Chemical Friction is being developed as an improvement to "particle" friction.
If you've been around for awhile, at first came HEAVY LOAD particle covers that enhanced friction on slicker patterns. The problem, to me, is that everyone jumped to buy these for their house shots that really didn't have the amounts of oil to allow them to perform... These were much higher maintenance due to the accelerated oil absorption and other factors. "Particle" became a four-letter-word that pretty much guaranteed that the ball wouldn't sell.
Then companies started producing the next generation with LOW-LOAD particle covers, which was a step in the right direction for Joe Bowler because they reacted similar to their reactive balls, yet handled carry-down or heavier oil volumes better. The maintenance was still there, but not to the extent of the first generation.
Now, technology has been developed (thanks Carmen Salvino and others) that seems to be yet another improvement.
BackInTheGame, for house shots I'd recommend going with weaker layouts on the 3.5, as well as being open minded to surface adjustments as needed. Good luck with the new BEAST.
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Lane Carter, Strike Zone Pro Shops - Salt Lake City, Utah
Brunswick Pro Shop Staff
www.brunswickbowling.comThe opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation.