Particle mixed balls are currently experiencing a Renaissance in advertising and marketing by the ball manufacturers. The ball manufacturers have opened their eyes to the possibility of more control for the bowler when mixed with the other types of coverstocks (pearl, solid, etc). Why is this? Probably the need for more arc control (not storing so much energy) and less anglur flip for tougher conditions (ie sport conditions, perceived dryer lanes, spotty and carry down conditions).
Like Charlest stated "One buys a BALL REACTION, not a ball". I think some bowlers are starting to get this, and warming up to the particle technology as being a viable option for a more controlled reaction. Is this always the case with particles, NO, many different varieties of this animal. Including varing substances and degrees (ie light, medium and heavy based particles).
Information is better than it has ever been on bowling balls, many reviewers, bowling experts, and caring ball manufacturers to match your game to a reaction that you want to play or the lane condition dictates.
Is there hype? and snake oil? of course. But if one spends the time to research the reaction that one is seeking, definitely the bowler will be rewarded with higher scores by more choices and help to adjust to the ever changing conditions.
The ball reaction is a Macro principle these days, it will make the bowlers job easier added with Micro hand and finger adjustments the bowler has a higher probability of being in control of his destiny (yes, of course, elite par bowlers can adjust wrist, hand, finger positions for a wide array of reactions). I'm warming up to particle mixed balls - they just might be the future? Still researching these newer offerings.
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G The Bowling Ball Manufacturing Kingdom Scorecard (hint: they are all good)
Brunswick ***** (King)(Budweiser/Anheuser-Busch)[make Elite, Lane#1, MoRich]
Storm ***** (Prince)(Coors)[make Roto Grip, Dyno-Thane, Circle Athletics?(in transition purchased by Columbia Industries)]
Columbia **** (nobleman)(Miller)[make Track, AMF]
Ebonite *** (jester)(Strohs)[make Hammer]
Visionary (no current rating)(wizard)(microbrew?)
Lanemaster (no current rating)(knight)(more microbrew?)
[Note: The end companies usually spec out their own balls]
I wear the Brunswick Crown, the Storm is brewing at my feet, my heart belongs to Roto Grip and Dyno just might be my thane!
KeglerX's Ball Arsenal Registry (includes drilling Specs) @ Allbowling.comEdited on 2/23/2006 10:21 AM