BallReviews
Reviews => Storm => Topic started by: BallReviews-scodaddy21 on September 27, 2024, 09:51:55 AM
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Unleash unparalleled power with the Storm Ion Max bowling ball! Building on the success of the iconic Ion Pro, the Ion Max elevates your game with over 50% more flare potential, making it perfect for heavy oil patterns. The innovative Element Max A.I. Core, enhanced with an additional weighted disk, provides exceptional torque and control, while the low RG asymmetrical design maximizes performance. The NRG Solid coverstock ensures a strong, consistent reaction across all lane conditions, from shiny and smooth to dull and rough. Plus, its bold, eye-catching design makes a striking statement on the lanes. With its advanced technology and versatile performance, the Ion Max is an essential addition to any bowler's toolkit, ready to help you dominate any condition all season long!
Color: Neon Pink/Indigo/White
All colors do vary somewhat from the picture shown
Core: Element Max A.I. Core Asymmetrical (14-16#)
Coverstock: NRG Solid Reactive
Finish: 2000-grit Abralon
RG: 2.47 (based on 15# ball)
Differential: 0.055 (based on 15# ball)
Length: Early
Hook Potential: High
Recommended Lane Condition: Heavy Oil
Fragrance: Strawberry Milkshake
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Storm Ion Max - Premier Line
Coverstock: NRG Solid - 2000 Grit
Core: Element Max A.I.
RG: 2.47 Differential: .055 PSA: .014 (15 lbs)
Fragrance: Strawberry Milkshake
Layout: 5.5 x 5 x 3
PAP: 6" Right, 1 3/8" Up
Axis Tilt: 16°
Rotation: 51°
Rev Rate: 450-500
Speed: 17-18 mph
Location: Vista Lanes - Yorkville, NY
Pattern: Kegel Carbon
Lane Surface: HPL
The Ion Max was created to generate unprecedented power while maintaining adaptability and consistency on heavy oil patterns. The Max features the NRG solid coverstock with the Element Max A.I. core, which will produce 50% more flare potential than the Ion Pro. The Ion Max was designed to complement and be a step up from the Ion Pro. The Ion Max gave me a great look sliding on 30, looking 18 at the arrows with my breakpoint around 7-8, but if I wanted to play straighter I could get softer with my hand and stay more up the back of the ball. It also looked great further left with more tilt and slower ball speed. When compared to the Ion Pro, the Max was 3-4 boards stronger, a couple feet sooner, and more forward off the end of the pattern. The Ion Max will be my big solid asymmetric that comes out on heavy or long tournament patterns. For bowlers on higher volume league patterns, the Max could be an excellent choice and when you need something cleaner, a switch the Pro will be the way to go. Stop by your local Storm VIP pro shop to check it out!
Dave Jecko
Storm Amateur Staff Member
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@maximumpotentialbowlerssho7625
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The Storm ION Max brings a smooth yet powerful motion that’s easy to control, especially on medium to heavy oil. What I really like about this ball is how it reads the mid-lane and makes a strong yet predictable move downlane. Compared to something like the Proton Physix, the ION Max isn’t quite as aggressive off the spot, but that’s what makes it versatile and reliable on tougher conditions. The ION Max offers more traction and a stronger finish, making it feel more modern in terms of overall hook potential and continuation through the pins. If you’re looking for a ball that blends power and control, this is a solid choice.
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The Ion Max features the brand new Element Max AI core wrapped in NRG solid. The Ion Max has the same core shape as the Ion Pro but with the addition of a puck on the bottom of the core, the differential is increased substantially. The Ion Max is going to be the perfect heavy oil replacement for anyone that was sad to see the GEM go. The Ion Max is available now for order so stop into any of your local Storm VIP pro shops and buy your own today!
