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Reviews by Adam Chase

900 Global Altered Reality

900 Global Burner Pearl

900 Global Burner Solid

900 Global Eternity

900 Global Eternity PI

900 Global Harsh Reality

900 Global Harsh Reality Pearl

900 Global Honey Badger Intensity

900 Global Origin

900 Global Origin EX

900 Global Reality

900 Global Reality Check

900 Global Sublime

900 Global Sublime Focus

900 Global Wolverine

900 Global Wolverine Dark Moss

900 Global Xponent

900 Global Xponent Pearl

900 Global Zen 25

900 Global Zen Gold Label

900 Global Zen Master

900 Global Zen Soul

900 Global Zen/U

Motiv Chronic Paranoia

Motiv Covert Tank

Motiv Forge

Motiv Forza GT

Motiv Forza Redline

Motiv Forza SS

Motiv Freestyle Black/Blue Pearl

Motiv Freestyle Rush Turquoise/Purple Pearl

Motiv Golden Jackal

Motiv Graffiti Tag

Motiv Hydra

Motiv Jackal Carnage Jackal USBC Approval Revoked

Motiv Jackal Rising

Motiv Lethal Paranoia

Motiv Octane Burn

Motiv Octane Carbon

Motiv Paranoia

Motiv Primal Fear

Motiv Primal Rage Remix

Motiv Rebel Tank

Motiv Revolt Havoc

Motiv Ripcord

Motiv Rogue Blade

Motiv Tag Cannon

Motiv Tank Rampage

Motiv Thrill Wine/Magenta

Motiv Trident

Motiv Trident Abyss

Motiv Trident Quest

Motiv United Revolt

Motiv Venom Cobra Ltd Only

Motiv Venom Panic

Motiv Venom Recoil

Motiv Venom Shock Pearl

Motiv Villain

Motiv Villain Scorn Limited Availability

Roto Grip Attention Star

Roto Grip Attention Star S2

Roto Grip Clone

Roto Grip Duo Black/Green

Roto Grip Exotic Gem

Roto Grip Gem

Roto Grip Hustle B/R/Y

Roto Grip Hustle Camo Solid

Roto Grip Hustle Earth

Roto Grip Hustle Glow

Roto Grip Hustle M-M

Roto Grip Hustle PBR

Roto Grip Hustle RAP

Roto Grip Hustle RIP

Roto Grip Hustle USA

Roto Grip Hustle Wine Pearl

Roto Grip Hustle X-Ray

Roto Grip Hyped Hybrid

Roto Grip Hyped Pearl

Roto Grip Hyped Solid

Roto Grip Idol Cosmos

Roto Grip Idol Helios

Roto Grip Idol Synergy

Roto Grip Magic Gem

Roto Grip MVP Attitude

Roto Grip MVP Pearl

Roto Grip Nuclear Cell

Roto Grip Optimum Idol

Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl

Roto Grip Rockstar

Roto Grip RST Hyperdrive

Roto Grip RST X-1

Roto Grip RST X-2

Roto Grip RST X-3

Roto Grip Rubicon

Roto Grip Rubicon UC2

Roto Grip Rubicon UC3

Roto Grip TNT

Roto Grip TNT Infused

Roto Grip Tour Dynam-X

Roto Grip UFO Alert

Roto Grip Ultimate Wrecker

Roto Grip Wild Streak

Roto Grip X-Cell

Storm Absolute Power

Storm All-Road

Storm Axiom

Storm Axiom Pearl

Storm Dark Code

Storm DNA

Storm DNA Coil

Storm Electrify Black/Silver/Yellow

Storm Electrify G/O

Storm Electrify Hybrid

Storm Electrify Pearl

Storm Electrify Solid

Storm Equinox

Storm Fast Pitch

Storm Fate

Storm Gravity Evolve

Storm Hy-Road Max

Storm Incite

Storm Infinite Physix

Storm Ion Max

Storm Ion Pro

Storm IQ Tour 78/U

Storm IQ Tour A.I.

Storm IQ Tour Nano Pearl

Storm IQ Tour Ruby

Storm Journey

Storm Level

Storm Lightning Blackout

Storm Night Road

Storm Nova

Storm Omega Crux

Storm Parallax

Storm Parallax Effect

Storm Phaze 4

Storm Phaze A.I.

Storm Phaze III

Storm Phaze V

Storm PhysiX Blackout

Storm Pitch Purple

Storm Proton Physix

Storm Revenant

Storm Road Warrior

Storm Spectre

Storm Summit

Storm Summit Ascent

Storm Summit Peak

Storm Super Nova

Storm The Road

Storm Trend 16 Only

Storm Trend 2

Storm Typhoon

Storm Virtual Energy Blackout

Track 505A

Track 715C

Track 920A

Track 920T

Track Hx16

Track Tour SiC

Show all reviews

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

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 60 x 5.5" x 70
3000 Surface

When I first learned about the Altered Reality, I was very excited due to how much I enjoy the Original Reality. This new Altered Reality definitely does not disappoint and has become a staple in my bag almost immediately. I love it so much that I already drilled a second one. What I love about this ball the most is how much continuation it has for a pearl. The shape isn't overly angular but continues through the pin deck extremely well. This ball really has a hard time returning for me if I miss right and has no problem reading the heavier volume of oil on my typical house shot. This ball definitely needs some oil volume but has no problem being left to right (righty) for me whatsoever. I can get into 4th arrow and beyond before this ball starts to quit on me down lane. I adjusted the surface to 3000 to blend out the more "skid/flip" reaction I was seeing with the box finish. Taking off the polish immediately made a huge difference and made the ball more predictable while not losing much of the down lane shape at all. On the PBA Scorpion pattern, the ball allowed me to use the ball on the fresh and kept allowing me to move left with the transition. Comparative to the Reality, the Altered Reality has much more down lane shape while still reading the midlane fairly strong. I ended up drilling a pin up version as well (55 x 5.5 x 35). The pin up one not only complemented my pin down Altered Reality, but it created a lot of angle in the back part of the lane making it really ideal for the first transition from a solid converstock ball (Reality) or that ball that you need to create a lot of angle while not giving up the midlane read. For both medium to heavy house patterns and longer length sport patterns, this ball is going to be in my bag very consistently.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Burner Pearl
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Buner Pearl is a new version of the former 900 Global Afterburner. The biggest differences between this line and the old line starts with the core. The burner pearl uses the new Centroid Core which has a slightly lower RG of 2.53 versus 2.55 in the Afterburner with the differential numbers virtually being the same. The other main difference is the coverstocks. The Afterburner used the S62 Hybrid while the Burner Pearl uses the S62 Pearl. What this all means is that the new Burner Pearl will roll a little earlier on the lane while giving more angular backend reaction. It will give you that more true skid flip motion you expect to see on medium to lighter oil patterns. When I tried the burner pearl on a typical house shot, I saw a lot of length with a nice flip motion in the backend. It played well to hand change adjustments and had pretty good continuation when I had to move left into more oil. I feel that this ball could be used on fresh conditions if the lanes have higher friction or as a break down ball if the lanes are more tighter to start. For league and longer game tournaments, this ball will make its way into my bag very often.
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900 Global Burner Solid
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Buner Solid is a new version of the former 900 Global Afterburner. The biggest differences between this line and the old line starts with the core. The burner Solid uses the new Centroid Core which has a slightly lower RG of 2.53 versus 2.55 in the Afterburner with the differential numbers virtually being the same. The other main difference of the Burner Solid is the coverstock. The Afterburner used the S62 Hybrid while the Burner Solid uses the S62 Solid. What this all means is that the new Burner Solid will roll a little earlier on the lane while giving more smoother backend reaction. It will give you a more control look for fresh medium to lighter oil patterns. When I tried the Burner Solid on a typical house shot, I saw a lot of good mid-lane control on the fresh while giving me opportunity to move into more oil without it losing its continuation. I feel that this ball could be used on fresh conditions if the lanes have higher friction or as a break down ball if the lanes are more tighter to start. For league and longer game tournaments where I want to control the backend and be straighter on the lane, this ball will be in my bag. Compared to the Burner Pearl, the solid is 2-3 more boards of total hook and is overall smoother downlane motion.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Eternity
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4.5 x 4.25 x 4.5 (60 x 4.5 x 70)
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The new 900 Global Eternity is essentially the replacement for the discontinued Altered Reality as it has the same s84 Response Pearl Coverstock. The main difference is the core which is the brand new Epoch Core. This core was designed off the Break Core to be more continuous due its decreased intermediate differential. I was able to test this ball on my typical 44ft house pattern as well as a 41ft bear sport pattern.

On the house pattern, I saw a long and continuous angular motion. The motion to me was not very sharp but had a strong continuous motion in the back part of the lane. This actually gave the ball more versatility for me as it gave me the ability to play more up the lane on the fresh while still allowing me to move further left with my feet as the lanes broke down. The reacta gloss finish gave me a lot of additional length for my style which was not as beneficial due to my higher ball speed. A surface adjustment for me to 3000 grit abralon gave me a more predictable motion. Compared to an Altered Reality drilled and surfaced the same, I saw a 3 board weaker overall motion. For most styles, the out of box surface of the Eternity would be best as the second ball out of the bag compared to a solid Reality or Zen Master.

On the 41ft bear pattern, I saw a lot of the same characteristics as the house pattern. Very clean through the front with a strong motion in the backend. The shiny finish again gave me slight over/under reaction. The duller surface of the 3000 abralon gave me a more consistent motion designed for the heavier oil volume. The best use for the Eternity, would be as a first transition ball and for medium and medium heavy oil volume.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Eternity PI
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 30 x 4.5 x 30
Surface: 2000 Abralon

The Eternity PI brings back the Epoch core with the new 901 Reserve Solid Coverstock finished at 2000 abralon. When I drilled the ball, it looked very dull out of the box. I expected the shape to be very early and smooth but I was quite surprised when I threw the ball for the first time. I got to try this on a 44ft Typical House Pattern and the 40ft PBA Don Johnson pattern.

On the House pattern, I was really surprised how clean the ball really was. I saw strong midlane with smooth, yet continuous backend motion. The PI is great for the fresh as described. The smooth reaction helps blend out the lanes better for me than a hybrid or pearl. My house pattern tends to like asymmetrical balls more than symmetric for the fresh due to the longer length of the pattern. Compared to a Reality, I saw a little cleaner and overall weaker shape. My reality hooked about 4 boards more in the backend but hooked 1-2 foot sooner on the lane. If you are looking for a new solid asymmetrical ball that is strong but not too strong, I would go with the Eternity PI. If you are looking for a smoother version of the Eternity Pearl, I would go with the PI.

On the Don Johnson Pattern, I saw a lot of early hook and continuation again. The PI allowed me to play straighter on the lanes than I would typically do on many patterns. This reaction helped me keep my angles more in front of me and allowed me to control the pattern easier. Compared to the Reality, I saw a similar ball motion that was overall weaker. The higher amount of oil volume was really good for the PI as it still read the midlane strong. Bringing the coverstock surface up will allow the PI to work better on patterns with less oil volume or those on older lane surfaces. The PI really takes well to surface changes. I also tried the PI at 3000 abralon surface to have less early hook. It gave me more energy for the back part of the lane which gave me more overall angle.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Harsh Reality
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3-1/2 x 2-1/2
Surface: Box - 2000 Abralon

The new Harsh Reality is a stronger upgrade compared to the original Reality. The Disturbance core is brought back but with utilizing the AI Core Technology which gives this core a lower rg and higher differential. It is paired with the 902 Blend Solid Coverstock. This means stronger overall ball motion and the strongest 900 Global ball to date! I got to test this ball on a 44ft typical house shot and a 42ft heavier oil sport pattern. These are my results:

On the House Pattern, I saw very strong and early ball motion with strong read in the midlane with a more controlled backend motion. The strength of the core and coverstock combination makes its "A" game more up the lane and better in the heavier oil concentration. It's stronger front of the lane read made for a milder backend, so it made more sense for me to try to keep the ball in front of me more for the best results. The Pros of this ball was how well, it read the midlane and continued through the pins. It did not burn out as much as a typical big solid asymmetrical ball. It actually felt a little cleaner than expected. The issues I had was when I got a little faster with my ball speed. The smoother nature of the backend did not allow it to read the lane properly if I overthrew the ball often resulting in a 2-4-5 leave or similar. When I stayed nice and soft at release, the ball had no issues continuing and struck pretty much every shot that hit the pocket. Like most high-end balls, I was able to get about 1.5 games before I needed to clear the fronts better. Ultimately at the end of 2 games, the ball had to be put away due to being too early.

On the 42ft sport pattern, I saw a lot of similar characteristics as the house pattern but with better continuation. The Harsh Reality definitely preferred straighter angles on the lane for best carry percentage, but I was able to open the lane up a little more than the house pattern during the first transition period. The ball reminded me of a stronger and more responsive urethane like ball motion.

Ideally, the Harsh Reality would be best used on fresh lane conditions or a ball up from a urethane ball such as the Zen U or IQ 78U that provides similar motion. Using more surface on the ball can provide and early and smoother motion even more while shining up the coverstock can give a cleaner and slightly more angular motion. Best bowlers to use this ball could be a tournament bowler, a more speed dominant bowler or one with a low rev rate for heavier oil conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Harsh Reality Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3 1/2 x 3
Surface: Reacta Gloss
Rev Rate: 470 RPM

The new Harsh Reality Pearl brings back the Disturbance AI Core and is paired with the Reserve Blend 902 Pearl Coverstock. The Pearl gives more length and a more angular backend compared to the Harsh Reality Solid. Still ideal for heavier oil, the Harsh Reality Pearl will handle a wide array of oil patterns including house and sport.

For my higher rev rate, I need a lot of head oil for the Harsh Reality series to work well. The Pearl still reads the front and midlane very strong even with its Reacta Gloss finish. The Reserve Blend 902 Pearl coverstock is on the stronger side and can handle a lot of oil while still giving a nice back end finish. My THS is 44ft in length but with lower volume so I can use it on the fresh due to the lower oil volume. After game 1, it becomes a little harder to use due to the oil breakdown. On PBA patterns, it is a different story. Those all have significantly more oil volume so I can get much more use out of the HRP. When my Harsh Reality Solid becomes too forward and slow down lane, I can go right to the pearl and continue to strike as it is cleaner through the front of the lane. This ball fills a hole in the 900 Global lineup as we haven't seen an asymmetrical pearl since the Altered Reality.

If you are a bowler with a lower rev rate but need a cleaner but strong coverstock, I would go with this ball. Heavier oil patterns also make this ball shine as well. The strength of this ball can make it useful for the fresh depending on the conditions. Taking the reacta gloss off the coverstock, will make this ball earlier and slightly smoother. If you use the Harsh reality Solid, this pearl will also be a great step down for game 2 or game 3 of league when you have to open the lanes up more. A pin down layout for this ball will keep the ball on line a little longer making it potentially more useful on a wider variety of conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Honey Badger Intensity
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Honey Badger Intensity brings back the very popular Grapnel 2.0 Core and S70 Solid Reactive coverstock. These Honey Badger balls are very unique in the industry in a very positive way and this Intensity is now difference. The ability to bring a higher RG rating at 2.54 and 0.048 Differential in 15lbs gives the ability to see a much different reaction shape. If you are a fan of Storm or Roto Grip and are looking to try something different, than this is a ball I recommend for you. Not only is this ball clean through the front of the lane, but it continues really well down lane and reads the whole lane very well. It is also worth the lower price compared to other balls in the brand. This a solid benchmark ball that can be used on a wide variety of oil patterns and conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Origin
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 4 x 3
Surface: Power Edge
Rev Rate: 470
Tilt: 13*

The 900 Global Origin brings a brand-new core and coverstock combination to the 900 series lineup. The Core is the brand-new Ellipse AI Core and coverstock is the brand new RB93 Hybrid. The combination of these two bring a new look on the lanes for the lineup. The Sapphire/Sky/Purple colors really pop on the shelf and on the lanes making it very easy to recognize the rotation of the ball as it goes down the lane. The RB93 Hybrid coverstock feels like it has a lot of teeth to it. It can handle heavier oil with ease, and it shows in its performance. What makes this ball stand out, is its continuation.

On my 44ft Typical House Pattern, the strength of the core allows this ball to be used on the fresh where you still need the ball to slow down enough to strike. The coverstock also allows this ball to in to out on the lanes if that is more of your strength. The versatility of this ball will allow this ball to be used in multiple transition periods. In my league, I am able to use this ball on the fresh while giving me the advantage of being further left of my fellow competitors. The continuation of this ball allows me to continue to move left with my feet as transition occurs without sacrificing hitting power. The backend shape is a strong and semi angular motion that helps blend the lanes well. The characteristic of this ball allows can make this ball the first ball out of my bag or a later game ball when carry down starts to occur. Compared to the Harsh Reality, it is definitely cleaner through the front by a few feet and more angular down lane. Compared to the Harsh Reality pearl, I still see similar comparisons to the solid. It gives me a very similar midlane strength but is not as forward in the back part of the lane. The Origin is the more versatile option in my opinion.

I would recommend the Origin to someone who rolls either Harsh Reality and wants a cleaner and more continuous reaction, someone who wants a ball for the fresh where a strong and cleaner cover is necessary or someone who is speed dominant or rev challenged.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Origin EX
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 2
Surface: 2000 Abralon
Rev Rate: 470 RPM
Tilt: 13*

The new Origin EX brings back the Ellispse AI core and is paired with the new RB89 Solid Coverstock. The intent of this ball was to create a clean reaction in the front while giving the same strong midlane continuation and control that makes this one different. With today's lane surfaces getting older year after year, you need to get the ball through the higher friction front end of the lane. This is where the Origin EX comes into play.

I was able to test this on a 44ft Typical House Pattern. On the fresh, I saw a pretty clean ball, strong midlane and a pretty controllable backend. This is different than your typical solid asymmetrical because this ball does not try to read immediately when you put it on the lane. Compared to the Ion Max, I saw this ball to be significantly cleaner and more controllable. The Origin EX although designed to be smooth, it can be a fresh ball or a transition ball from another stronger solid asymmetrical. As the lanes started to transition, I was able to move further left and still saw nice continuation through the pins. The biggest hurdle of this one is when I had to open my angles up. The slower controllable coverstock did not like angle too much and had trouble going through the pins if I got far enough left. On my typical house pattern, this makes this ball a little bit more one note and only really good on the fresh. I think on harder, more challenging conditions, this ball will really come to play as that stronger control piece on lane surfaces that are older. Compared to the original Origin, I saw about 3 boards less of hook overall and about 2 boards less angle down lane. The Origin is the better choice when opening the lanes up more.
I think the best conditions for the Origin EX would be on the fresh on medium to longer length house patterns as well as the same length sport patterns. The control of this piece will give you more command of patterns where more shallow angles are needed. If you are an up the lane person, I can see this ball being a staple in the bag. Also, left handers would likely get good use out of this ball because it won't change direction as hard.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Reality
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Reality is the first strong Asymmetrical Solid ball from 900 Global that is made under Storm Products. This ball doesn't disappoint. Although very similar to the Storm Proton Physix, it could be different enough to warrant having both balls. The Reality fits just below the Proton Physix for me in terms of total hook but it rolls forward a little more as well. If you are in the market for only one ball, the Reality can be a great choice if you are a 900 Global fan or prefer its colors. The S84 Response Solid Cover is very similar to Storm's NEX cover on the Proton Physix and can handle the heaviest of oils and the longest of oil patterns. Depending on how these lane characteristics are for you should be your determining factor to purchase the ball.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Reality Check
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
layout: 30 x 4.5 x 30
Surface: box - 4k Fast

I was very excited about this Reality Check considering how much I liked the Altered Reality. The Reality Check brings back the Disturbance core found in the previous Reality balls while using the brand new S84 Beta Hybrid coverstock. What I noticed out of this new coverstock was more parts pearl than solids in the hybrid. I got more length and more backend than I saw out of my Altered Reality.

House Shot Pattern Testing:
I saw a very usable ball reaction on the typical house shot. This ball gave the reaction that a lot of bowlers are looking for: length, angle, and great pin carry. It was also very easy to get this ball to strike because of its predictability due to the large disturbance core. The reality check tended to due the right thing quite often and made it easy to strike often. I think this will be a great league ball for many different styles and will work fairly well on both higher volumes and some lower volume oil patterns depending on your style. I wouldn’t be afraid to shine this ball up to a 1500 grit polished finish to see even more length and angle.

Sport Shot Testing:
I tried the Reality Check on the 43ft Earl Anthony PBA Pattern. What I saw out of this on the fresh was typically what you would see on a more angular ball. It was a little tough to control the breakpoint and was slightly too angular. Once the lane started to break down and I was able to open my angles up more, this ball really shined well. It handled the heavier oil volume well and continued very well through the pins. This ball would be a great step down from the original reality or a step up in hook and angle from the Zen Master or Zen Soul. I can see this being a really good tournament transition ball for many styles when bowling on medium to longer oil patterns. Bringing the surface down to 1000 or 2000 grit will give this ball more control and more usability on fresher oil conditions if that reaction is desired.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Sublime
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 45 x 5 x 35
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The brand new 900 Global Sublime brings the new Immersed AI Core with the new 802 Reserve Hybrid Coverstock. The AI technology was originally found in the Storm Summit and is the first 900 Global ball to feature the technology. The technology reduces the RG and raises the Differential for ultimate performance in the symmetrical core space. Found in the 800 series line, the Sublime offers early roll and higher response to friction then seen in the Zen line.

