Storm Astro Physix Ball Review
Layout: 45 degrees x 4 1/2" x 70 degrees
RG: 2.48"
Differential: .053"
Mass Bias: .017"
Surface: 1500 grit polished (factory finish)
Core shape: Asymmetric
What I wanted from this ball: With the Pro Motion and IQ Tour Emerald set as fixtures in my bag for this season, I was hoping to get a ball that would land in the middle of them, and possibly a little closer to the IQ Tour Emerald than the Pro Motion. I definitely needed length, and was looking for far stronger backend potential than the IQ.
What I ended up with in this ball: This ball did land right in the middle from a total hook perspective. It's 2-3 boards weaker than my Pro Motion (same layout), but an easy 3-4 boards stronger than the IQ Tour Emerald (also the same layout). But the shape may not be quite right to go 1-2-3 in that progression of bowling ball. The Pro Motion and IQ Tour Emerald are much more "curvy" off of the spot in the backend, whereas the Astro Physix is much more skid/flip shape. In order for this one to make sense to my eyes as I'm going from one ball to the next, I'll likely have to adjust the surface a little from the 1500 grit polished finish from the factory.
I drilled it with my standard pin down drilling. I definitely have the most success with asymmetric cores in the layout. With symmetric shapes I can often times get a way with a little more variation in pin height relative to my gripping holes. But nearly every asymmetric I drill starts like this. In my next review (Halo Vision) I'll share more on why that is and how it relates to my game. I haven't had a chance to try any surface changes on this Astro yet, but I may update this blog once I do.
All in all, this is a decent performer for the Storm brand, but one that will be more favored by bowlers looking for that bigger backend motion. It's a true skid/flip piece that adds a lot of fun when the lanes are wide open, but may suffer on tougher/flatter patterns. Shoot us an email or give us a call if you have any questions about the Astro Physix!