BALL SPECS
Pin Length:  2” – 3”
Starting Top Weight:  3.0
Ball Weight: 15
 
DRILL PATTERN
Pin slightly below and to the right of ring finger with a 75 degree drilling angle. A P3 extra hole was used.
 
BOWLER STYLE:  RH - Stroker – slightly speed dominant
Rev Rate:  280
Ball Speed: 17-18
PAP/Track:  PAP:  4 11/16” and 7/8" up
 
SURFACE PREP
Box Finish and 2000 grit abralon
 
LANE CONDITION

 House

 COMMENTS

The first time I threw the Matrix, it immediately reminded me of the Mission Unknown.  The Matrix reads the lane at about the same point as the Mission Unknown, however it is slightly more angular at the break point.  The polished hybrid cover acts more like a solid than a pearl and will need some head oil to perform up to its potential.  It’s a good ball for those who like to play closer to the friction.  The cover blends out the over/under reaction sometimes present in today’s conditions.  Even though the cover is polished, I think it’s important to keep the surface clean.  After some use, the ball seemed to lose its reaction, so I decided to scuff it lightly with a 2000 grit Abralon pad.  That plus a good scrub with clean and dull ball cleaner did the trick.  The added surface gave the ball some additional traction in oil, but did not affect the backend motion.  I’m reluctant to do much to the surface of polished pieces, but this ball will definitely take surface adjustments well.  While I haven’t used this ball on conditions other than house, I think the Matrix would be a very good number 2 ball behind the Verdict on medium length sport or challenge patterns.

RJ Alman
Ebonite Regional/Amateur Staff