I was able to test the Sublime on a 44ft Typical House Pattern with medium volume. What I found was strong midlane hook and a pretty angular backend. It was actually great how much backend that the Sublime produced. Compared to the original Zen, it gives very similar midlane hook but more of an angular backend. The Zen to me had a more continuous shape and the Sublime has a more angular shape. These two balls can definitely be in the same bag for this reason. A strong drilling on the Sublime can make it more usable on the fresh so it can go more forward in the backend. More surface on the coverstock can also have similar effects. The Sublime after first use would be a great first transition ball to me after I use a more solid coverstock such as the Eternity PI or Xponent. This ball will definitely be great on a typical house pattern but is strong enough to handle higher oil volumes on sport/pba patterns. I can easily see this ball as a replacement for the Zen Soul on medium to higher amounts of oil as it is stronger and more responsive in comparison.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Sublime Focus
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x x 3 1/2 x 4
Surface: 2000 Abralon

The sublime Focus brings back the Immersed AI core paired with the new Reserve Blend 804 Solid coverstock. Sources have told me that this coverstock has nano particles in it to give that added traction in the heavier oil conditions. I drilled this one pin down to give me the ability to play straighter angles through the front of the lane while still giving me that strong midlane read. This sublime not only gets through the front well, but has great continuation. On my 44ft house shot, it was great on the fresh as expected. The solid coverstock blended the lane really well and had great pin carry. It also provided a lot of control which is what is needed on the fresh. When the front part of the lane broke down, I was able to move in more with my feet but to keep up with the pin carry, I needed to slow my ball speed down. This is pretty typical for a strong solid coverstock bowling ball. Balling down to the original sublime after the focus would be the most ideal situation for this ball once the focus becomes too smooth down lane. The most ideal conditions for the focus are the fresh for a typical house pattern or medium to longer sport patterns where there is a lot of oil volume. This would be a great step up and smoother option than the original sublime. Compared to the Harsh Reality Solid, the focus will be about 4 boards weaker overall and have a little better continuation.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Wolverine
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 40 x 4 x 20
Surface: 3000

The new Wolverine brings a new symmetrical core shape to the 900 Global 700 series while bringing out the S70 Pearl coverstock. Long story short, this ball brings the ultimate skid/flip in the 900 Global lineup. I brought the surface down to 3000 in order to tame down the really clean coverstock in the S70 pearl. I also drilled it on the stronger side for me in order to get that same slower overall shape. Due to my ball speed and rev rate, very angular balls don't tend to matchup with my style as much. My Wolverine allows me to be closer to the friction and also allows me to throw the ball directly to the friction faster than I would typically be able to. This ball will come with me on typical house shots that tend to be on the medium to lighter end and sport patterns that are medium to short in length especially in later games. When there is a lot of oil or longer lengths, the Altered Reality or Zen will work better for my style. For those who like that skid/flip motion will really like this ball a lot as it produces a ton of angle off the dry parts of the lane. If you prefer more midlane roll, don't be afraid to take the surface down on this one in order for the ball to slow down quicker.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Wolverine Dark Moss
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 5/8 x 70
Surface: Box – 4k Fast

The new Wolverine Dark Moss is a direct replacement of the original Wolverine that was discontinued due to hardness issues with USBC. Since I still use my original Wolverine, I went the opposite way with the drilling on this one. What I found on the original Wolverine was a lot of length and very strong angular backed motion. With my typical ball speed, there were times where the ball wouldn’t read in the oil quite enough or in tournaments, the oil pattern wouldn’t break down enough for me to warrant using the ball. Using a pin down drilling along with the 4k Fast finish fills this gap for me and makes the ball a lot more usable for me.

House Shot Testing:

On the typical house shot, I still saw a lot of length and angular backend motion, but the reaction was more predictable due to the pin down drilling and lack of polish on the surface. Even with these differences, I still saw the angle down lane expected out of the S70 pearl coverstock. Comparative to the Reality Check, I saw a lot more length but saw very similar down lane angle which makes the Wolverine a nice step down. I do prefer this wolverine on medium to lower oil volumes just do to the amount of length this ball gives. If you do tend to bowl on more oil, bring the surface of the ball down to 2000 or even 1000 to see a stronger midlane footprint. Regardless of the ball drilling on this Wolverine, it will still give that angular down lane motion that you all love to see.

Sport Shot Testing:

I tested the Wolverine Dark Moss on the 43ft Earl Anthony Pattern. As expected, the angularity of the coverstock makes this ball to sensitive for the fresh. As the lanes stated to break down, I was able to open up the lane quite well as a step down from the new Reality Check. When the Reality Check was too strong in the front part of the lane, the Wolverine really shined. It got through the front significantly easier and gave me a ton of angle down lane and went through the pins well. With the higher volume of oil on this pattern, I had to bring the surface down to 2000 grit abralon. This surface change gave me a little more predictability but also allowed the ball to read the oil stronger than the box finish. The motion of the Wolverine Dark Moss would be most beneficial on medium oil or as a step down from any other asymmetrical pearl ball or similar.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Xponent
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 4 x 3
Surface: Box - 4000 Abralon

I was very excited when I heard the announcement of this ball as I really liked the Ordnance C4. The Shrapnel 2.0 core is brought back in the Xponent from the Ordnance series which was a proven winner. The cover is the brand new reserve blend 701 solid which can handle a decent amount of oil and is very continuous down lane. Best designed for medium oil conditions, the Xponent will be that benchmark ball that is first out of the bag on a variety of different conditions. I was able to test this on the Kegel Sphinx sport pattern which a 40ft, 2:1 ratio with medium oil volume as well as a typical house pattern.

On the Kegel Sphinx pattern, I saw a lot of continuation on the middle and back part of the pattern. The 4000 grit abralon surface allowed for easy push through the front of the lane while the low rg core got it to rev up strong in the midlane. The combination of cover and core here allows for easy predictability when the lanes are tough, or the pattern is fresh. The 4000 grit is definitely best suited for older lane surfaces or those who are more rev dominant or have slower speed. The continuation is so good with this ball that it is a ball for me that will come to all tournaments. On the pattern, I was able to play closer to the friction and more down and in on the fresh. As the pattern developed and I had to move to the inside part of the lane, I had no problem getting recovery and the right continuation through the pins. This is a slightly weaker Phaze 2 for me and reacts very similarly. Bringing the surface to a lower grit will help on more oil or if the ball feels too weak at 4000 grit.

On the house pattern, I saw very similar reaction to the Sphinx Pattern. The Xponent allowed me to be up the lane more on the fresh with a little more firmer ball speed or the ability to play more left to right on the lane with my normal style. There is very high versatility with this Xponent where it will allow you to play the lanes for your style and environment. Compared to the Ordnance C4, I saw slightly earlier ball motion and more continuation through the pins. Compared to the Zen, I saw slightly cleaner motion through the front part of the lane and a more controlled backend. The Zen was overall stronger and gave more backend angle. The Xponent is definitely that benchmark ball that is smooth, continuous and predictable. A great first ball out of the bag for a wide range of bowlers. The blue color scheme also looks really well going down the lane.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Xponent Pearl
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
layout: 5 x 3 1/2 x 2 1/2
surface: Reacta Gloss

The Xponent pearl brings back the Shrapnel 2.0 Core combined with the new Reserve Batch 702 Pearl Coverstock. Designed for medium oil, the Xponent pearl will be one step below the Zen Gold Label in terms of total hook. I got to test this ball on a 44ft Typical House Shot and a 42ft Sport Pattern.

The Xponent pearl's primary use is for medium oil conditons which means on most typical house patterns, wouldn't be fantastic on fresh oil. For me, I found it to be too weak for my style to be great on the fresh. It was very responsive to the dry and had trouble picking up in the inside oil. It is however a great step down from the Xponent Solid as it gives a few more feet of length and a more angular backend. The xponent pearl was great in transition after the Xponent became too slow down the lane. I was able to stand in the same place on the approach and use the same line on the lane to continue to strike. The Xponent Pearl got through the front of the lane easier and backended much harder. It was actually pretty surprising how well it read the lane front to back. Bowlers should get the Xponent pearl if they have the Xponent Solid and are looking for a cleaner and more responsive option or as a ball down option from the Zen Gold.

On the 42ft Sport Pattern, I was again pretty surprised how well the ball read the pattern considering how much more volume there was than the house pattern. As expected though, the ball was only usable in the transition phase of the pattern. It was a better second transition and step down from the Zen Gold. The Zen Gold was overall stronger by a few boards and more angular down the lane. It was easier to use the Zen Gold after a ball such as the Harsh Reality than the Xponent Pearl was. As the lanes broke down more from the Zen Gold, the Xponent Pearl really came alive. I was able to move into the oil more while allowing the ball to utilize the drier conditions that I had created. The ball continued well and angled well through the pins.

The Xponent Pearl I feel was designed properly based on its specs. It is definitely better for use on medium to drier lane conditions but due to the lower rg of the core, it can handle a little more oil if you remove the reacta gloss. The most optimal use for this ball in league would be game 2 and/or 3 depending on your style or conditions and more of a burn type ball for sport tournament conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Zen 25
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2
Surface: Power Edge
Rev Rate: 470
Rotation: 60*
Tilt: 13*

The Zen 25 is the newest rendition of the original popular Zen series this time with AI technology. The Zen 25 uses the Meditate AI core paired with the new RB 83 Pearl coverstock and finished with Power Edge polish. This combination gives a slightly earlier read and more down lane motion than the original Zen. The Zen 25 is unmistakable in terms of its great presence on the lane and on the shelf. The red, black and silver color scheme really makes this ball pop. I was able to test this on my 44ft typical house shot.

On my house pattern, I saw ample mid lane roll and strong continuous and angular backend. From this ball reaction, it is best used during the transition game 2 and/or game 3 when there is more overall friction. This ball reaction tends to be too responsive for the fresh but can work in the right environment. One week, I tested the ball in league on the fresh, the ball reaction was close to being right but was slightly too angular for what I needed. Ended up working great for games 2 and 3 opening up the lane more left to right. The following week, I was on a pair with more overall friction and the ball was fantastic on the fresh. The lanes started as if it were game 2 essentially so was able to blend the lane more consistently. I think the best place to use the Zen 25 on the fresh is for more medium length or medium oil volume environments. Long patterns and high volume make the ball have trouble slowing down in the right spot. Adding surface to the coverstock can of course make the ball read the lane earlier for those conditions. I recommend this ball to anyone who loved the original Zen and wants a replacement, those looking for a first transition angular ball or those who just like to see more of that angular backend motion. Comparing this to the Storm Phaze AI, I saw the Phaze a little cleaner overall with more angular motion. The coverstock strength of the Zen 25 makes the ball read the midlane stronger with more of a continuous backend. I can see the ability of having both balls in the bag on lane conditions that require more angular motions overall. The Zen 25 would be first out of the bag followed by the Phaze AI.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Zen Gold Label
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 4 x 3
Surface: 2000 + Storm Step 2 Polish

The Zen Gold Label brings back the Meditate Symmetric Core with the all new Reserve Blend 801 Pearl Coverstock. What this new coverstock brings is more length and more angular backend compared to the original Zen. Where the original Zen was better for heavier oil and fresher conditions, the Gold Label is great for that transition period as a great next ball out of the bag after the Zen. I was able to try this ball on both a typical house pattern and 38ft Marshall Holman pattern.

On the typical house shot, I saw easy length through the front part of the lane with a very strong angular backend motion. The amount of length that it gave made it a little harder to control on the fresh. It would read the friction very strong but would have slight issue reading the oil. As the lanes transitioned and the lanes become more open, this ball really shined. It allowed me to move my feet further inside and throw it to the dry without worrying about recovery. As the middle part of the lane dried up some, this ball really controlled it and drove through the pins well. Depending on the lane conditions you are on, this ball could be good for the fresh if you need to hook a lot of the lane early on. Those who like to be straighter could have issue on the fresh controlling the pocket. An adjustment of surface to make it smoother would make this ball better on the fresh. This ball in my opinion would be a great transition ball. Good to use after your benchmark ball where you can move in and open your angles up.

On the Marshall Holman pattern, very much like the house pattern, it was tough to use on the fresh. The strong response in the backend made it tough to control it. As the lanes transitioned again and was able to open up my angles, this ball was much better. Due to the high oil volume, the polished finish made it a little bit tough to still control so I made an adjustment to a fresh 2000 grit finish. This allowed the ball to read the pattern sooner and not be as angular in the backend. Certainly don't be afraid to remove the polish on this one if you need a stronger footprint on the lane. Compared to the Zen, at the 2000 grit finish, the balls were definitely closer in reaction while the Zen was still smoother overall. The Gold Label still gave a more angular motion even at the same surface prep. For heavier oil volume, consider removing the polish for more control and consistency. For medium to lower oil volume, leave it shiny for more distance and recovery down lane.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Zen Master
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 60 x 5 x 70

After the success of the Zen, the Zen Master has been long awaited in the 800 Series line as the replacement for the Aspect. The Zen Master certainly lives up to its hype. It's strong in the front part of the lane and continues extremely well in the backend. Comparative to the Reality, the Zen Master is slightly cleaner while being about 4 boards weaker in overall hook. Compared to the Original Zen, the Master is earlier and smoother while being about 5 boards stronger in overall hook. My pin down drilling is great on fresh House and Sport Patterns for its control and predictability. A pin up version of the Zen Master will give a much stronger backend motion if you prefer that motion. Compared to the Aspect, the Mediate Symmetric Core of the Zen Master is earlier rolling on the lane and has higher hook potential. Even though the two balls have the same S77 Solid coverstock, the Zen Master will give more midlane roll and more hook comparatively. With my higher rev rate, the Zen Master works great for me on the fresh house pattern or sport patterns with higher volumes of oil. The versatility of this ball will allow me to stay in the ball longer as I have to move more left on the lanes during transition.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Zen Soul
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 60 x 4.75 x 70
Surface: Box Surface

I was pretty excited for this new Zen Soul since I like many others really love the original Zen. I decided to do a pin down drilling on this one because of how well my original Zen works for me with the same drilling and surface prep on both house and sport conditions. The Soul did not disappoint. It's cleaner through the front of the lane then the Zen Master but digs in digs into the lane as much as the Master while still giving that great continuation found in the entire line.

On the typical house shot, I saw a lot of great continuation which was great for me when the lanes were fresh. If your league shit does not have a lot of oil, it could be a piece that's a little tougher to use without a surface change. What I loved about the motion, was that the ball didn't stop continuing through the pins from all angles on the lane. I was able to be a little straighter in game 1 and by game 3, even though I was sliding around 30 with my feet, the ball still had no issues continuing down lane and getting the corner pins out which is a great thing to see on a dull ball.

When reviewing on a 41ft, 25ml sport pattern, I saw a lot of the same characteristics as on the house pattern. Strong midlane read with a lot of continuation through the pins made the ball reaction almost perfect for the pattern I was on. I really didn't fear that the ball would hook down lane because of the solid part of the coverstock and I saw just as much hold in the middle part of the lane due to the pearl of the coverstock.

For tournament players that tend to bowl on patterns on less then desirable lane surfaces will really like this ball. It will also be a great step down from the Zen Master when that becomes too slow in the back part of the lane or too early rolling.

For league players, this will be the first ball out of your bag on most nights. The amount of control and continuation it has will give you great ball reaction to start out with and based on the conditions, it could easily be usable for all games of league. If the Zen is a little too lengthy or sensitive to the lanes, the Zen Soul is a great answer to this problem.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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900 Global Zen/U
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 x 20

Surface: Box Surface (1000 Grit)

I was super excited for the Zen U as I was trying to find a stronger version of the Storm Pitch Black for my tournament arsenal. I always felt the Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 didn't dig into the lane as much as I needed out of urethane. The Zen U for me accomplishes just that with the new S35+ coverstock and modified Meditate Core. This ball to me is a combination of the Pitch Black and UC3 as it hooks early like the Pitch Black but continues down lane like the UC3 does. The Zen U is a ball I can move into the oil more on both a typical league pattern as well as a sport pattern. This is very important as the lanes break down or the pattern stays on the harder side. I got to test the Zen U on both a 44ft typical house pattern and a 38ft sport pattern.

House shot review:

I was amazed at how well the Zen U continued down lane even in the flood of oil in the middle of the lane. It was controllable overall but handled the oil extremely well while blending the drier part of the lane. I am not a firm believer of using urethane on a house pattern, but I can honestly start to make an exception on this Zen U. It allows me to play in the oil more with my higher rev rate while giving me the ball reaction that I need to score well on a house pattern. As I needed to move left with my feet, it still continued fairly well down lane which is incredible for true urethane. If you tend to use dull or stronger bowling balls for league, you can absolutely use this Zen U.

Sport Pattern Review:

On the 38ft Sport Pattern, I saw a lot of early hook as expected, but still had great continuation like on the house pattern. For me, the Zen U was about 5 boards overall stronger than the Storm Pitch Black. This is essential for me on sport patterns because it allows me to stay in urethane for more games when the Pitch Black gets too forward and especially if the oil pattern is very difficult. I can see this ball being used on a wide array of patterns due to how much overall hook comes from the ball. It will be to able handle both heavier oil and shorter and longer patterns as well.

Adam Chase

Storm Staff
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Motiv Chronic Paranoia
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new chronic madness is a new benchmark style ball that will work on many conditions and with many styles. The chronic madness is controllable in the midlane yet angular through the pin deck giving this ball great pin carry. For me, this ball reads the body of the lane about 3 feet sooner and is much smoother compared to the original paranoia. This ball will give a little more pop on the backend then the Forza GT but is still very continuous as well. The best part about this ball is how it blends the lane out and significantly reduces the wet/dry ball reaction. For those, who bowl on those types of conditions or who need a ball that's a little more controllable then the paranoia, will really love this ball.
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Motiv Covert Tank
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
It's hard for me to say that I am impressed with a ball immediately but this new Covert Tank made me say just that! The new Microcell Polymer Coverstock is so unique that it really has a chance to make a big market impact. To me, the Tank has urethane like consistencies in its roll but continues and reads the midlane well like resin. What's so amazing about it is that it has that urethane predictability but I was never afraid to move left with it and open up the lane. It's continuation is super strong for me. My first night of league with it, I was able to use it for all 3 games without losing it's hitting potential while having 3 two-handers on my pair disrupting the oil quite a bit. The Tank just never saw the transition as much as a traditional resin ball would and it allowed me to be in the same zone on the lane for almost the entire night. For anyone who bowls on wet/dry conditions, typical house shots and sport patterns, I believe this is a must have ball. I drilled mine 45 x 5 x 30 which gives me a more angular motion down lane. Those who want it to be smoother can drill it with the pin closer to their axis and to give the ball a more urethane dominant feel to do a 0-2" pin to PAP.
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Motiv Forge
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Forge is a great step down to the Trident Abyss. This new core/cover combo is so strong for those medium to heavy oil conditions but doesn't read the front part of the lane like an asymmetrical core does. When the Trident Abyss starts getting too lazy down lane, the Forge is a perfect compliment to go to. In the upper Mid performance level, this ball is the earliest and strongest rolling of the group. This ball is definitely a great bang for your bucks!

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Forza GT
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Forza GT for me is such a better overall ball than the original Forza was. I still get the same benchmark feel with it but get much more continuation and I am able to use it for a much longer period of time. The GT is not as early as the Original Forza but can certainly handle the same amount of oil. Compared to the Redline, the GT is earlier and more controllable but they compliment each other very well. This ball is best on medium to drier lane conditions with the out of box surface. This ball should be able to handle more amounts of oil at a 1000 or 500 grit surface.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
Vise Staff
Apparel EFX Staff
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Motiv Forza Redline
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Forza Redline is cleaner and more response then the original Forza. This ball is a great compliment to the original Forza when the Forza tends to read the lane too early or does not go through the pins strong enough. The Redline for me fits right in between my Vengeance and Panic. Even though my Redline is drilled pin down, it is very clean and creates a lot of angle through the pins for maximum pin carry.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Forza SS
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Forza SS brings back the Sigma core for this release. All I can say is wow about this ball. Never having a Sigma series ball, I wasn't sure how I would like this ball compared to the original Forza and Forza GT. The Forza SS is so much stronger, continuous and predictable then any of the previous Forzas. The Forza GT allowed me to move left with my feet (righty) but never continued that well when I had to open up the lane a little. The Forza SS does all that. I am not afraid to play straighter with this ball or really move left and open up the lane. This ball for me has been great on typical house shots and sport patterns with some oil. The Forza SS allows for high predictability in its reaction yet continues through the pins very well. Those who bowl on lanes that have medium to heavy oil, this is a lot of ball for such a small price point. This ball is also very sharp looking both on and off the lanes and would be a great ball for any caliber of bowler.
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Motiv Freestyle Black/Blue Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The freestyle is a new entry level ball in the Motiv Lineup. Compared to the Ascent lineup, the coverstock on the freestyle is much stronger thus creating a higher hook potential on those drier lane conditions as well as more continuation. For me, the Freestyle rolls similar to a Forza with less traction. For those tournament bowlers, the Freestyle will be great on patterns under 38 feet or PBA patterns such as Cheetah or Wolf. For the league bowlers, the freestlye will be great for alleys with older lane surfaces or patterns that are very dry.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Freestyle Rush Turquoise/Purple Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Freestlye Rush is the newest ball in the Entry Level/Light oil category with Motiv. Compared to the original Freestyle, the Rush has a new coverstock which is more continuous and more aggressive so it can be used for a much longer period on light oil. The blue/Purple really stand out on the lanes and has much better shelf appeal. For those looking for a light oil ball or looking to get an entry level reactive ball from Motiv, this is the one for you!

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Golden Jackal
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Golden Jackal is that HP Pearl ball that we've been missing in the HP line at Motiv. The new Hexion SE coverstock on the proven Predator V3 Core is the real deal. This ball compliments both the Trident Abyss and Ghost Jackal so well on those medium to heavy oil patterns. Unlike the previous Trident Quest, the Golden Jackal is much stronger in the midlane and still has that angularity and continuation that Motiv balls are known for. This ball is great for that typical house shot and those medium to longer sport patterns especially when the front part of the lane starts to go away. This is that HP Pearl that everyone was hoping for!

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Graffiti Tag
5 of 8 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I am new to Motiv Staff and just got to try this new Graffiti Tag. This ball is so clean through the front and has a really big backend motion. Much more then I am accustomed to. I am never afraid to get far enough left with my feet (right handed) because I know it is going to come back from anywhere. This ball creates so much angle and continuation through the pins and is a must have for anyone's arsenal. This ball is great on the THS and broken down sport patterns. The box surface for me had a little too much polish for what I am looking for so I lightly hit the surface with a 1000 abralon pad.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Hydra
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Motiv Hydra brings back the halogen core previous found in the Tag series. What separates this ball from the Tag series is the new coverstock. The new Hexion LFP Reactive is super strong and gives this ball a ton angle at the breakpoint. Since the coverstock is strong, it will the read the extra oil in the middle part of the lane where other lower end balls will out. This ball has great value at its price point and you won't be disappointed on medium to dry lane conditions.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Jackal Carnage Jackal USBC Approval Revoked
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The New Jackal Carnage is so smooth and so continuous. This ball is great for those heavy oil conditions where you need control and great hitting power. This ball returns from every where and it never rolls out. The Carnage is earlier and stronger than the original Jackal. It can handle more oil and is much more continuous when drilled identical. For higher rev bowlers, raising the surface to 4000 abralon or adding polish will help the ball store more energy through the front of the lane. The new cover on this Jackal is spectacular and should be in everyone's bag for those medium to heavy oil condition!

