Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2 1/2
Surface: 2000 Abralon

I was a big fan of the Ion Pro before this Max came out so it only made sense that I drilled it the same way as my favorite Ion Pro.  The new core and coverstock on this ball makes it much stronger than the Ion Pro and pretty unique in terms of versatility.  The Element Max AI Core is used on this ball combined with the NRG solid coverstock found on the original Virtual Gravity Nano and IQ Nano series.  This coverstock isn't quite as strong as some of the current SPI branded Solid coverstocks so it allows for more usage overall.

On my typical 44ft house pattern, there isn't too much oil volume in the front of the lane so big asymmetrical solid balls don't come into play that often.  At the box 2000 grit, I saw this to be the case.  Read the front of the lane and midlane pretty strong which made it use up most of its energy down lane.  I had to keep the ball in front of me as often as possible to get the best results.  Doing so did allow me to play further right on the lane than I typically would, but the ball did not like very much angle and was only decent for the fresh game 1.  The next week for league, I decided to polish the coverstock with Storm Reacta Shine to see how the ball would work shiny.  The polish allowed the ball to get through the fronts easier and created more angle down lane.  Pretty much, exactly what I was hoping for.  Not only was it cleaner, but it continued much more through the pins and only got better as I got more left with my feet.  I was able to change hand positions to give myself more axis rotation as I got to around 30 with my feet to keep up with the continuation down lane.  It responded great to my hand changes and rolled really well throughout the entire night.

Compared to the Ion Pro, I saw a lot earlier hook (even with the polish) and a much smoother backend.  I saw about a 7-board difference overall between the two balls while standing in the same spot.  If you are a bowler who has lower rev rates, are speed dominant or just like asymmetrical solid bowling balls, don't pass up on this Ion Max.  It is a lot more versatile than some of the other previous and current Asymmetrical balls in the Storm Products Lineup.  Certainly don't be afraid to bring up or down the surface to satisfy the ball reaction you are looking for.  The Max takes to surface changes really well and should be good for many styles on fresh or oily lane conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff