I have 2 Xceptions drilled exactly the same, pin under ring, cg in the palm, mass bias left of thumb in my track. I left one out of box, the other I hit with 1000 grit. Ball was a few feet earlier with less backend than the out of box X. As a comparison, the scuffed X is still longer and stronger than an out of box Rule I have drilled that is also drilled this way. However, the scuffed X reads sooner than my polished Rule, also drilled pin under ring, cg in the palm, mass bias left of my thumb in my track. The polished Rule is earlier than the out of box X.

All of these balls have a purpose and fit together well. Finding what you want is a matter of what you think you need and what you already have.

Clint
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Clint Daley-Owner
Lets Go Bowling Daley
Salem, Ohio 44460
TRACK ADVISORY PRO SHOP STAFF

Sanding the Xception (and any pearl ball) is a great way to get the ball to start up a sooner but still be somewhat strong downlane.  If the oil volume is not heavy enough but the pattern is still long or the heads are not good enough for particle (like the GP2), then sanding a pearl ball is an excellent alternative.  I've used an Xception as low as 800 grit.  I've used a 600 grit Crunch Time in the past and my Heats have 2000 grit and 4000 grit Abralon.  They don't start up as early as a particle or solid but you still get enough bite.

Hope that helps.
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Anthony Chapman
Track International Staff
Turbo Grips 2-N-1 Staff