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Jackal Rising
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Jackal Rising has a tweaked core and coverstock from the Jackal Ghost. The combination of the two make this ball pretty special. Compared to the Ghost, the Rising is earlier but stronger overall which makes it have HIGHER HOOK POTENTIAL. This ball does not disappoint. Although the ball is smooth rolling, its is a very strong arc. For those bowling on heavier oil or flatter oil patterns, this ball should be in the bag at all times. The reaction of this ball gives me a shape that I haven't seen in quite some time. Being an avid tournament bowler, I can see this ball staying in my bag for a variety of patterns. This ball is very strong on the dry parts of the lane and still gives a lot of hook in the heavier oils. For those with higher ball speed, this Rising does not go through the breakpoint. This ball just continues so well for a high performance ball as well!

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Motiv Lethal Paranoia
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
If you want a medium oil ball that has devastating backend, THIS IS THE ONE! It wowed me the first time I threw it. The angularity in the backend is quite astonishing. The Hybrid Version of the new Hexion coverstock is where it is at! This ball is not only angular but super clean through the front part of the lane. Even the driest of lanes can't handle this lethal paranoia. The ball also takes well to surface change so if you want a little earlier roll, don't be afraid to take the polish off of this. This ball is really clean at any cover surface.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Octane Burn
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Octane burn for me can handle much more oil then the original Octane. The stronger cover in the ball allows for more midlane traction on medium to lighter oil patterns. Compared to the original Octane, the burn is much more predictable and is still great even when the lanes get pretty dry in the backend. It is a ball that is slightly cleaner then the Shock but still has the motion of the Shock, so it is a great 1-2 punch when the Shock becomes too early and lazy down the lane.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
Vise Staff
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Motiv Octane Carbon
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Compared to the octane burn, the carbon has much better continuation and can blend the lanes out more. This ball is absolutely fantastic on medium oil conditions. In fact, I already have a 300 game with it in its first week of use. Compared to the paranoia, the carbon has a more continuous shape while still storing enough energy and angle to go through the pins strong.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Paranoia
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
This ball just flat out hooks on the backend. It is so clean through the front part of the lane and saves so much energy for the back. At the OOB surface, the Paranoia was too clean for me. I used a 2000 abralon pad lightly over the surface and the ball came alive. It is certainly one of my most hooking balls in my bag. This ball will be fantastic for any arsenal especially if you liked the primal rage. This ball fits perfectly between the primal rage and the octane burn.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Primal Fear
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Primal fear rolls a little earlier than the Primal Rage to handle more oil than the Rage could. It is also much more continuous as well and allows for easy adjustments without loss of pin carry. The Fear also rolls similar to the Trident but it cleaner through the front part of the lane and about 3 boards weaker down lane. The fear can compliment both the Trident and the Primal Rage very nicely.

Adam Chase
Motiv staff
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Motiv Primal Rage Remix
14 of 17 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
This ball reads the midlane about 3 feet sooner then the Primal Rage and has the same strong hook and continuation. This ball can handle much more oil then the Primal Rage but still does not lack in the hook category. It is cleaner then the Jackal also so when the Jackal is too early, the Remix is the next ball in the bag. The new hybrid coverstock makes this ball very versatile on multiple lane conditions. For lower rev bowlers, the box surface should work great on fresh and oily lane conditions. High Rev bowler's may have to raise the surface to get more push through the midlane.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Rebel Tank
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
With all Urethane balls, the Rebel Tank is great on short and low volumes of oil. The tank is made to be played more direct up the lane as the ball will not flare too much even with a strong drilling. The rebel tank is cleaner and a little weaker then the original Tank but more ball then the Artic Sniper. The Rebel Tank fits right in between the original Tank and Artic Sniper. For a urethane ball, I was quite surprised how well it continued when I used it on the PBA Wolf Pattern. It read the midlane strong and hit the pins very hard. This ball will be great in any bowler's arsenal for light volumes of oil. Low rev players should not be afraid to drop the surface to 500 or 1000 abralon to help get a little more hook potential. Adam Chase Motiv Staff Vise Staff
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Motiv Revolt Havoc
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Revolt Havoc can handle heavy oil with the best of high performance bowling balls. The popular vanquish core is brought back with a new solid cover that's great on the slickest of lanes. Even though the Havoc rolls very early in the midlane, it has extreme continuation making it great for any style of bowler on most lane conditions. Being a high rev bowler, I had to polish the Havoc so it can get through the front part of the lane clean enough for me. The continuation is just unbelievable for a ball that rolls as early as the Havoc does. Those who have the Covert Revolt and think that it can't handle enough oil will absolutely love this ball!
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Motiv Ripcord
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Ripcord brings back the Oblivion core found in the original Paranoia line. The new Infusion Reactive coverstock gives the backend motion you expect from an angular pearl ball. This is a ball that the Motiv Line has been missing for a while. The Lethal Paranoia gave an angular motion but was much longer and smoother than the new Ripcord. The Ripcord is clean, yet reads the midlane well and gives that strong angular motion. players who bowl House patterns that are lower in volume or just have a lot of hook, will enjoy this ball quite a bit. This ball is a great step up from the Venom Shock Pearl and a nice step down from the Villain Scorn.
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Motiv Rogue Blade
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
If you like the Forza SS, you need this ball! Cleaner, faster response, more angular, the works. For a cover that isn't polished out of the box, I was surprised how easy this ball got down the lane. This ball will be great on house shots and medium - medium heavy sport patterns. A great step down from the Forza SS as well as the Jackal Series.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Tag Cannon
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
For me, the Tag Cannon blows the original Tag out of the water, It has so much better overall ball motion and can handle a little more oil as well. Not only does the Cannon pop on the shelf, it pops on the lanes as well. This ball goes through the pins so well and has great continuation. The original Tag did not come with me for many lane conditions but I can see the Cannon coming with me to many more tournaments and leagues especially those with lower or shorter oil conditions. This ball is a little stronger than the Freestyle Rush but a little weaker than the Octane Carbon so it is a perfect compliment between the two.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Tank Rampage
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Rampage Tank is like no other Motiv Urethane to date. It has much greater continuation than traditional urethane balls and gives a strong backend reaction while still keeping the smoothness that urethane balls are known for. If you are someone like me who can't ever seem to use urethane on any longer length of oil, you definitely need to get this ball!
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Motiv Thrill Wine/Magenta
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
When I threw this ball for the first time, I was surprised on how good it rolled for me. As expected, the Thrill stored up a lot of energy and gave me a good backend motion. Using this ball on light oil conditions is ideal but certainly don't be afraid to add some surface to the ball to give it some more hook. I put the surface to 500 grit to see what the ball would do with some teeth under it and this ball came alive! It was great on my typical house shot and allowed me to move left into the oily more. This ball's continuation is outstanding and definitely a step up in the right direction from the freestlye rush.
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Motiv Trident
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Trident is Motiv's newest high performance bowling ball. It is a hybrid between the Jackal and the Jackal Carnage. This ball is great for medium to heavy oil and is a good replacement if you had any of the Jackals. I find this Trident to be much more continuous than the Jackal Carnage and a little more controllable than the original Jackal. This ball is very strong in the midlane and can handle a large amount of oil with the right ball surface. This ball can handle more oil than the Revolt Havoc but is not as early, so it can be used for a longer period of time even when the front oil starts to go away. The Trident is also very good on fresh sport patterns or heavier oil house patterns where the revolts may not be enough ball due to its symmetrical core.
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Motiv Trident Abyss
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Trident Abyss just flat out hooks. This ball is by far the strongest ball ever produced from Motiv. Not only is this ball strong, it continues through the pins so well. I have always been skeptical when I get too far left with my feet as a high end just can't continue well enough without rolling out but this ball DELIVERS! Super strong and super continuous. This ball is definitely a GAME CHANGER! Get yours on October 3rd!

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Trident Quest
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Trident Quest is the newest ball in the Motiv Line. This is a ball reaction that has been missing in the Motiv Line for quite some time. The new Trident Quest brings the power of a high end asymmetric core with a new pearl coverstock technology called Hexion. This ball is so angular and quick off on the dry for an asymmetrical ball. Those bowlers with lower rev rates, higher speeds or just bowl on oil will absolutely love this ball when the Trident or Jackal Ghost becomes too strong. This is definitely a ball that can be used for the masses and gives that great backend shape that many bowlers are looking for. This ball handles surface changes very well also. Take off the polish and this ball can easily handle the heaviest of oils. This ball is so versatile for an asymmetric ball and should be in any Motivated bowler's bag.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv United Revolt
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new United Revolt is the first pearl ball in the Revolt Line and it is certainly a ball out of this world. It is a ball that is clean through the fronts but still reads the midlane strong and has an angular but continuous motion with a pin up drilling. This ball is great on medium to heavy oil but also a go to ball on many sport/pba patterns as well as it can read the body of the pattern much more easily than other balls in the line. Compared to the Revolt Havoc, the United is cleaner and more angular down lane. A pin down version of the United will still have a clean look on the lane but have a much smoother reaction on the backend. Not only is this a great ball but the lime green and pearl grey colors really make this ball stand out. You can see this ball from many lanes away because it stands out to so well. My pin up version, I actually added more polish to the ball to add increased length to save a little more backend energy. I found that this was a great solution for lanes that may hook a little more in the front part of the lane or in the backend. Overall, this ball can be a great benchmark that's stronger than the forza GT or Chronic Paranoia as well as a ball that can be a good compliment to the revolt havoc.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Venom Cobra Ltd Only
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Venom Cobra has a new Top Gear dual density weight block that will give you great continuation and hook potential on the back end. Compared to the Venom Shock, it is cleaner through the front part of the lane and has much more angle going through the pins for even better pin carry. When drilled the same as the Shock, you will see a good 1-2 punch for any arsenal. The ball is also very clean through the fronts with its 4000 polished finish. Don't be afraid to take the polish off or lower the surface grit if you want a reaction closer to the Shock.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
Vise Staff
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Motiv Venom Panic
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Venom Panic uses the same Gear core found in the Venom series. The Turmoil™ MFP coverstock allows for a cleaner and more responsive ball reaction then the Venom Shock. This is the ball to go to when the Venom Shock hooks too early and it loses its continuation. Simply go right to this ball and keep striking. I drilled mine identical to the Venom Shock and find it to be much cleaner through the front of the lane. To get the ball to be more similar to the Shock, I added and X-Hole in the P3 position to give it slightly more midlane motion.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff

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Motiv Venom Recoil
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Venom Recoil is a great compliment to the Venom Shock with it's new asymmetrical core. For me, the recoil is just as strong in the midlane but gives more of a pop down lane due to the new core and cover combination. This ball is still very smooth in nature but still has the great continuation that Motiv is known for. The recoil is great when backend control is needed or you are bowling on medium to drier lane conditions. This ball can handle more oil with a lower surface change.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Venom Shock Pearl
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Venom Shock Pearl compliments that Original Venom Shock perfectly! The proven Hexion cover was put on this ball while staying with the original gear core. This combination is awesome! I drilled mine 60 x 4.5 x 70 with a light 1000 abralon grit on the surface. Even with the 1000 surface, this ball is still very clean through the front part of the lane and I never had to deal with the ball grabbing too early as the lanes transitioned. Compared to the original venom shock, the pearl is much cleaner through the front part of the lane but still has that great continuation the Original Shock is known for. The best part of this ball is how low the pins stay when the ball enters the pocket. This feature maximizes carry and this ball certainly doesn't disappoint!

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Villain
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Motiv Villain is a new shape that motivated fans have been waiting for. Traditional Asymmetrical, high performance cores are all Low RG and High Differential that they don't last as long on the lanes as you would want it to. The VIllain does just that. For those bowlers that need a strong core but just don't want a ball that lasts 1 game, this is your ball. It is really clean through the front like a lower end ball but is strong and continuous like that high performance ball you love. Compared to the Jackal Rising, the Villain easily goes about 2-3 feet longer down the lane while still giving you that great shape that the Rising has. This ball is great in that transition game of league or great on the fresh if you are just on those lanes that just tend to hook more. This ball is not only predictable, but goes through the pins great and hits like a truck!

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Motiv Villain Scorn Limited Availability
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Like many dull balls, the ball reaction can get very lazy down lane and leave a lot of corner pins or even splits. The villain scorn has a great pearl and fast reacting coverstock that compliments the original villain perfectly. What I love about the scorn is how straight I can play with it on a fresh house or sport pattern along with how far left I can move my feet with it so I can keep striking for a long time. The scorn covers reads the drier backends so well for such a clean cover. Anyone who bowls on medium dry lanes or bowls on a older lane surface will love this ball hands down.

Adam Chase
Motiv Staff
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Roto Grip Attention Star
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 4 x 4 1/2 (50 x 5 x 70)
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The Attention Star brings the new Momentous Core (originally found overseas) with AI Technology paired with the etrax Plus Pearl Coverstock originally found on the RST X2. The Attention Star brings a more unique to the Roto Grip Line Up by being an asymmetrical pearl with less differential than the other current HP4 balls. The AI Core technology brings the RG down to 2.48 which allows this ball to read the midlane pretty well. I got to test this on a 44ft THS and a 42ft Sport Pattern.

What I found on the house pattern, was that the surface of the ball is a little too clean to use mostly on the fresh but the core is strong enough to slow down in the right part of the lane. Removing the Reacta Gloss or giving a strong drilling can get the ball to be better on fresh oil conditions. The way I have mine drilled, I prefer to use it as a first transition ball due to the angle it creates. I have been very happy with this ball so far. It has much more versatility then originally expected and it reads the body of the lane very well. I had a 300 game with the first time using the ball in my league in game 2 which doesn't happen often. My pin down layout gives me slightly smoother motion then one would get with a pin up layout which I think enhances my ball reaction more. It doesn't seem to want to over flip in the dry much at all but can read the inside oil better than most other pearl balls in the lineup.

On the 42ft sport condition, I see a lot of similar characteristics to the house pattern. The Reacta Gloss does not allow the ball to be fantastic on the fresh and it's not really designed for that. A ball like the Optimum Idol, Gem or Magic Gem would be a better choice for fresher oil conditions. After urethane and solid balls were used on the fresh, the Attention Star became the go to ball. It allowed me to open the lane up really well and I didn't have a fear of the ball not recovering down lane. Its strong midlane read gave me similar shape to a gem while giving much more angle down lane for continued carry. If you are looking for a medium strong ball to create angle down lane, then this Attention Star is a must to get. It has a lot of versatility and has been working well for many styles.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Attention Star S2
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 4
Surface: 2000 Abralon
Rev rate: 470
Tilt:.13*

The new Attention Star S2 is a release that has many bowlers excited for. The success of the original Attention Star pearl has a lot of anticipation for a stronger version. This S2 is just that. The Momentous EV AI core is brought back but is paired with the successful Etrax Plus Hybrid coverstock. This coverstock has more traction for heavier oil conditions while giving the same strong backend motion expected out of the Attention star line.

On my 44ft typical house pattern, I saw a ball motion designed for the fresh and first transition. The strength of the core and coverstock combination gave me heavier mid lane read while reading the front part of the lane stronger than the attention star. The pin down drilling i have, gives this ball really good continuation and backend motion that I expected out of this ball. On the fresh, I was able to open up my angles more than a X-cell but gave me similar type of reaction. I was able to play the fresh around 15 at the arrows to around 7 at the break point. Missing right into the friction controlled the hook more than I expected but still had moments where it over read the pattern. Missing in the oil did what you probably would expect and read I'm the oil fairly well. It had no issues of under-reacting. As I moved into the middle part of the lane more during transition, I found the same strong overall reaction. The layout was slightly too smooth at time to continue through the pins for carry but I had no problem getting to the pocket from basically every where I tried to play. For me, this ball would be best playing semi straight angles while also being good in first transition on most environments. A pin up layout would give more flare and backend to move a lot deeper on the lane. I recommend this ball for those who have the attention star and want an earlier and more controllable version or those who want a ball for the fresh who have some difficulty with solid asymmetrical balls reading the lanes too early.
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Roto Grip Clone
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 4.5 x 4.5
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The new Clone features the enhanced Cloned ET Core which lowered the RG Value and increased the differential compared to the ET Core of the UFO and Alert. This creates a stronger foot print in the oil for heavier oil conditions. There is also a new coverstock on this one with the Optitrax Solid. The finishing process is also Reacta Gloss which is completely new for a solid coverstock since the Eternal Cell many years ago. What makes this finishing process great is that it gives a cleaner look on the lane while giving a more angular and continuous backend than if it were a dull finish. This surface alone will give this ball more usability across more different lane conditions. I was able to test this on a typical house pattern and the 38ft Kegel Alcatraz Pattern.

On the house pattern, I found this ball to be cleaner through the front and more angular down lane. The solid coverstock allowed me to still see good continuation and control on the lane good enough for the fresh. The reacta gloss did give it a little more length in the oil at times and did leave a weak 10 pin. When I got this ball to the friction, it read the lane very well and had a lot of hitting power through the pins. Compared to a Gem, the Clone is definitely cleaner and more down lane motion. Knocking the reacta gloss off this ball will bring it a lot closer to the Gem while still being overall cleaner.

On the Alcatraz pattern, I found the reacta gloss finish to give me too much length to have success on the fresh. It often finished a little too behind the head pin and was a little too strong if I went more direct up the lane. As the lanes transitioned and gave me more hook to the outside part of the lane, this ball really started to shine. It still gave me easy length but angled more harder than on the fresh. It went through the pins significantly better. As the lanes continued to transition and I moved more left with my feet, the ball reaction still stay strong. It continued to angle through the pins while also controlling the flatter part of the pattern. This reaction is a great thing for my style because it still controls the lane while giving more length and continuation. On medium to medium long patterns, this ball will be in my bag as it is perfect for them. Heavier oiled patterns, would need some extra surface to get it to slow down a little quicker, especially on the fresh. I can also see myself having two of these in the bag, one being shiny and the other dull. Compared to the UFO alert, the stronger solid cover of the Clone makes it earlier and smoother. They can easily play off of each other well if the surfaces are both similar.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Duo Black/Green
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5.5 x 3 x 3
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The new Roto Grip Duo is the newest HP3 pearl/angular ball in the lineup. What is great about this ball is the relationship between the Shefanie Duo of Stephanie Johnson and Shannon O'Keefe as well as the relationship between Roto Grip and Big Brothers, Big Sisters! 5% of all domestic sales of the ball goes towards Big Brothers, Big Sisters which is great!!
The Duo brings an all-new core called Mentor which brings core specs, Roto Grip has not seen in quite some time. At a 2.49 RG and a 0.046 Differential, you will see an earlier rolling and medium strength ball reaction which makes it weaker than the current Idol Cosmos. The weaker core allows for more length and a more angular backend motion as a result. The Microtrax Pearl coverstock is brought back from the Exotic Gem. The Microtrax Pearl coverstock is a little stronger in nature than some of the other pearl coverstocks. As a result, that will provide more overall hook and will be able to handle more volumes of oil more consistently.

I was able to test the Duo on two different oil patterns, a 43ft 32ml sport pattern and the typical house pattern.
On the house pattern, I saw a lot of length and a very angular backend motion. I was pretty surprised how angular the motion was. The core was clean enough for me to play straighter on the fresh and then continue to open up the lane as the oil started to go away. Compared to the Idol Cosmos, I saw about 2 more feet of length with a more angular backend. The Cosmos is better on the fresh as it controls the front part of the lane more giving me more area down the lane to the pocket. As the lanes broke down, I was able to go to the Dup very simply. It gave me the shape that I am looking for: length and strong backend. The Duo is going to be a very good ball for game 2 and 3 of typical league. If your lanes have less oil than typical, this could be a good ball for the fresh as well.
On the 43ft Sport pattern, the reaction I had was pretty typical for an angular ball. It was tough to control on the fresh due to its quick response and was harder to go up the lane more early on. On the fresh, I had to use a stronger asymmetrical control ball in the Storm DNA to get to the pocket consistently. As the DNA, started getting too slow in response, I was able to go to the Duo. The Duo actually presented stronger on the sport pattern than the house pattern. It felt a little stronger overall than what the core specs said it would be. This was very helpful for me as it read the higher volumes of oil much better while still giving me enough backend motion. Due to my higher rev rate, I was actually able to open the lane up more to the right than I would have expected with this Duo.

I can see this ball being a great tournament and house pattern ball for multiple styles. Not only does the ball pop off the shelf, but it gives great overall ball motion and it rolls as expected for an angular HP3 ball. It is a nice step down from the Exotic Gem and a more angular version of the Idol Cosmos.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff

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Roto Grip Exotic Gem
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4.5 x 3 x 2 (30 x 4.5 x 30)
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The new Exotic Gem brings back the Defiant LRG core with the Microtrax Pearl Coverstock. This combination brings the fastest revving and most aggressive pearl cover to date which makes this ball not only clean but strong in the midlane and backend. Compared to the original Gem, the Exotic is a few feet longer down the lane and gives much more backend angle. The strong MicroTrax Pearl coverstock makes the two balls are great 1-2 punch for not only league but for many different tournament conditions. With my higher ball speed and love for the Gem, I can really see myself using this ball a lot especially in PBA regionals and Sport Pattern Tournaments.

I was able to test the Exotic Gem on a 42ftm higher oil volume Sport Pattern. I found the original Gem to be great on the fresh as expected. It was early rolling and smooth throughout the whole lane. When the Gem got a little too slow down lane, I was able to bring out Exotic Gem and continue striking from the same zone on the lane. For me, the Exotic Gem was two boards stronger down lane hook and just as strong in the midlane. It allowed me to still control the pattern while getting that angle down lane to keep going through the pins. Compared to the RST X2, the Exotic Gem was much earlier and overall stronger. I can see having both balls in the bags due to the difference in overall length.

On the typical house pattern, you definitely need long oil or higher volume for the Exotic Gem to be most effective. If you tend to use balls like the Gem or RST X3, than the Exotic Gem can definitely make your bag. Speed dominant or lower rev rates will also like this ball quite a bit. Lower volumes and shorter oil should aim more towards the RST X2 if considering an Asymmetrical Pearl for your bag.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Gem
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 45 x 4.5 x 25
Surface: Box surface (2000 Abralon)

The Gem is exactly as advertised, hook in a box! The Defiant LRG core is back giving this ball a really low RG rating of 2.47 and high differential of 0.053 and 0.016 intermediate differential in 15lbs with the MicroTrax Solid coverstock. As with current balls, I was able to test this on my typical 44ft house shot with 25ml and a 40ft 25ml sport pattern.

