane balls of the past. I have found that the 78U is best on the fresh when I can either use the friction on a short or medium pattern, or if there is a little bit of hold on flatter patterns as to keep the ball more in front of me.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Storm IQ Tour Emerald
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
IQ Emerarld
IQ Tour Emerald is essentially the rerelease of one of the most iconic Storm balls of the last 10 years, the gold IQ! From what I remember the gold ball was a little sharper down lane than the emerald.
The Emerald is what you would expect from an IQ line ball. A smooth, controllable, predictable shape with more motion than the original IQ Tour. A great compliment to the IQ Tour Solid, a common benchmark ball for many bowlers.

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Storm IQ Tour Fusion
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm IQ Tour Fusion

IQ Tour Fusion review by Storm staffer Tony Marino

I do not have an IQ Tour Pearl, but the IQ Tour solid and the original Hyroad have been two of my favorite Storm bowling balls to date. So needless to say, I could not wait to drill up the IQ Tour Fusion which uses a hybrid coverstock like in the Hyroad, and the IQ Tour’s Centripetal Control Core (C3).

My review:

The IQ Tour Fusion fits right in line with the solid and the Hyroad. The IQ Fusion makes the same motion as the Tour solid, but the hybrid coverstock allows it to push better down lane. C3 core however, transitions quicker and smoother than the “Inverted Fe²” core which is inside the Hyroad.

I drilled the Fusion just like my Tour solid, with the pin over the middle finger and the CG kicked out 60 degrees. The Dual Angle numbers on this layout are 60° x 6 3/8 x 40° with a P3 weight hole, which is slightly left of my thumb.

I have thrown my IQ Tour Fusion on several medium to medium-long house patterns. The IQ Fusion is noticeably (about 5 boards) stronger than the Tour solid, but with much more length. I was able to move much farther inside with the Fusion than the solid. Likewise compared to the Hyroad, the Fusion was stronger in heavier concentrations of oil. I find that sometimes the Hyroad skids then quits, but the Fusion is much more even and continuous. The incredible midlane control motion that the IQ Tours are known for, combined with the cleaner hybrid coverstock makes the IQ Tour Fusion roll very strong through the pins.

I have not had a chance to use the Fusion on any sport or PBA oil patterns, but I have the feeling that it will be just a touch too strong of a shape for me, so I will most likely take a little of the polish off of it with a 4,000 grit Abralon pad. Having drilled 4 Hyroads in the past and constantly changing surfaces, I can say without much doubt that the IQ Tour Fusion’s coverstock will take extremely well to surface changes.

The IQ Tour Fusion is perfect if you liked the IQ Tour solid, but need a stronger motion off the break point, or if you love Hyroad but want something that transitions quicker and is more continuous.
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Storm IQ Tour Nano Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
How can you not love an IQ?! The IQ Nano Pearl (IQNP) filled a gap in my bag perfectly. I drilled mine 4.5x5x4 which put the pin under my ring finger.
I love slower response symmetrical balls, but sometimes it’s hard to find the right ball to switch to when the front of the lane starts to hook too much but you still need a slower shape. Well, THAT is where the IQNP is perfect! The Nano pearl cover really does a great job getting length but still has that grippy texture, so you get length, but the ball still slows down.
I think the IQNP should be in every tournament bowler’s bag. This ball is special!

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Storm Journey
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Journey
Cover: TX-16 Pearl Reactive
Core: F-8
RG: 2.52 RG
Diff: 0.053

My layout: 4.25 x 2

The Journey is a Pearl symmetrical ball that I see working best on medium to med-dry conditions. The pearl TX-16 cover is definitely clean. It does a great job of getting through early friction without getting off line too quickly. The high rg 2.52 core compliments the clean cover very well. The length of the cover and the taller core translates to a medium-quick response motion down lane. I have found that the Journey is best when the lanes transition past big or medium solid balls like the Phase 2 or Tour Dynamix. It allows me to get more shape without seeing the early friction.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Storm Joy Ride
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Joy Ride features a lower friction, highly polished pearl Reactor™ material which limits traction between the ball and the lane, perfect for those looking to conquer even the most hooking conditions. And the new Cruiser™ core produces a modest amount of flare potential to help control your ball path as well. They work hand in hand to help ensure that the Joy Ride gives you the smoothest ride possible down the lane.

I drilled my Joy Ride with a 3 x 5 layout with a hole on my axis. The Joy Ride allows me to play straighter angles on shorter oil patterns and drier lane conditions. I am very happy on where this fits in my arsenal. The original Ride is extremely clean with a smooth motion down lane. The new Joy Ride maintains that length, but with a stronger sharper angle. I would say that this ball could be best described as a “baby Sky Rocket”.

The Cruiser core seems to be pretty versatile, so unless you are extremely rev-dominant, I would not be afraid to drill it strong. If you have slower ball speed, high rev rate, or just like to play in the drier part of the lane, the Joy Ride might be the perfect fit for you.

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Storm Lock
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Introducing the newest addition to the premier line from Storm, the LOCK! The Lock features a brand new core design derived from a very successful core technology previously used, RAD-X Core featuring RAD (Radial Acceleration Disk) Design. The coverstock used in this ball is brand new designed to grip the lanes. The GI-15, Game Improvement 2015, hybrid reactive coverstock is capable of handling heavy oil very well.

I drilled my Lock 4.25 x 5.25 with a 4” pin buffer, which put the pin in my ring finger. This ball gives me a lot of hook down lane with a great amount of continuation for an asymmetric. The first ball that came to mind when I threw the Lock was the X-Factor, only MUCH STRONGER. If you have an average to above average rev rate, you will need to find some oil for this ball. On house shots, I can get in and hook it in the puddle and not worry about leaving corner pins. The Lock rolls the best for me with the coverstock finish at 1,000 grit with a light coat of polish over the top.

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Storm Match Up Black Pearl
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Match Up Black Pearl

The Match up Black Pearl is the newest Hot line bowling ball for Storm Bowling products. It features the same Stinger 2.0 core that is in the other Match Ups but the Black Pearl has a dull Reactor pearl cover stock.

The first thing I noticed after throwing the Black Pearl was that even though it has a pearlized cover stock, it is a very early rolling ball. Storm released this ball with a 2000 grit finish. The Black Pearl easily hooks earlier than any of the other Match Ups in the current line.

I think this ball is great on most house shots where you need a little bit of blending from left to right. So if you bowl on a medium to dry house pattern and are looking for a smooth and predictable motion, the Black Pearl is right for you.

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Storm Match Up Hybrid
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Storm Match Up BYR is the latest release in the Storm Hot Line. This new Hybrid Match Up fits perfectly right in between the solid and the pearl. The Match Up cores features a higher RG and Diff. This lends itself to storing energy a little longer, leading to more shape down-lane. I like both of the other two Match Ups (solid & pearl), so a hybrid cover is a very welcome edition to the line for me. I have found this to be THE ball when the lanes start to transition but pearl covers still get too far down the lane.

I think this will be great on drier house patterns or for lighter oil volume patterns where you need a little help getting through the fronts. Plus the value and shelf appeal alone on the Hot Line is a homerun!

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Storm Match Up Pearl
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Storm Match Up Solid and Pearl are new and improved versions of the original Match Solid and Pearl. The Match Up cores features a higher RG and Diff. This lends itself to storing energy a little longer, leading to more shape down-lane. I liked the original Match Solid but the dull cover and low RG seemed to always give it a short shelf life on the lanes for me. And the original Match Pearl went through the fronts super clean but didn’t quite have the strength on the back I needed.

The new Match Up Solid and Match Up Pearl are much better at “Match-ing Up” to medium/medium-dry lanes. Even the solid cover is clean enough through the front to use later in blocks and stores enough energy to not give me an over/under shape.

I think these will be great on drier house patterns or for lighter oil volume patterns where you need a little help getting through the fronts. Plus the value and shelf appeal alone on these balls is a homerun!

