The original Lock has been updated with the R3S pearl cover creating the new Snap Lock. The Snap Lock uses the same RAD-X core as the Lock. The Snap Lock comes from the factory with a 1500-grit polished finish, and has a ginger verbena scent. The color combination of indigo/white/copper has a somewhat patriotic feel, and sometimes makes you look twice to see if it happens to be the Snap Lock or an Optimus. The numbers of the core, RAD-X, are as follows in 15lb balls; 2.48 Rg, a differential of 0.055 and intermediate differential of 0.019.
I drilled my Snap Lock 3.75 x 6 x 2.5 to compliment my Lock that was drilled 3.5 x 5 x 2.5. I wanted to accentuate the cleaner cover with a slightly further pin distance, and longer transitioning mass bias, to create a touch more length and a little less hook set, and more backend continuation. By using the Storm VLS (vector layout system), I achieved my desired ball reaction. The Tuesday I received my Snap Lock and drilled it, happened to be summer league night. I was somewhat fighting the oil pattern the first 3 games, and once the wet dry mellowed out some for game 4, I knew I could now use the Snap Lock, and it rolled perfectly, to the tune of 300, which happened to be the first game I used the Snap Lock! Not a bad start. The next night, I was bowling on a 42 foot modified house condition in a local elimination style tourney, and finished fourth while using this ball. Since then, I have used the Snap Lock on a variety of different broken down heavier lane conditions, and medium volume conditions. The Snap Lock also happens to be a good compliment to my Hyper Cell pearl. The Snap Lock is a little earlier and smoother than the Hyper Cell pearl, which makes it better for slightly cleaner backends, with a little more control. When it’s all said and done, the Snap Lock likes at a minimum, medium conditions.
This strong asymmetrical pearl ball has it’s time and place to be thrown. A Snap Lock IS the ball to consider, if you want to open up a broken down higher volume pattern, or medium volume pattern. If you are going to be drilling and using the Snap Lock exclusively as your only bowling ball, take your time and select the right layout and surface texture for your league conditions. With a ball as strong as the Snap Lock, you can vary your ball motion characteristics by following the Storm VLS drilling guide which can be downloaded by visiting stormbowling.com . Using the proper layout, and adjusting the ball surface to compliment the volume and viscosity of oil, and also taking into account the lane surface, will give you the right tool for the application you are looking for. Talking to your local certified pro shop will help you make the proper decisions on layout and surface prep. Thank you for taking the time to read my review of the Snap Lock. As always, remember to Bowl up a Storm!