On the house pattern, I had to play in the highest volume of oil in order to get a consistent reaction. If I got the ball closer to the friction it blended the backend more but didn't give as strong as a motion downlane due to the heavy up front hook. Keeping my angles in front of me gave the best ball reaction and lead to a lot of strikes. This ball definitely needs oil in the front part of the lane to have the most success.

On the 40ft sport pattern, it played very similar to the house pattern but gave me more overall motion on the lane due to more head oil. I had no problem throwing the ball from 15 at the arrows to 5 downlane and seeing plenty of recovery. When I got the ball around the 10 board from the same spot, it read the lane nicely and still continued through the pin deck well. I still feel that this ball will yield best results with straighter angles. The strong and smooth overall motion will help blend the toughest of lane conditions and heavier volumes of oil.

Adam Chase
Strom Staff
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Roto Grip Hustle B/R/Y
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 2
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The Hustle BRY brings back the Hustle Core with the VTC Hybrid coverstock. This ball brings a lot of performance for its lower entry level price point. Compared to the Hustle RIP with the same reacta gloss surface and drilling, I saw a little cleaner through the front with a sharper backend motion with ample continuation. I was able to move about 2 boards left with my feet and 1 board with my eyes with the BRY to account for the stronger down lane motion. Removing the reacta gloss, would get the BRY to react closer to a Hustle X-Ray or RIP as it will provide earlier, and smoother motion as seen in the strong coverstock.

The most ideal lane conditions for the Hustle BRY, would be medium to lighter oil conditions, typical house patterns on higher friction lane surfaces and potentially shorter oil patterns with lower oil volume. This ball could also benefit those with high rev rates or lower ball speed players who want to keep the ball more on line to their target.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hustle Camo Solid
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The New Hustle Camo is the newest "solid" ball in the HP1 line. The Hustle Camo brings back the VTC solid reactive Coverstock to bring the ball more durability and more performance down lane as seen in previous Hustle line balls. The new army/black/brown color gives respect to our service men and women. These colors will definitely pop out for those who are a veteran or currently serving our country. The layout I gave on this was 3 3/8 x 70 to give this ball earlier motion on the lanes then the 4 x 35 drilling currently on my Hustle PBR. This ball can be great for fresh house patterns or tournaments with shorter oil or less volume patterns. The 1500 polish finish on this Camo is different from the 3000 abralon finish on the PBR. This surface difference will give the ball a little more length while adding slightly more pop down lane than the PBR. Removing the polish or adding more surface to the coverstock will enhance its more earlier rolling nature if you want it to handle more oil.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hustle Earth
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2
Surface: 2000 Abralon
Rev Rate: 470 RPM
Tilt: 13*

The Hustle Solid is brought back again with colors of the Earth. The VTC Solid coverstock is used again on top of the Hustle Core. The core has a 2.53 RG and 0.030 differential in 15 pounds. The Hustle Earth was designed to give a traction ball reaction for medium to light oil at the lowest price point. This ball would be great for a beginner looking to get their first reactive ball to a professional bowler looking for a different look on higher friction oil patterns.

On the 44ft house pattern I test on, I saw a relatively clean look compared to the rest of the Roto Grip lineup but with decent traction in the midlane. On the fresh, it actually read the lane overall well which would give it an option for me for early in my league setting. Compared to the Ultimate wrecker, I saw similar length but much slower reaction speed and smoother overall motion. Compared to the Hustle Glow, I saw earlier ball motion and smoother ball reaction down the lane. I can recommend this ball for a lot of different styles due to its versatility on low volumes of oil. For the price point, you get a lot of performance out this one. I can see myself using this for tournaments at the end of blocks where I need length and smooth midlane roll or on the fresh of house patterns as well as some lower volume sport patterns.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hustle Glow
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2
Surface: Power Edge
Rev Rate: 470 RPM
Tilt: 13*

The Hustle Pearl is brought back again with colors of Mint, Fuchsia and Teal. The VTC Pearl coverstock is used again on top of the Hustle Core. The core has a 2.53 RG and 0.030 differential in 15 pounds. The Hustle Glow was designed to give an angular motion for light oil conditions.

On the 44ft house pattern I test on, I saw a much cleaner look and much more length compared to the rest of the Roto Grip lineup. On the fresh, it gave me a lot of length and angle which did not make it that ideal for the conditions I saw. This ball would be better as game 3 ball or a step down from the Hustle Earth or Tropical Surge Solid. Compared to the Ultimate wrecker, I saw much more length but with similar angular motion. I would recommend this ball for those bowling on low volumes of oil who need angle, a step down from the Hustle Earth or for low volume tournament conditions. For the price point, you still get a lot of performance out this one. I can see myself using this for tournaments at the end of blocks where I need angle on higher friction lane surfaces or burnt up lane conditions. Due to my ball speed, I will tend to not use this low end of a ball but is an option if I encounter low volume conditions.
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Roto Grip Hustle M-M
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 4 1/4 x 3 (60 x 4 1/2 x 40)
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The new Hustle M&M brings back the Hustle Core and VTC Pearl coverstock found in the Hustle Wine. The new color scheme makes it really stand out going down the lane on the shelf. While testing on a typical house pattern, I saw pretty easy length and angular backend that was great for the lower oil condition. When comparing this to the Hustle RIP, I saw a few more feet of length and more angular backend by about 2-3 boards overall. This ball had faster response than the Hustle RIP due to the pearl coverstock. I think the best use for this ball would be broken down house conditions or lower volume sport patterns where you need more length and an angular motion. If you had a Hustle Camo and need more angularity, this is the ball for you. If you liked the Hustle Wine, this can be a nice replacement. To me compared to the hustle wine, I saw slightly more midlane roll with the M&M but don't think it would be ideal to have both balls unless they have different drillings. As with any pearl ball, you can remove the reacta gloss for extra traction and smoother ball motion.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hustle PBR
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Hustle PBR has the new VTC-S20 coverstock wrapped around the popular Hustle Core. The new sanded coverstock gives a brand new look in the Hustle line that creates ultimate versatility in the line for medium to light oil. This ball has the versatility to be great on house shots where you have lighter oil volumes or a lot of backend. This ball is also great on medium to short oil sport patterns or heavier volumes of oil on older lane surfaces. The continuation on this ball makes it very special and would be great for many masses of people on many different lane conditions.
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Roto Grip Hustle RAP
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Hustle RAP brings a brand new pearl coverstock, the VTC P-20 that is considerably different than the popular Hustle Ink. This ball will give you a more true skid flip motion similar to the idol pearl but a good step down from it. Compared to the new Hustle PBR, the RAP is much cleaner and gives more pop down lane. For a HP1 ball, you get a lot of performance out this. For those who bowl on low volumes of oil, the Hustle line would be perfect for you. The Hustle PBR would be great as a game 1 ball and the RAP compliments it well as a game 2 and/or 3 ball. If you are a bowler who likes the lower performance skid flip ball reaction for your league, this is a great ball to get.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hustle RIP
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 4 1/4 x 3
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The new Hustle RIP is a brand new solid cover Hustle in the HP1 line while utilizing the Hustle Core and VTC Solid Coverstock. On the typical house pattern, I found a smooth but continuous motion even while being polished with the Reacta Gloss. The Royal Imperal Purple color makes it visually very easy to read how the ball is rolling throughout the lane. Designed for light to medium oil conditions, this Hustle gives a lot of performance for its lower performance range. Comparing this to the Hustle USA (1000 Abralon surface), I saw more length with the reacta gloss and a slightly more angular motion. I think comparing the two balls with the same surface would have made the Hustle USA slightly more angular for me. Compared to the new Hustle M-M, I saw earlier and smoother motion and was about 2 boards smoother down the lane. The best uses for this ball would be fresh house patterns that have lanes with a lot of friction or medium to lighter oil sport patterns where you need control. Adding more surface to this ball will make it earlier rolling and stronger in the oil if you need more traction from it.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hustle USA
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 4 ½ x 30
Surface – 3000 Grit box

The Hustle USA brings back the popular Hustle Core and the VTC Hybrid coverstock found on the Hyped Hybrid. The new 3000 grit finishing process allows this Hustle to handle much more oil volume compared to the 1500 polished finish of the Hustle Camo and Hustle Wine when compared side by side. The Hustle USA gives a lot of power for the purchase price. This could be a great ball for those who bowl on lower to medium oil volumes, a first reactive ball or those who just like the Hustle line. I got to test this ball out on both a 45’ Sport Pattern and a Typical House Pattern.

Test pattern: 45’ Sport Pattern
When throwing the Hustle USA on the 45’ Sport Pattern, I was pleasantly surprised with how well the ball read the front and midlane of the pattern. My breakpoint was most consistent between 12 and 14. With the amount of oil volume and length, outside of the 12 board did not see much recovery. Utilizing more surface of 500 or 1000 abralon helped it see the overall pattern more and gave a little more miss room to the outside. For best results, I would recommend this Hustle for pattern breakdown where control is still necessary or for the fresh on short to medium length patterns.

House Pattern Test
The out of box factory surface allows the Hustle to read stronger and be smoother than the other current balls in the Hustle Line. This makes the ball much more useful for the fresh house pattern which is where I found it to be most beneficial for my game. Those also with lower rev rates or who bowl on medium volumes of oil will also find the same benefit. Those who bowl on low volumes or have high rev rates will want to likely utilize a polished or higher grit finish to promote more length and backend. I didn’t have any trouble opening the lanes up with this Hustle even as the lanes broke down. As I got further left with my feet, however, my carry percentage started to drop. Balling down to a Hustle Wine or Hyped Pearl would have been more sufficient.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hustle Wine Pearl
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The New Hustle Wine is the newest "skid/flip" ball in the HP1 line. The Hustle Wine brings back the VTC pearl reactive Coverstock to bring the ball more durability and more performance down lane as seen in previous Hustle line balls. The new cranberry merlot color gives this Hustle slightly more length and a touch more angle down lane then the Hustle RAP. The layout I gave on this was 5 x 20 to give the ball extra angle down lane on those medium to drier lanes. This will be great on the THS if it is drier or for a game 3 of league as well as later games in a tournament. This new Hustle will sure pop off the shelf and down the lane!

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hustle X-Ray
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 5
Surface: 2000 Abralon

The hustle X-Ray brings back the Hustle core with the VTC Solid Coverstock. The dull factory finish gives this Hustle more traction in the oil than the Hustle RIP which is finished with Reacta Gloss. I drilled the Hustle X-Ray with a pin down layout to give me a different look than the RIP. I wanted this hustle to roll similarly to the IQ 78U but with more length and backend. I was able to accomplish just that. The weaker core allows me to keep the ball more in front of me when the lanes conditions call for a more direct line to the pocket. Compared to the Hustle RIP which is drilled pin up, I saw about 4 boards weaker and much less overall flare keeping me straighter on the lanes. The hustle X-Ray a great entry level reactive ball with tons of potential and performance at its price point. This hustle X-Ray will work best for light to medium oil conditions, those with low ball speeds and those with higher rev rates.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hyped Hybrid
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 55 x 4-3/8 x 45 at box surface

The Hyped Hybrid is the newest ball in the Roto Grip HP2 line which replaced the MVP series. The new Hyped core gives a lot of performance at this price point. The ball reads the midlane fairly strong while being clean, long and pretty controllable due to the VTC Hybrid coverstock . While testing on a 44' house pattern, this Hyped Hybrid was great on the fresh as it kept me closer to the friction while still being able to read the heavier oil condition if I missed my target left. It gave me a continuous shape downlane which enhanced my pin carry. Comparative to the Hyped Pearl, the Hybrid was slightly stronger in the midlane will being smoother overall in backend motion. The Hybrid model will be a lot better on fresh oil conditions than the Pearl just due to the fact that it is smoother. Adding surface to the coverstock will enhance this motion further. Comparative to the Idol Synergy in the HP3 line, the Hyped was about 3-4 boards weaker in overall strength and slightly smoother in backend motion.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hyped Pearl
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 55 x 4-3/8 x 45 at box surface

The Hyped Pearl brings all the new Hyped Core wrapped in the VTC pearl coverstock found on the Hustle Wine. The new Hyped Core in the HP2 line gives more midlane motion than the Hustle line in the HP1 line and more overall ball strength. First impressions of this ball was that I was truly impressed with the motion this provides for this price point. I was able to test on both a typical house pattern and a 37' sport pattern. On the house shot, I was seeing a pretty defined shape in the dry while also seeing enough strength in the oil to possibly use at all games in league depending on your pattern. My house pattern is 44' so it is a little more difficult to use when the lanes are fresh but it is fantastic in the transition phase when I need to throw the ball more left to right. If you are on a house pattern that is closer to 40' or has lower volume, I can see this ball working great for most games. On the 37' sport pattern, this ball was able to open up the pattern extremely well. I was able to be up the lane closer to the friction on the fresh and also able to hook most of the lane creating angle down lane with ease. I can see myself having this ball in my bag on shorter to medium sport patterns and most typical house patterns.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Hyped Solid
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4.5 x 70
Surface: 3000 Abralon

The hyped solid brings back the hyped core with the VTC solid coverstock found on the Hustle Camo. Comparative to the Hyped Hybrid and Pearl, this one will give a lot more traction in the oil and give you the same downlane shape that the hyped series is known for. I was able to test this ball on both a typical house shot as well as a 37' Sport Pattern.

37' Sport Pattern Review
On the 37' Sport Pattern, I was aiming to hit between 5 and 8 at the breakpoint. The hyped solid allowed me to be more up the lane for my style then typically solid covers let me do. This actually played more to my A game keeping the ball in front of me when the pattern was demanding. As the lanes broke down, I was able to move left with my feet and still saw the same continuation down lane. I did have to keep my ball speed soft to see the correct motion though. For longer and heavier oil patterns, I can still see this ball really good for the fresh if you can get the surface of the ball to match up correctly. I would bring the surface down closer to 1000 to see stronger overall ball motion.

Typical House Short Review
As I expected, the hyped solid was great when the lanes were fresh. It gave me strong but smoother motion playing around 13 to 5. It blended the lane well when I missed left or when I got the ball right early. When I had to start moving deeper on the lane, the reaction became a little too smooth giving trouble getting the 10 pin out. A change in hand position to be more on the side of the ball helped and I was able to still strike for longer. As I started getting to around 20 at the arrows with my target, the carry started to suffer a little more basically as expected. I would typically use this ball/shape for fresh medium house conditions when control is necessary. Where more oil is on the lanes, bringing the surface lower will help the ball read the lanes better. A pin up drilling would also help in using it more left to right for a right hander.

Adam Chase
Strom Staff
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Roto Grip Idol Cosmos
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 4 ½ x 30
Surface – 4k fast

The new Idol Cosmos brings back the Ikon core with the Xtremetrax Pearl Coverstock. The Cosmos is a nice step down from the Idol Helios which has the Xtremetrax Solid Coverstock. At the new 4k fast finish, the Cosmos tends to be a little more smoother then what you would typically see in a pearl ball. Depending on the conditions you bowl on, this finish can be pretty beneficial for you. If you prefer that more skid flip reaction, put some Storm Reacta Shine on it for a longer and more angular motion.

Test pattern: 2022 USBC Masters

When throwing the new Cosmos on the USBC Masters pattern, I saw a lot of midlane roll and continuation down lane. The 4k fast finish didn’t make the ball sensitive to bowl the oil and the friction. Even with the higher volume on this pattern, the ball had no trouble continuing well through the pins. Comparative to the Idol Helios, I saw slightly less midlane roll with more backend motion. The Cosmos allowed me to open the lane up more then the Helios due to the coverstock differences. As the pattern broke down, the smoother 4k fast finish didn’t quite produce enough angle down the lane as my feet got into the 30 board range. Putting polish on this ball would allow me to play more angle if preferred. At the current box finish, the Cosmos would have more success on fresh to first transition on the lanes.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Idol Helios
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 60 x 5.5" x 70
Box Surface

The Idol Helios reminds me of a slightly stronger and a little smoother Original Idol but with more continuation. I went with the longer pin to PAP distance due to my more forward release and lower tilt. With the amount of higher friction lane surfaces I bowl on, my ball tends to read the front part of the lane sooner than desired. The 5.5" pin on this Helios does exactly what I expected. Cleaner through the front with a smoother and more continuous backend to bowl well on the fresh on my typical house shot and on medium to longer sport patterns. For this review, I have tried the Helios on both my Typical House Shot and the 42' PBA Scorpion Pattern.

For the typical house shot, I was able to play more in the track area where the heavier oil is. This ball not only read the oil well but it blended the dry parts of the lane very well. What was also great about this ball was how well it continued even after I moved left with my feet (righty). I was able to use this for almost the full 3 games in my league which is almost unheard of considering my 450 Rev Rate. I am truly impressed with how this ball rolls and believe it will be great for a wide range of bowlers.

On the Scorpion pattern, I saw a lot of control and continuation again when this pattern was fresh. I had a little bit of area left and right of my target but tended to leave 4 or 9 pins more often when missing left due to its continuation. Being an avid tournament player, I think that I would have this in my bag for a majority of tournaments. The smooth nature of the coverstock will all it to be more effective across many different lengths of oil. Certainly, feel free to add more surface on this ball for higher volumes of oil or if you want more overall hook.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Idol Synergy
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Idol Synergy brings back the Ikon core with the E-Trax Hybrid coverstock. I was a big fan of both the Idol and Idol Pearl because of its continuous nature and versatility. I was very excited to receive this ball as a staffer. The Synergy fits perfectly between the Idol and the Idol Pearl by giving a cleaner reaction then the Idol but a more controllable shape compared to the Idol pearl. I can see myself using this one a lot on medium conditions and house patterns where control is still needed but the lane surface has some hook to it. Don't be afraid to add some surface to this ball to give it a more controlled reaction which will increase its versatility even more.
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Roto Grip Magic Gem
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3 x 3
Surface: 2000 Abralon

The Magic Gem brings back the Defiant LRG Core with the Microtrax Hybrid Coverstock. My initial though with this ball was that it was going to be a slightly more angular Original Gem that could handle oil. When I threw the ball for the first time, it was significantly stronger than I expected. Compared to the original Gem, it was a little more cleaner through the front but had much more continuation. It kept the pins low through the deck which increased my pin carry. I got to test this on a 44ft Typical House Shot and a 42ft 32ml sport pattern.

On the House pattern, it was evident that it was very strong. With my higher ball speed and rev rate, it was almost tough to keep the ball in the pocket enough on the fresh as it just was strong in the midlane and continued hard down the lane. It definitely forced me a little deeper on the lane than I wanted to play on the fresh. I typicall slide around 25 with my feet and throw the ball to between 5 and 10 at the breakpoint on the fresh. The Magic Gem made me slide closer to 32 with my feet to see the right shape down lane. To my surprise, it continued so well that I still had no problems striking from that angle. Compared to the original Gem, I was actually straighter with the original due to how much more forward the roll is. I had to give the pocket away with the Magic Gem to have success. As the lanes started to carry down, my ball reaction got better as I could keep my angles a little straighter. I would recommend this ball for the fresh if you have a lot of oil volume or are more speed dominant. If you are a big fan of the original gem and want a more continuous shape, you can get the Magic Gem. The Magic Gem will not give as much angle as the Exotic Gem for comparison's sake.

On the 42ft Sport pattern, the higher oil volume put the Magic Gem in its comfort zone. I was able to play the fresh without a problem and still allowed me to play closer to the friction because of the amount of oil. As the pattern broke down, I was able to move more left with my feet and target and again have no issues with continuation. The ball did however, start to go a little bit more forward as I got closer to sliding around 30-35 with my feet and carry suffered to an extent. The Exotic Gem had a much better angle through the pins from this part of the lane.

As a higher rev rate bowler, I prefer the Magic Gem for tournaments or where there is heavy oil just due to its overall strength. Those who have slow ball speed or low amounts of oil will struggle with this ball to keep on line.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip MVP Attitude
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new MVP Attitude brings you the Neutron NXT core with the VTC-H20 Hybrid Coverstock. What I like most about this ball is its dull surface while still being clean in the front part of the lane. I drilled mine 4.5 x 70 which is pin down for me in order to combat fresh oil conditions on lower volume and older lane surfaces. This ball allows me to play more up the lane on the fresh than other balls in the Roto Grip lineup have allowed me to. This ball reminds me of the Winner Solid from a few years ago that is slightly earlier rolling and a little more continuous. A pin up version of the attitude will allow you to open the lanes up more to be more versatile of a ball. This ball has a lot of punch for its price so if you are looking to get this ball as your one ball for league, this is definitely a great choice!
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Roto Grip MVP Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The MVP pearl is a great ball for the price because of how much angle the ball gives in the backend. Comparative to the MVP, the pearl gives another foot or two of length and angles much harder. If you bowl in league or a pattern that is low volume, this will be a great ball for your bag. Being a HP2 performance level, the core is still strong enough to use it in the beginning of league or at the end of the league as well. The colors on this ball really stand out as well so it has great appeal for any pro shop.
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Roto Grip Nuclear Cell
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The New Nuclear Cell is absolutely incredible! With this being my first "Cell" ball, I was super impressed by its reaction. This ball is not only clean through the fronts but reads the midlane very well and angles very hard in the backend. If you are bowling on a heavier volume house shot or sport pattern, this is a great ball to have if you are looking for a lot of down lane angle and motion. Anytime, I bowl on heavier volumes of oil, this ball will be in my bag.
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Roto Grip Optimum Idol
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3 x 2
Surface: 2000 Abralon

The Optimum Idol was released as basically a new version of the original Idol while adding the AI Core Technology which makes the RG slightly lower and Differential higher than its predecessor. I got to test this on my 44ft typical House Shot and I saw a ball that was certainly a benchmark with added pop down lane. Compared to the original Idol, I actually found the Optimum to be a little cleaner and more responsive in the back part of the lane by about 3 boards overall. The original Idol was best where the angle was more in front of you, and you needed to control the lane. The Optimum Idol allowed me to open up the lane a little more to start and gave me more left to right miss room. It reads the midlane pretty strong as expected and gave ample continuation through the pins. It wasn't as forward rolling as the original. This will make the ball more versatile and usable on a wider variety of oil patterns. I believe this ball will work for many styles as that traditional benchmark type ball. Great for the fresh and controlling the lanes will be its forte. Polishing this one will give a little more down lane angle which would make it useful during transition on lanes or patterns that have a lot more friction. I expect the Optimum Idol to be in my tournament arsenal for a large majority of oil patterns that I will see.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 3 1/2 x 6 1/2 x 2
Surface: Reacta Gloss
Rev rate: 470
Tilt: 13 degrees

The Optimum Idol pearl brings back the iconic Ikon core paired with the Microtrax pearl coverstock which has never been seen on a domestic idol. Last seen on the Duo, the Microtrax pearl is one of the stronger pearl coverstocks in the Roto Grip realm. The Optimum Idol Pearl gives a stronger pearl symmetrical option with angle and continuation through the pins. Designed for medium to medium heavy oil, this ball can be possibly used on the fresh or as a transition ball.