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Storm Match Up Solid
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Storm Match Up Solid and Pearl are new and improved versions of the original Match Solid and Pearl. The Match Up cores features a higher RG and Diff. This lends itself to storing energy a little longer, leading to more shape down-lane. I liked the original Match Solid but the dull cover and low RG seemed to always give it a short shelf life on the lanes for me. And the original Match Pearl went through the fronts super clean but didn’t quite have the strength on the back I needed.

The new Match Up Solid and Match Up Pearl are much better at “Match-ing Up” to medium/medium-dry lanes. Even the solid cover is clean enough through the front to use later in blocks and stores enough energy to not give me an over/under shape.

I think these will be great on drier house patterns or for lighter oil volume patterns where you need a little help getting through the fronts. Plus the value and shelf appeal alone on these balls is a homerun!

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Storm Night Road
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Night Road is made up of the ReX pearl cover that’s on the Dark Code, Infinite PhysiX, and Fate, and one of the greatest cores in the Inverted Fe2 from the Hy-Road series.

The word that comes to mind when throwing the Night Road is CLEAN. Between the high rg core and the pearl ReX, the Night Road scoots easily down lane. It also creates a very familiar Hy-road shape that is strong and continuous but not overly sharp. The Night Road to me feels like an upgraded OG Hy-Road. I think the Night Road fits best in my bag for when the fronts have been beat up and balls like the Zen and Phaze 5 start to pick up too early.
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Storm Omega Crux
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I loved the almost every ball in the Crux family, so I drilled the Omega Crux the first chance I got. I put a stronger layout (50x4.25x30) on my Omega because I wanted to accentuate what the ball was designed to do. Even with the stronger layout and duller box finish it skids easily through the front part of the lane. Even though it is clean in the front, the Omega doesn’t have a ton of backend shape. It is more of a controllable mid-lane shape. I see the Omega Crux being great on fresh on medium patterns. I can see why guys on tour have fallen in love with this ball.
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Storm Parallax
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Parallax is a great heavy oil ball! Because of its big assymetrical core, The Parallax wants oil to roll at its best. I drilled mine 4.5x5.5x2 and for me it fits perfectly when balls like the Gravity Evolve or UFO pick up the lane too early. So if you are looking for a higher performance ball but don’t want something that will hook as soon as it touches the lane, the Parallax might be the perfect fit.
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Storm Parallax Effect
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Parallax Effect
While they share a core, the Parallax and the Parallax Effect could not be more different! This new TX7 cover on the Parallax Effect makes all the difference. The original Parallax was very heavy rolling and was great for what there was a good amount of oil in the front part of the lane, but when it was time to move in or when the fronts started to dry up it lost its magic. That’s where the Parallax Effect shines!

I drilled my Parallax Effect 50x4.5x30. I instantly knew this ball was a totally different beast from the original. The Effect goes through the front part of the lane so much easier, but still maintains is “stickiness” that I would expect out of that type of cover. I think the Parallax Effect fits very well in between the Parallax and the Axiom Pearl.

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Storm Phaze
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Storm Phaze is part of the Master line, it features brand new symmetrical VelocityTM core, as well as the new AX-16TM pearl coverstock.

I drilled my Phaze 5” x 4” with a P3 hole. This put my pin just under my bridge.

Out of the box, the AX-16 cover is very clean and does not overreact off of the dry. I have thrown it on the 2015 USBC Open Championship team pattern, and a few different length and volume house patterns. The early hype of this ball was that it is unlike any shape that Storm has anywhere in its lineup. And it is absolutely true! The roll of the Phaze is unique. The core rolls fast and heavy, but it does not jump off of the dry like its pearl counterparts.

The smooth shape on the back part of the lane, can make the Phaze more sensitive to carry down for speed dominant players. On the USBCOC team pattern, the Phaze was way too clean on the fresh with the cover out of box. Once I hit the cover with a 2,000 Abralon pad by hand, it read the pattern properly and it went through the pins with a lot of power. On the house shot however, the Phaze out of box created some ridiculous amount of area. Much like its solid counterpart in the Master line, the IQ Tour, the Phaze generates smooth ball motion without picking up the front part of the pattern.

