Some more recent coverstock prep experience I wanted to share, for general exchange:

During the last year my S&A did not see much employment, since it had been so strong and my new Frankie May Gryphon offered better control on changing lanes. I also found some decline in overall performance lately with the OOB finish - but this could be the result of infrequent use. Besides, the Rough Buff surface tracked out easily, so there had been an opportunity for a change and experiments...

Since I made good experience with the very fine 3M Trizact #50077 "Finesse-It II" rubbing compound on my Awesome Finish, I decided to try it on my S&A, too, just to get it easier through the heads and see what would happen.

I just went to a slightly rougher base grit (2.000 Abralon instead of 4.000 on my AFi). The result so far is promising - the S&A has now a glossy, but very tacky finish. The shiny Trizact compound added considerable length to the breakpoint, I'd say 4-5' more Length. With Rough Buff it was pretty rolly and read the lane very well and early, what caused some trouble for me and my lower speed style. The new surface also tamed down the overall hook while maintaining the sharp breakpoint. IMHO, the core now shows more of its power or impact share in the back end, while the ball itself has not become itchy or hard to control. The shiny but pure coverstock without polish seems to be a very versatile setup for medium conditions.

So, whoever has issues with his S&A (and probably other Activator+ balls) being too rolly - the Finesse-It II compound, coupled with a fine base grit, is IMHO a good option, and also an alternative to polish if breakpoint control (esp. in buffed areas) is an issue for you.
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DizzyFugu - Reporting from Germany

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