I got to test this ball on a 44ft typical house pattern. It gave me easy length through the front along with strong midlane read and a pretty good angular motion through the pins. The stronger pin for me allows me to play a little closer to the friction while seeing a more blended ball reaction. For league, pairs that have more overall friction will allow me to use the ball on the fresh. Pairs that are tighter will allow me.to use the ball in game 2 and/or game 3 when a ball like the Optimum Idol Solid becomes too early and strong for the lanes. This ball has the opportunity to work for multiple styles and lane conditions with right amount of surface on it. For most people, it will be a transition ball after a solid or hybrid ball is used.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Rockstar
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2" x 5" x 2 1/2"
Surface: 2000 Abralon
Rev Rate: 475 rpm
Rotation: 60*
Tilt: 13*

The new Roto Grip Rockstar brings an all-new core and coverstock to create this new controllable benchmark shape reaction. The new Rocker core provides a low RG with a moderately high Differential. Compared to some of the more recent, SPI releases, the Rockstar has slightly less differential for a solid cover bowling ball. The new Nano-Star solid coverstock gives medium strength and a very controllable motion desired on more medium type lane conditions. The controllable motion gives vibes of that benchmark type shape. It is very easy to read this ball's motion when it comes to bowling on a variety of lane conditions. I was able to test this on my 44ft Typical House Pattern.

When I tried the Rockstar on the fresh, I can tell immediately that it wasn't the strongest ball in the Lineup. The Nano-Star coverstock falls in the middle of overall strength between the E-Trax and Mictrotrax coverstocks. The shape of this ball was pretty much as described. Easy length, stronger midlane read and very smooth down lane. Compared to an Optimum Idol Solid, the Rockstar cleared the front much easier and was overall weaker by about 4-5 boards. The Rockstar was not quite strong enough for my style to use as well on the fresh. It was decently strong in the midlane but on 44ft, it had some trouble slowing down as much to go through the pins. For me the ideal conditions of this ball would be closer to 40ft and less. It would give that control needed for the shorter oil length. On my house pattern, this would be more of a game 2 ball for me if I still needed to control the lane. An Optimum Idol Solid would be a much better option for me in game 1.

I would recommend this ball for bowlers who want a new ball on the fresh where the pattern length is medium length and shorter or who have low oil volume who want backend control. I think on heavy volume, this ball would have trouble unless you tend to use a lot more surface on it. I believe straighter angles are the way to go with this ball so bowlers who like to be closer to the friction who are more down and in will enjoy this ball most often.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip RST Hyperdrive
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3 ½ x 2 ½
Surface 4000 abralon
Rev rate: 470
Tilt: 13*
Rotation: 60*

The RST Hyperdrive brings AI technology to the RST core for the first time and is paired with the Microtrax solid coverstock found on the Original Gem. The combination brings a cleaner core with strong midlane strength for heavier oil conditions. If you bowl on aging lane surfaces like I do, you'll certainly appreciate this ball. The RST X1 has been one of my favorite balls on the Roto Grip side and I was really excited for this one. I brought the surface up to 4000 because of how well my Gem did at this surface for my league.

For my 44ft typical house shot, the Hyperdrive did not disappoint. The cleaner core and cover surface got the ball easily through the front of the lane and the strong coverstock under the 4000 got the ball to still read the midlane strong and earlier enough to continue well. I was able to use it easily on the fresh seeing strong midlane and ample continuation down lane. The overall strength of the ball still forced me a little further left on the fresh than typical but it had no problem making the right move in the backend. In fact, I never had any fear that the ball would not hook. As the lanes transitioned, I generally have trouble getting the ball to slow down in the 44ft of oil as the lanes tend to get more wet dry. The Hyperdrive hooked enough in the oil where that over under reaction was gone. I did have to move my eyes into the oil some more to stop the ball from over hooking but again had no issue. As the lanes transitioned again, I was able to continue to move left and see strong shape still through the pins. I was able to use the Hyperdrive for all 3 games of league with ease which is a rarity for me. Compared to the X-Cell, I saw an earlier and stronger overall move. I recommend this for anyone who wants a ball for the fresh that wants to see something a little more length before a strong move down lane than traditional asymmetrical solid balls. Lower Rev rates will also enjoy this one due to its coverstock strength. Heavier oil volumes and sport patterns will bode well with this ball as well. Certainly bring the surface up on this ball if the out of box surface is too early rolling.
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Roto Grip RST X-1
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
When I first saw this ball was going to be released, I knew it was going to be an instant winner for me. I really love the Storm Physix and knew this RST-X1 would be a great compliment to it. The RST-X1 brings the all new Roto Star Tour with the MicroTrax Hybrid Coverstock. This combination is not only predictable but allows for great continuation to be used on a wide variety of oil patterns. This ball reminds me of an asymmetrical IQ Tour. It is a ball that most people will love because of its roll versatility and drilling versatility. This ball also handles surface changes well and don't be afraid to polish this one either. A cleaner and faster response will allow for better use on drier lanes and older lane surfaces. For those who only drill 1 or 2 balls a year, this is a sure winner to be one of those balls. This ball would be a great piece for any arsenal from the average league bowlers to the competitive tournament bowlers.
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Roto Grip RST X-2
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 55 x 5 x 45

The New RST X2 is the pearl counterpart to the popular RST X1. The X2 delivers exactly what you expect. Cleaner in the front with a more angular backend than the X1. Not only does this ball look great going down the lane, it also performs great on the lanes. This is really good ball for the transition after the X1 or a ball down from a UFO or even the UFO Alert. The X2 delivers stronger midlane motion while providing that great angular backend. On a THS, this ball can be great on the fresh if the pattern has some extra friction or as a game 2 or game 3 ball depending on your style. On Sport Patterns for me, this ball handles the higher volumes of oil on medium to longer patterns. The X2 is slightly stronger midlane and more continuous motion than the Nuclear Cell.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip RST X-3
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 30 x 4.5 x 30
Surface: 1000 Grit Abralon

The new RST X3 has been great for me in the first week having the ball. Sport shot league and a PBA Regional has really given me great ball reactions to help me score well. I put it to 1000 grit abralon to give me a ball for the fresh that is cleaner then the Reality but can still dig into the midlane when there is more volume. Even though the RST X3 is a hybrid with two parts pearl, it does not act like a pearl type hybrid at all. Even at the box finish, the X3 hooks a lot sooner then the X2 and is more down lane then the X1. At the 1000 grit finish, it would be best used on heavier oil and longer oil patterns.

Test Pattern: PBA Don Carter Pattern

At 1000 grit abralon surface, I saw a lot of front hook and strong midlane read while still continuing well down lane. What I like the most about it, is how consistent the ball reaction is. Whether I am playing up the lane on the fresh or more left to right, I saw the same continuation which allowed me to stay using the ball for multiple games which for me is very tough for a 1000 grit ball. As the lanes broke down, I was able to play 4th arrow with ease as long as I projected the ball to the 2nd arrow. Throwing this ball up the lane wants to hook pretty soon which will make it a great fresh ball if you are in the market.

House Pattern Test:
At the 4k fast finish surface, this ball should be really good on the fresh as well as the first transition for most house patterns and your style. If the X3 is too strong for the fresh, definitely bring the ball to a 2000 grit surface and then use Storm reacta shine to give you a more traditional skid/flip reaction. I would use your favorite ball drilling for the best results!

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Rubicon
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
My initial reaction to this ball was WOW. This ball is not only clean, but it strong in the midlane and continues through the pins super well. Compared to the Idol, the Rubicon is stronger and is definitely more continuous considering it is an asymmetrical core. I drilled mine with 50 x 4.5 x 70 drilling and these types of drillings for me especially on an asymmetrical core do not continue well past about the 3rd arrow. The Rubicon not only continued through the pins at 3rd arrow but continued at 4th arrow and even further left than that. I was truly impressed with how well this ball continues throughout the whole body of the lane. I never feared once about this ball coming back to the pocket on the typical house shot. I can see myself using this ball on a wide variety of sport patterns as well that have some volume of oil to them.
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Roto Grip Rubicon UC2
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Rubicon UC2 impressed me immediately after throwing the first time. I was wondering how this ball would fit in while having the Storm Trend, Axiom Pearl and Roto Grip Idol Pearl. This ball was one step above all the mentioned balls and gave significantly more down lane angle than them as well. Although, the Rubicon UC2 was cleaner than most of the balls above, it had a more distinct backend motion on all test patterns. On the house pattern, the amount of angle on the ball actually forced me a little further left with my feet to start than I anticipated. Even on the breakdown, the UC2 angled so hard that again I was forced further left than I have been accustomed to. If you bowl on a house shot that is more even across the lane than a typical wet/dry house condition, this ball is for you. On a 41ft sport pattern, it was difficult to use on the fresh because of its sensitivity to the backend. However, when the pattern broke down and I needed to shape the ball on the heavier volume, this ball really shined. It allowed me to be more in my comfort zone and just feel relaxed that the ball was always going to hook down lane. I believe on heavier and/or flatter oil conditions, this ball will be most useful. If you want to replace an idol pearl, this is it. If you love the Rubicon Solid, this will compliment it well. There a lot of positives to this ball on the right conditions. Don't be afraid to take off the polish on the ball to tame down all the angle.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Rubicon UC3
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 40 x 4 x 20
Box Surface

When I first heard about this one, I was super excited because me and urethane don't get along that often at all due to my more heavy forward roll and lower tilt. Since traditional urethane shapes like this, I've only used urethane when there truly is a lot of overall friction or shorter oil. I tested this ball on the 42' PBA Scorpion pattern to see what it do more on the fresh of a higher volume, longer length, flatter oil pattern. When I first threw the ball, I played the lane like I would with a Pitch Black which is up the lane and a breakpoint a little closer to the pocket. When I did this, the ball went Brooklyn! I was amazed how much this ball hooked down lane and hoe much flare there was. I was getting 5-6" of flare which is unheard of in most urethane pieces. The lower RG and higher differential and mild asymmetry allows this piece to flare much more down lane as opposed to so much more in the front part of the lane. What I feel is great about this ball is the feel of urethane in the front part of the lane and the resin feel in the back part of the lane. The amount of flare this ball produces allows myself to use this ball for longer periods of time and from different parts of the lane that normally wouldn't be good with urethane. Compared to the Pitch Black, I saw about 5 more boards of total hook and significant more back end shape. For me, this is will come with me for a lot of flatter oil patterns with higher volumes of oil or longer lengths of oil. The past trouble that I had seeing enough shape with a Pitch Black will be replaced by the UC3. For those who never matched up with urethane, this ball give you a much better overall shape and more usability. For those who love more traditional urethane, this UC3 will probably be too much ball motion for you and not liked as much. For me personally, shorter patterns and lower volumes of oil, I would still likely stick more to a Pitch Black or Fast Pitch to control the backend further.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip TNT
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout - 4 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 2
Surface - box surface

The new TNT is the newest benchmark ball in the Roto Grip lineup within the HP3 line. The TNT uses the Torpex Sphere Core originally found in the Unhinged and Hysteria balls and the eTrax Plus Solid Coverstock. The TNT has the lowest RG value in the current lineup. At a 2000 grit abralon surface, the TNT has an early and smooth overall motion.

On my 44ft typical house shot, I saw a pretty early and continuous ball motion. This motion was fantastic on the fresh and the ball went through the pins very well. As the transition occurred, the smoothness of the ball reaction was not quite ideal for my higher rev rate style. For lower rev rates and higher volume patterns, this ball would be ideal. If you want a new solid ball for the fresh that's smooth and continuous, the TNT is your ball. Polishing the TNT will give a more angular motion that is still early and good for more transition than the 2000 box surface.

I was able to compare the TNT to the original Idol solid and I saw a pretty similar ball motion. The TNT actually continued better down lane due to the weaker coverstock in the eTrax Plus versus the Mictrotrax Solid. If you had an Idol Solid and are looking for a replacement, the TNT will definitely be that ball for you.

My overall impression of this ball will be better for higher volumes of oil or where control of the lane is a high priority. The TNT will be great on sport/PBA patterns for this reason. For the typical house shot, lower rev rates will desire this ball more than high rev rates purely because of its overall strength. Raising the surface or polishing the TNT will give you a slightly weaker ball motion desired for a larger bowler base.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip TNT Infused
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3 x 5
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The TNT Infused brings back the Torpex Core with the new Etrax Plus Hybrid Coverstock. I was pretty skeptical about this ball initially because of how early and smooth the original TNT was. It made the ball pretty pattern specific for me. The new TNT Infused with the Reacta Gloss finish really made a big difference. I went with an opposite drilling with the infused (pin down) compared to a pin up in the TNT just to see a difference in overall ball shape. I was glad that I did. I got to test this ball on a 44ft Typical House shot and a 42ft 32ml sport pattern.

On the typical house pattern, I saw clean through the front with a strong midlane roll and ample continuation downlane. It is a ball reaction I enjoy seeing with my higher speed and high rev rate style. On the fresh, the responsiveness of the ball made carry a little tough as some shots got too far down the lane and others were too responsive off the friction. Taking the reacta gloss off the cover would allow me to use this more on the fresh. As the pattern started to develop, the ball naturally started to be more in its comfort zone. The strong midlane roll allowed me to be further away from the friction which is my strong suit. This allowed me to miss more in the oil and not over hook as much when I got the ball to the friction a little sooner. It blended the lanes quite well the further left I got with my feet. I do recommend this ball more as a transition ball for most styles unless you add surface to the cover because then it would be a little smoother for the fresh. If you liked the TNT and want a similar ball with more pop down lane, this would be a no brainer ball. In my opinion, the Infused can be much more versatile then the original TNT.

On the 42ft Sport Pattern, it gave very similar results as the house pattern. The Reacta Gloss made it tough to use on the fresh as there was too much length out of the ball. As the lanes broke down and I needed more length through the front part of the lane, I saw great shape in the midlane and good continuation through the pins. This Infused is definitely a good 1st and 2nd transtition ball. I can honestly see myself having two different drilled ones in my bag for medium length oil patterns. I was pretty impressed with the overall shape of the ball and its continuation despite how smooth the original TNT was for me.

I believe for most styles, this ball would be a good first transtition ball for medium to medium heavy oil. I think too much oil may give this ball problems as well as the lack of oil as well. Altering the surface by removing the reacta gloss would certainly help this ball work in other environments. I do think its continuation will make this ball work for many styles.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Tour Dynam-X
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4.5 x 3.5 x 3
Surface: 1000 Grit Abralon

The new Roto Grip Tour Dynam-x brings a brand new core and coverstock combination that is a completely new ball reaction in the Roto Grip Lineup! This is the IQ Tour for Roto Grip but potentially better?! A modified version of the Rondure Core was brought in here with half the differential as the original for a stronger front of lane move. What's also great about this ball is its control and predictability. It reminds me of a urethane ball that is all resin. This ball is going to be great for harder conditions or where control is an absolute must. For the normal typical house pattern, this ball would be best on the fresh for lanes that tend to hook a little more than typical or for the down and in player. This ball definitely favors straighter angles over opening up the lane. If you are a player looking to find a ball to be up the lane with or looking for your next sport pattern ball, than look no further.

I was able to test this ball on the Kegel Alcatraz Oil pattern which is 38ft in length with a 2:1 ratio. What I found on this ball was with my ball speed, the 2000 abralon factory surface was just a little too clean for the pattern I was bowling on. It gave me a little too much length and not enough down lane reaction. When I altered the surface to 1000 abralon, I got a much stronger footprint on the lane and it gave me more of the ball reaction I was expecting out of it. It is a ball definitely designed for the fresh as it doesn't flare a lot. At the 1000 abralon surface, I was able to throw the ball a little bit more left to right but due to its controllable nature, it didn't go through the pins as strong as I wanted. I would say this ball would be more ideal for medium to shorter oil patterns and where control is needed. All tournament bowlers should have this ball in their bag as a staple benchmark ball where urethane is too early and smooth and stronger resin balls are too much hook. This will fall right in between those two types of balls. Don't be afraid to add more surface to this ball to get a stronger overall shape.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip UFO Alert
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The UFO Alert is the 2nd release in the HP4 line with the ET Core along with the E-Trax Hybrid coverstock. I drilled mine with a 55 x 5 x 45 drilling which is the same drilling I have on the RST X-1. Comparative to the two, the UFO Alert is cleaner while still maintaining the more continuous shape on the backend. The Alert also gives a little more angularity as well so it is a very good compliment to the RST X-1. Comparing the Alert with the UFO, there is a definite more defined difference in the backend. Since the two balls share the same core, the midlane roll is very similar but the two coverstocks make the biggest difference. The UFO Alert is again cleaner while still giving a smoother reaction in the midlane. The Alert is a great step down from either the UFO or the RST X-1. Compared to the Nuclear Cell, the Alert will be earlier rolling and slightly smoother in the backend due to the hybrid coverstock.
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Roto Grip Ultimate Wrecker
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 4 x 4 1/4
Surface: Power Edge
Rev Rate: 470 RPM
Tilt: 13*

The Wrecker is back and so is the Roto Grip HP2 line! This time with AI Core Technology! The Wrecker AI core is paired with the new Pure Response Hybrid cover finished with Power Edge and designed for medium oil conditions. There has not been a Roto Grip HP2 ball since the Hyped Series, so this was a well needed ball in the lineup.

I was able to test this Ultimate Wrecker on a broken down 44ft typical house pattern. My intent of the layout was for a clean response and controllable backend for medium oil transitioned lanes. This is what I got out of the ball. The higher RG got the ball through the front well and easy while the moderate differential core got me enough midlane reaction to continue through the pins correctly. My first few shots showed that the ball was actually cleaner than I expected. When I got the ball a little firmer off my hand, it gave me a little too much length. When I stayed softer with my ball speed, the ball read the lane nicely and angled well through the pins. This ball is definitely a step from the Hustle Line balls but still a good step down from all the HP3 and HP4 lines.

I would recommend the Ultimate Wrecker for anyone looking for a new and weaker transition ball. A game 2 or 3 ball of a medium house condition would be the ultimate condition for this. The hybrid in the coverstock gives better midlane roll than the previous hyped hybrid and more down lane motion as well. Unless your house pattern has really old lane surfaces or use low volume, the Ultimate Wrecker should not be the first ball out of the bag in most scenarios. I can see this ball being very useful in a longer format tournament that reaches 4-6 games. It will be a great step down from the Attention Star S2 or even the Rockstar if you still need a symmetrical option. For me, this ball will be brought where I need length and control. Longer patterns where the hook is closer to the head pin and medium to shorter oil conditions when I need a ball to get down the lane and control the backend will be the best options for me. A pin up drilling will give a stronger midlane read and faster response if you want more overall backend motion.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Roto Grip Wild Streak
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The wild streak is a completely unique ball on the market because of its core characteristics. It's 2.60 RG and 0.048 Differential are a one of a kind combination in the market. Not only is this ball very clean for a HP3 ball but it is very predictable. For me, this ball is great on medium oil, shorter oil patterns and lanes where I need control but the lane surface is older or wood. When those conditions are met, it is a very good benchmark ball for me. It is also a nice step down from the original idol when that becomes too early rolling. If you bowl on lanes that typical hook a lot but still need a stronger core, this is a great ball to have!
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Roto Grip X-Cell
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2
Surface: 2000 Abralon
Rev Rate: 470 RPM

The New X-Cell brings back the iconic Nucleus Core from the original Cell series while adding in the AI Core technology. The coverstock is the brand new E-Trax Ultra Solid which is a steppingstone between E-Trax and E-Trax + coverstocks. I got the chance to try this out on a 47ft, medium oil volume sport pattern.

What I saw was what you would typically expect in a higher end solid bowling ball, strong midlane and backend motion. Comparing this to the Gem, I saw cleaner overall motion where the X-Cell got to the midlane pretty easily and it had a more angular backend. The Gem was still overall stronger, earlier rolling and smoother overall which allows both balls potentially in an arsenal. Compared to an Optimum Idol, I saw more overall strength as expected while it still wasn't as smooth. I got a little more angular ball motion then the complete controllability of the Optimum Idol. I was able to move about 8-10 boards left of my starting spot before the Cell became too early and slow responsive. I was able to ball down to an Attention Star and continue to strike from the same zone on the lanes.

I recommend this ball to someone looking for a heavier oil/fresh ball on higher friction or older lane surfaces as it is cleaner than the Gem. The asymmetry of the core gives this ball a lot of flair potential which will be able to handle most fresh conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Absolute Power
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3.5 x 2.5 and 5 x 4.5 x 4.5
Surface: 4000 Abralon

The New Absolute Power brings back the Sentinel Core with the new R2S deep Solid Coverstock. When this ball was announced, I was pretty excited for it because the lane surfaces in the North East tend to be older and hook earlier. This makes using the stronger solid coverstocks tough to use in general. The R2S deep solid coverstock is much cleaner through the front than the DNA while still being strong in the midlane. This is a perfect combination for me because it gets through the front part of the lane and continues better through the pins well as a result. I have drilled a pin up and pin down version of this ball.

The pin up version is still clean through the front but reads the midlane significantly stronger than the pin down version. This make the ball about 2-3 boards overall stronger. The pin up version will be better on fresh or where there is more volume on the lane on older lane surfaces.

The pin down version is naturally smoother and slightly cleaner in the front part of the lane. The smoothness actually allows for more versatility and can be used on both the fresh and the transition depending on the lane conditions. On my typical 44ft House Pattern, I prefer the pin down one as it continues better than the pin up version. If you have a little lower rev rate or ball speed but need a stronger ball that doesn't burn up as fast as a DNA, a pin up Absolute Power definitely makes sense. Drilling this pin down makes more sense on lighter oil conditions or higher rev rates when more control is needed.