The Phaze is a great benchmark pearl ball and will get a lot of use for me on shorter to medium oil patterns as well as on higher friction lane surfaces. Don’t be afraid to play with surface on this ball depending on your ball speed and rev rate. Out of box, I thought this ball was “pretty good”, but after playing with surfaces, I am really impressed with what this ball has to offer.

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Storm Phaze III
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I drilled my Phaze 3 45* x 4.5 x 60* because I wanted to smooth out the shape just a bit. The Phaze 3 was designed to be similar in strength to the Phaze 2 but with more length and more shape down lane. I think Storm nailed this ball! The Phaze 2 reads the mids harder while the Phaze 3 cleared the lane noticeably easier and was more responsive to friction. I see the Phaze 3 being the perfect piece for me when I need to get out of a solid cover but the pattern isn’t broken down enough to go to a weaker R2S pearl cover.
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Storm Phaze V
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The specs of the Phaze 5 should look very familiar. R2S pearl cover plus the Velocity core is the same combination that was on the Phaze 4… HOWEVER they roll distinctly different. I don’t know if it’s the different polish and finish or the color pigment differences, but there is a clear shape difference in the 2 balls. The P4 is a more angular shape than the 5. Now I have not yet tried to mess around with the cover on the Phaze 5 because I love the way it rolls (the Phaze 4 was slightly too clean to be a staple in my bag).
 
Because of all this, I love what I see from the Phaze 5. Because of how clean the R2S cover is, it can sometimes be overpowered by the core but that is not the case with the Phaze 5. I see it as the perfect next ball down from the Phaze 2 and unlike the Phaze 4 it maintains a similar shape.
 
So if you want a step up from a Night Road or HyRoad, or a step down from the Phaze 2 or Infinite Physix, the Phaze 5 fills that gap.

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Storm Physix
10 of 13 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Physix is the latest release in Storm’s Premier line. It features the brand new Atomic core which by the numbers is a medium RG and a higher DIFF and the NRG Hybrid cover which is an earlier and stronger than average formula in Storm’s line.

I have thrown the Physix on a 42’ house shot as well as a 40’ 2.5:1 pattern and what I see is that the Physix gets down lane better than the surface finish lead me to believe and the shape on the back is what I consider to be “slightly aggressive”. I don’t think the shape is skid snap or super roll-y, but somewhere in the middle.

To me, the Physix fits right between the Intense Fire(IF) and the Sure Lock(SL). For me it read the patterns quicker than the IF, but not nearly as strong as the SL. The Nano technology in the cover gives the Physix a more rounded shape down lane than most hybrids I am used to seeing. Because of that, the roll of the Physix feels a little more like a solid to me than a pearl but definitely has more length than a traditional NRG cover.

I think the Physix is great if you are looking for a high end asymmetrical piece that is just a little cleaner than traditional high end asyms.

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Storm Pitch Blue
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Pitch Blue is the latest urethane release by Storm Products. After the Pitch Black, which is a very popular choice by many tour and regional players, the new Pitch Blue is a similar, but with a slightly different cover. The biggest difference with the Pitch Blue is the coverstock. With a pearl additive in the coverstock of the Pitch Blue, this creates more length through the front of the lane, and creates a faster response time down lane.

For some bowlers, the Pitch Black might was too strong or too early rolling in the front part of the lane. The Pitch Blue’s pearl covertstock gives players the same great urethane shape, without getting into such an early roll.

My PAP is 5 over and ¼ up, and I drilled my Pitch Blue just like my black with the pin under my ring finger and no weight hole. I’ve had a lot of success using the Pitch Blue and Pitch Black on multiple short patterns or patterns where I need a ball that responds VERY slowly to friction. They provide a way to lengthen patterns by dragging oil down lane, or to provide an extremely stable and smooth shape.

If you are a tournament player, or an extremely rev-dominant player, the Pitch Blue is a perfect fit!

