Drilled it up Thurs. The house I went to had last nights THS out. I threw the ball for a game to try and get some oil into it. Ball seems to have a heavy roll to it and is not afraid of oil. It is not as jumpy as I thought it would be. I have a Nexus solid drilled very close. The Nexus goes insta-left (I'm RH) out of the oil while the Omen makes a distinct read at the same point but continues on a smooth arc. At this point I'm having a hard time saying which ball covers more boards. It is very controllable. I'm thinking it will be a great ball on heavy fresh where you need to play a little more to the right. For comparison, the Nexus is great when I need to get in, as it's a little too jumpy to play straighter with. I'll update this as I get more of a read on the ball.
12/30 update: I have used on wood and synthetic lanes and fresh and used patterns. Conclusions: This ball is 2-3 boards weaker than my Nexus on certain conditions. It does read well on a fresh heavy pattern but quickly loses back end reaction as oil moves down. It is smooth and continuous on the right condition. I find it is better suited to the lighter side of a heavy oil pattern. It also does well on beat-up patterns, as it blends things really well. I do not find it as responsive to release changes as some other balls I have. With all that said, it is a very useful piece when control is needed. Ball clears the fronts very well. I am very happy thus far. I have no affiliation with columbia. Just wanted to give some feedback on a new ball.
Edited by coasterp on 12/30/2011 at 10:19 AM