Review Video: https://youtu.be/Esm5wpqYxzg?si=XQKzCQWb_WOibgCP
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TESTING ENVIRONMENT
Length:43
Volume:Med-High
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS 12:1 Ratio
COMMENTS
Core: Element Max A.I. Core Asymmetrical (14-16#)
Coverstock: NRG Solid Reactive
Finish: 2000
RG: 2.47
Differential: 0.055
ME:
Right-Handed Tweener
Speed: 12-13 mph
Rev Rate: 315
Axis Tilt: 14°
Axis Rotation: 74°
PAP: 5 1/8 R 7/8 Up
Ball Layout: Pin In Middle Finger 5 1/2 X 4 3/4 X 3 3/4 VLS
Storm's New Hook Monster is the Premier line release called Ion Max. The Ion Pro took benchmark to a new place in the industry and Ion Max is doing the same for High Performance. Adding a weighted disk to the element core featured in the Ion pro substantially raises the differential creating a crazy amount of flare. The paired this new core with the early rolling NRG Solid cover that had been featured on some previous releases like the Vivid. The result of more core and more cover adds up to more ball, and this thing will handle oil with the best of them.
I tested the Ion Max on our house pattern in league. I was impressed with the mid-lane dig in practice, and threw the Ion Max game 1. I noticed by about the middle of the first game that the fronts were already starting to go and as soon as I had to cover more boards, the Ion Max wanted to roll out going into the pins. I played with angles and releases trying to get it back before deciding that it was simply too much ball for the worn out front panels here. Before the next week I had resolved to try polishing the ball to see if it would retain energy a bit better. I had essentially the same look game one, with a bit better carry for almost the entire game. Again I noticed that moving left made it difficult to carry. I had noticed that the bigger scores in league seemed to be by the guys who could stay further right. On a whim I moved back a bit right and just tried to jam the ball into the friction with as much speed and as little hand as I could. I immediately saw an improvement in my ball reaction and I managed to stay in the ball all 3 games.
I would definitely say this ball will skew to high speed and lower rev bowlers. It is very like the Roto Grip Gem for me. That ball had so much for success for many people but I never felt like I ran into enough volume to warrant keeping it in my bag. That being said I've already seen the Ion Max working exceptionally well for some of the lower rev bowlers in our league and if I bowled on sport conditions more I'd definitely see it being of use more often. It could be useful and a stronger control ball in places where the back-ends are too quick as well.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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Dual Angle Layout One: 55 x 1 ½ x 40
Storm Vector Layout One: 1 ½ x 5 7/8 x 1
Dual Angle Layout Two: 50 x 3 ¾ x 40
Storm Vector Layout Two: 3 ¾ x 4 ½ x 2 1/4
The New Storm Ion Max features the Storm NRG Solid Reactive cover stock wrapped around the Storm Element Max AI Asymmetrical Core. I drilled 2 of these balls because it is so good. I drilled one with a short pin to pap layout to allow myself to combat over/under reaction at my primary league house. This layout provided me a smooth but controlled reaction which allows me to play straighter on a dry league condition. The 2nd Ion Max I put a much stronger layout which allows me to play in the oil on heavier conditions. The Ion Max gives me a good amount of length for a solid but plenty of backend to kick out the corners. If your looking for a heavy oil ball this is the ball for you.
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LANE CONDITION
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): Various sport and recreational patterns.
COMMENTS
The Ion Max enhances the performance that is already available with the Ion Pro. The Ion Max features asymmetrical Element Max A.I. core and a strong NRG Solid coverstock. One thing for sure - this bowling ball is powerful but very controllable.
Knowing that the core of the Ion Max has a lot of flare potential, I drilled mine with my usual pin-down layout that I normally use on strong asymmetrical bowling balls: 55 x 5 x 75. Out of the box, the Ion Max comes very dull, so as anticipated, the first 15 or 20 shots reacted very early and strong. Once the coverstock “lane-shined” and stabilized a little bit, I saw a very smooth and controllable ball motion. The bowling ball gets into the roll phase early and is very “forward” at the end of the lane. I was, however, surprised that the Ion Max responded to my release adjustment quite well, which will allow me to use this bowling ball for a longer time frame – something I couldn’t do with similar bowling balls like Gem or Harsh Reality.