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Storm Pitch Purple
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Urethane has become a vital piece of my tournament bag of the last few years and I have had a lot of success with it, so needless to say my eyes got big when I saw the announcement of the Pitch Purple. I drilled mine 3.5 x 45* to match my Pitch Blacks.

Wow was all I could say when I first threw the Pitch Purple. It hooks about an arrow more than my Black with more shape down lane. The Pitch Purple reads oil patterns like a urethane ball but rolls like a weaker IQ Tour. When the Pitch Black doesn’t pick up and hook quite enough, the Purple is the perfect compliment. If you are a player who was not able to get traditional urethane balls to hook enough, The Pitch Purple will most likely give you the shape that higher rev players create with balls like the Pitch Black.

I see myself having a closet and bag FULL of Pitch Purples!!!

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Storm Pro-Motion
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Pro Motion
The Storm Pro Motion utilizes the new Piston Core and the SPEC Solid Coverstock. This is the latest of the balls that Storm has developed along with Jason Belmonte. The SPEC coverstock is the same used in the Crux Prime and is the strongest cover that Storm uses to date. Because of the taller Piston core, the Pro Motion is cleaner than the Crux Prime but has a more defined break point.

Before drilling up the Pro Motion I thought it was going to be the strongest symmetrical ball in either the Storm or Roto Grip line, but for me I now think it sits between the Super SoniQ and the Phaze 2.

The strength and versatility of the SPEC cover is really what allows the Pro Motion to shine. This is a piece to have in your bag as a stronger option to your benchmark ball (IQ Tour).

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Storm Proton Physix
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
PROTON PHYSIX
The Proton Physix features the NEX solid cover that was also on the Axiom but with the Atomic core from the Physix line (RG=2.48, Diff=.054 int diff=.017).

Both the Physix and Astro Physix rolled really well for me and early talk from other staffers was that the Proton reminded them of the Sure Lock which I threw a ton, so needless to say I couldn’t wait for my Proton Physix.

I drilled my Proton 4x4x2 because I wanted a strong layout that I can use when the lanes are tight or for higher volume patterns. For me the Proton fits perfectly between my Gravity Evolve and the Omega Crux. The Proton is earlier than the Omega but hooks more down lane than the Evolve. What I really love about the Proton Physix is the versatility that the NEX cover offers in this big balls. I have tried the Proton at a few different grit surfaces and I have yet to find a shape that doesn’t look good.

If you are looking for a ball for heavy oil I don’t think you will find a better fit than the Proton Physix!
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Storm Rocket
16 of 18 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Rocket review by Storm staffer Tony Marino

Over the years, Storm’s Thunder Line has proven to be one of the best in the industry. The Rocket is building on that success. The Rocket uses the same R2S Hybrid coverstock as the Hyroad, but utilizes the brand new Booster core. The Booster core has a lower RG value than the Inverted Fe2 in the Hyroad. I drilled my Rocket very similarly to my IQ Nano with a 4.5” pin and 3” pin buffer, no weight hole.

I have thrown the Rocket against the Hyroad and IQ Tour because that is where I see it fitting in my bag. Sometimes the Hyroad is just too strong off the breakpoint or picks up the lane transition too late. That is really where the Rocket shines. It picks up the end of the pattern easier and gets into a predictable roll that falls right in line. For me, the down lane shapes between the Hyroad and the Rocket are similar, but the reaction to oil down lane is where I saw the biggest difference. The Hyroad is great at storing energy and making a strong move down lane (HUGE understatement). The Rocket blends that ability, with the benefit of a slightly stronger, smoother and more predictable motion. I see this ball being a staple in tournament players’ bags. I was able to play up the lane as well as get in on transitioning lanes with the Rocket.

I can’t wait to use it on some flatter tournament oil patterns I’ve got coming up. The Rocket is a great fit between the IQ Tour and the Hyroad.