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Storm All-Road
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The All Road for me is very clean and very continuous for its dull finish. Comparable to the IQ Tour, the All Road is cleaner and a few boards more of hook at the break point. The All Road is great on oil patterns where you want to control the backend but bowl on lower amounts of volume or higher hooking lane surfaces. The ball is very unique in the Thunder Line comparative to the rest of the Hy-roads. It compliments the Hyroad X very well as it is stronger rolling and slightly smoother overall. The Hyroad X would be a great step down from it as well to give it a more angular shape.
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Storm Axiom
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Axiom is the newest Master Line ball from Storm. It has the new NEX coverstock which is Storm's strongest coverstock to date. I was amazed at not only how strong the Axiom is overall but how well the ball still continues down lane. For me, it is about 3 boards stronger compared to the Phaze 2 and continues a little better even still. This ball cant handle a lot of oil while still allowing you to open the lane up if you need to adjust to the inside part of the lane. I was initially thinking that this ball would be too similar to the Pro-Motion but the Axiom is stronger and can be used for longer periods of time. I can see the new NEX coverstock being applied to multiple future balls in the Storm lineup because of the Axiom's success.
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Storm Axiom Pearl
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Axiom Pearl is the next installment in the Master Line. I particularly looked forward to this ball as it going to be a strong coverstock/core combination that will be more angular than the original Axiom. This ball did not disappoint as it reads the midlane strong and angles in the backend going through the pins very well. Compared to the Trend, the Axiom Pearl is a little earlier rolling and a little more smoother in the back part of the lane. This ball to me is great on heavier volumes of oil, sport conditions or house conditions where you can be a little straighter on the lanes. This is definitely a great ball to have if you love the motion of the original Axiom and find that the ball can get a little too slow on the backend. The Axiom and Axiom Pearl are a great 1-2 punch!
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Storm Dark Code
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Storm Dark Code brings back the Rad 4 Core from the original Code Series balls but with a new enhanced pearl coverstock the REX. The REX Coverstock is a combo of the NEX and R2S coverstocks to form a new reaction that gives you the strong midlane read of the NEX cover with the angular backend of the R2S cover. This coverstock and Core combination give quite a unique reaction in the Storm Lineup. Not only can this ball handle oil, but it still gives you the backend you expect from a Storm Pearl ball. For me, I would use this ball on heavier oil house patterns or on high volume sport patterns of various lengths. This ball is a good step down from the Proton Physix or Incite which will give longer length and more angle in the back end. If you have/had a Code Black, you will see a stronger midlane motion in the dark code while still giving that same angular backend motion. Compared to the Parallax Effect, the Dark Code will again give you an earlier read on the lane while providing a slightly more angular back end motion.
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Storm DNA
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 4 1/4 x 4 1/2
Surface: 2000 Grit Abralon

The brand new Storm DNA brings a brand new Core and Coverstock combination for the Premier Line. The brand new Supercoil core brings a Low RG, High differential and a higher PSA value. This core has a few cutouts in order to keep the differential higher after drilling. Very similar to the Absolute, the DNA keeps strong dynamics in the core after drilling. The new EXO Coverstock is a strong and more dynamic Coverstock to handle higher volumes of oil while giving a high amount of continuation. I had the opportunity to test this on a typical house pattern and a 41ft sport pattern.

On the house pattern, I saw a strong midlane roll but saw a lot more push in the front part of the lane than I expected. I was on a house pattern that is 44ft but generally has a lot of overall friction. Normally, solid asymmetrical balls do not work very well for me on this particular house pattern. This was a little different for the DNA. This control of this ball allowed me to be closer to the friction without the ball overseeing it. This characteristic allowed me to move further right with my feet than I would usually be which gave me a straighter target to my target and thus increasing my pin carry. The 2000 grit abralon got the ball long enough down the lane that the ball didn't see the transition as quickly as a similar ball would give me. On this particular house pattern, I would keep the ball at this surface for best results.

On the 41ft sport pattern, I actually saw similar ball reaction to the house pattern. The ball was clean but strong in the midlane and so ample continuation. My pin down layout made the ball fairly smooth and gave a lot of control on the sport compliant pattern. I was on a Pro-Anvil lane surface so there was a lot less friction than my house pattern test. At the 2000 grit surface, I saw a little bit over/under on the fresh. A Roto Grip Gem for me rolled stronger in the front part of the lane and had less continuation down lane. I adjusted the DNA's surface to 1000 grit to give me a little closer ball reaction to the Gem. I still actually saw similar comparisons even at 1000 grit. The DNA was essentially a step down from the Gem while still giving me that earlier roll and smoother down lane motion. The difference between the two balls to me can still warrant having both balls in your arsenal depending on your style. The DNA to me felt like an asymmetrical version of the Phaze 2. This ball gives a lot of versatility in terms of drilling and overall ball reaction where other typical strong solids do not give that. As the lanes broke down, I was able to move further left with my feet and target and saw enough continuation to get the corner pins out.

Based on what I saw out of this sport and house pattern tests, the DNA can be a good fresh ball with the possibility of being a first transition ball as well .

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm DNA Coil
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 6 x 0
Surface: 2000 abralon

The DNA Coil brings back the supercoil core paired with the new exo pearl coverstock. The supercoil core is one of the strongest ones in the current storm lineup. Originally found on the DNA solid, the core is designed for heavy oil and produces strong and smoother motion. The new Coil gives a cleaner and higher response for that same heavy oil.

I drilled this one 4 1/2 x 6 x 0 to put the pin on my axis line to start up on the lane very quickly while giving that more angular motion I have needed. This layout was used specifically for tournament conditions that have a lot more volume then the typical house shot. The Coil accomplishes just what I am looking for. It reads the front and midlane pretty strong while giving a nice angular backend. The strong core and coverstock combination handles the heavy oil really well and is a great step down from a slower response ball such as the original DNA or summit. I brought the surface down to 2000 grit because the factory reacta gloss was too long in length at first. The surface allows the ball to read the midlane stronger and continue better.

On the typical house shot the early hooked forces me into the oil very quickly but still continues well. If your house shot has a lot of volume or is longer in length then the Coil with a similar drilling would do well. A more typical drilling where the pin is further from the axis line would be great as either a fresh ball or first transition ball. This ball is earlier and smoother than the virtual Energy Blackout.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Electrify Black/Silver/Yellow
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4.5 x 3 x 3
Surface: Light 2000 abralon

The Electrify BSY is a new color Electrify Pearl for 2023. This ball brings back the Circuit Core and the Reactor Pearl coverstock finished with Reacta Gloss. Very similarly to the Electrify GO, this Electrify BSY is not as shiny out of box with the Reacta Gloss from the factory. This helps the ball read the oil a little sooner and be more continuous as opposed to as angular. I was able to test this ball on my typical house pattern. What I found was a cleaner and pretty continuous shape down lane. Compared to the GO, I found a little smoother motion overall. It didnt give me a crazy angular backend motion that was more in the GO. This BSY to me felt more of a benchmark lower end symmetrical ball. The BSY read the midlane a little stronger overall compared to the more recent Electrify balls and continued better as if it had higher differential in the core. I can see myself using this on the fresh for a dry house pattern or as a 2nd ball out of the bag when there is a little more oil. For more challenging patterns, this should control the lane the best when the pattern is medium to lighter oil or shorter oil conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Electrify G/O
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Electrify GO brings back the same core and coverstock found on the original Electrify pearl but is finished with the new Reacta Gloss polish. The Gold/Orange colors really brings great shelf appeal for pro shops but also looks great going down the lane. The circuit core was designed for medium to drier lane conditions and does just that. It is not the strongest pearl in the bag but definitely great for leagues in centers where there is a lot more friction or if your ball speed is low. It is also a great step-down ball from current balls such as the phaze 5 or night road depending on your style. The Reacta Gloss finish gives a more rounded, more continuation finish then we saw in the original pearl. Compared to the Electrify Solid, you will see a few more feet of length and a faster down lane response. If you use an Electrify Solid as your go to league ball, you will want to have the Electrify GO in your bag as well.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Electrify Hybrid
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Electrify Series covers a gap that the Match Up Series couldn't quite accomplish. What I love about this ball is the new Circuit Core because it isn't as tall as traditional lower end balls. The RG of 2.51 (#15) is much lower than the 2.57 in the Match Up series which allows the Electrify Hybrid to read the midlane stronger as well as sooner to give better performance on a little more oil than accustomed in the "Hot" line. This ball works exactly as I intended it to. The pin down drilling I put on it allows me to use this ball more on shorter oil or lower volumes of oil without having to make me cover too many boards. This ball is also a great step up from the Pitch Black/Purple when the traditional urethane shape is too slow off the end of the pattern. The colors of this ball really have great shelf appeal as well and a great ball for competitive, new bowlers and league bowlers where the amount of oil is lower.
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Storm Electrify Pearl
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Electrify Series is a new series in the "Hot" Line for Storm replacing the match up balls. The lower RG and slightly higher Differential will give the Electrify pearl more midlane control and more angle downlane then the Match Ups gave. Comparing to the Hybrid, the pearl will be cleaner, longer and more angular in the back part of the lane. While the Hybrid will be more controllable, the Pearl will give good angle for a more medium range ball. The two balls in the line can compliment each other very well if drilled identically or with a small surface change to remove some of the polish. This series is best on medium to lighter oil but will handle more oil than the Tropical Surge Line or Hustle line on the Roto Grip side.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Electrify Solid
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 3-1/2" x 45 at box surface

The Electrify series is back this time with the Reactor Solid coverstock finished at 1500 polished. The polish on this solid cover gives it more skid/flip qualities then you would technically see in a solid coverstock that's traditionally dull. I drilled this ball with a 3-1/2" pin from my axis to handle my typical house shot on the fresh. I tend to be more speed dominant with my release so I tend to look for balls to slow down enough in its skid phase. When I first used this ball, I was amazed with the backend shape it gave me. It was certainly unexpected as it was much more angular than anticipated. Not only was I able to use this on the fresh, but the ball never stopped continuing as I bowled in game 2 and 3. It was pretty refreshing to see a middle performance ball continue that well for so long. Taking the polish off the coverstock for a 2000 surface helped me make the ball a little more controllable and have smoother backend motion as I originally expected the ball to do. This ball brings a lot of performance for its price point and really shows off going down the lane. Comparative to the Electrify Hybrid, the Solid actually gave me more angle in the backend and was usable for a longer period of time. I would tend to use the solid on medium volume oil house patterns or medium to shorter sport patterns.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Equinox
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2
Surface: Power Edge
Rev Rate: 470 RPM
Rotation: 60*
Tilt: 13*

The Equinox is a brand-new Core and coverstock combination never before seen on the market that is designed especially for house patterns and 39-44ft length patterns. The brand-new Solarian AI brings in three cylindrical shapes to enhance drilling versatility and a lower RG. The new A1S coverstock is a new pearl technology including cohesion additives to help with a bigger footprint as well as a down lane reaction which is also finished with Power Edge Polish. I was able to test the Equinox on a typical 44ft house pattern and a 40ft sport pattern.

On the house pattern, I saw a lot of angularity out of the Equinox. The medium strength A1S coverstock gave me a lot of length down lane and ample down lane motion. Since the coverstock was so clean, I was not able to have much success on the fresh conditions. As the lanes transitioned, and I had to move my feet more left, I saw this ball start to come alive. The skid flip motion didn't disappoint in the first transition phase. Compared to the Physix Blackout, I saw a lot more length and a more angular backend. These two balls could certainly be in the same bag as they aren't relatively close to one another in terms of ball reaction. I would recommend the Equinox to a bowler bowling patterns closer to 40ft then 44ft as the length the ball creates could be a little challenging to shape correctly. Those who bowl on more warn lane surfaces will also get a lot of use out of the Equinox more in general. It can also be a ball down off a stronger asymmetrical ball such as the Physix Blackout or Ion Max.

On the 40ft sport pattern, I saw a lot of the same characteristics. Due to the extra oil volume, the Equinox was not great on the fresh. I saw too much length and flip that was not ideal on the conditions. Again, as the lanes transitioned off a stronger and earlier ball motion, the Equinox showed up much more. I still had to make sure I rolled the ball well to get the ball to slow down in the right spot, but it gave a me a significant better ball reaction. I was able to get to the pocket fairly consistently in during transition. Towards the end of the session, I changed the surface to a fresh 3000 and it gave me ample more overall hook on the ball. It gave me about more 4 boards to be exact and allowed me to move deeper on the lane while giving me better overall motion.

I think the Equinox can give a fairly expected ball reaction on medium length conditions, both on house and sport conditions. I recommend this ball for the bowler who likes skid flip asymmetrical balls in general. The Equinox gives that traditional Storm Skid Flip look that they are known for and I believe it can work for many styles. I think that Storm has definitely narrowed this ball to be best used in that 39-44ft range of patterns. I think heavier and longer patterns would need more surface on the ball to be most effective. This ball would certainly work best as a ball down from a stronger ball used for the fresh. The Equinox for me would be the 2nd or 3rd ball out of the bag based on my style.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Fast Pitch
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Fast Pitch is the newest ball in the thunder line and Storm's newest Urethane Ball. The fast pitch fits perfectly between the Pitch Black and Pitch Purple in terms of overall strength and continuation. The fast pitch to me is a great "benchmark" urethane ball and it isn't as early rolling as the Pitch Black and not as angular as the Pitch Purple. I prefer to use this ball on short oil and sport patterns as it really controls the backend. As lane surfaces become older and oil becomes less, it is pertinent to have bowling balls that don't read the front of the lane as strong but has stronger midlane roll. This Fast Pitch really accomplishes that task and gives a lot of the right ball motions that are really needed for a urethane ball. If you have a Pitch Black that is too strong or a Pitch Purple that you can't use as much as you want, then this Fast Pitch is the ball for you!
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Storm Fate
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4.5 x 30 (4.5 x 3 x 1.5)
Surface: 2000 abralon

The new Storm Fate brings the new F-8 core with the REX Pearl coverstock. This combination brings a new look to the Storm Products family with a 2.52 rg and 0.053 differential in a symmetrical ball. I was able to test the Fate on my typical 44ft house pattern as well as 40ft challenge pattern.

House pattern test:
My first few shots out of the box with the original reacta gloss finish gave me a lot of length and fairly angular backend. Due to my higher speed, I found that the factory finish did not allow the ball to read soon enough on the lane to get the reaction I was searching for. My Phaze 5 is more of my cleaner and angular go to ball for games 2-3 of league. I decided to change the surface to a 2000 abralon to get an earlier hooking reaction with a more continuous backend. This shape would put the Fate as a step down from the infinite physix and a step up from the Phaze 5. I was able to get the ideal ball reaction at this surface. It's a cleaner infinite physix with a more continuous shape and it did not disappoint for me. The ball really came around and read the midlane fairly well and still gave me the right shape to strike on the fresh. The cleanliness of the cover actually allowed me to stay in the ball for all 3 games of league whole moving in and still seeing really good shape through the pins. It's definitely one of those cleaner balls for me I can use either on the fresh or during the breakdown. It's a ball that will stay in my bag for a while. The strength of the rex cover can handle more oil with removal of the reacta gloss. I recommend this for anyone who's ball creates too much length or for lower rev rates.

Challenge pattern review;
The fate on this pattern was a little touchy on the fresh due to the higher volume of the pattern. Even at the 2000 surface, it was a little hard to control on the flatter pattern. Once the lanes broke down for two games, I was able to use the fate with ease. I was able to move left with my feet, open my angles and create a lot of good down lane motion. For these type of patterns, the fate will be a better transition ball then a fresh ball. Bringing the surface to a lower grit can help to use this earlier on the heavier oil patterns.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Gravity Evolve
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
When this Gravity Evolve was announced, I was ecstatic to get it since I was a huge fan of the original Virtual Gravity. This ball does not disappoint. It reads the midlane hard and keeps continuing down lane. The colors of the ball really pop out on the shelf as well. I can use this ball on both house patterns and multiple sport patterns since it has so much control. It gives a nice backend shape and continues very well. The SPEC cover allows it to be strong in the oil when the conditions call for it. This ball also allows me to play deep angles which is unheard of in most High Performance balls today.
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Storm Hy-Road Max
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Hyroad Max brings back the popular NEX coverstock most recently found on the Proton Physix and Axiom bowling balls. The cleaner Inverted FE core allows for a clean reaction through the front of the lane while the strong NEX cover allows the ball to dig strongly into the midlane while still maintaining a controlled yet continuous shape through the pins. The Hyroad Max brings a reaction very unique to the Storm lineup. The strength of the NEX Cover makes this ball ideal for medium to heavy lane conditions or those who are more speed dominant. For me and my higher rev rate, this ball has a harder time for longevity on typical house patterns. For me this ball would be great on more heavier oil conditions, sport patterns with volume and longer oil patterns. Those with lower rev rates will be able to have a lot more usage for a league session or tournament. Don't be afraid to bring the ball's surface up to 4000 or even polished to create a little weaker overall shape.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Incite
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Storm Incite brings a brand new core in the Tensor Core. The Tensor Core goes with Storm's current theme of cores that are asymmetrical but with less asymmetry than traditional asymmetrical high end balls. The coverstock is the Hybrid R4S which was found in the original Storm Fight. This ball is very strong and needs oil. For me it feels like it fits more in the higher end Premier Line than the Master Line as it sits currently. This ball reminds me of a slightly weaker Omega Crux while still providing the same hybrid characteristics. I drilled mine with a short pin layout to give me a strong ball to use on a fresh oil pattern while making sure it is not too angular in the back part of the lane. Although this type of drilling could be tougher to use on house patterns, it will be a staple in my bag for sport patterns to conquer the most control of the pattern. A more traditional pin up layout will give more of a skid/flip ball reaction and a pin down layout will give a more typical smoother ball reaction. If you are looking to replace an Omega Crux or never got your hands on one, this could be a good ball for your bag.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Infinite Physix
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 30 x 4 ½ x 30
Surface – 2000 abralon

The new Infinite physix brings back the popular atomic core and the REX Pearl coverstock found originally on the Dark Code. In my opinion, these two balls are much different. The Infinite Physix is stronger in the midlane and has a more defined arc where the Dark Code has more length and more angle down the lane.

Test pattern was 48ft PBA Shark:
At box finish of 4000 abralon, I saw midlane read but too much length for this pattern which has a lot longer oil then typically I bowl on. Bringing the surface down to 2000 helped me get a stronger midlane read with a few less feet of length giving me the continuation on the longer oil I was looking for. As the pattern started to break down and develop closer to the 10th board, my ball reaction got better and better. Misses in the oil held the line fairly well and misses toward the 10th board hooked back quite a bit giving me some nice area down the lane. Comparative to the Proton Physix, the Infinite Physix gave me more length and more continuation. It’s a nice step down for me when I need to use a stronger coverstock like on the Proton Physix.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Ion Max
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2 1/2
Surface: 2000 Abralon

I was a big fan of the Ion Pro before this Max came out so it only made sense that I drilled it the same way as my favorite Ion Pro. The new core and coverstock on this ball makes it much stronger than the Ion Pro and pretty unique in terms of versatility. The Element Max AI Core is used on this ball combined with the NRG solid coverstock found on the original Virtual Gravity Nano and IQ Nano series. This coverstock isn't quite as strong as some of the current SPI branded Solid coverstocks so it allows for more usage overall.

On my typical 44ft house pattern, there isn't too much oil volume in the front of the lane so big asymmetrical solid balls don't come into play that often. At the box 2000 grit, I saw this to be the case. Read the front of the lane and midlane pretty strong which made it use up most of its energy down lane. I had to keep the ball in front of me as often as possible to get the best results. Doing so did allow me to play further right on the lane than I typically would, but the ball did not like very much angle and was only decent for the fresh game 1. The next week for league, I decided to polish the coverstock with Storm Reacta Shine to see how the ball would work shiny. The polish allowed the ball to get through the fronts easier and created more angle down lane. Pretty much, exactly what I was hoping for. Not only was it cleaner, but it continued much more through the pins and only got better as I got more left with my feet. I was able to change hand positions to give myself more axis rotation as I got to around 30 with my feet to keep up with the continuation down lane. It responded great to my hand changes and rolled really well throughout the entire night.

Compared to the Ion Pro, I saw a lot earlier hook (even with the polish) and a much smoother backend. I saw about a 7-board difference overall between the two balls while standing in the same spot. If you are a bowler who has lower rev rates, are speed dominant or just like asymmetrical solid bowling balls, don't pass up on this Ion Max. It is a lot more versatile than some of the other previous and current Asymmetrical balls in the Storm Products Lineup. Certainly don't be afraid to bring up or down the surface to satisfy the ball reaction you are looking for. The Max takes to surface changes really well and should be good for many styles on fresh or oily lane conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Ion Pro
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3 1/2 x 2 1/4
Surface: 4000 Abralon
Rev Rate: 460

The new Ion Pro brings new technology in terms of core shape, dynamics and ball motion that hasn't been seen in the Storm lineup. The low rg of 2.47 and medium differential of .035 and PSA of 0.014 gives a new meaning to the word benchmark. Typically, we don't see asymmetrical balls considered "benchmarks" as they tend to be more responsive to friction making them not as readable as a symmetrical version. The Ion Pro changes that entirely. The Ion Pro at 4000 abralon finish gives easy length through the front part of the line but the core allows the ball to read the midlane well and have a nice continuation in the backend through the pins. I found this ball to be very predictable while still giving me enough shape to actually play the lanes both straight and left to right as the lanes broke down which isn't typical for a benchmark type ball.

