having drilled both, and having seen both in use, i don't believe they are the same. i think the cover on the AI ricochet is better, seems to hold the line more, and seems to have more backend.
feedback from customers who have or had the first epx, seems to be, they feel the second one is as strong in oil as the first, but with more backend, and the cover seems to be easier to adjust.
plus i think the second one is by far a much better looking ball. the first one always looked dirty or something. people were always bringing the ball in and asking why it looks like it does.
have had no cracking issues with the second model.
right now they are on closeout from the big c. great oil ball..
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jls31316
Edited on 2/3/2007 9:17 AM