Want to see what I am talking about? Click this link to see my video which compares the Storm ball mentioned in this review.
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Storm Rocket Ship
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Rocket Ship is the newest release in the Rocket family. The Rocket Ship has the same core as the Rocket and Sky Rocket but has a dull solid cover. The original Rocket was a little too slow of a response time ball for me. The Rocket Ship actually has a fairly slow response time to friction for being a solid cover, but the strength of the cover really makes the ball corner.

I drilled my Rocket Ship with the pin under my ring finger and a low weight hole. I see the Rocket Ship as a new age Special Agent from years ago. It is a versatile piece that will appeal to a lot of different styles.

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Storm Snap Lock
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Snap Lock is the newest addition to Storm’s Premier Line. After the original Lock was produced, the Snap Lock provides the same core, but with a pearl coverstock. This creates more length as well as a quicker response time down lane.

I drilled my Snap Lock 5 ¼ x 4 ¼ with a low weight hole. This puts the pin below my bridge and the mass bias just to the left of my thumb (lefty). The Snap Lock is very clean through the front part of the lane and has a strong motion down lane. Usually, asymmetrical balls are very slow to respond to friction, but the Snap Lock lives up to its name. I see myself drilling another one of these in my near future.

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Storm Soniq
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
SoniQ
The Storm SoniQ (pronounced sonic) uses the Centripetal HD core and is wrapped in the famous R2S pearl cover.

The new HD core has a IQ-ish motion. It rolls heavier than any of its IQ siblings and the R2S pearl makes it glide very easy through the front part of the lane. I think this is one of the strongest pearls in the Storm lineup. I have it a little sharper down lane than the Code Black and rolls much heavier than a Hyroad pearl (all 3 balls have the same cover). So SoniQ fits nicely if you need a ball that corners hard and rolls heavy.

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Storm Summit Peak
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Summit Peak
Cover: TX-23 Pearl Reactive
Core: Centripetal HD-AI
RG: 2.46 RG
Diff: 0.056

My layout: 4.5 x 2.5

The Summit Peak is a Pearl symmetrical ball that I see working best on medium to med-dry conditions. The pearl TX-23 cover is surprisingly clean. It does a great job of getting through early friction without getting off line too quickly. The super low rg core compliments the clean cover very well. Because of the length of the cover, the fast revving core translates to a medium to medium-slow response motion down lane. I have found that the Peak is best when the lanes transition past big and medium solid balls like the Absolute Power or Summit. It allows me to get down the lane easier without being too angular at the end of the oil pattern.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Storm Super Nova
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Hook in a box! The Super Nova with the NeX Solid cover that is also on the Proton PhysiX, and the versatile Ignition core from the Nova offers a big strong ball option that doesn’t comprise shape down lane. Where I see the Super land best is between the Proton Physix/Gem and the Reality. The Proton and the Gem are earlier and smoother, but the reality is cleaner and has more shape down lane. I feel like the gap between these balls has been open for a while and the Super Nova fills it perfectly and it’s the shape that I can see being a house shot killer if your center has the oil for it or if you are a low rev/high speed player. I am SUPER happy to have this ball in the bag.
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Storm Super Soniq
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Super SoniQ

The Storm Super SoniQ (SS) is a blend of the Centripetal HD core found in the Soniq, with the NRG Hybrid cover found on the PhysiX. The NRG Hybrid coverstock has been a great addition to the Storm line. It is a strong cover that can handle heavy oil but has just enough pearl in the blend to not read “Super” early… see what I did there? haha

The intent of this ball was to be the ball to build a bridge between the Premier and Master lines and also compliment both the Physix and the original SoniQ. I think the Super SoniQ does that, but more importantly, I think it is a strong enough ball to stand on its own. The SS actually reminds me a lot of the Phaze II (P2), which is still a great selling ball and hugely popular on the PBA Tour. The Phaze II is the closest comparison ball for me to the Super SoniQ, and with a similar layout I have the Super SoniQ cleaner through the front with noticeably more shape down lane. They are roughly close in overall strength, but the P2 is definitely earlier and smoother.

The SS is a great fit when you need a shape stronger than your typical benchmark ball but not nearly as early as some of the high-end pieces.