I was able to try this ball out on a 37ft sport pattern with medium volume. What I saw from the Ion Pro was the ability to attack the lanes several ways. The lower differential gave me that ability to play the lanes straighter on the fresh without giving up the continuation but also gave me the ability to play left to right if I saw a better option because of the hybrid coverstock. I found a ton of versatility that this ball can provide. At the factory 4000 finish, I found a little too much length for my style to be most effective for me. A quick surface change to 2000 abralon gave me a stronger and earlier motion that I like to see for my style. The 2000 finish allowed me to still play straighter while not having to be as close to the friction spot. The extra surface also allowed me to play left to right with ease as the pattern started to breakdown. Being in the Northeast, I see a lot of older lane surfaces with a lot of built in friction. The Ion Pro is clean enough to handle the extra friction while maintaining the control you look for in a benchmark ball. I can honestly see myself having this ball in the arsenal quite often especially on sport patterns. Compared to the Phaze 2, I saw a lot more length but a slightly stronger backend and compared to an IQ Tour, I saw stronger overall ball motion that read the lane a few feet sooner overall. I can see myself bringing both the Phaze 2 and the Ion Pro within the same arsenal as they can play off each other well. This ball will be able to fit most styles and lane conditions of all sorts.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm IQ Tour 78/U
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4.5 x 45 #1
4 x 0 #2
Surface: 500 Grit Abralon

The IQ Tour 78/U brings the Centripetal C3 core found in the entire IQ lineup paired with the new Control 78 Urethane Coverstock. The new 78 hardness of this IQ 78/U was to conform to the new PBA hardness rule. As a PBA member and one who avidly does the regional Tour, it was essential for me to have this ball. Since urethane seems to be so prevalent, I drilled two that will give me two different shapes on the lane. The 4.5" by 45 drilling matches what I have on a current Pitch Black and Zen U. This drilling gives me a slightly cleaner motion on the lane while giving me more overall backend motion then a stronger drilling. I use this drilling specifically on sport patterns where the volume is higher and the lane surface is older or warn. The second drilling I used a 4 x 0. This drilling is super strong flaring and puts the pin directly on my axis line. This causes really strong hook in the front part of the lane and a more controlled backend. I can use this one being more left to right or if the lane pattern is high volume with a harder lane surface environment. Comparing the two together on my Typical House pattern which is 44ft and medium volume, the 4.5 x 45 ball allowed me to play the lanes more in front of me keeping my angles closed in the track area. More ideal for the fresh to control the backend and blend the lanes better. The 4 x 0 ball gave me about 5 more boards of overall total hook. It forced me to be further left than the first one because of the strong hook in the front of the lane. I could use this one either on the fresh or for transition if urethane is really necessary.
Comparing the 4.5 x 45 IQ 78/U to the Pitch Black, I was able to stand in the same spot but the IQ 78/U was more controlled in the backend. When I missed outside of my target, the ball struggled to make its way back to the pocket correctly. The Pitch Black was able to carry the pins better due to its weaker core and coverstock combination. If I didn't do the PBA events, I would strictly stick to the Pitch Black for my personal game. Comparing to the Zen U, the Zen U hooked 2 more boards overall and gave me a slightly stronger backend comparable to the Pitch Black. For Non-PBA events where urethane is necessary, I would stick to the Zen U and Pitch Black. However, the 4 x 0 IQ 78/U gave me a very unique motion that was also quite strong and accented the ball well. Due to the IQ 78/U extra hardness, the ball shines up faster so keeping up with the cover surface would be more critical for success.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm IQ Tour A.I.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 2
Surface: 3000 Abralon
Rev Rate: 470
Tilt: 13*
Rotation: 60*

The new IQ Tour AI is a brand new IQ Hybrid not seen since the IQ Fusion. The C3 Core is brought back this time with AI technology and is paired with the R2S Hybrid Coverstock traditionally finished with Power Edge Polish. Due to my ball speed and typical 44ft house pattern, I don't get a chance to use the IQ Tour line very often. I brought the IQ Tour AI ball down to 3000 grit to promote earlier roll for the conditions I am typically on.

On my typical league pattern on the fresh, I saw a lot length out of the ball and a pretty angular backend motion. On 44ft, a lot of length early on is not ideal and did not provide a good look on the fresh for me. As the lanes started to dry up in the front, I was able to see earlier roll and more midlane read that kept me closer to the pocket utilizing the same line as the fresh. Compared to the IQ Tour Solid, I saw a lot more length out of the Tour AI even with the surface change. It would certainly be a second or third ball out of the bag for me on medium to longer oil conditions. What was ideal about this ball was that it allowed me to stay further right with my feet and closer to the friction line which helped me eliminate the over under of the pattern. For me to use the Tour AI on my house pattern, I would need to use more overall surface to get the ball to slow down similarly to bigger balls in my arsenal. I definitely would recommend this ball to those who bowl on a more traditional 39-42ft house pattern with less oil volume where they use balls such as the IQ Tour or Ion Pro. In my opinion, there are better options in the line for heavier volume and longer oil. This could work on the fresh if you see a lot of built in friction but would be most ideal in a second or third ball down on most conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm IQ Tour Nano Pearl
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
For someone who hasn't had a Storm ball with the Nano cover, I couldn't believe how strong this ball really was. Compared to the IQ Tour, the Nano Pearl is a few boards stronger even though it is also cleaner in the front part of the lane. A great step down from the Axiom when a strong shape yet controllable is necessary. Even though this ball produces more angle than the IQ Tour, it is still more controllable than most pearls in the Storm line. Not only is this ball versatile, it is very continuous and can be used on a wide array of oil conditions and varying styles. If you enjoy any of the previous IQ series balls, this is a must have ball in your arsenal!
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Storm IQ Tour Ruby
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 x 3 x 2
Surface - Reacta Gloss

I will first start off by saying that I don't use the IQ level balls very often due to my higher ball speed and longer league pattern but I was extremely impressed by the new IQ Ruby. This ball gave me a lot of vibes of the IQ Gold and a more angular IQ Emerald. The reacta gloss actually makes this ball considering the Core and Coverstock are the same as the balls mentioned previously.

I was able to review this ball along side the DNA on the same lane and house pattern. The IQ Ruby was an obvious step down from the DNA but didn't quite show as much. I was able to go straight to the DNA from the same line on the lane and saw a lot of midlane traction with a strong backend motion. I was very surprised to see how much this one hooked in the back part of the lane. I was able to control the friction with this ball if I got it to the dry a little quick while it still read the oil strong if I missed in the oil downlane. The IQ Emerald, although used, saw smoother downlane motion from the same line but more inconsistent reaction overall. When I missed in the oil, it had a lot of trouble getting back up the hill to get to the pocket flush. The IQ Ruby had no problem doing this at all. I can actually see myself potentially using this on broken down house patterns and later in tournaments where the volume is still on the medium to higher side. This is a huge benefit for me because I still get the control I need while still seeing the midlane hook which is needed on the patterns. Anyone who is a fan of the IQ series will surely love this ball.

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Storm Journey
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 45 x 5 x 30
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The Journey brings back the F8 core found in last year's Fate but is wrapped around the brand new TX-16 Pearl coverstock. The TX-16 Solid is found on the Phaze 2 which is an incredible ball. I was so excited when I saw the TX-16 Pearl coverstock, as I am missing that "Phaze Pearl" ball reaction. This Journey did not disappoint! The F8 core makes this more naturally cleaner than the Phaze line but the strength of the core makes the midlane reaction more similar. I got to try the Journey on a 44ft typical house pattern and a 42ft high volume sport pattern.

On the house pattern, I expected the ball to be too clean for the fresh but it was actually pretty close to the reaction I want to see on the fresh. The reacta gloss factory surface makes it slightly too clean for the fresh for such long oil but a slight surface adjustment to 2000 made this ball more useful for the fresh. I was pleasently surprised how well this ball read the midlane. Its continuation was also great which allowed it roll threw the pins optimally. The Journey is a little earlier and stronger overall than the Fate when all the factors are the same. The Journey is not quite as angular but continues stronger. If you are looking for a stronger fate or looking for more a Phaze 2 type ball reaction, then I would get the Journey. The hype is definitely real with this ball.

On the 42ft High Volume Sport Pattern, I saw pretty clean through the front and strong backend motion. At the box surface, it was tough to control all the oil volume. It created too much length to be effective enough compared to a Phaze 2. The Journey would be a better first or even second transition ball on heavier volume just due to its characteristics and whatever balls you may use. I took the surface down to 2000 grit abralon to see what the stronger surface would give me. Like the house pattern, I was pleasantly surprised how much stronger it read the midlane and rolled off the end of the pattern. It gave me a much stronger overall look and made the ball react closer to the Phaze 2.

I believe this ball can be good for multiple conditions and styles. If you want the ball to roll more like the fate then keep the reacta gloss finish on. If you want it roll closer to a Phaze 2, then take off the reacta gloss and make it more smoother.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Level
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 x 4 x 1.5
Surface: 1000 Abralon
Tilt: 13*
Rotation: 60*
RPM: 470

The new Level is a brand-new design in the newly formed Storm Lab Series. The Level was designed to mimic a urethane-like shape while being completely resin. The new Equalizer AI Core was designed to have a high RG and low differential just like traditional urethane cores. The coverstock is the new RPM (Regenerative Polymer Matrix) cover which is designed to be predictable and keep its surface finish for a longer period of time.

I got to test this ball on my 44ft Typical House Pattern and a 40ft Sport Pattern. On the House Pattern, the Level gave me early hook and a continuous ball reaction in the back part of the lane. Unlike more traditional pieces, the Level gave me a consistent backend motion that did not stop because of the lower volume of oil. I was able to use the ball on the fresh more up the lane in order to tame the backend down where the lanes wanted to over hook with normal resin. Due to my higher rev rate, the lanes broke down a little quicker than I anticipated, and I had to put the ball back down after about 6 frames of use. For game 2, I went back to normal resin and opened up the lane like I traditionally would. In this instance, the level gave more of that urethane feel where the differential is too low to give enough of a pop down lane. In game 3 where the lanes became wet/dry, the Level was great once again. I was able to move back to the right and closer to the friction and go back up the lane once again. The low differential here actually helped the ball get through the front while the continuation of the ball gave me ample room left and right of target.

On the 40ft sport pattern, I saw more urethane-like ball reaction. It gave me early roll and control at the back part of the lane. Compared to the IQ 78U, I did see more continuation down lane while giving that early hook we expect with urethane. When the lanes are challenging, this level certainly is the answer. The Level is more forgiving down lane while still reading the pattern very well. It has consistent motion without losing its dull surface. This ball would be best used for medium to shorter lane conditions where straighter ball motion makes the most sense. While it does give more left to right motion then traditional urethane, it was more successful with straighter angles through the front of the lane.

In conclusion, The Level is a really nice step between urethane and resin balls. It gives the early motion of urethane while giving more distinct continuation like resin. I would recommend this ball to bowlers who like to use urethane but don't like how urethane breaks the lanes down, bowlers who are looking for a fresh option on medium to shorter length conditions or those looking to control those wet/dry house conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Lightning Blackout
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2 1/2
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The brand new Lightning Blackout gives us a new ball reaction in the Storm Signature Line. This ball gives a clean, medium strength and angular ball motion designed for the lane pattern burn that we haven't seen in a long time in the Storm Lineup. The Lightning Blackout uses the Warp AI core which brings the same low differential found in the !Q series (.029) with a higher RG value of 2.53. What this produces is a clean ball motion that you can keep on line much longer than typical balls in the lineup. The REX Pearl coverstock found on this ball allows it to handle more oil overall than the !Q Ruby and will read the midlane stronger overall due to the coverstock being much stronger.

On the typical house shot, with my higher rev rate (470 rpm), I was actually able to play much straighter on the fresh on a higher friction pattern than I would normally be able to. The weaker core allowed the ball to get through the front and the midlane much cleaner while keeping the ball more on line. The REX Pearl cover read the midlane still strong enough when missing left in the oil and gave me plenty of down lane motion when missing right into more friction. The best part of this ball is that the use of this ball is primarily for the pattern burn. Since this is the case, I was able to still move left with my feet and see enough angular backend motion to continue striking as the pattern broke down. I was still able to clear the front easily while still seeing enough continuation down lane to strike. Where this ball could find issue, is getting too far to the inside with your feet. The lower differential causes trouble for the ball to hook enough down lane if the lanes are not burned enough to the outside part of the lane.

Compared to the Journey, I found the Lightning Blackout to be about 3 feet cleaner and be overall more angular in the back part of the lane. The Lightning can be potentially used on fresh conditions if the lanes have a lot of friction or can be used as a burn ball with higher volume patterns or lower friction lane surfaces. For me, it will be used as a ball down from the Journey primarily where I need to create more length and a stronger backend.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Night Road
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout - 4.5 x 70
Surface - 4k Fast

The new Night Road brings back the Inverted Fe2 core found in the previous Hyroads but with the REX coverstock. What I like about this night road comparative to the hyroad pearl is how much stronger it reads in the midlane due to the stronger REX cover. With my higher ball speed, I was not able to use the hyroad pearl as much as I wanted to due to the ball not slowing down enough for higher volumes of oil. The night road allows me to have a larger footprint on the lane while still giving me that traditional angular motion that the hyroad pearl is known for.

My pin down layout at the 4k fast finish for me still gives me a pretty angular backend while allowing the ball to be more continuous overall. For me personally, this is the type of reaction I really love to see. For some of my customers in the pro shop, I brought the surface back to 1500 polished to keep that consistent from previous balls. Bringing the surface back to the old finishing process gives that polished and more angular look for drier lanes and a late game tournament ball. A pin up layout will give that long and angular motion that is accustom to the hyroad line throughout the years.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Nova
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 55 x 5.5 x 45
Surface prep: 2000 Abralon

The new Storm Nova is the replacement of the Incite within the Premier Line. The new Ignition core opens up a lot of possibility for drilling potential by keeping a lot more of its asymmetry intact after drilling. The Nova has the R2X coverstock on it which is a hybrid blend between the R2S and NRG coverstocks. What I have found with this ball is a lot of hook in the front and midlane but retains a lot of great continuation down lane. Designed for medium to heavy oil, this ball can be a staple in the bag for most league and tournament conditions. My first use of this ball was at the PBA Regional Players Invitational in Las Vegas on a 2.5:1 Ratio pattern with 30ML of oil which is a high amount of oil. What I found was the ball read the lane fairly strong overall while still keeping strong continuation down lane. I never had to be afraid of the ball hooking downlane when I missed my target one way or the other. The strength of the core and cover combination keeps the reaction on the smoother side very comparable to the strength of the Proton Physix. Compared to the Proton Physix, the Nova is slightly cleaner overall and slightly faster down lane. The two balls are different enough to warrant both if you are a fan of the Proton Physix. On a typical house pattern, this ball is great on the fresh where there is a lot more oil on the lane. It would be a little difficult to use this ball for all 3 games of league depending on your individual style. My higher rev rate style (450 RPM) doesn't allow me to use this ball for all 3 games due to the lack of total oil I tend to bowl on along with the strength of the core. Down and in and lower rev rate bowlers would get a lot of use out of this ball as it will give you hook, control and continuation.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Omega Crux
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
When I threw the Omega Crux for the first time, I was amazed at how clean the ball was for an Asymmetrical Core. For someone who can't use Asymmetrical all that often on house shots, this ball seemed to be completely the opposite for me. I use it every week in my league and it gives me one of my best reactions that I have seen all year! The pearl cover gives this ball length but the fact it doesn't have polish allows it to grab the midlane still very strongly and continues great almost like a symmetrical ball. For those who have the Crux Prime or need a strong ball that's clean, this Omega Crux is the ball to get. For me, this ball is very versatile. Not only can I play straighter up the lane in more oil but I can also create a lot of angle when trying to open up the lane. This ball is very easy for me to use multiple games due to its great versatility.
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Storm Parallax
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Parallax contains the new Aeroflo core which helps improve core dynamics in today's sport. Unlike most asymmetrical pearl balls from Storm, the Parallax gives you a little bit of a smoother motion then typically found for this type of ball. This ball is definitely more ideal when more control of the breakpoint is required but you need a clean coverstock. Sport patterns and hooking house shots are good for this type of ball reaction. The New TX7 coverstock gives you the cleanliness of a Hybrid but smoothness of a solid while still allowing for stronger midlane read and continuation. This will be a good ball if you really like the Physix and Astrophysix because it is more or less a blend of both balls. When more downlane angle is needed the Astrophysix would be the go to ball but if you need a cleaner but controllable ball after the Physix, the Parallax is the go to ball. I can see myself using this ball on a wide array of sport patterns and some typical house shots.
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Storm Parallax Effect
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The new Parallax Effect brings back the Aeroflow core found in the original Parallax which will allow the ability to have the effects of an extra weight hole without needing to drill one. Like the original Parallax, the Parallax Effect gives a little longer length and some more down lane angle. For me, the combination of this core and the strong Traction X7 Pearl coverstock doesn't give me much opportunity for use as the centers I bowl in don't have a ton of oil and have older lane surfaces. This ball will be best for bowlers with lower rev rates, who bowl on heavier oil conditions or who bowl on lower friction lane surfaces. This is going to be a very good tournament condition ball for me only because how well the ball digs into the lane due to its strength.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Phaze 4
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 60 x 5.5 x 70
Surface: Box

The Phaze 4 brings back the popular Velocity Core and R2S pearl. This ball is everything you expect with this combination; Clean, continuous and control to angular motion. On my 44ft THS, I found it as a good transition or #2 ball when my strong symmetrical or Asymmetrical is a little too early and forward. My THS prefers clean yet stronger/smoother type motions on the fresh and more angle as they transition. What I found with this was exactly the latter. Still cleaner in the front then solid/hybrid covers with more length and controlled/continuous backend since the drilling is pin down for me. What makes this great is that, the ball keeps me in the same zone which is essentially just left of the track as my fresh ball. That keeps my confidence up because I don't have to make a major left move with my feet. If you are a bowler who likes the Velocity Core or even just the R2S coverstock, this seems like a no brainer to me. The ball motion expectations are there so no need to get used to its motions. Just get out there and bowl!

On a 39ft sport pattern, the Phaze 4 as expected was tough to use on the fresh as the pearl cover did not read the overall pattern that consistently. Like the THS, playing more of the track from a deeper inside angle was more of the answer for this ball. Playing the inside angle still gave me enough angle downlane to get the corner pins out even being pin down. The Phaze 4 will be more successful on medium volume and medium length then necessarily something heavier then that on either side. If you are a tournament player, this ball will be cleaner then a Zen and smoother then a UC2. If you have a Phaze 2 and/or 3, this would be a good add to your arsenal.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Phaze A.I.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3 x 2-1/2
Surface: Power Edge
Rev Rate: 470
Tilt: 13 degrees

This is the pearl Phaze you have been waiting for! This is that compliment to the Phaze 2 that you need! This ball is the real deal, and I will tell you why. The new Phaze AI brings back the Velocity core but with AI technology and it's paired with the TX-16 Pearl Coverstock (Finally) finished with the new Power Edge polish! The AI technology lowers the RG a point and raises the differential a point to give a slightly earlier and stronger downlane motion then if it did not have AI Technology. Not only does this ball read the midlane as strong as the Phaze 2, but it gives that angular pop down lane that most of the pearl Phaze balls have been missing. This Phaze AI gives me the old Storm "Angular" ball motion that some of the more recent pearl balls have been missing.

On my 44ft Typical House shot, I saw exactly what I expected out of it. Clean through the front, strong midlane roll and pretty fast off the breakpoint. This reaction is great but more ideal for the transition to burn phase of the pattern. On the fresh, it wanted to be a little too angular down lane and was harder to control as you would expect. Shots that missed in, hooked more and those that missed right, recovered, but didn't quite carry as well. The better I threw this ball, the better it certainly looked. Compared to the Phaze 2, I saw about 2 more feet of overall length and much more angle down lane. As the pattern developed and broke down, this Phaze AI got better and better the more I moved my feet to the inside part of the lane. There was no fear that this ball wouldn't recover enough down lane or when I missed into the oil. When I see this type of ball reaction, my eyes widen and I am able to relax and make great shots because I know the ball will do the right thing. If you are on a typical house pattern that hooks a little more in the front part of the lane, this could be your choice. If you love the Phaze 2 and want a cleaner more angular version, this ball is definitely your choice. If you love the way Storm Pearl balls used to be, then pick this up! I have a lot of great things to say about this ball. It made my league arsenal immediately and hasn't disappointed me.

On sport patterns, the Power Edge finish makes the ball a little inconsistent. The strong down lane motion can make it a little more difficult to control depending on the condition. Scratching the surface with a 1000 or 2000 abralon pad to cut the shine will help the control of this ball and make this more usable when the conditions are tough. Bringing the surface down to the same as the Phaze 2, will give the AI a reaction much closer to the Phaze 2 while still being cleaner through the front. The AI will have no problem opening the lane up if that's the desired reaction. Drilling this ball pin down will give a smoother motion and slightly more control.

The Phaze AI will give that down lane reaction that Storm fans have not seen in some time. Designed for medium il conditions, it will fit most bowler styles. I recommend this ball to anyone who like to see length and backend shape or just want a compliment to the Phaze 2.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Phaze III
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The phase 3 certainly lives up to its hype. Not only does this ball smell and look good, it performs fantastic. The new R3s coverstock is great in oil and absolutely angles hard down lane. When the lanes need angle down lane, this is the first ball that comes out of the bag every time. This ball compliments the phase 2 in so many ways. They are easily one of the best pairs of bowling balls on the market. I have never seen a ball that angles this hard down lane along with being so clean up front. This ball is a must have on many different conditions and lane surfaces.
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Storm Phaze V
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout - 5 x 30
Surface - Reacta Gloss

The Phaze 5 is the replacement for the USBC discontinued Phaze 4. The Core and Cover combination are the same, but the new Reacta Gloss finish creates a slightly different reaction for the Phaze 5. The Reacta Gloss offers the same clean through the front and strong midlane roll that we expect from the Velocity Core but gives a more rounded and more continuous shape than the Phaze 4. The Phaze 4 gave a more angular backend reaction when compared. I find for my game, that the more rounded backend shape a ball has, the more use it allows for me especially as the lanes become more wet/dry. This is a more ideal shape for most bowlers in today's environments.

My league pattern is around 44 feet in length with medium volume. I tend to use stronger asymmetrical cores to start and then ball down to more angular symmetrical cores. The Phaze 5 for me is a great step down from the new Super Nova. The Phaze 5 provides more length in the front and more angle down lane while keeping me in the same zone with my feet. Those who use a Phaze 2 will also see similar results. The new Reacta Gloss finish should bode well with most league conditions and bowling styles as it reads well in the oil and is slightly smoother off the dry boards compared to the Phaze 4. Those who bowl on more oil can take the Reacta Gloss off to see a stronger and smoother overall motion.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm PhysiX Blackout
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2
Surface: 2000 Abralon with Power Edge Finish
Rev Rate: 470 RPM
Tilt: 13*

The Infinite Physix has been one of my favorite league balls in the last few years so was pretty excited when this new Physix Blackout was announced! The Atomic Core has always matched up well to my game and with this AI version, I knew it would be great on the heavier tournament conditions and my current 44ft league pattern. Paired with the NEX Pearl coverstock with added nano-particles, the Physix Blackout can handle both the fresh and transition with ease. I chose to add Power Edge Finish on mine because of my success with the Infinite Physix with which I finished with Reacta Shine Polish. When I compared the two balls on my house pattern, I saw a lot of similar features. The Physix Blackout with its strong coverstock was stronger and a little smoother than I anticipated compared to the Infinite. The Power Edge finish got the ball through the front with ease and gave me ample continuation through the pins which is what I have always expected with the Physix line. Compared to the Infinite, I saw about 4 boards more of overall hook with the Blackout with very similar shape in the backend. When using it in league, I was able to use it on the fresh because it still gave me enough midlane traction and backend control you would need on the fresh. As the lanes transitioned, I really didn't have to move too much left with my feet to keep my striking going. The cleaner finish of the Power Edge got the ball through the front still with ease even with 6 other right-handed bowlers on the pair. Into game 3, I did start to see the strength of the core and cover combo which forced my feet about a zone further left. The control of the coverstock made me have to come around the side of the ball a little bit to get the corners out. What was great, was the ability to use it for the 3 games of league. Generally, for asymmetrical balls, I don't have that ability too often s it was certainly nice to see.