I think a lot of people will find success with the Ion Max as, in my opinion, its range of use is a little wider than let’s say a Gem. I am almost certain that it will become my go to strong, dull asymmetrical bowling ball in my arsenal. I believe the Ion Max matches up great with fresh medium to shorter oil patterns where bowlers need more controlled, slower ball motion down the lane. This ball also looks great on wet/dry conditions as it blends the wet/dry motion very well. Those who are looking for a strong asymmetrical bowling ball should definitely consider the Ion Max.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Watch myself and Verity Crawley throw the Ion Max on “The Bowling Passport” YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/qSan0jw3tmw?si=7uCddpGD7KAy2nqn
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Ball Reviews:
Ion Max:
Asymmetric, strong and designed for heavy oil conditions. The Ion Max with its strong engine will combat the heaviest of oil. Built for the fresh to play on top of it early and slowly migrating in as the transition begins, the Ion Max will be the strongest ball out the bag. This ball can be used with a lot of volume, tighter oil conditions and/or longer oil patterns.
Sublime Focus:
Symmetric and strong. What I like about this ball is the ability to keep my angles tight and up the lane when there is more oil or they are tighter and the stronger asymmetric's are too much ball. For comparison purposes against the other symmetric solids, this will be earlier than a Phaze 2 and provide a heavier roll smoother roll.
Phaze AI:
The Phaze AI is a throwback to those cleaner angular Storm bowling balls. This ball reminds me of what the UC2 provided with discernible backend motion. This ball will be usable for when the lanes begin to transition, open up and left to right (for righties/reverse for lefties) is needed without losing angle and continuation down lane. This is a great option to have when the solids become too smooth.
Video Review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwBg2kS4_vg
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Ball Specs:
Storm Ion Max
NRG Solid Reactive Cover
2000 Abralon Sanded
Asymetric Element Max A.I. Core
Layout 3-3/4 x 5 with 1-1/2” Pin Buffer
Bowler Specs:
Right Hand. PAP 5” Over 1/2 up
Rev Rate 300. Tilt 20. Rotation 50.
Speed at release 17
Review:
If you are looking for a heavy oil ball the new Ion Max would be a great choice. I had heard this was a big hooking ball and I had seen a couple go down the lane before I drilled mine. Having some Intel, I thought it would be best to put a later rolling drill pattern on mine and give it a test. I put my Mass Bias pretty much in my thumb and pin up in an increased back end position. This ball still hooks early and covers a lot of boards. I left the Ion Max at the box finish. On our regular house shot I had to make sure I started the ball in the oil and get to the breakpoint farther down the lane. If the ball saw the friction too soon it was definitely going to cross too many boards. The only time the ball rolled too early and lacked power was when I tried to slow hook it. The Ion Max will need oil or speed to perform its best. The hit on this ball was better than expected on the flush or high hits. Lighter pocket hits did not seem to carry as well due to the lack of entry angle. This is common for such a strong cover. The Ion Max can be polished for more length and backend but the Max is still pretty smooth polished. A buddy of mine has an Ion Max and his speed is slow and he plays the dry so the ball burns up too quick for him. This being said, I would not recommend the Ion Max for slower speed bowlers who like to play the friction. For bowlers on a fresh or heavier pattern this ball will work very well. The Ion Max would also be a great choice for the speed dominate player.
Summary:
The color and strawberry scent of this ball are very appealing.
The Ion Max is definitely a big hooking oil ball.
If you bowl on heavy oil, or are speed dominate the Ion Max is a very good choice..
