Hey everyone. I have finally got about 20 games on the new Brunswick Melee, so I figured I would give you my review of it so far. Ball is drilled about 4.5 inches off my axis. Pin is almost above my middle finger. This layout for me allows the ball to give me a multiple angle look for THS. So far I really see this ball as not only replacing the Versa-Max but easily could be better. The Melee compared to a like drilled versa max is about a foot cleaner with just a little bit more down lane angle. What the Melee does better for me is I can play steeper angles through the front part of the lane and the melee creates the down lane angle to carry. I couldn't do this all the time with the versa max because it was a tad too smooth (which is great when you need it). Melee is an absolute pure benchmark ball. If you are in the market looking for an all around versatile ball that you can throw consistently for 3 games during league, definitely take a look at the Melee. If you have any questions feel free to ask.

Yes ball is 4.5 inches off of my PAP which puts the pin close to above my middle finger. It isn't over my bridge and not quite above middle finger. CG is kicked out slightly from there. No hole. Ball has box surface. Ball is a pinch harder off the spot than the versa max. When a ball is a foot cleaner it means it is longer. As for other balls I have in my bag, it isn't much. Let's see I have a Motiv Primal Rage which is about 2 boards stronger, but it is pearl so it has more of a skid/snap reaction. Track 400a is about 4 boards weaker than the Melee with a pinch more backend. That is all I have compared so far. Always remember just because a ball is longer doesn't always mean stronger backend. Since you said you missed the Versa Max definitely get the Melee. You will be able to use it more as well as longer than your Maxed out. Let me know if you have any other questions.
P.S I may be one of the few bowlers that doesn't use dual angle layouts. I know my PAP and I know layouts that I really like. I very rarely stray from them unless I am looking for a ball that will be pattern specific.