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Storm Timeless
16 of 20 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Timeless is a Belmo and Storm collaboration that combines the R2S hybrid cover with the all-new Dual-Drive core. This mix offers a powerful mid-to-high RG core, with a very clean yet controlable cover.

I drilled my Timeless 4.75 x 55 and no weight hole, which puts the pin under my ring finger and the CG above my thumb. The R2S hybrid coverstock on the Timeless is the same tried and true cover that is featured on the Hyroad (Belmo’s all-time favorite ball). It is noticeably cleaner than the Snap Lock at the same surface, but that’s not to say that it’s weak. It has a lot of “Controllable backend. “

In my ball motion video, I compared the Timeless to the Code Black, and for me, the Timeless was stronger by about 5 boards. I see the Timeless being the perfect fit for when your high-end benchmark ball, like the Phaze II or Haywire, have started rolling out and you need to save more energy for a larger move down lane.

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Storm Trend 16 Only
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Best “Belmo ball” yet! The Trend is the latest in Storm’s Signature line. I don’t know if it’s the R2S Pearl cover or what, but the Trend has all the makings of an all-time great ball. If the IQ Tour and the Hyroad Pearl had a bowling ball baby it would be the Trend… sorry… that got weird.
For me the Trend rolls close to a Hyroad Pearl but the core gets into a roll sooner which makes for a more controllable motion down lane. If you need a ball that is nice and clean, and is a little more controllable on the back, then you need a Trend.

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Storm Virtual Energy Blackout
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
VEBO
Cover: ReX Pearl Reactive
Core: Shape-Lock HD
RG: 2.48 RG
Diff: 0.052
Int Diff: 0.020

My layout: 5 x 4.5 x 3.5

The VEBO is a Pearl Asymmetrical ball that I see working best on medium to med-dry conditions. The pearl ReX cover on the VEBO is surprisingly clean. It does a great job of getting through early friction without getting off line too quickly. The low rg asymm core compliments the clean cover very well. Because of the length of the cover, the fast revving core translates to a medium to medium-quick response motion down lane. I have found that the VEBO is best when the lanes transition past big solid balls like the Absolute Power or Phase 2. It allows me to get more shape without overshooting the break point down lane.

Bowler stats:
Left handed
PAP: 5 x 1/4up
Rev rate: 400
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Storm Wipe Out
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Wipe Out review by Storm staffer Tony Marino
I was intrigued by the release of the Wipe Out. I have drilled a few IQ Tour solids with a lot of success, but I have struggled when it is has been time to "ball down" to something weaker. The Wipe Out seems to be a great answer to that problem. While they both share the same R2S solid coverstock, the higher RG Turbine core (2.53 vs 2.49) allows the ball to "tumble" a little farther down the lane than the IQ Tour solid without being too strong on the backend.
I drilled the Wipe Out just like my Tour solid, with a 3.5" pin and a 2" pin buffer. The Dual Angle numbers on this layout are 45° x 3 1/2 x 30° with a P2 weight hole, which is slightly under my PAP.
I have thrown my Wipe Out on a 3:1 ratio sport pattern as well as a medium length house pattern. The Wipe Out is approximately 4 boards weaker than the Tour solid, and I was able to stay farther outside longer with the Wipe Out. I don't often get into trouble with the IQ Tour solid, but I do lose a good bit of carry once the pattern transitions and I need to switch to something weaker. The taller core in the Wipe Out allowed me to stay farther outside and not sacrifice carry. The ball was also not as responsive to a down lane hook spot as the tour was, so I didn't have to worry about an overreaction at the end of the pattern.
I have found that the R2S cover seems to be a little stronger than the Turbine core in the Wipe Out for my game. I have not tried any surface changes, but so far, it is rolling more "cover strong" than "core strong", which is also the case for my IQ Tour Fusion. I will be curious to see if surface adjustments will change the core to cover balance for me.
The Wipe Out is a great fit if you love the IQ Tour solid, but need a weaker ball for when the lanes dry out. I also see this ball being great for high rev players that want a ball that won't overreact on the backend.