Glenn Wendel
Storm Pro Shop Staff
gwendel@comcast.net
www.stormbowling.com
Video Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nf9k4ZMkagM&error=0
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Core: Element Max A.I. Core Asymmetrical
Coverstock: NRG Solid Reactive
Finish: 2000-grit Abralon
RG: 2.47 Diff: 0.055
Length: Early
Hook Potential: High
Lane Condition: Heavy Oil
Fragrance: Strawberry Milkshake
Layout: 4 x 4 x 4 VLS
LANE CONDITION
Length: 42'
Volume: Medium/Heavy
Type: THS
COMMENTS
Introducing the new Storm Ion Max. A high-performance bowling ball designed for a powerful and controllable option on medium to heavy oil conditions.
The Ion Max features the Element Max A.I. Core which is modified with a flip disk to raise the flare Diff to .055 when compared to the Ion Pro. An asymmetrical, designed to provide a strong mid-lane and backend reaction combined with the added weighted disk, delivers unmatched torque and control for a strong and continuous motion through the pins. This makes it a great choice for bowlers who like to play down and in, as well as deep on the lanes.
The ball is equipped with the proven NRG Solid Reactive coverstock, finished with a 2000 grit Abralon. This coverstock ensures traction through heavy oil volumes, making it ideal for sport lane conditions.
Used a PIN DOWN layout for versatility which gave me that smooth and predictable roll, which is crucial for maintaining consistent control. The ball's strong coverstock and core design allow for various drilling layouts, making it adaptable to different playing styles and lane conditions.
My impression of the Storm Ion Max is a powerful and reliable bowling ball that can complement your arsenal, especially on challenging oil patterns. Its combination of a strong backend reaction and consistent performance makes it a valuable addition to any bowler's bag.
Visit your local VIP Proshop today! As always Bowl Up a Storm
https://youtu.be/BnWwqaBeVqA?si=ITjlHJgziJjCo2tG
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The Storm ION Max is the latest addition to the Storm lineup, taking everything we loved about the Storm Ion Pro and making it making it even stronger for those higher volume conditions. In this review, I will compare the features, performance, of the ION Max to the ION Pro
The ION Max takes the foundation established by the Pro and amplifies it. Featuring an upgraded core design and the new NRG Solid coverstock, the Max offers even more traction on the lanes and up to 50% more flare potential than the Ion Pro. The asymmetrical AI core provides a dynamic motion that is incredibly responsive. I found the ION Max to excel on medium to heavy oil, offering a continuous motion that translates to powerful pin action.
Overall, the Storm ION Max represents a significant evolution of the already popular Storm Ion Pro. With its upgraded coverstock, dynamic core, and impressive backend reaction, it caters to bowlers looking for a high-performance ball that can handle a variety of conditions with ease. While the Ion Pro remains a solid choice for reliability and predictability, the ION Max shines when it comes to performance versatility and increased hook potential.
If you are in the market for a ball that will excel when there is a lot of oil, this is the one!
Sean Daniels
900 Global Staff
Hillsboro, Oregon
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Ion Max • Storm • Premier Series
Coverstock • NRG Solid Reactive Finish •2000-grit Abralon
Core • Element Max A.I. Core
Weight • 15 lbs. RG • 2.47 Differential • .053 PSA • .014
Layout • 4 3/8 x 4 1/8 x 2 5/8
Tester PAP • 5” R, 5/8” D Tester Axis Tilt • 11° Tester Rev Rate • 300
Test Pattern • 42' THS (Typical House Shot) • Modified, Kegel Stone Street
Storm has once again hit another striking success with the release of the Ion Max. Storm built the Ion Max from the successful benchmark design of the Ion Pro. However, Storm designed the Ion Max to be its own distinct pin-crushing weapon. Storm attached a weight block to the Element A.I. Core, producing the Element Max A.I. Core and the NRG Solid Reactive coverstock; the Ion Max is a high-flaring and hard-driving machine that delivers results. So, let's break it down to see what is behind the Ion Max's success!
