The Match Up Black Pearl is an updated version of the Match Up pearl but with a 2000 grit Abralon finish. The core numbers of the Stinger 2.0 are 2.57 rg and 0.035 diff in 15lb balls. The Match Up Black Pearl has a cool pearl black color, just as the name would suggest. The Reactor cover of the Black Pearl is cleaner through the front of the lane then most of today’s current highly porous, strong cover stocks, even with the 2000 grit finish.
I drilled the Black Pearl the same as my Match Up, 5.25 x 5.25 x 2. The Match Up has more length compared to the earlier reading sanded Black Pearl. The Black Pearl covers about the same amount of boards and has similar hook shapes as the Match Up, but on higher volume oil patterns, and more viscous oils. The Black Pearl is more of a medium oil ball, that still saves energy for lighter oiled lanes that you need to get in, and still get recovery from the ball. I have also polished the Black Pearl, and get a closer reaction to the orange/silver/black, but with a little more rounded shape through the backend.
The Black Pearl is a good budget ball for league bowlers not wanting to break the bank, and still get some decent hook on medium conditions. The Black Pearl will also work well for tournament conditions that has the Match Up pearl pushing too long and not slowing down enough to generate roll through the pins . If you feel the need to replace your aging Match Up pearl or never drilled one in the first place, the Match Up Black pearl will fit right in. Thank you for taking the time to read my review of the Match Up from Storm, the Bowler’s company.
