LANE CONDITIONLength: 43 ft on Brunswick Anvilane
Volume: 40mL/board, total volume 25.84mL using Brunswick Logic oil
http://www.transitlanes.net/lanepattern.pdfType (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
COMMENTSLikes: Clean in front, continuous motion in back, versatility
Dislikes: None
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOSI'm late to the party with reviewing my Critical Theory. However, after holding out and deciding to pick one up, I have to wonder why did I wait?
On this ball, I went with a 5 x 3-1/2 x 2-1/2 layout with the MB kicked out 2-1/2, no weight hole. The intent is to give me something between my Defiant and Infinite Theory but with more backend motion. This did not disappoint at all.
The first thing I noticed with the Critical Theory is that for a strong pearl, it is still very clean in front with a good midlane read. The back is where this ball shines though. I love how this ball has a very continuous motion that does not quit. The other thing I noticed is the versatility. Having a ball speed range of 19-22mph, I was able to take some hand out, throw it firmer playing outside of 10 (out to 3 in some cases), and the Critical had no problems.
Inside, I also found it to be versatile. On the 43ft pattern I threw this on, it tends to play more slick compared to other houses. However, the Critical easily handled it. Playing 25 to 12 was no problem. 30 to 17, also no problem. It reminded me of my Defiant except with more length and a sharper backend.
Compared to my Infinite Theory, the Critical will be more versatile on league nights. The Infinite is a great ball on many medium patterns, but can be squirty with higher volumes of oil. The Critical Theory solves that issue by remaining clean in front but with additional continuation. I'm roughly 3-7 boards deeper compared to the Infinite where I will square up more.
Compared to my Defiant, the Critical remains very versatile. It's about 3-5 boards weaker, but will provide more continuation. The Defiant will get into a heavy roll in back, providing a slightly different motion.
Overall, I'm very happy with the Critical Theory. In my arsenal, the Defiant, Critical Theory and Infinite Theory give me a great 3 ball combo to handle virtually anything from medium all the way to the heaviest patterns available. It's absolutely a great ball from Roto Grip.