The Element Max A.I. core is different than the original Element A.I. Core in that Storm has added an extra weighted disk to the bottom of the Element core. And for straighter players like me, that added weighted block creates the ultimate flare or hooking potential we low-rev players lack in the modern game! I found the Element Max A.I. core is aggressive in the mid-lane as it fights to find its center. And when it stands up, I like how the Element Max A.I. core transfers that aggressive energy into a hard-driving rolling machine as it exits the pattern. Then, with the added A.I. Core technology, the Element Max A.I. core delivers a powerful striking blow through the pins. And as a straighter player, when I see an unrelenting continuation like the Element Max A.I. produces, I know my corner pins are about to fall! So, overall, I found the Element A.I. Core to be what every straighter player needs in their game.
The NRG Solid Reactive coverstock for straighter players delivers predictable and adaptable motions you can trust while playing many different lane conditions. On a fresh THS, the NRG Solid reads crisply as the Ion Max migrates from the heads to the mid-lane, and in the mid-lane, it has a smooth, predictable traction that we straighter players like to see. And as the Ion Max comes off the pattern, I liked how the NRG Solid cuts a crisp line to the pocket but doesn't overreact to friction. And that smooth predictability to friction makes the NRG an excellent choice for getting through spotty and over-under conditions we see in transition and late-night conditions. And as a straighter player, if urethane is your nemesis - have no fear! The NRG Solid is an excellent choice to get through those pushed-around and scattered conditions we struggle with due to urethane being on the lanes. So, for straighter players like me, the NRG Solid reactive coverstock was a superb choice that Storm put on the Ion Max.
In closing, Storm has produced a strong-rolling, hard-driving machine with the Ion Max. With the Element Max A.I. Core combined with the NRG Solid Reactive Coverstock, the Ion Max will redefine power and versatility to any straighter player's game! The Ion Max is strong, predictable, and will undoubtedly deliver results. So, stop into your local Storm VIP Pro Shop and have our Ion Max ready to roll in tonight's league! The Ion Max is well worth it!
Rick Klimowicz
Storm Products Pro Shop Staff
Roll the Ball Pro Shop
Penndel, PA
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This ball is a unique and updated take on the quintessential big asym solid. This is the big, strong snow tire piece that you need on heavy oil or to blend out the cliff. As for what makes this ball unique: the NRG Solid cover is strong, and this is the first time we've seen this cover stateside since the Trend 2 (which was a hybrid). The A.I. core technology adds to the predictability that you want out of this type of ball. A.I. core technology also creates a longer continuation window, which makes this ball more continuous than other similar/previous big solid asyms. The result is a smooth, continuous, strong ball that keeps its axis longer, continues better, and hits harder. This has been my go-to ball to blend out the cliff, and it will be yours too.
-Chase Valenzuela
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Ball Specs:
Storm Ion Max
Coverstock: 2000 Grit NRG™ Solid Reactive
Weight Block: Element™ Max A.I. Core (Asymmetrical)
Color: Neon Pink/Indigo/White
Review:
It’s time to take your game to the MAX! All of our bowling balls are tested on the same fresh pattern and with out of box surface. This was the strongest ball from SPI we have ever thrown out of box. The first flare rings were insane to say the least. We drilled this ball with our normal layout: tweener, 350-375 revs, 16.5mph, layout of choice is 4x4x2 (pin is above bridge). If you like the ball to hook early and a lot overall this could be a game changer for you. We bowl mostly at a high friction center so this is a ball realistically that we can only use for a short period of time during league before we have to ball down or be forced way left with our feet but if bowl at a center with a longer pattern or less friction and are having an issue getting the ball to hook early or come off the pattern then look no further. The ball has great shelf appeal and looks pretty cool going down the lane. This is going to be special one, look out for a local matchmaker if you can to give this one a shot!
Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson
SPI Pro Shop Staff Members
kyle@parklanes.net
joel@parklanes.net
dean@parklanes.net
www.stormbowling.com
#StormNation #GoGlobal #SquadRG
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Storm Ion Max is maxxing it out!!
