Mine has the typical small cracks around the pin and fingers, but then again so does almost every ball I own.  I did have a Horizon pearl that pretty much exploded at the bridge and pin; it was covered under warranty and got replaced with my Mystic.  

I personally have more of a problem with how the ball matches up with me, which is to say that it doesn't.  I have found times that it works very well, but it's not enough to keep it in my bag.  It is only the 2nd particle pearl that I've owned and it will be the last.  I have loved every other Roto ball that I've used.

Don
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"You cannot change the stripes of a leopard."
~Emmitt Smith

msg sent

I have a Mystic (3 weeks old) that I bought to replace my 4 month old Horizon pearl that shattered.  The HP began with a half moon crack 1/16-inch below the fingers.  This happened while the ball was in the bag and not while throwing.  I have a modified Rico layout on the ball so the crack was under the fingers and about 3/4" above the pin.  I talked with Roto about it and they recommended I plug the ball or send it back to my distributor as they didn't have any left in stock (internet purchase from a Storm employee) so returning it not an option.  

Once I removed the grips the entire wrap (outer core) was shattered.  I literally removed and area 3" x 3" trying to remove all the cracks and still couldn't find where they ended.  I plugged the gigantic hole because this is my favorite tournament ball and we'll see how long it lasts.  

I was reassured they had corrected the problem by using different materials in current line equipment.  Probably why the Illusion has a lighter density core.  I have talked with other industry reps and they mentioned issues about poor mixing and curing problems with some Storm equipment but this was the first I had seen the problem with Roto.  I also have Horizon Solid, Illusion, Battle, Odyssey (Cracked),Saga and a Cell.  The Odyssey cracked across the bridge but haven't seen any other issues with it.  I really like Roto equipment but have considered moving back to another company if durability becomes an issue.

It wouldn't be such a big deal if the HP would have lasted more than 60 games before it shattered.  I stopped using Storm after the Paradigm was released because I had the same issue with it, an Ace, and a Vertigo all shattering.  

I will say the Illusion is another of my favorite balls to grab when conditions breakdown and get tight.  I have over 150 games on it and haven't seen any change in reaction or signs of cover failure.

Good luck,
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Todd
2007-2008 All Air Force Team
USBC Bronze Level Certified Coach
Splintered Pinz Pro Shop
Redline Bowling Services
Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota


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Edited on 4/30/2008 5:22 PM

Had a Horizon Pearl crack and the ball was replaced by Lee Upp the west coast rep with no questions asked. I just found a totally cracked Attitude Shift this morning going to drop it off tonight for replacement. I have no doubts that Lee Upp will again take care of me on this ball.