I've been able to use this now for a couple weeks on two different sport patterns. I have to say, I've never been a big fan of the polished stuff, but this ball is amazing. By increasing the texture of the surface and polishing over that, this ball is very clean through the fronts and responds to friction hard and strong.

 

I wanted to really see what this ball would do, so I drilled it to be just what it's billed to be. I used an 80 x 4 1/2 x 25 layout. My ball speed is 14-15 MPH down lane, so having a ball retain energy is needed. This ball is exactly what's it's supposed to be.

 

The first pattern I bowled on was London. 44'. Because of the volume of oil, I can't use this ball the first game and a half. Once the lanes transition, I'm able to move into around 20-25 at the arrows, have the ball push down the lane and react strong to the pocket. Because of the hard move this ball makes when it hits friction, it's perfect on the longer pattern where you don't have as much room for the ball to hook.

 

The next pattern I've been bowling on is the Men's 2009 European Championships. 34'. Obviously on this pattern, I'm playing much further outside. Again, I can't use it on the fresh because of the strong hooking nature of the coverstock. By the 3rd game, once the oil has carried down, I can take this ball straight up 2 board. It gives me plenty of length and then a good, strong move to the pocket. I have to increase the ball speed a little, but this ball is great.

 

My definition of a great ball is versatility. The Taboo Jet Black has that. I'm able to play inside of 20 and outside of 5 with success. Drill this ball to do what it's intended to do and you won't be disappointed.  

how would you compare the taboo black to the original black widow??