Review by Chris M. on 27 Nov 2024review stating Storm Ion Max is maxxing it out!!Bowlers Info: RH tweener, PAP 4-5/8 x 3/4 up, 380 RPM, 13* of Axis tilt, 60* of Axis Rotation
Ball Layout: 60 x 5-1/4 x 30
VLS: 5-1/4 x 4-1/2 x 2-1/4
Finish: 3000
The new Storm Ion Max builds upon the motion that Ion Pro created with a controlled asymmetric piece to cut thru the heaviest oil patterns. Drilled my Max Read more about review stating Storm Ion Max is maxxing it out!!the same as my Ion Pro with a 5-1/4 x 4-1/2 x 2-1/4 and took it up to 3000 to have the Ion Max conserve the energy a bit more for the backend. That’s exactly what it does! Used on our sport 47’ long sport pattern and averaged 226 as I was able to use on the fresh and move left during transition. This lower RG gets the ball seeing motion earlier but doesn’t sacrifice hitting power when it hits the pins. It has gotten better and better as more oil is getting into the cover. If you’re looking to replace an older, stronger asymmetric in your arsenal, the Ion Max will not disappoint!
Chris Martinez
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling
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Orientation: Right Handed
Rev Rate: 400 RPM
Speed: 16-17 MPH
PAP: 4 ½ over and 1 1/8 up
Location: Enterprise Park Lanes, Springfield MO
Pattern: High Volume THS
VLS Layout:
Layout 1: 4 5/8 x 4 x 2 ½ (Pin above bridge)
Layout 2: 4 ¼ x 4 x 4 (pin below bridge)
The Ion Max is simply the biggest hooking ball on the market. The Gem USED to be. The Ion Max takes over that spot! They modded the Ion Pro core and made the Max core STRONG. And they put the NRG Solid cover on it, which makes it strong but not too early and slow. NRG is not the strongest cover, but combined with this core it out hooks any ball I’ve thrown.
I drilled a pin up and a pin down one and I like them both, the pin down one is the more usable one as it flares less. With the flip block on the bottom of the weight block I saw the Max make a more defined move downlane! Some of the single density weight blocks don’t change direction hard enough for me, and the Max solves that problem. If you want a strong solid with a little pop downlane, the Max is a no brainer!
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The Storm Ion Pro Max is a true powerhouse. With its NRG Solid coverstock and upgraded AI asymmetrical core, it offers incredible traction, a strong midlane read, and continuous backend motion in heavy oil conditions. The Ion Pro Max thrives on medium to heavy oil while remaining versatile and adaptable to surface adjustments.
Perfect for all styles—high-speed, high-rev, or balanced players—this ball delivers exceptional pin action and consistent control. For those seeking maximum hook potential and versatility, the Ion Pro Max stands out as a top-tier choice and is a great addition to my bag!
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About Me:
Joel Donner
SPI Pro Shop Staff Member
Left Handed: High Rev High Speed Player
Layout: 5 X 5 X 2
Pap: - 47/8 +1
Rev Rate: +-500
Speed 17-18mph
Ball Video: https://youtu.be/6Sm6aQktH-8
The ION Max has quickly become my favorite solid bowling ball. Its controllability, versatility, and predictability are outstanding. I believe the ION Max will be a go-to option for heavy oil conditions, allowing bowlers to use it for extended periods without needing to reach for another ball. The hitting power of this ball is impressive. I haven't experienced this many messengers in a long time. With the advanced AI technology, it almost feels like using a "cheater" ball. We filmed the ION Max on a 39-foot flat pattern, the ION Max performed exceptionally well, making the lane conditions look as if we were bowling on a house shot. The ION Max is a ball that is going to stay in my bag for a very long time and I will be buying a few more. The ION Max is by far and away the best solid ball that I've ever thrown. If I were you I would run and not walk to your nearest pro shop and get yours today.
Joel Donner
SPI Pro Shop Staff Member
Cedar Rapids, IA
#StormNation
#StrikingWorldwide
#RGSquad
#Iambowling
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I drilled my ION MAX up with a 65 X 4.5 X 35 layout. I primarily used it with the box finish at 2000 but let it lane shine to approx. 4700.