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Storm Zero Gravity
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Zero Gravity

Zero Gravity review by Storm staffer Tony Marino

I have not drilled anything other than a Virtual Energy in the Virtual Gravity series until the Zero Gravity. I did drill a Sync this season, so I was very interested to see the differences between these two high-end, solid, asymmetric balls.

My review:

The motion of the Zero Gravity is exactly what I was expecting. The angles of my pin-down layout get the core transitioning quickly, without hooking too hard off the dry. My Sync tends to hook very sharply when it hits dry. It will sometimes even setup or quit on patterns with a defined hook spot, but the Zero Gravity conserves much more energy and rolls more continuously through the pins.

Because of the high RG (2.55), I drilled the Zero Gravity with my favorite pin-down layout, pin under my bridge and MB kicked out 40 degrees. The Dual Angle numbers on this layout are 40° x 5 x 65° with a P2 weight hole. In my video I compared it to the Sync which is laid out with Dual Angle numbers of 50° x 5 ¼ x 40°, and a P2 weight hole.

I have thrown my Zero Gravity on several medium to medium-long house patterns, and the Zero Gravity is little (about 3 boards) stronger than the Sync. But the shape is what I am really impressed with, I was able to move farther inside with the Zero Gravity, and it never hesitated at the breakpoint. I find that sometimes the Sync tends to hook very sharply when it hits dry. It will sometimes even setup or quit on patterns with defined hook spots, but the Zero Gravity conserves much more energy and rolls more continuously through the pins. This ball has great midlane control for a high RG asymmetrical core, and does a great job of smoothing out a very “wet/dry” oil pattern.

I have not had a chance to use this ball on any sport or PBA oil patterns, but I have the feeling that out of box 4,000 grit finish will work great on flatter, medium to long patterns. USBC will not release the Open Championships pattern until the end of February or early March, but I can easily see myself drilling another Zero Gravity for Reno this year.
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Storm Zero Gravity
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
Not set
PAP:
Not set
Ball Speed:
Medium
Style:
Stroker
Bowling Hand:
Left Handed
Sport Shot Average:
Not set
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Storm Zero Gravity

Zero Gravity review by Storm staffer Tony Marino

I have not drilled anything other than a Virtual Energy in the Virtual Gravity series until the Zero Gravity. I did drill a Sync this season, so I was very interested to see the differences between these two high-end, solid, asymmetric balls.

My review:

The motion of the Zero Gravity is exactly what I was expecting. The angles of my pin-down layout get the core transitioning quickly, without hooking too hard off the dry. My Sync tends to hook very sharply when it hits dry. It will sometimes even setup or quit on patterns with a defined hook spot, but the Zero Gravity conserves much more energy and rolls more continuously through the pins.

Because of the high RG (2.55), I drilled the Zero Gravity with my favorite pin-down layout, pin under my bridge and MB kicked out 40 degrees. The Dual Angle numbers on this layout are 40° x 5 x 65° with a P2 weight hole. In my video I compared it to the Sync which is laid out with Dual Angle numbers of 50° x 5 ¼ x 40°, and a P2 weight hole.

I have thrown my Zero Gravity on several medium to medium-long house patterns, and the Zero Gravity is little (about 3 boards) stronger than the Sync. But the shape is what I am really impressed with, I was able to move farther inside with the Zero Gravity, and it never hesitated at the breakpoint. I find that sometimes the Sync tends to hook very sharply when it hits dry. It will sometimes even setup or quit on patterns with defined hook spots, but the Zero Gravity conserves much more energy and rolls more continuously through the pins. This ball has great midlane control for a high RG asymmetrical core, and does a great job of smoothing out a very “wet/dry” oil pattern.

I have not had a chance to use this ball on any sport or PBA oil patterns, but I have the feeling that out of box 4,000 grit finish will work great on flatter, medium to long patterns. USBC will not release the Open Championships pattern until the end of February or early March, but I can easily see myself drilling another Zero Gravity for Reno this year.
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