I recommend this ball to anyone who liked the infinite physix but wants a little more teeth on it, a pearl ball that they can use on the fresh when dull or the conditions are right and with polish, can make it a transition ball off of an Ion Max. Medium to lower rev rates will also love this ball on a variety of lane conditions as it will be strong enough for heavy oil but not as early as a solid asymmetrical piece.


Adam Chase
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Storm Pitch Purple
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
For someone who hasn't used urethane much besides on short sport patterns, I was super excited when Storm announced the Pitch Purple. The Pitch Purple does not disappoint. It is great for those heavier volume and/or longer length sport patterns. This ball backends like a resin ball while still giving you that urethane feel of control. This is a good step up ball for me especially when I am using the pitch black and it gets too lazy down lane. Not only can I play up the lane with the Pitch Purple but I can open up my angles and play more left to right which is very uncustomary for me. If you really enjoy the pitch black and want a cleaner and more responsive version, then the pitch purple is for you!
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Storm Proton Physix
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
If you need a ball to hook in oil, look no further! Not only is the new Proton Physix strong, it continues super well! This ball, although designed for heavy oil can certainly be used on a variety of patterns because of how well it continues. The NEX coverstock first found on the Axiom, is early, strong, predictable and continuous as the theme here. If you need a ball that just flat out hooks or you have the original Physix and need a slightly stronger ball, then this is the answer! The first reviews on this ball has been incredibly positive and outstanding for many different bowler types. For anyone who bowls on sport patterns or in the PBA would surely appreciate this ball as well as these patterns tend to have more overall oil volume. This is a ball that will come with me for most tournaments because of its strength and great versatility.
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Storm Revenant
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3.5 x 2.5
Surface: Reacta Gloss
Rev Rate: 470
Tilt: 8*
Speed: 17mph

The New Storm Revenant brings back the same core/coverstock combination from the recently USBC banned Spectre but with the new Reacta Gloss Finish. I found a very similar overall shape to the Spectre but with the Reacta Gloss Finish, I found the Revenant to be a slighty smoother shape overall. The higher RG value of 2.54 gives me a little too much length for my style on both the house and sport patterns. With my house pattern being 44ft, it is hard to be able to use a ball that gives a lot of length within a 3-game set. The Revenant will be a really good late game ball in a longer tournament format or where the lanes are hooking a lot more than I am used to in my current league environment.

Comparing the Revenant to the brand-new Absolute, I saw about a 4 board weaker motion and significantly more length throughout the whole lane. In order to see closer ball motion, I changed the surface of the Revenant to 2000 abralon. This gave me stronger ball motion and earlier hook where I needed to see it. Depending on your style, the Revenant should allow you to stay in the same zone on the lane where you were using a stronger ball due to its overall length. Those with higher rev rates will definitely see a skid flip reaction that is generally desired. Those with lower rev rates might face a challenge seeing this one hook in the right part of the lane. A surface adjustment or buying the stronger Fate would likely be a better alternative.
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Storm Road Warrior
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 4 x 4
Surface: Power Edge

The Road warrior is the predecessor to the Hyroad Pearl and has a lot of high expectations. The Road Warrior brings back the Inferted AI Fe core found in The Road along with the R2S Deep Pearl coverstock which has not been used yet stateside. The Road Warrior provides a lot of length very similar to the Hyroad Pearl but reads the midlane stronger due to the AI core. Even though the coverstock is in fact weaker, the core allows the ball to still read the body of the lane well. The combination of the core and cover really matches up with this ball. On my 44ft typical house shot, I felt that I didn't need as much dry on the lanes for the ball on the lanes. It was clean as I expected but got into the roll phaze faster than I anticipated which I feel is great for my style. The Road Warrior will be great as a later transition ball due to the clean characteristics of it. Those who have lower tilt or slow ball speed on higher friction lanes, will really enjoy the Road Warrior. It probably won't be ideal on the fresh especially with the power edge finish. Bringing the surface down without the power edge will bring the hook closer to you and make it a little more useful for fresh. I would choose The Road more often on the fresh as the coverstock is stronger and more rolly overall. What i do enjoy about this ball is the ease to open the lanes up and creating more down lane hook. This ball creates a lot of angle down lane making it ideal to play the inside part of the lane. This ball would be most ideal to be paired with The Road or a step down from the Phaze AI.
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Storm Spectre
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout 50 x 5 x 35
Surface 2000 Abralon

The new Storm Spectre gives you the typical reaction that Storm is known for; Clean, Long and Angular. The specs of the Vector core (2.54, 0.050) are very similar to the Hyroad Inverted Fe Core (2.57, 0.046). If you are a fan of the Hyroad series and sometimes feel that there is too much length or not quite enough hook then look no further. The Spectre covers that gap very well giving a larger footprint in the oil from the more dynamic core and slightly stronger cover in the R3S Pearl. On my THS (44ft), the Spectre is a little too clean and responsive to the friction as it doesn't blend the wet/dry as well as I wanted even with the 2000 abralon grit surface. This is a great breakdown ball ((game 2 or game 3) for league in my center. It fits that gap as a step down from a lot of the stronger asymmetrical pearls such as the Dark Code where as a Hyroad Pearl would be too long for me. On a 39ft sport pattern, I saw a lot of angle with the Spectre as I needed to move in towards the middle of the lane after transition. A majority of lane surfaces by me are high friction so I tend to lean more heavily on these type of balls. When the stronger core balls, such as a phaze 3 or Dark Code got too early and slow down lane, the Spectre really shined. It gave me easy length while still being strong enough to handle the higher volume of oil. I can see myself using this ball a lot on medium patterns or house patterns where the lane surface gives a lot of friction or the volume of oil is on the lower side. The R3S cover takes very well to surface changes so don't be afraid to knock some of the shine off of this one if you are seeing too much length out of it.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Summit
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 3/4 x 3 (60 x 4 1/2 x 40)
Surface: 4000 Abralon, 1000 Abralon

I was very excited when I heard about the Summit because I like the Phaze 2 very much. I have found sometimes that the Phaze 2 just isn't always quite strong enough and Asymmetrical Cores tend to be too early rolling. The Summit Covers that gap for me with ease. Compared to the Phaze 2, the Summit is about 2 feet earlier and about 2-3 boards stronger overall. It's overall strength makes it a little tougher to use on the typical house shot unless you get the surface right. I would consider following my surface prep or shining this one if you have a house pattern that hooks a lot. The cleaner surface prep for me gets it through the front part of the lane easier while still giving me that strong arc on the backend. I was able to test this on a typical house pattern and the 41ft PWBA HOF Classic Pattern.

On the house pattern, I found that the Summit was able to blend the fresh very well and gave me better continuation than I expected. As the lanes transitioned and I had to move further left with my feet, the Summit still continued very well. I never gave up hitting power at all. The one downside is that since the ball is on the smooth side, any misses in the oil had trouble going through the pins as well but still created a light mixer on most shots. Depending on your style, the factory surface could be a little too aggressive. If it is, I would bring surface up to 4000 or polish for better results.

On the 41ft PWBA HoF Classic Pattern, this ball started to shine more because of the higher volume of oil. On the fresh I was able to play around 15 to 8 and see strong continuation on the backend which went through the pins very well. All the oil volume to the outside made misses to the right a little tricky as the smoothness to the ball did not allow for ample recovery. My misses had to be in the oil closer to the headpin a little more. As the lanes broke down, I saw very similar reaction to the house pattern. I saw ample continuation again and the ball got better as I played more left to right. My line was roughly 18 to 10 and I had a lot of success in that zone which was inside the track line. I still had hold in the middle part of the lane and since I was inside the track, I had more hook to the right giving me more margin of error. I can see this ball for me being more ideal for tournament conditions than house just due to its smooth nature. For those who like the phaze 2 and need just a little more strength, this Summit is that ball!

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Summit Ascent
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2
Surface: 4000 abralon
Rev rate: 470
Tilt: 13 degrees

The Summit Ascent brings back the Centripetal Ai core but this time with the R2S Solid coverstock found also currently on the IQ Tour Solid. The weaker coverstock makes this ball a game changer especially being a solid coverstock. What's unique about the Ascent is that this is actually weaker than the Original Summit which was hybrid. The Ascent is much cleaner through the front part of the lane and gives ample continuation due to the weaker coverstock. I was able to test this on a 44ft typical house shot and a 39ft US Open sport pattern.

On the house pattern, I saw easy length and a continuous yet controlled ball reaction. I was able to use this on the fresh as expected but the weaker coverstock let me stay with the ball longer as transition occurred. What's nice about this ball is the length of potential use compared to other Solid balls on the market.marker. The higher Differential core allows the ball to read in the oil strongly while the weaker coverstock allows the ball to get down the lane. This ball will be useful for a wide range of bowlers on the house pattern as it will work on several different versions. The cover also takes well to surface changes so if you need a little more traction, I would bring the surface down to 2000 abralon.

On the US Open Pattern, I saw a lot of similarities to the house pattern in terms of usage. The medium length and volume allowed me to use the Ascent straighter on the fresh and move in to play more left to right after transition. Again, the weaker coverstock got the ball down the lane and saw great continuation. As a bowler who struggles on high friction lane surfaces, I can see myself having this ball in my arsenal for a wide array of patterns. It's versatility allows me to play straight or hook the lane where necessary. This ball will be great for many styles and conditions making it a staple ball for any arsenal.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Summit Peak
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 5 x 3 1/2 x 2 1/2
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The Summit Peak brings back the Centripetal HD Core with AI Technology with the new TX-23 Pearl Coverstock. Based on how early and strong the original Summit was, I expected the Peak to be a cleaner and more angular version. It is definitely accurate. Comparing the two balls, I saw about 2-3 feet longer and a more defined ball motion down lane. It still gave me that more controlled look but continues through the pins really well. This ball is predictable yet angular. It reminds me more of the 900 Global Zen as a straight comparison. Compared to the Storm Phaze 5, the Summit Peak is overall stronger and is more continuous. The Peak is strong enough to use potentially on fresh lane conditions and versatile enough to use for 1st and/or 2nd transition. Its more rolly nature can be great on both the right and left hand sides of the lane. So far it has been great for me on lower volume and higher volume house patterns. The Peak will work well for many styles and lane conditions and makes a great step down from the original Summit or Phaze 2.
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Storm Super Nova
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 30 x 4.5 x 30
Surface: Box Surface

The Super Nova brings back the Ignition Core from the original Nova with the NEX Solid Coverstock from the Proton Physix. The first thing I can say about this ball is STRONG! This ball definitely needs a good amount of oil to be most successful. Normally, these type of balls are not in my current arsenal because of my high rev rate and will not be for regular league play. The Super Nova was essentially too early and overall too strong to get the best reaction through the pins. It actually forced me to be so far left with my feet, that its carry percentage decreased. If I wanted to use this consistently for league play, I would actually use polish on the surface to promote more length and a slightly more angular backend for better overall ball reaction.

Although, this is not the best ball for my style for league play, it comes in handy a lot in tournaments where there is generally significant more oil volume and generally longer lengths. I have used the original Nova a lot in tournaments to blend out harder oil patterns and to create straighter angles. The Super Nova will be no different here but allow me to move further left on the lane where the original Nova did not allow me to. The added strength of the coverstock allows me to move into the heavier volumes of oil without losing its backend reaction. Comparative to the Proton Physix, I saw earlier and stronger overall motion. Where the Proton Physix did not hook as much, the Super Nova continued through the pin deck well. I will continue to use the Super Nova primarily in tournament play, especially on longer and heavier oil patterns.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm The Road
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The new Road brings back the Inverted FE Core found in the original Hyroad series and amped it up utilizing the AI Core Technology which reduced the RG to 2.55 and put the differential to .045 which is actually .01 below the Hyroad. There is also a new coverstock on this one which is the REX Hybrid which is considerably stronger than the previous R2S Hybrid coverstock. The difference in core and cover technology makes the road a little earlier on the lane and has more flare potential due to the stronger coverstock. I was able to test this on my typical 44ft house pattern and a 42ft 30ml sport pattern. Here is what I found:

I was pleasantly surprised to see how much the Road actually read the midlane in comparison to the original Hyroad. Normally, I would only be able to use a Hyroad on broken down conditions if I was even able to get to use a ball with that high of an RG level. The Road got down the lane very easily with its polished finish as expected but it read the body of the pattern considerably sooner creating a nice shape in the back part of the lane. I was able to use the ball on the fresh even with my higher speed style which is a rarity for me. My only caveat is that due to its higher RG rating, it still had a very sensitive reaction to the friction and oil where if I got the ball to the dry quicker or in the oil more than usual, it would over hook or under hook. I had to be very careful to still roll the ball pretty forward to get the reaction I was looking for. This for me even though it worked pretty well on the fresh, would be a more transition ball for me due to my style. I think also for most people, it would be harder to use on the fresh just because of its cleaner and more responsive reaction. If you bowl on a drier house pattern, I think this has great potential for the fresh. If you bowl on a house condition similar to mine, it would be better as a transition ball than a fresh ball. However, removing the polish and adding more surface to the coverstock can get the ball to read the lane sooner and make it more predictable.

On the 42ft 30ml Sport Pattern, I saw a lot of the same characteristics. However, this time I did alter the surface to a 1000 grit abralon finish because of the higher oil volume. I found the same sensitive ball reaction as on the house pattern. Usually on patterns, we need to control the lanes more with lower RG bowling balls and with the Road being a higher RG, it was certainly harder to control on the fresh. At the 1000 finish, it was still clean through the front but read the body of the pattern much stronger and giving me a really good left to right look. Straighter angles gave me trouble keeping the ball on line. Once I moved into about 25 with my feet and got the ball out to about 8 at the breakpoint, I had a pretty solid ball reaction and didn't find any issues with the ball going through the pins properly.
For higher oil volume patterns, I definitely recommend taking the surface down so it is earlier and smoother overall. It can be a really good transition ball for medium oil conditions and medium length house patterns at its box surface.

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

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The Trend is the newest ball from the Belmo and Storm Collaboration and unlike some of the previous releases, this ball does not disappoint! As a fan of more rolly cores, I enjoyed the Pro-Motion quite a bit but couldn't find a great step down once that ball got a little lazy down lane. Where the Phaze 3 was not strong enough and the Astrophysix was too strong, the Trend fits perfectly in that gap! The strength and reliability of the R2S coverstock along with the Piston Core give a strong yet unique reaction that Storm has not seen in quite some time. No longer will I have that gap of over under ball reaction when I still need a strong core. For all of you who feel that sometime the Phaze 3 just isn't strong enough in the oil, the Trend is the go to ball. I will be using this ball a lot on sport patterns and other patterns where the oil volumes are higher than typical league.
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Storm Trend 2
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Drilling is 55 x 4 3/8 x 45

The Trend 2 is a new unique ball from the Storm Signature line. I have found the Trend 2 to be different from the original Trend due to its strong continuation and overall usability. I have tried the ball on both a longer typical house shot and a shorter sport pattern to judge the ball reaction. On the typical house shot, I found that this ball still reads in the oil extremely well due to the Hybrid NRG coverstock and since the differential is lower at 0.041 (15lbs) it tends to blend the drier parts of the lane better than the original Trend did for me. I was able to use the Trend 2 both on the fresh and as transition occurred as I moved further left on the lane. If you tend to be on lane surfaces that hook a lot or on lower volumes of oil, this could be a really nice 1st ball out of the bag for you. Vise versa and this could be a great game 2 or game 3 ball for you depending on your style. On the sport pattern, the ball acted very similarly even though I was on a few more ML of overall oil. Since the pattern was shorter, it was a tough ball to use on the fresh since the ball is shiny. As transition occurred and I had to open my angles up more, this ball really came alive. It gave me plenty of continuation without being too angular in the backend and went through the pins extremely well from a few different angles. This is the type of ball that will be a staple in my bag for many different tournaments and league sessions due its overall great versatility.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Storm Typhoon
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
2

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 2
Surface: 3000 Abralon
Rev Rate: 470
Tilt: 13*

The Storm Typhoon is the first ball back in the Storm Hot Line in about 2 years. A ball reaction that has been missing for those medium oil conditions. The new Typhoon brings the new Atmos AI core paired with the reactor pearl coverstock found currently on the Tropical Surge Line. The core brings a medium RG and Medium differential specs to make this ball most useful for medium to lighter oil conditions. The shape of the Typhoon is very clean with a pretty sharp backend. Ideal for most house conditions where length and angle are most useful.

I got to try this on my 44ft typical house pattern. On the fresh and box Power Edge finish, I saw a lot of length for my style even with my higher rev rate. On my house pattern, the Typhoon is not ideal as it tries to create too much angle down lane which gave me that typical over/under reaction. As the lanes started to burn up more, this ball became better as expected. I brought the surface to 3000 abralon to bring the ball's breakpoint a little closer to me and to allow for a little more predictability. This change saw a better overall shape on the lane and gave me more confident in its reaction. On my house pattern, I saw the Typhoon to be most in play in game 3 and/or beyond. Compared to other angular balls in the storm lineup, the Typhoon had me move further right with me my feet due to the weaker coverstock. Generally, I see a lot of over-reaction with angular balls when I move closer to the friction. The Typhoon was a little different here. It was still angular but read the midlane a little stronger giving me the right shape on the lanes. Sometimes I get in the habit of moving too far left with my feet due to the ball I am using in league. This Typhoon will be in my bag as a "just in-case" ball because it allows me to move back to the right more frequently.

I recommend the Typhoon to those who bowl on high friction lane surfaces on a house pattern that is not too long in length. I think the ideal conditions for this ball will be in the 38-42ft range for typical house patterns. it would be a nice step down in length from a Phaze AI and Equinox. It does produce a fair amount of angle down lane so the shape is pretty nice who like to see that skid/flip type of ball motion. This ball would also be very good for a longer game tournament on a condition where length and angle is required. Lower rev rates and slower ball speeds will also like this to help the ball get down the lane more especially closer to the friction.

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

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
Layout: 40 x 5 x 35
Surface: Reacta Gloss

The original Shape Lock HD core is brought back from the original Virtual Energy using the REX Pearl Coverstock and finished with Reacta Gloss. This is a asymmetrical pearl shape that has been missing in the line for a little bit of time. The Core allows this ball to read the midlane strong and the coverstock gives that length and angle that Storm is known for. I got to try this ball on a typical house pattern and the 40ft PBA Don Johnson Pattern.

My typical house pattern is 44ft with medium volume. I tend to use an Infinite Physix with Reacta Shine as my go to ball on the fresh. The Virtual Energy Blackout gives me a slighty cleaner front with a much more angular backend. The two balls give me a 1-2 punch as the Infinite Physix is overall smoother and is much more forward rolling at the breakend. The VEB allows me to move further left with my feet and open the lane up much more due to its outstanding backend motion. I prefer the ball to be my first transtion ball due to my higher rev rate style but it can certainly be used for the fresh if your ball speed is soft and you like to open the lanes up on the oil. The continuation of the VEB is what makes this ball special. I get a really strong continuous yet angular motion which is the type of ball motion I prefer to see.

On the 40ft Don Johnson Pattern, I saw a lot of continuation very similarly to the house pattern. Like the house pattern, the VEB for me prefers a little bit of breakdown and transition to be most successful. Compared to a DNA, I saw cleaner through the front and midlane and stronger backend. When the DNA got too slow down lane, I was able to jump right to the VEB and open the lanes up really well. The higher responsive cover gave me a strong left to right motion that the DNA could not give. Due to the polished finish of the VEB, it was hard to use on the fresh due to the high amount of oil volume. Since the core is so strong on this ball, you can add surface to the coverstock and use it more when the lanes are fresh. I do feel like the DNA or Summit would be a better utilized ball for the fresh compared to the VEB.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
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Track 505A
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
4

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The 505A is great for typical house patterns or broken down sport patterns. I have the #1 drilling on this ball which is pin up on the center line with the MB kicked 3 inches at 2000 sanded. I feel this is a great benchmark ball to use out of the gate when you are bowling on a house pattern. However, after game 2 it starts to hook too much or becomes over/under. When this ball works to its strengths it is fantastic.
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Track 715C
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The 715C is a smooth controllable ball that rolls very similar to the 715A. The new UMP GEN 4C coverstock gives the ball a controlled reaction when it hits the dry from the oil. It is a great ball for sport patterns and any other challenging condition where controlling the break point is key. If you love the 505C watch out for the 715C.
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Track 920A
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The 920A has to be one of my favorite Track balls. It has strong continuous motion to the pocket and hits the pins like a truck. The HP GEN 30 pearl coverstock allows for more length and backend then the 930T has. I have one drilled with the pin above the middle finger and MB a half an inch next to the thumb (right handed) at the original factory finish. This ball is great on sport patterns and long patterns because it is very easy to control and has great hook potential. My second one is pin down under the ring the MB kicked out 3 inches from the thumb at a sanded 2000 finish. This ball rolls early which makes it great on shorter sport patterns and your average league shot. This is definitely a great ball to have!
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Track 920T
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
The 920T is a perfect benchmark ball especially in a house condition. Its ned cover allows it to push a little easier in the fron part of the lane giving it added length with still enough backend. It actually rolls more like a \"C\"ontrol ball instead of a \"T\"raction ball which makes it roll even better. It is strong enough to bowl on any lane condition or surface and the new cover allows the ball to be in play longer while still keeping the same reaction. It is easily playable in all 3 games of league or any type of pattern
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Track Hx16
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
This is the high performance ball that Track has been missing. For those who had the 910A and thought it didn't have enough hook, this ball blows that out of the water. The I-Core still picks up very well in the midlane and produces a very angular continuous ball motion in the backend. This ball compliments either he LX16 or Mx16 very well especially if drilled identical. This ball will give more length and backend then both of those balls. For heavier oil, don't be afraid to dull the surface on this one for added performance.
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Track Tour SiC
6 of 9 people found this review helpful
5

About the Bowler

League Average:
239
PAP:
3-1/2 x 5/8
Ball Speed:
Fast
Style:
Tweener
Bowling Hand:
Right Handed
Sport Shot Average:
218
Experience:
Advanced (I have bowled in a league)
I had a little trouble at first getting the ball to read the right part of the lane because the cover is just so clean. I adjusted the surface down to 1000 and it was fantastic after that. For a dull ball, it really gets down lane and recovers strong. This ball needs friction for it to be great.
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