This one to me was comparable to the X-CELL, SUBLIME FOCUS, & GEM. The ION MAX had a much stronger and earlier motion to me than the FOCUS. It was right with the GEM as far as grab and early read on the lanes and at times looked like a carbon copy of the GEM. The X-CELL was slightly longer but mine also was a pin down layout. The color scheme is crazy and was tough to pick up the rotation at times but this one hooks. I will be interested if SPI will put this in a pearl cover or put the ION PRO out in a solid cover since it is a much milder core.
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The Ion Max boasts the NRG solid cover stock with the Element Max core, this ball creates a lot of mid lane read with a more continuous motion throughout the lane than some other asymmetric pieces. This one I compare to my Gem from Roto Grip, the Gem has a more defined hook window than the Ion Max, while picking up in a similar part of the lane. Since the Ion Max has a longer hook window I’m able to use this ball on a wider range of patterns than my Gem. Overall league players who are ball speed dominant will love this ball and sport players looking to have something with a rounder shape with versatility on a variety of patterns this is your ball.
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Ball Specs: Ion Max
Coverstock: NRG Solid, 2000 Grit
Core: Element Max A.I. Core, Asymmetric
Fragrance: Strawberry Milkshake
Review:
The Storm Ion Max bowling ball is a standout option for bowlers seeking precision and versatility. Its reactive coverstock and dynamic core design deliver exceptional hook potential, making it ideal for medium to heavy oil conditions. The ball provides a smooth yet aggressive backend reaction, giving players excellent control and pin carry. Whether you're executing straight lines or angular shots, the Ion Max offers a consistent and reliable performance. Its vibrant design also stands out on the lanes. Perfect for intermediate to advanced bowlers, this ball is a game-changer for those looking to elevate their skills.
Will Tefft
Storm Staff Member
will@parklanes.net
www.strombowling.com
#Stromnation
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LANE CONDITION
Length: 44'
Volume: 27 ml
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
COMMENTS
With stronger balls like the 900 Global Harsh Reality and the Roto Grip Gem, I generally will play straighter, they dig into the oil and start hooking early, which gives you a rounder, smoother motion to the pocket without a lot of back end movement.
So with the Ion Max I tried playing a little straighter, but was having an extremely difficult time getting a consistent reaction to the pocket. I decided to take a big jump left - sliding on 33, setting the ball down on 28 out to 10 at the breakpoint - and anyone who knows me knows that this is not my “A” game… When I move this deep, it’s a recipe for me to leave flat 10 pins all day long. Needless to say, I was absolutely shocked at how well the Ion Max performed from this deep of an angle. This makes me think that the Ion Max will be far more versatile than other strong balls. I’ll need some more time with the ball on other conditions to see if that holds up.
Layout: 5 x 5 x 4
My Specs -
Speed - 16 mph,
Rev Rate - 315.
PAP 5 1/8 x 7/8 Up.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/grH2jRN1LxQ
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The new Ion Max features the all-new Element Max A.I. core and is wrapped in the NRG solid reactive coverstock. At 15 pounds the RG is a low 2.47 with a .055 differential and a .014 intermediate differential. I drilled the Max the exact same as the Ion Pro (4x4x2) which puts the pin above my middle finger. The Max is a hook monster!! This ball reads the lane incredibly early and has a very controlled backend motion. For me, the Max is easily five boards more total hook than the Ion Pro. The Ion Pro is more of an arcing motion on the backend and stores more energy for the back part of the lane. The new Max tends to roll forward much sooner on the back end of the lane which makes this ball harder to use when I need to open up my angles through the front of the lane. That is when the Ion Pro should come out of your bag. This ball is the most aggressive ball I have ever thrown from Storm. If you are looking for a solid asymmetrical ball to handle the very oily lane conditions, look no further than the new Ion Max!